Edinburgh Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Edinburgh

Renting a car in and around Edinburgh offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create travel plans that suit your schedule. This flexibility is especially appealing for families and those seeking cultural experiences. You can visit key attractions like Edinburgh Castle, located in the heart of the city, or stroll down the Royal Mile, which is ideal for immersing yourself in the city's rich history. The Grassmarket area is great for family outings, providing outdoor experiences that everyone can enjoy. Additionally, having a car allows you to explore various neighbourhoods, such as Old Town Edinburgh, where you can find numerous attractions within close proximity. The Edinburgh City Centre and New Town also feature highlights like Princes Street and more iconic landmarks. With a rental car, you can effortlessly navigate between these destinations, making the most of your time in this historical city while enjoying the convenience of personal transport.

Most popular car rentals in Edinburgh

• Compact: The Compact car option is a popular choice for travellers in Edinburgh, accommodating up to 5 individuals with space for 3 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for an efficient way to navigate the city and surrounding areas. Its smaller size makes city driving and parking easier, while still providing enough room for luggage and personal belongings.
• Midsize SUV: For those seeking a bit more space and versatility, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle type offers a higher driving position and more cargo capacity, which can enhance your travel experience as you explore Edinburgh and its picturesque surroundings.
• Economy: The Economy car is a practical choice for budget-conscious travellers, fitting up to 5 passengers and accommodating 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families wanting to explore Edinburgh without the extra costs. Its fuel efficiency ensures you can enjoy your journey while saving on gas, making it a sensible choice for those looking to maximize their travel budget.

Top rated car suppliers in Edinburgh

• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in the Edinburgh area, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its friendly service, this supplier ensures a positive rental experience. The most popular vehicles include Compact and Midsize SUVs, perfect for navigating the beautiful Scottish landscapes with ease.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo boasts 3 rental locations throughout Edinburgh, making it a convenient option for visitors. Renowned for its friendly service, Alamo focuses on providing a pleasant car rental experience. The Midsize SUV and Compact SUV are the most booked options, offering spaciousness and comfort for your explorations around the city and beyond.
• Budget: With 4 rental locations in Edinburgh, Budget is an excellent choice for those looking to save while enjoying the freedom of a rental car. Known for its value, Budget offers a range of vehicles with Compact and Economy cars being the most popular choices. This supplier provides convenient access to your rental needs at competitive rates, making it easy to explore all that Edinburgh has to offer.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh City Centre: Located at the heart of Edinburgh, this vibrant neighbourhood is ideal for those seeking a culture-themed, family, or city experience. Visitors can explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along Princes Street for shopping, and enjoy family-friendly activities at Grassmarket. The area is also home to various restaurants, distilleries, and breweries, making it perfect for food lovers. The City Centre is bustling with life, especially during the summer months, when the city hosts various festivals and events.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Rich in history and culture, Old Town Edinburgh offers a captivating experience for families and city explorers alike. Key highlights include the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile, which is teeming with shops and theatres. Grassmarket also provides family-friendly outdoor activities. The neighbourhood’s vibrant atmosphere is particularly lively during the festival season, attracting visitors keen to experience its unique charm and diverse culinary scene, including local restaurants and distilleries.
• Leith: Known for its maritime heritage, Leith is a fascinating neighbourhood that appeals to families and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Edinburgh Port for outdoor adventures, or enjoy the local scenes along George Street and the Royal Mile. Leith is filled with restaurants and pubs, offering a range of dining options. This area is especially pleasant in the warmer months when outdoor activities and events are plentiful, making it a great spot for families seeking both culture and fun.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect 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 early, you’re more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically 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 surcharges, and some vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other providers may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure to return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when making reservations with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to avoid incurring 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 Edinburgh

The best value period to rent a car in and around Edinburgh is February, as prices and demand are both low. This month is followed closely by January, which also offers similar low demand and slightly low pricing. March sees a rise in demand and average prices, while May tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand. June through August also experience high demand and slightly high prices, making them busier times for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
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	Average	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	High	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	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average