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Top destinations to rent a car in Ireland

A city street with historic buildings, a prominent church spire, and a variety of shops.
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Dublin

Dublin

Reasons to book a car rental in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily transport your luggage and adjust your travel plans to suit your interests. This is particularly beneficial for families and those looking to enjoy outdoor experiences. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as St. Stephen's Green, a lovely urban park in Dublin perfect for family outings, or Grafton Street, renowned for its vibrant city atmosphere. For stunning scenery, the Cliffs of Moher provide breathtaking views and adventure opportunities. Additionally, you can explore popular destinations like Dublin, which features multiple attractions, or Galway, known for Eyre Square and Quay Street. Having a car allows you to travel between these cities and their highlights without the constraints of public transport, making your journey more enjoyable and efficient. Whether you seek city experiences or scenic adventures, renting a car in Ireland enhances your travel experience significantly.

Most popular car rentals in Ireland

  • Economy: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. The Economy car is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly choice while still enjoying the flexibility to explore Ireland's attractions at their own pace.
  • Midsize SUV: With room for 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring comfort during your journeys across Ireland, whether you're heading to the countryside or the coast.
  • Compact: The Compact car caters to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it a versatile option for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its size is beneficial for navigating Ireland's roads, allowing for easy parking while still providing enough room for your luggage and travel necessities.

Where to stay in Ireland

  • Dublin: As a vibrant metropolis, Dublin is perfect for those seeking a family, culture-themed, or city-themed experience. Within proximity, you can find notable attractions such as St. Stephen's Green, an urban park ideal for outdoor activities, and Grafton Street, a bustling shopping area. The city is also home to O'Connell Street, which offers a rich cultural atmosphere. For food and drinks, nearby options include various breweries and distilleries, making Dublin an exciting destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and leisure.
  • Galway: Known for its stunning scenery and adventurous spirit, Galway is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions include Eyre Square, a charming piazza perfect for culture lovers, and Quay Street, a lively street that embodies the city's vibrant character. The picturesque Galway Harbour is also nearby, providing beautiful views and opportunities for scenic experiences. With an array of breweries and pubs, Galway offers a fantastic selection of food and drink options to complement your stay in this dynamic city.
  • Killarney: Offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, Killarney is ideal for nature lovers. The famous Killarney National Park is a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Nearby, Ross Castle provides a glimpse into the region's rich history, while Muckross House showcases the area's cultural heritage. With various distilleries and delightful sweet treats available, Killarney promises a delightful experience for those looking to explore both its natural and cultural attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Ireland

  • Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  • Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  • Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and more convenient to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • 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—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
  • Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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 offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
  • Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  • Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  • Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  • 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 Ireland

    The best value period to rent a car in Ireland is February, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. Following closely, November also offers slightly low prices with moderate demand. The months of January through April generally have average pricing and demand, making them decent options as well. However, August is the most expensive month, with high demand that can lead to pricier rentals. July and August see a significant uptick in demand and prices, making them the busiest months for car rentals.

    When you visit Ireland, you want to see every bit of landscape and culture at your fingertips. Yes, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the world, but public transportation can only get you so far. To see some of the most hidden gems, your own set of wheels will come in handy. Ireland car hire makes it possible to see the area on your own schedule with ease. If you hear about a restaurant tucked away at the edge of your favourite neighbourhood, it’s no problem. When you want to see a late night show or early morning sunrise off the beaten path, your car makes that possible too. Cheap car hire in Ireland allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible Ireland car rental deals right here on Expedia.com.au today. Whether you want a vehicle outfitted with luxury amenities, or a hybrid car with impressive gas mileage, you can find the perfect set of wheels on Expedia. From compact cars to spacious SUVs, we have loads of options to choose from and booking is just a few clicks away.

    Car Rental Information

     
    Popular Car Rental Types:
    		Hire a SUV, Luxury, Full Size, Economy
     
    Airport to Hotel Transportation:
    		Airport Transportation