Car hire Edinburgh

Search, compare and book your rental car

Pickup location
 Different return office?
   Driver age: 25-70
   I live in: United States
Search Now
Customers love us

Over 1 million customers trusted us to book the best car rental deal for them

Customers love us
Amend for free

Up to 48 hours before pickup

Amend for free
No extra fees

We don’t charge extra fees such as credit card or reservation fees

No extra fees

Cheap Car Hire Edinburgh

Cheap Car Hire Edinburgh

About Edinburgh airport

Edinburgh Airport is the primary airport serving the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh, offering easy connectivity to destinations across the UK, Europe, and beyond. Each year, millions of travellers come through its doors, excited to explore the city's rich history, charming surroundings, and the Scottish Highlands.

Situated a mere 8 miles from the city centre, Edinburgh Airport offers a diverse range of amenities, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, and executive lounges, ensuring travellers are entertained while waiting for their flights.

Owned and operated by Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a significant player in the airport industry, Edinburgh Airport continuously strives to improve its services and facilities, delivering the best possible airport experience for all passengers. GIP also operates various other major airports worldwide, including London City Airport and Gatwick Airport.

Beyond being a transport hub, Edinburgh Airport is an attraction. From stunning architecture and rich history to lively cultural scenes, Edinburgh boasts a plethora of experiences for all interests. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to a stroll down the Royal Mile, Edinburgh's appeal has something for everyone.

Downtown car hire in Edinburgh

If you are wanting to explore Edinburgh and its beautiful surroundings at your own place then hiring a car downtown is definitely the way to go. There are so many car rental companies in Edinburgh, you will be spoilt for choice.

With a car rental, you can explore the city's historical landmarks, take in the stunning views of the countryside, or even visit nearby towns as you aren’t bound to public transport. With the freedom to tailor your itinerary, you can visit iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur's Seat, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your own vehicle.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also venture out of the city and explore the breath-taking Scottish Highlands, take a drive along the coast, or visit nearby attractions like Stirling Castle or Loch Ness.

Car rental companies in the city offer a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to family-sized vehicles, meaning you can find the perfect car to fit your needs and budget. Plus, many offer flexible rental periods, so you can hire a car for as long or as little as you need.

Just be sure to familiarise yourself with the city's traffic laws and parking regulations before getting behind the wheel. With a little bit of planning and research, exploring Edinburgh and its surrounding areas by car is a fantastic way to experience all the beauty Scotland has to offer.

Driving in and around Edinburgh

If you're going to drive when in Edinburgh, there are a few things you should know to make sure you are being safe and driving properly.

Firstly, it's worth noting that driving in the city centre can be challenging, as the streets are very narrow and there are always one-way systems, and heavy traffic. If you're not used to driving in a busy city, it may be worth considering using public transport or hiring a driver.

If you do decide that driving is the best decision for you, there are loads of parking options available both in and around the city. However, it is essential to pay attention to parking restrictions and be aware of the different zones, which can have different parking rules and fees.

If you're planning on driving outside of Edinburgh, you'll be pleased to know that Scotland's roads are generally well-maintained and offer stunning views of the countryside. However, it's worth noting that some of the roads in rural areas can be narrow and winding, so take care and drive at a safe speed.

If you're planning on driving in the Scottish Highlands, be aware that the roads can be narrow, steep, and winding, and may not always have barriers or guardrails. It's important to take extra care and drive slowly, especially in adverse weather conditions.

One important thing to keep in mind when driving in Scotland is that the country operates a zero-tolerance policy on drinking and driving. The legal limit is lower than in many other countries, so it's essential to avoid drinking any alcohol if you plan to drive.

Driving in and around Edinburgh can be a fantastic way to explore the city and its surroundings, but it's important to be aware of the different driving conditions and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Car hire agencies in Edinburgh

Renting a car is a fantastic option to get around the city, especially if you don’t want to plan around public transport. There are plenty of car hire agencies in Edinburgh to choose from, each offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs and budget.

Major international car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise all have branches in Edinburgh, as well as local companies like Arnold Clark and Alamo.

When choosing a car hire agency, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you are going to want to make sure the agency has a good reputation for customer service, so you can be confident that you'll receive the support, should you need it on your travels.

Secondly, it's important to compare prices between different car hire agencies to ensure that you're getting the best deal possible. Many car hire companies offer discounts for longer rental periods, so it's worth considering whether you'll need the car for a few days or a few weeks.

Luckily for you, at Holiday Cars, we pride ourselves on finding the best car hire for your needs. We compare hundreds of car rental sites from all over to find you the perfect one for your trip. We like to take the stress and hard work out of your car hire search – and we love doing it.

Road trips from Edinburgh

Road trips from Edinburgh are a great way to explore the stunning Scottish countryside and what it has to offer. With the freedom and flexibility of a rental car, you can hit the wide-open road and discover some of Scotland's most beautiful and historic sites.

One popular road trip from Edinburgh is the North Coast 500, a 500-mile route that takes you on a scenic journey through the Scottish Highlands. Along the way, you'll see rugged coastlines, stunning lochs, and historic castles, all while driving through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes.

Another great road trip option is to head south and explore the Scottish Borders. This region is known for its rolling hills, picturesque towns, and historic landmarks, including the iconic Melrose Abbey.

For a shorter trip, you can head east from Edinburgh and visit the seaside town of North Berwick. Here, you can enjoy stunning coastal views, explore the picturesque town, and even take a boat trip to the nearby Bass Rock, home to a large colony of seabirds.

No matter where you choose to go, renting a car in Edinburgh gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and create your own unique Scottish adventure.

Frequently asked questions about car rental Edinburgh

What’s the best area to stay in Edinburgh?
The best area to stay in Edinburgh depends on what you are looking to get out of the city, but areas like Old Town, New Town, and Stockbridge are popular choices due to their central locations, historic charm, and proximity to major attractions.
What is the cheapest time to go to Edinburgh?
The cheapest time to go to Edinburgh is during the winter months of January and February when tourism is low, and accommodations and attractions may offer discounted rates.
What is the best time to go to Edinburgh?
The best time to go to Edinburgh is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild, and the city hosts various festivals, including the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
Can you get around Edinburgh without a car?
It is possible to get around Edinburgh without a car, but you may want one if you plan to explore outside of the city. The city has an extensive and reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams, which can be used to travel within Edinburgh and to nearby areas. Edinburgh is also a compact city that is easily walkable.

Popular airports

Tips and experiences for Edinburgh

Our customers rated Edinburgh with an average of 9.8 based on 4 ratings, and these are the most recent tips, experiences and highlights.

08-04-2018

says:
Only hire a car if you want to explore the rest of Scotland, no need for a car in Edinburgh
04-04-2018

says:
Stay in the city center so you can access everything walking.
31-01-2017

says:
Lots of History and very nice Pubs and Stores in town center.
03-09-2016

says:
Visit the festival and fringe in August