Car Rentals in Bristol City Centre, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bristol City Centre

Renting a car in Bristol City Centre offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as a rental car provides convenient space for all your belongings. You can easily visit key attractions such as Queen Square, which is located in the heart of Bristol City Centre, or take a short drive to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, situated 3 km away. The maritime museum, SS Great Britain, is also within easy reach at just 1 km from the city centre.

Moreover, having a car allows for effortless day trips to nearby destinations like Bath, which is 18 km away and features historical sites such as the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Exploring the Bristol Old City, located less than 1 km away, becomes a breeze with a rental vehicle. Whether you are seeking cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, a car hire provides the convenience needed to make the most of your time in and around Bristol City Centre.

Most popular car hires around Bristol City Centre

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice among travellers looking for an efficient and manageable vehicle in Bristol City Centre. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for 3 medium suitcases, this option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its size makes it easy to navigate city streets and find parking, while still providing enough space for luggage and personal belongings, making it perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace.
• Economy: The Economy car is another favourite for visitors to Bristol City Centre, catering to 5 travellers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. Its compact design allows for easy manoeuvrability in urban settings, ensuring that you can comfortably explore the area without worrying about parking or fuel costs, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases. This choice is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who may have more luggage or require additional comfort during their travels. The Midsize SUV offers a blend of versatility and comfort, making it suitable for longer journeys while providing ample room for all your essentials as you navigate the vibrant city of Bristol.

Top rated car suppliers around Bristol City Centre

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for travellers in Bristol City Centre, with a rental location situated less than 1 km away. Renowned for its well-maintained fleet, Sixt offers a range of vehicles, with compact and economy cars being the most booked options. The convenience of its proximity allows for easy pick-up and return, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in close proximity to Bristol City Centre, Enterprise provides flexibility and accessibility for its customers. The nearest location is less than 1 km away, making it easy for travellers to pick up their vehicles. Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise offers a selection of compact and economy cars, catering to those who require efficient and reliable transport during their stay.
• Europcar: Europcar has a rental location about 1 km from Bristol City Centre, offering a range of vehicles to suit various needs. Customers often choose Europcar for its competitive pricing and the convenience of its services. The most popular options for hire include compact and economy cars, making it an ideal choice for both solo travellers and families looking to explore Bristol and its surroundings comfortably.

Where to stay around Bristol City Centre

• Bristol City Centre: The heart of Bristol, this area is bustling with a mix of shopping centres, cultural sites, and dining options. Key attractions like the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and the maritime museum, SS Great Britain, are easily accessible. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with nearby alcohol distilleries and sweet treat shops, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s outdoor and adventure offerings.
• Bath: Located 18 km from Bristol City Centre, Bath is renowned for its historic charm and spa culture. With highlights such as the Roman Baths and the stunning Royal Crescent, this city offers a unique experience for culture enthusiasts. The scenic views and nearby national parks make it a great spot for outdoor activities. Bath’s food scene includes delightful distilleries and sweet treats, perfect for a relaxing stay.
• Marshfield: Situated 19 km from Bristol City Centre, Marshfield is a quaint village ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience. Surrounded by nature reserves and historic sites, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures, including golf. Key attractions like Castle Combe Circuit offer an exciting option for sports lovers. With local bars serving refreshing drinks, Marshfield presents a charming retreat from the bustling city life.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Bristol City Centre

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 the summer months, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are usually more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be an option. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
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 should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bristol City Centre

The best time to rent a car in and around Bristol City Centre is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. January and February also offer good value, with demand remaining low and prices slightly low to average. Moving into the summer months, June through August see higher prices, especially in August when demand is high and costs tend to rise. July and August can be quite busy, making them the most expensive times to rent a car in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
November	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low