Buckingham Palace Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental around Buckingham Palace

Renting a car around Buckingham Palace offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of London at your own pace. This historic palace is surrounded by numerous key attractions that are easily accessible by car. For instance, Hyde Park, an urban park ideal for family and outdoor experiences, is located only 2 km away. Big Ben and Piccadilly Circus, both situated just 1 km from Buckingham Palace, provide further opportunities for cultural exploration. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage conveniently and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. Whether you are travelling with family, looking for historical experiences, or simply wishing to enjoy the urban landscape, having a vehicle allows for a hassle-free journey. Additionally, you can venture beyond the immediate area to discover popular destinations like Canary Wharf, which is 8 km away and features attractions such as One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands. Overall, a car rental enhances your sightseeing experience around Buckingham Palace, making it an excellent choice for tourists looking to immerse themselves in London’s unique charm.

Most popular car rentals near Buckingham Palace

• Compact: The Compact car option is an excellent choice for up to 5 travellers, accommodating up to 3 medium suitcases. This type of vehicle is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking to explore the attractions around Buckingham Palace at their own pace. Its manageable size makes city driving and parking a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your trip without the hassle of larger vehicles.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride and ample room for luggage, making it a popular choice for those who wish to explore the area surrounding Buckingham Palace. The versatility of an SUV ensures that you can enjoy both city and countryside adventures with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car option is a cost-effective choice for up to 5 travellers, fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an affordable yet reliable means of transport. Its compact size is perfect for navigating the busy streets around Buckingham Palace, offering flexibility and convenience for your travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers near Buckingham Palace

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features 4 rental locations, with the nearest just 1 km from Buckingham Palace. It is favoured for its quick pickup service and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Travellers often choose Midsize and Compact SUVs for their reliability and comfort. Alamo is also praised for well-maintained vehicles and hassle-free returns, making it a top choice for those looking to explore London at their own pace.
• Europcar: With a rental location located 1 km away from Buckingham Palace, Europcar is a popular option amongst tourists. Customers appreciate the availability of Standard and Midsize SUVs, which provide ample space for luggage and comfort for sightseeing. The company is known for its competitive pricing and clean vehicles, making it an efficient choice for those needing a reliable car rental service.
• Budget: Budget operates a rental location just 1 km from Buckingham Palace, offering a selection of Compact and Standard vehicles. This supplier is recognised for its competitive rates and convenient pickup options. Travellers often commend Budget for its straightforward booking process and accessibility, making it a practical choice for those planning to explore the attractions around Buckingham Palace.

Where to stay near Buckingham Palace

• London City Centre: Nestled around the iconic Buckingham Palace, London City Centre offers a vibrant atmosphere enriched with culture and history. This neighbourhood is ideal for family, city, and culture-themed experiences. Here, you can easily access attractions like the stunning Hyde Park, perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. The area also boasts numerous dining options, including restaurants and pubs, making it a fantastic base for exploring the city.
• Canary Wharf: Located approximately 8 km from Buckingham Palace, Canary Wharf is known for its modern skyline and bustling atmosphere. This neighbourhood provides a unique blend of family, culture, and entertainment-themed experiences. While it may be a bit farther from the historic sites, it offers attractions such as the impressive One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands. Dining options abound, with a variety of restaurants and pubs to choose from, offering a lively experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Buckingham Palace

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain 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, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience could make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car around Buckingham Palace

The best value period to rent a car around Buckingham Palace is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This month offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for exploring the area. March and October also present good opportunities for rentals, with prices remaining slightly low and demand staying manageable. In contrast, December is typically the most expensive month, characterised by higher demand and prices, making it less appealing for budget-conscious travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	41.7°F (5.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
December	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High