Cambridge Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cambridge

Renting a car in Cambridge offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can comfortably visit various attractions without the constraints of public transport schedules. Notable sites such as the Imperial War Museum Duxford, Sawston Hall, and King's College Chapel are all accessible by car, allowing you to immerse yourself in cultural experiences with ease.

A rental car is particularly beneficial for families seeking outdoor activities and cultural outings, as it provides ample space for everyone and their belongings. You can venture into the Cambridge City Centre to enjoy the River Cam, Fitzwilliam Museum, and Parker's Piece, or take a short drive to nearby destinations like Duxford and Grantchester Village. With a car, you can navigate to these popular spots, ensuring that your travel plans remain flexible and tailored to your interests. Overall, renting a car in and around Cambridge enhances your sightseeing experience, making it a practical choice for any type of traveller.

Most popular car rentals in Cambridge

• Compact: The Compact car option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This choice offers a balance of comfort and efficiency, making it perfect for navigating the charming streets of Cambridge. With its manageable size, it's easy to park and manoeuvre around the city, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace while efficiently managing your luggage.
• Midsize SUV: If you're travelling with family, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic choice. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle offers a greater sense of space and versatility, making it suitable for longer trips or those with extra luggage. With its elevated seating position, you’ll enjoy a better view while driving around the picturesque landscapes surrounding Cambridge.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is perfect for families or groups needing extra room. This vehicle can accommodate 5 travellers with the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It's an excellent choice for those who require additional space without sacrificing comfort. Renting a Fullsize car allows you to travel comfortably throughout Cambridge and beyond, ensuring that you have ample room for both passengers and luggage during your adventure.

Top rated car suppliers in Cambridge

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Cambridge, known for its efficient service and a single rental location in the area. Customers frequently book Compact and Luxury vehicles, highlighting the comfort and style these options provide. The brand is recognised for its well-maintained fleet and quick pickup process, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore the city at their own pace.
• Hertz: Another top supplier in Cambridge, Hertz operates from one rental location and offers a diverse selection of vehicles. Midsize SUVs and Compacts are the most booked cars with this supplier, catering to different travel needs. Hertz is appreciated for its straightforward rental process and the quality of its vehicles, ensuring that you can enjoy a smooth driving experience while discovering the attractions of Cambridge.
• Routes: Routes provides a strong option for car rentals in Cambridge with its single location. This supplier is popular for its Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for both solo travellers and families. Customers often commend Routes for its friendly service and flexibility in rental terms, making it a great choice for those wanting to tailor their trip around the beautiful city and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Cambridge

• Cambridge City Centre: A vibrant hub for culture, family, and city-themed experiences, Cambridge City Centre offers easy access to iconic landmarks such as the historic colleges, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the scenic River Cam. This area is particularly delightful in the spring and summer months when outdoor activities at Parker's Piece and riverside strolls are most enjoyable. With numerous restaurants and a shopping centre nearby, it makes for a convenient and lively base for your stay.
• Chesterton: Renowned for its family and culture-themed attractions, Chesterton is a charming neighbourhood with access to the River Cam and the magnificent King's College Chapel. This area is ideal for those looking to explore outdoor spaces and enjoy music concerts and theatre performances. The spring season is perfect for experiencing the local parks and piazzas, providing a lovely atmosphere for family outings and cultural experiences.
• Arbury: Arbury is a welcoming community known for its cultural and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can explore notable sites such as the historic King’s College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum, both of which are within close proximity. The River Cam offers beautiful scenery for outdoor enjoyment. This neighbourhood is particularly appealing in the warmer months, as the parks and cultural events create a lively environment for all ages.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater 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 offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years 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 aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which can also be suitable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
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 in and around Cambridge

The best value period to rent a car in and around Cambridge is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. March also offers similar advantages with low demand and slightly low prices. As spring arrives, April tends to see a slight increase in prices and demand. The summer months, particularly June and July, are typically high in demand and average in pricing, while December stands out as the most expensive time, with prices rising and demand remaining steady.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
February	40.5°F (4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	43.5°F (6.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
April	47.7°F (8.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
May	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
August	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	59.2°F (15.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High