Plymouth Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Plymouth

Renting a car in Plymouth provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those with family or luggage, as it allows for easy management while visiting various attractions. You can easily drive to Hoe Park for urban outdoor experiences, or visit the historic Mayflower Steps for a taste of culture right in the city. The scenic Mothecombe Beach offers a perfect spot for relaxation by the coast.

A rental car also opens up opportunities to explore nearby destinations such as Torpoint, located only 4 km away, where you can enjoy Whitsand Bay Beach and Polhawn Fort. Saltash, 7 km away, features beautiful sites like Cotehele House and Gardens. Additionally, the Barbican neighbourhood in Plymouth offers a blend of attractions including Hoe Park and the Mayflower Steps. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these sites, making your trip more enjoyable and tailored to your preferences.

Most popular car rentals in Plymouth

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV offers a spacious interior, making it perfect for those who may have extra luggage or require room for comfort during their travels around Plymouth.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Economy car can fit up to 5 travellers and carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those looking to explore Plymouth while keeping costs low and enjoying the convenience of a compact vehicle, which is easier to navigate in urban areas.
• Compact: Suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for those who want a balance of space and fuel efficiency while exploring Plymouth at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Plymouth

• Hertz: With a rental location in Plymouth, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, with the Economy and Midsize SUVs being the most booked options. This allows you to enjoy the sights around Plymouth comfortably and efficiently.
• Europcar: Europcar also has a rental location in the Plymouth area, making it an accessible option for tourists. Known for their Midsize and Compact SUVs, Europcar provides reliable vehicles that are perfect for exploring both the city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in Plymouth, Enterprise offers great convenience for car rental. They provide a range of vehicles, with Economy and Standard SUVs being the most popular choices. Their presence in the area ensures that you can easily manage your travel plans and enjoy the attractions nearby without hassle.

Where to stay in and around Plymouth

• Saltash: Located 7 km from Plymouth, Saltash is ideal for travellers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. The area offers a range of activities such as golfing at local courses and exploring the nearby national park and family-friendly beaches. Key points of interest include the historic Cotehele House and Gardens, along with Port Eliot House and Gardens, which are perfect for culture enthusiasts. For dining options, there are various bars and restaurants available in the city, making it a comfortable place to stay.
• Torpoint: Just 4 km from Plymouth, Torpoint is known for its beautiful beaches and recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including trips to Whitsand Bay Beach, a popular spot for beach holidays, as well as the scenic Whitsand Bay itself. History buffs will appreciate the nearby Polhawn Fort. The area also offers diverse food and drink options, including restaurants and bars, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors.
• Barbican: Situated around Plymouth, Barbican is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for outdoor and family activities. This area features a lively atmosphere with attractions like Hoe Park and the historic Mayflower Steps, making it ideal for culture and city-themed holidays. Barbican is also home to various shopping centres and dining establishments, including bars and coffee shops, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment during your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Plymouth

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure more favourable rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Plymouth

The best time to rent a car in and around Plymouth is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. February also offers similar value with quiet demand. Following these months, March and October can provide average pricing and moderate demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and moderately high prices, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters. July and September also see elevated demand and pricing, further emphasizing August's peak period.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
February	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately High
September	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
December	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average