Car Rentals in London, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around London

Renting a car in London offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy management of luggage and adaptable travel plans, a rental car is an ideal choice for families and those seeking cultural experiences. You can visit iconic attractions like Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge without the constraints of public transport. A drive allows you to easily navigate to popular neighbourhoods such as Canary Wharf, where you can enjoy the sights of One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands, or head to Covent Garden to explore its charming streets and visit landmarks like Piccadilly Circus and Big Ben. Whether you are planning a family outing or a cultural adventure, having a car at your disposal makes it convenient to travel between these key sites. Additionally, you can take spontaneous detours to discover hidden gems within the city or enjoy a scenic drive along the Thames. Overall, hiring a car provides a practical solution for making the most of your time in London and the surrounding areas.

Most popular car hires in London

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for those visiting London, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families seeking a comfortable ride while exploring the city. Its smaller size makes navigating London’s busy streets and parking more manageable, allowing for a flexible travel experience.
• Economy: The Economy car variant is another frequently booked option, catering for 5 travellers and fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, this car type combines affordability with practicality. Renting an Economy car allows you to enjoy the freedom of exploring London without the burden of larger vehicle costs, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious visitors.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing extra space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option, accommodating 5 travellers and fitting up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is particularly suited for families, couples, or small groups who value comfort and versatility during their travels. With a Midsize SUV, you can enjoy a smooth ride around London while having ample room for luggage and other essentials, ensuring a pleasant journey.

Top rated car suppliers in London

• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts over 45 rental locations throughout London, making it a highly accessible choice for travellers. With an overall rating of 7.8 out of 10, Enterprise is well-regarded for its friendly service and wide selection of vehicles. The most popular choices among customers include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, offering comfort and flexibility for your journey. Whether you're exploring the city or venturing further afield, Enterprise provides a reliable option tailored to your needs.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car features more than 5 rental locations in London, providing convenience for customers. Known for its excellent customer service, Alamo frequently sees Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs as the top choices for hire. Travellers appreciate the ease of booking and the quality of vehicles, ensuring a pleasant experience as you navigate the sights of London and beyond. With Alamo, you can expect a hassle-free rental process.
• Europcar: With 5+ rental locations in London, Europcar offers a solid option for car hire. Customers often favour Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs for their versatility and comfort. Europcar is recognised for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it a popular choice among tourists. The company’s focus on customer satisfaction ensures a smooth rental experience, allowing you to enjoy your travels with peace of mind.

Where to stay in London

• London City Centre: Ideal for those seeking a vibrant city experience, London City Centre is surrounded by attractions such as Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge. This area is perfect for family-friendly activities, cultural exploration, and indulging in shopping and theatre. With many nearby restaurants, pubs, and wineries, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options after a day of sightseeing. The proximity to symbolic landmarks and tourist precincts makes it a convenient base for exploring the heart of London.
• Canary Wharf: Known for its modern skyline, Canary Wharf offers a unique blend of family, culture, and entertainment experiences. Key highlights include One Canada Square, the Museum of London Docklands, and the iconic Tower Bridge. This neighbourhood is home to numerous theatres and shopping areas, providing plenty of activities for visitors. Additionally, a selection of restaurants and pubs is available for dining, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to experience London's contemporary side while still being close to cultural landmarks.
• Hammersmith and Fulham: This borough offers a rich mix of outdoor and urban experiences, attracting families and city explorers alike. Notable attractions such as the BBC Television Centre, Hyde Park, and Buckingham Palace are all within reach. Hammersmith and Fulham boasts various shopping areas and theatres, ensuring that there is always something to do. With numerous restaurants and pubs nearby, visitors can unwind and enjoy local cuisine after a day of exploring the borough's parks and cultural sites.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around London

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific 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 locate the ideal 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to benefit from lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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 accessible. 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, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are also acceptable—just ensure the vehicle is returned empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add car hire insurance when making your booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive 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 licence is essential for hiring a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around London

The best time to rent a car in and around London is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is generally lower. March and April also provide average pricing with similar demand levels. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, marked by high demand and rental rates. June through August see elevated prices and busy periods, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	41.7°F (5.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
July	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High

Car hire prices in London

Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or luxury car hire in London, Expedia's search platform collects a diverse range of vehicles that caters to every traveller's needs and preferences. Delve into the captivating history of the Tower of London or embark on a road trip to the scenic countryside of the Cotswolds with the freedom and flexibility of a hired car. Keep in mind that prices for car hire in London can be influenced by factors like local competition, seasonal demand and road taxes. However, you could find some of the most competitive car hire deals in London, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace, starting from as low as £60*.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car hire in London

Embark on a journey of incredible savings with the Expedia search wizard, designed to help you find some of the best deals for cheap car hire in London. Navigate an array of search filters and sorting options, tailored to prioritise budget-conscious options for your London car hire needs. Check for highlighted "Great Deals" or utilise the "Exclusive offers" filter to potentially find great prices on a diverse range of car models, from economical choices to family-friendly vehicles.

Some of the best car hire companies in London

Uncover the best option for you amongst the London car hire companies, thanks to Expedia's effortless comparison of customer ratings. It's a breeze to find a vehicle that matches your needs and wallet. The diverse selection includes major names like Sixt, Enterprise, and Hertz, as well as reputable local London car hire providers. Find the right London car hire deal for what you value, complete with added benefits such as unlimited mileage, risk-free booking and cost-effective insurance options.

Some of the best places to hire a car in London

While opting to hire a car in London at Heathrow Airport, London City Airport or Gatwick Airport provides ease of access, don't overlook the deals available in and around London city centre. Expedia offers flexible options for car hire in London, including long-term car hire and 24-hour car hire services, providing you with the utmost convenience.

London car rental types

Embark on a memorable adventure in London with a diverse range of London car hire options, tailored to suit your needs. Explore the city's iconic landmarks or go further afield. Take a scenic drive to charming coastal towns like Brighton, with its stunning beachfront and vibrant atmosphere, or venture to the historic town of Oxford, renowned for its prestigious university and captivating architecture. For an otherworldly experience, journey to the mystical and ancient Stonehenge, where you can marvel at the mysterious stone circle and immerse yourself in its fascinating history. Whether you're seeking seaside charm, academic allure or ancient wonders, you can get there easily with a deal on London car hire.

Advice on car hire in London as a British resident

Booking in advance and comparing rates from local car hire companies can lead to great London car hire deals. Don't forget to bring your valid UK driving licence and consider additional insurance cover for a worry-free journey. With an array of vehicle options to choose from, including luxury cars and budget-friendly options, you'll find the perfect car to suit your travel needs and preferences, allowing you to make the most of your adventures around London and beyond.

One-way and long-term car hire in London

Discover the freedom of exploration with one-way and long-term London car hire options. One-way car hire offers you the convenience of picking up your vehicle at one location and dropping it off at another, creating the flexibility to chart your own course. Experience the thrill of driving leisurely from the city on through stunning landscapes, experiencing England's lush green valleys and legendary coastlines, all at your own pace. For extended adventures, long-term London car hire offers comfort and ease, allowing you to immerse in the diverse beauty of the United Kingdom for a month or more.

Benefits of booking a London car hire with Expedia

Unlock the full potential of your London adventure with the benefits of booking a London car hire with Expedia. The user-friendly platform offers an extensive selection of car hire providers and an array of search filters, making it effortless to find the ideal vehicle to suit your unique travel needs. And with many of London car hires being fully refundable, you can book with peace of mind, knowing you have flexibility for any last-minute changes to your plans. Also consider Expedia's exclusive travel packages, bundling car hire, accommodation and flights, for even more cost savings.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.