Car Rentals in Bruges, BEL

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bruges

Renting a car in Bruges offers a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans without the constraints of public transport schedules. This is particularly beneficial for those interested in experiencing Bruges' rich culture and history. Key attractions such as the Bruges Market Square, the historic Belfry, and the serene Begijnhof are all within the city and can be accessed comfortably by car. Additionally, renting a car allows you to venture slightly further afield to nearby destinations like Blankenberge, just 13 km away, where you can enjoy the Belgium Pier and Knokke-Heist Beach, or De Haan, located 16 km from Bruges, known for its Ostend Beach. Whether you are seeking a cultural experience, a leisurely day at the beach, or simply want the freedom to explore, hiring a car in and around Bruges provides the ideal solution for all types of travellers.

Most popular car hires in Bruges

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for car hire in Bruges, accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for the storage of up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families wanting to explore the charming streets of Bruges at their own pace. With its manageable size, it makes navigating narrow cobbled roads and finding parking much easier, providing you with both convenience and comfort during your trip.
• Economy: The Economy car is another frequently booked option, also catering to up to 5 travellers but with space for 2 medium suitcases. Perfect for solo travellers or couples, this economical choice allows you to explore Bruges and its surroundings without overspending. Its compact nature is well-suited for city driving, ensuring you can easily manoeuvre through traffic while enjoying the flexibility that a hire car offers.
• Midsize: For those needing a bit more room, the Midsize car is a great selection, accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly beneficial for couples or families who may have more luggage to manage. With a midsize vehicle, you can travel comfortably while enjoying the freedom to explore the picturesque regions around Bruges, making it an excellent choice for a more spacious and relaxed journey.

Top rated car suppliers in Bruges

• Avis: Avis operates one rental location in the Bruges area, providing travellers with a reliable option for car hire. Known for their excellent service, Avis offers a selection of vehicles that includes popular choices such as Midsize and Compact cars. This flexibility allows you to explore Bruges and its surroundings at your own pace, making your travel experience enjoyable and convenient.
• Budget: Budget also features a rental location in Bruges, catering to those seeking value for money. With options such as Premium and Midsize Vans, Budget makes it easy to accommodate luggage and travel with family or friends. Their focus on affordability ensures that you can enjoy the freedom of a rental car without breaking the bank, perfect for a memorable trip in and around Bruges.

Where to stay in and around Bruges

• Historical Center Bruges: The Historical Center Bruges is the heart of the city, perfect for those seeking a city and culture-themed experience. With attractions like Bruges Market Square, Bruges Belfry, and Begijnhof all within proximity, you’ll be immersed in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere. This area also offers delightful nearby food options, including breweries and sweet treats, making it an ideal place to stay for cultural enthusiasts.
• Blankenberge: Located 13 km from Bruges, Blankenberge is a fantastic destination for families and outdoor lovers, especially during the warmer months. With attractions such as Belgium Pier and Knokke-Heist Beach, visitors can enjoy a beach holiday vibe. The area is known for its seafood restaurants and public markets, making it a great choice for those looking to relax by the sea while still being close to Bruges.
• De Haan: Situated 16 km away from Bruges, De Haan offers a charming beach experience ideal for families. Here, you can explore Ostend Beach and Mariakerke Beach, where outdoor activities abound. The area is surrounded by beautiful nature and hiking trails, providing a peaceful retreat. With a selection of nearby restaurants, De Haan is a wonderful option for those wishing to blend beach relaxation with exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect 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. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and enjoy 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 congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a suitable compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid incurring additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 additional peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance while booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is required to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bruges

The best time to rent a car in and around Bruges is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This period offers excellent value for travellers. June through September can also be appealing, particularly June, which has slightly low prices and average demand, while September sees slightly low prices but high demand. However, December is usually the most expensive month with slightly high prices and low demand, making it a less favourable time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
March	44.6°F (7.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	49.3°F (9.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High