Canterbury Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canterbury

Renting a car in Canterbury offers you the freedom to explore this historic city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans. This is particularly appealing for those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly activities. Key attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral, renowned for its cultural significance, are conveniently located within the city. Additionally, you can take a scenic drive to Whitstable, just 10 km away, where you can relax at Whitstable Beach or enjoy the views at Whitstable Harbour. Other nearby destinations include Faversham, 14 km away, home to Belmont House and Gardens, and Herne Bay, 11 km away, featuring Herne Bay Central Beach. With a rental car, you can effortlessly visit these charming locations, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you’re travelling with family or looking for outdoor exploration, having a car allows you to maximise your time in and around Canterbury, providing an ideal way to experience the rich culture and beautiful scenery of the area.

Most popular car rentals in Canterbury

• Economy: The Economy car option is a popular choice for those travelling solo, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This type of car is perfect for navigating the charming streets of Canterbury and allows for easy luggage management, making it an ideal companion for your explorations.
• Midsize SUV: If you are travelling with a larger group or family, the Midsize SUV is the way to go. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and provides ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type combines versatility and comfort, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who desire a bit more room during their adventures around Canterbury.
• Compact: The Compact car option is another excellent choice for a variety of travellers, including solo adventurers, couples, and families. With the capacity to hold 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, this car type is practical for those looking to travel light while still enjoying the freedom that comes with having your own vehicle in Canterbury.

Top rated car suppliers in Canterbury

• Enterprise: With one rental location in Canterbury, Enterprise is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility. They offer a diverse range of vehicles, with the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV being the most booked options. Renting from Enterprise allows you to explore Canterbury and its surroundings at your own pace while managing your luggage with ease.

Where to stay around Canterbury

• Whitstable: Located 10 km from Canterbury, Whitstable is known for its beautiful beach and stunning scenery. This coastal city offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy recreational areas and shopping centres. Key attractions include the picturesque Whitstable Beach and the charming Whitstable Harbour, both perfect for a relaxing holiday by the sea. Additionally, visitors can explore the historic Canterbury Cathedral, which is a short distance away, offering a glimpse into the region's rich culture.
• Faversham: Situated 14 km from Canterbury, Faversham is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts. This city features a range of outdoor activities and significant architecture, along with vibrant shopping areas. Notable points of interest include Belmont House and Gardens, a historic house that showcases beautiful gardens, and Mount Ephraim Gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls. Moreover, the iconic Canterbury Cathedral is also within reach, enriching your cultural experience while staying in Faversham.
• Herne Bay: Just 11 km from Canterbury, Herne Bay offers an inviting beach experience along with outdoor and scenic activities. The area boasts several recreational venues, including theatres and arcade adventure zones, making it a lively spot for visitors. Guests can enjoy the sandy shores at Herne Bay Central Beach and Herne Bay East Beach, ideal for beach holidays. In addition, the famous Canterbury Cathedral is conveniently located nearby, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the best fit 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 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 are easier to park 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure 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 might be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Canterbury

The best value period for renting a car in and around Canterbury is February, when demand is low and prices are slightly lower than average. This month is followed by October and November, which also offer slightly low prices but with moderate demand. However, April tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travellers. March often experiences similar pricing to April, contributing to the overall higher costs during this time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
December	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average