Edinburgh Zoo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental around Edinburgh Zoo

Renting a car around Edinburgh Zoo offers a convenient way to explore the stunning attractions of Edinburgh at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites like Edinburgh Castle, located only 4 km away, or enjoy a leisurely stroll down Princes Street, which is also 4 km from the zoo. Families can appreciate the proximity to Grassmarket, situated 5 km away, providing a great outdoor experience. The flexibility of having a car allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area, as you can venture into Edinburgh City Centre and the charming Old Town Edinburgh, both just 5 km away. Whether you are travelling with friends, family, or seeking a personal adventure, a rental car enhances your sightseeing experience around Edinburgh Zoo, enabling you to create a personalised itinerary. Enjoy the freedom to explore popular destinations and hidden gems without the constraints of public transport, making your trip memorable and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals near Edinburgh Zoo

• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for navigating the city streets around Edinburgh Zoo, allowing for easy parking and fuel efficiency while providing the flexibility to explore local attractions at your leisure.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV comfortably fits 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type is great for those looking for a mix of comfort and capability, especially if you plan to venture further afield from Edinburgh Zoo. Its spacious interior ensures a pleasant experience for longer journeys.
• Economy: The Economy car is a smart choice for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a cost-effective means of transportation, perfect for exploring the sights surrounding Edinburgh Zoo. With its compact size, it is easy to manoeuvre through the city, making it a practical choice for your trip.

Top rated car suppliers near Edinburgh Zoo

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo operates a rental location 5 km away from Edinburgh Zoo, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for their quick pickup process and friendly staff, Alamo ensures a hassle-free experience. The most booked vehicles with Alamo are the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, providing ample space and comfort for your adventures around Edinburgh. With a focus on well-maintained cars and efficient returns, Alamo is a solid choice for those looking to explore at their own pace.
• National Car Rental: Also located 5 km from Edinburgh Zoo, National Car Rental is a popular choice among tourists. They offer a selection of vehicles that includes Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, catering to various travel needs. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and reliable service. National is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, making it an excellent choice for visitors seeking flexibility while discovering the attractions surrounding Edinburgh Zoo.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations and the nearest being less than 1 km from Edinburgh Zoo, Enterprise is highly accessible for tourists. They are recognised for their outstanding customer service and a wide selection of vehicles, including Compact and Midsize SUVs. Enterprise prioritises a smooth rental experience with helpful staff and flexible options, making it an ideal choice for families and solo travellers alike. Their proximity to the zoo adds to the convenience for those looking to manage their itinerary with ease.

Where to stay near Edinburgh Zoo

• Edinburgh City Centre: Located 5 km from Edinburgh Zoo, the City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. With attractions such as the historic Edinburgh Castle and the bustling Princes Street, visitors can enjoy shopping, theatre, and a variety of dining options. The nearby Grassmarket area offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities. This lively locale is best experienced during the warmer months when outdoor events and festivals take place.
• Inchmickery: Situated 7 km from Edinburgh Zoo, Inchmickery is an enchanting island that provides a unique escape from the city. While the island itself is a natural highlight, visitors can also access nearby attractions like the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the charming streets of Princes Street and George Street. This area is ideal for those looking to explore both nature and history, particularly in the spring and summer when the weather is more favourable.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Edinburgh Zoo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, 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 is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain 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 busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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—may not be available. 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 on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car 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 also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
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 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 intend to embark on long road trips, seek 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 around Edinburgh Zoo

The best value period to rent a car around Edinburgh Zoo is February, when prices and demand are at their lowest. March also offers slightly low prices and low demand, making it a good option. As spring approaches, April and May see average prices and demand. However, from June through August, prices tend to rise with higher demand, especially in July. Finally, December is usually the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand.

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	Slightly Low
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	Average	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	High	Average
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	Low	Slightly Low
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High