Colombo Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Colombo

Renting a car in Colombo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This convenience is particularly appealing for families, business travellers, or those with a lot of luggage, making it easier to manage your belongings while navigating the city. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Galle Face Green, a lovely urban park perfect for outdoor experiences, or the Colombo Lotus Tower, a significant cultural landmark. The Gangaramaya Temple is another must-see, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, just 6 km from Colombo, where you can explore more cultural sites, or Wellawatte, known for Mount Lavinia Beach and Viharamahadevi Park. Having your own vehicle eliminates the need for public transport, providing a more comfortable and efficient way to experience everything Colombo has to offer, whether you are visiting for leisure or business purposes.

Where to stay in and around Colombo

• Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte: Located 6 km away from Colombo, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte offers a blend of business, family, and city-themed experiences. This city features a shopping centre and mall, along with local attractions like the tranquil beaches and national parks. Key points of interest include the cultural highlights of Gangaramaya Temple and Viharamahadevi Park. Dining options are plentiful, making it a convenient choice for travellers seeking both leisure and exploration.
• Colombo 03: Situated within Colombo, Colombo 03 is ideal for family and business travellers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of shopping centres and a private country club. The area is home to Galle Face Green, a lovely urban park perfect for outdoor activities, and Galle Face Beach, which is great for seaside relaxation. The historic charm of the area is complemented by cultural sites like Chabad of Sri Lanka.
• Wellawatte: This neighbourhood around Colombo is known for its family-friendly environment and city-themed allure. Wellawatte features numerous shopping centres and markets, making it a lively spot for visitors. Nearby attractions include the beautiful Mount Lavinia Beach and cultural sites such as Gangaramaya Temple and Viharamahadevi Park. This makes Wellawatte a great base for those wanting to enjoy both beach and cultural experiences.

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

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 enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, making it advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to benefit from lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size vehicles 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 categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. Renters over the age of 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: It’s common to incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra 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 protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your journey. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.