Galway Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Galway

Renting a car in Galway provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to engage in outdoor adventures and scenic experiences, as you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. With a rental car, you can effortlessly visit key attractions such as Eyre Square, a central piazza ideal for cultural experiences, and Quay Street, known for its vibrant city atmosphere. Galway Harbour offers beautiful coastal scenery, perfect for a relaxing day out.

A car also makes it convenient to explore popular neighbourhoods like Galway City Centre and the Latin Quarter, both featuring Eyre Square, Quay Street, and Galway Harbour. Additionally, the quaint area of Claddagh, with Grattan Beach and its charming surroundings, is easily accessible. Whether you are travelling with family or simply wish to enjoy the sights without the constraints of public transport, a rental car allows you to make the most of your time in Galway and discover its many hidden gems.

Most popular car rentals in Galway

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5. With ample room for up to 3 medium suitcases, it is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families who want an efficient vehicle that is easy to manoeuvre in urban settings. Its smaller size allows for convenient parking and navigating narrow streets, making it a great option for exploring Galway's attractions at your own pace.
• Economy: The Economy car offers a practical solution for up to 5 travellers, accommodating up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers or couples seeking to travel light. Its fuel efficiency and easy handling make it an economical choice for those who wish to discover Galway without the burden of excess luggage or high rental costs. Enjoy the flexibility of travelling wherever you desire.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is tailored for travellers needing a bit more space, accommodating up to 5 individuals with room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for couples or families, providing comfort for longer journeys. With its balance of size and capacity, the Midsize car is perfect for those who want to ensure they have enough room for their belongings while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Galway.

Top rated car suppliers in Galway

• Budget: Budget has a rental location in Galway, making it accessible for travellers looking to explore the region. Renowned for its value, Budget’s most booked vehicles include Economy and Midsize SUVs, which cater to a variety of travel needs. This supplier is a popular choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality, allowing you to enjoy your journey around Galway comfortably.
• Enterprise: With a rental location in Galway, Enterprise stands out for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. The most booked cars from this supplier are Economy and Compact SUVs, ideal for navigating the charming streets of Galway and the surrounding areas. Enterprise is frequently praised for its helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a pleasant rental experience for all travellers.
• Europcar: Europcar also has a convenient rental location in Galway. This supplier is known for its focus on providing Economy vehicles, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers. Customers appreciate Europcar for its commitment to cleanliness and efficiency, which enhances your overall experience. With a reliable fleet, Europcar allows you to explore Galway and its beautiful surroundings with ease.

Where to stay in Galway

• Galway City Centre: Located in the heart of Galway, this vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for travellers seeking outdoor activities, family experiences, and stunning scenery. Here, you can explore popular attractions such as Eyre Square, a charming piazza ideal for cultural outings, and Quay Street, known for its lively atmosphere. Galway Harbour offers beautiful views and is great for a scenic holiday. The city centre is also home to a variety of shopping areas and dining options, including breweries and pubs, making it an excellent base for your stay.
• Claddagh: This picturesque neighbourhood is known for its outdoor and family-friendly experiences, as well as its scenic beauty. Claddagh's highlights include Grattan Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing by the water, and Eyre Square, which is also accessible from this area. With various shopping venues and dining options nearby, including cafés and breweries, Claddagh provides a delightful blend of relaxation and activity, making it a wonderful place to stay while exploring Galway.
• Latin Quarter: Renowned for its vibrant culture and family-oriented activities, the Latin Quarter is a fantastic neighbourhood for visitors. Here, you will find a mix of shopping areas and local attractions, including the popular Eyre Square and Quay Street. The area is also known for its diverse dining scene and lively bars, perfect for enjoying the local flavour. The atmosphere is particularly inviting during the warmer months, making it an appealing choice for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Galway's unique charm.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—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, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 anything unexpected arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long 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 Galway

The best value period to rent a car in and around Galway is November, when prices tend to be lower and demand is typically quiet. October also offers slight savings with average demand, making it a good choice for a rental. June through August, however, see increased prices and higher demand, especially in August, which is the most expensive month for rentals. September follows closely with high demand, making car rentals pricier during this time as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
July	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High