Edinburgh City Centre Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Edinburgh City Centre

Renting a car in Edinburgh City Centre offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Key attractions are conveniently located within close proximity, such as Princes Street, which is perfect for city experiences, and Edinburgh Castle, less than 1 km away, which appeals to those seeking cultural and romantic experiences. The Grassmarket, also under 1 km away, provides a family-friendly outdoor atmosphere. Additionally, having a car allows you to visit nearby destinations like the Old Town, featuring the Royal Mile and more of Edinburgh's rich history, or the New Town, home to more attractions like Princes Street and Grassmarket. This convenience enhances your sightseeing experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without the constraints of public transport schedules. Whether you are travelling with family, friends, or seeking a cultural journey, renting a car in Edinburgh City Centre can significantly enhance your visit.

Most popular car rentals in Edinburgh City Centre

• Compact: This car type is a popular choice for those looking to explore Edinburgh City Centre. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing space for up to 3 medium suitcases, the Compact car is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its size makes it easy to navigate through the city’s narrow streets while offering flexibility in travel plans and easy luggage management.
• Economy: The Economy car is another highly booked option that suits a variety of travellers. With capacity for 5 passengers and room for up to 2 medium suitcases, it is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families seeking an affordable and efficient way to explore the city. Its economical fuel usage and manageable size allow for easy driving in Edinburgh City Centre.
• Midsize SUV: For those requiring more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice. This option accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it particularly suitable for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers the versatility needed for various travel needs while providing comfort and convenience during your journey around Edinburgh City Centre.

Top rated car suppliers in Edinburgh City Centre

• Sixt: Sixt is a highly regarded car rental supplier with a location in Edinburgh City Centre. This supplier stands out for offering a selection of Compact and Midsize SUVs, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking for comfort and space while exploring the area. Sixt is known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth rental experience for tourists.
• Budget: Budget operates a rental location in Edinburgh City Centre, providing travellers with economical options. Popular choices among customers include Economy and Compact cars, perfect for navigating the city and surrounding attractions. Budget is recognised for its competitive pricing and user-friendly rental process, making it a convenient option for those on a budget.
• Greenmotion: Greenmotion also has a rental location within Edinburgh City Centre, catering to eco-conscious travellers. This supplier offers a range of Economy and Mini vehicles, ideal for those seeking efficient and compact options. Greenmotion is appreciated for its focus on sustainability and cost-effective rentals, providing a responsible choice for exploring Edinburgh.

Where to stay around Edinburgh City Centre

• Edinburgh City Centre: The heart of Scotland's capital, Edinburgh City Centre offers a vibrant blend of culture, shopping, and historic landmarks. Here, you can explore the impressive Edinburgh Castle and stroll along the bustling streets like the Royal Mile and Princes Street. This area is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience, with numerous theatres and restaurants nearby, making it a prime location for tourists.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Located less than 1 km from the city centre, Old Town Edinburgh is steeped in history and charm. This neighbourhood is famous for its cultural experiences, featuring landmarks such as the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the lively Royal Mile. With a range of shopping areas and theatres, Old Town is ideal for family outings and city exploration, alongside numerous dining options offering local cuisine.
• Leith: Situated 3 km from Edinburgh City Centre, Leith is a vibrant waterfront district that invites families and culture enthusiasts alike. The area boasts the Edinburgh Port, perfect for those looking for adventure by the water. With attractions like George Street and the Royal Mile within reach, Leith offers a unique blend of city life and historic charm, complemented by local restaurants and pubs for a delightful dining experience.

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

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 the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the 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 depending on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to secure 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 park in crowded 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact 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, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable too. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the 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 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 long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Edinburgh City Centre

The best value period to rent a car in and around Edinburgh City Centre is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. March can also be a good option, as it typically sees the lowest demand and slightly low prices. However, renting during June through August may be less ideal, as these months see high demand and average to slightly high prices, with July being the most expensive month for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	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	High	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High