Kilkenny Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Kilkenny

Renting a car in Kilkenny offers the freedom to explore this charming city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, making it ideal for various experiences, whether you seek culture, outdoor adventures, or a romantic getaway. Key attractions like Kilkenny Castle and Butler House are conveniently located within the city, while the historic Kells Priory is only 12 km away. Additionally, nearby destinations such as Dunbell, just 7 km away, and Ballyfoyle, 8 km away, allow you to visit more sights without the constraints of public transport. The idyllic Kilkenny City Centre features a blend of historic sites, including St. Canice's Cathedral, all easily accessible by car. Whether you're travelling solo, with a partner, or with family, having a rental car enables you to enjoy the best of Kilkenny and its surroundings comfortably and efficiently.

Most popular car rentals in Kilkenny

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and is perfect for those with up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families seeking an affordable and efficient way to explore Kilkenny and its attractions at their own pace.
• Midsize SUV: With space for 5 travellers and the ability to carry up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. It offers a comfortable ride and extra luggage capacity, making it suitable for those planning longer trips around Kilkenny.
• Standard SUV: This car type comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. The Standard SUV is ideal for couples, families, or groups who prefer a bit more space while travelling. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for exploring Kilkenny and the surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers in Kilkenny

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car rental supplier in Kilkenny, featuring one rental location within the city. Travellers appreciate the flexibility it offers, allowing them to explore attractions at their own pace. The Compact car is the most booked option, providing a perfect balance of comfort and efficiency for navigating both city streets and scenic drives in the surrounding areas.

Where to stay in and around Kilkenny

• Kilkenny City Centre: The heart of Kilkenny, the City Centre offers a vibrant culture-themed experience. Here, you can explore notable landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle, a romantic destination, and Butler House, a historic house perfect for culture enthusiasts. St. Canice's Cathedral adds to the cultural richness of the area. The City Centre also features shopping centres and pubs, ideal for sampling local brews. This area is particularly lively during the summer months, making it a perfect time for family outings and cultural explorations.
• Thomastown: Situated 16 km from Kilkenny, Thomastown is known for its outdoor and sports activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic golf courses and explore attractions like Jerpoint Abbey, a historical ruin that captures the essence of local culture. The area is home to several breweries and bars, providing ample dining options. Thomastown is best visited in spring and summer, when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor activities abound, enhancing your cultural holiday experience.
• Seven Houses Cross Roads: Located 8 km from Kilkenny, Seven Houses Cross Roads is a scenic area perfect for outdoor adventures. With access to golf courses and national parks, it offers a refreshing escape into nature. Key attractions include Kilkenny Castle and Butler House, both significant for their cultural importance. This neighbourhood also provides dining options to relax after a day of exploration. The best time to visit is during the warmer months, when the scenery is at its most inviting.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in locating the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to hire and easier to manoeuvre 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. Renters above the age of 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure to return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies predominantly 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 occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Kilkenny

The best value period to rent a car in and around Kilkenny is February, when both prices and demand are low. Following this, November also offers low prices with similar demand characteristics. Mid-range options include March and April, which see average prices and demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, coinciding with high demand as many tourists flock to the area. September also remains busy and pricey, making it a less ideal time for rentals.