Shannon Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Shannon

Renting a car in Shannon offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans to suit your needs. This is particularly appealing for families or those seeking outdoor adventures. You can visit key attractions like Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club, located only 6 km away, or immerse yourself in the culture at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which is a mere 10 km from Shannon. Ennis Cathedral, situated 12 km away, also offers a glimpse into the local heritage. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby cities such as Newmarket on Fergus, just 4 km away, which features the same attractions as Shannon. The city of Ennis, located 13 km away, provides further opportunities to discover Knappogue Castle and other interesting sites. Renting a car in Shannon not only enhances your travel experience but also allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery and rich history of Ireland’s west coast without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals around Shannon

• Economy: This car type is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is an ideal choice for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking to explore Shannon and its surroundings. Its compact size allows for easy navigation through town while offering the flexibility to travel at your own pace.
• Midsize: The Midsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers and provides room for 3 large suitcases. This option is great for couples and families who need a bit more space while travelling. With its balance of comfort and capacity, the Midsize car allows for a pleasant driving experience around Shannon, making it easier to manage your luggage and enjoy your journey.
• Compact: The Compact car is designed to fit 5 travellers and carries up to 3 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. Its smaller footprint is beneficial for navigating the streets of Shannon while still offering enough room for your luggage. Opting for a Compact car ensures a convenient and efficient travel experience during your stay.

Top rated car suppliers around Shannon

• Budget: Budget is a popular choice for car rentals in Shannon, located just 4 km away from the city. Known for its affordability, Budget provides a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs. The most booked options include Economy and Midsize cars, making it a great choice for travellers looking for value without sacrificing comfort. Enjoy the flexibility to explore Shannon and its surroundings at your own pace with Budget's reliable service.
• Sixt: Sixt, also situated 4 km from Shannon, is recognized for its excellent service and a well-maintained fleet. With a focus on providing a seamless rental experience, Sixt offers popular choices like Economy and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for navigating both urban and rural landscapes. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes Sixt a top contender for those wishing to explore the beauty of Ireland with ease.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with its convenient location just 4 km from Shannon, offering a diverse range of vehicles to meet your travel needs. Most bookings are for Economy and Standard SUVs, providing ample space and comfort for your adventures. With a reputation for quality and reliability, Hertz ensures that you can enjoy your journey through Shannon and beyond, making it a solid option for car rentals in the area.

Where to stay around Shannon

• Shannon: Located only 5 km from Shannon, this city is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Popular highlights include the Atlantic Airventure, an aviation museum perfect for culture enthusiasts, and the nearby Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which offers a romantic backdrop. For golf lovers, the Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club is also accessible from Shannon. The area is well-equipped with dining options and breweries for a complete experience.
• Bunratty: Just 10 km away from Shannon, Bunratty is renowned for its rich cultural theme and outdoor activities. The iconic Bunratty Castle and Folk Park provides a glimpse into history, making it a great spot for romance and culture seekers. Additionally, King John's Castle offers more historical charm. For those looking to unwind, local breweries and bars are available. The Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club also serves as a wonderful accommodation option for golf enthusiasts.
• Ennis: Situated 13 km from Shannon, Ennis is perfect for travellers who appreciate outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Visitors can explore the historic Ennis Cathedral, engage in adventures at the nearby Knappogue Castle, or enjoy a round of golf at the Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club. The city also features charming parks and a shopping centre, alongside various breweries and bars to satisfy your dining needs after a day of exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to keep costs down, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre 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 surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Shannon

The best value period to rent a car in and around Shannon is November, when both prices and demand tend to be the lowest. January and February also offer moderate prices with slightly low demand, making them good shoulder months. As spring approaches, May sees a spike in demand and prices, becoming one of the busiest times for rentals. August is typically the most expensive month, with high demand and prices reflecting the peak tourist season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
March	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
April	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Moderately High
June	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Moderately Low
July	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
August	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
September	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
December	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average