Old Town Edinburgh Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Renting a car in Old Town Edinburgh offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this rich cultural neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the iconic Edinburgh Castle, located right in Old Town, which appeals to those seeking a romantic or cultural experience. The Royal Mile, a vibrant street perfect for city-themed adventures, is also within reach. Families will appreciate the proximity of Grassmarket, a tourist precinct ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the convenience of having a car allows for easy luggage management, making it simpler to enjoy a day out without the hassle of public transport. You can extend your journey to nearby Edinburgh City Centre, located less than 1 km away, which features more attractions like Princes Street and additional family-friendly options. New Town is just 1 km away, providing further exploration opportunities. Whether you are travelling with family or seeking a cultural experience, a rental car in Old Town Edinburgh enhances your sightseeing adventure, enabling you to create your own travel itinerary without restrictions.

Most popular car rentals in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5 people. With the capacity to handle 3 medium suitcases, it’s perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore Old Town Edinburgh without the hassle of excess baggage. This option offers a great balance of size and comfort, making it ideal for navigating the bustling streets of the city.
• Midsize SUV: If you are travelling with a family or a small group, the Midsize SUV provides ample space for up to 5 passengers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is ideal for those who appreciate versatility and comfort while exploring the sights in and around Old Town Edinburgh. Its spacious interior ensures a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for longer journeys and excursions.
• Economy: The Economy car is a budget-friendly option that accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families who want to explore Old Town Edinburgh efficiently without overspending. Its compact nature makes it easy to manoeuvre through tight city streets while still offering enough room for your luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Old Town Edinburgh, known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles. With one rental location right in the area, customers appreciate the ease of access. The most booked vehicles are the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, providing options that balance comfort and practicality. Alamo’s commitment to customer satisfaction makes it a reliable option for your car rental needs.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental also has a convenient location in Old Town Edinburgh, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the area. Travellers frequently opt for the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, reflecting a preference for vehicles that offer both space and agility. Known for its friendly service, National ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.
• Europcar: Located less than 1 km from Old Town Edinburgh, Europcar is easily accessible for tourists. This supplier is noted for its selection of Compact and Midsize SUVs, catering to a variety of travel needs. Customers often highlight the efficiency of the rental process and the cleanliness of the vehicles, making Europcar a practical choice for those looking to navigate the sights of Edinburgh comfortably and conveniently.

Where to stay around Old Town Edinburgh

• Old Town Edinburgh: Staying in Old Town Edinburgh places you in the heart of the city’s rich history and culture. With iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile nearby, this area is perfect for those interested in culture-themed and city-themed experiences. There are plenty of nearby restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy local cuisine and drinks, making it an ideal base for exploring the historic charm of Edinburgh.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located less than 1 km from Old Town Edinburgh, the City Centre offers a vibrant atmosphere with access to shopping areas and theaters. Key attractions like Princes Street and Grassmarket provide a mix of shopping and dining options. This neighbourhood is suitable for family, city-themed, and culture-themed experiences, ensuring a dynamic stay with plenty of options to explore in close proximity.
• Edinburgh and Lothian: About 8 km away from Old Town Edinburgh, this area is great for those seeking outdoor adventures alongside cultural experiences. With attractions such as the National Museum of Scotland and the Grassmarket, visitors can enjoy both hiking trails and urban exploration. The local dining scene features distilleries and cafes, offering a taste of the region's culinary delights, making it a wonderful option for a varied stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Old Town Edinburgh

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia's filters to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on long road trips, seek out rentals that include unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh

The best value period to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is manageable. February is also a quieter month, offering lower prices with minimal demand. Following March, April and May see average prices with steady demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, experiencing high demand and slightly elevated prices. June and July also reflect heightened demand, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average