County Galway Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in County Galway

Renting a car in County Galway offers a convenient way to explore the stunning sights and attractions at your own pace. With a hire car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it particularly appealing for those eager to discover the region's outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. Key attractions such as Ashford Castle, ideal for cultural and romantic experiences, and Eyre Square, a vibrant piazza perfect for immersing yourself in local culture, are easily accessible. You can also wander through Quay Street, which offers a delightful city experience. A rental car allows you to visit the bustling city of Galway, where you can experience the charm of Galway City Centre and the picturesque Galway Harbour. For a taste of the breathtaking countryside, Clifden is a short drive away, featuring attractions like Sky Road and Connemara National Park. With the freedom to explore County Galway’s rich diversity of landscapes and sites, renting a car ensures that your trip is both enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car hires in County Galway

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases, making it an ideal choice for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. The Economy car is perfect for navigating County Galway’s scenic routes while providing ample space for luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore at your own pace.
• Midsize: With a capacity for 5 travellers and room for up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize car is well-suited for couples or families seeking a bit more space. This option combines comfort with practicality, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of movement throughout County Galway while comfortably accommodating your belongings for longer trips.
• Compact: The Compact car option also caters to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it a versatile choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its size offers ease of parking and manoeuvrability in urban areas, while still providing sufficient space for your luggage, allowing you to navigate County Galway effortlessly.

Where to stay in County Galway

• Galway: As the vibrant heart of County Galway, Galway city offers a fantastic base for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Close to attractions like Eyre Square, Quay Street, and Galway Harbour, travellers can indulge in local culture and enjoy shopping, dining at nearby pubs, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when outdoor activities flourish.
• Clifden: Nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, Clifden is perfect for adventure seekers. With attractions such as the stunning Sky Road and the expansive Connemara National Park, it caters well to those wishing to explore nature. The historic Kylemore Abbey adds a cultural touch, while local distilleries and bars provide delightful options for refreshments. The ideal visiting season would be spring and summer, when the beauty of Connemara is at its peak.
• Oughterard: Known for its eco-friendly and family-oriented charm, Oughterard is a wonderful destination for those looking to connect with nature. The picturesque Lough Corrib offers serene parkland, while Ashford Castle provides a romantic backdrop. Visitors can also explore the historic Glengowla Mines. This area is best enjoyed during the warmer months, allowing families to fully appreciate the outdoor experiences available.

10 tips to save on your car hire in County Galway

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option 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 in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and are easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals mandate 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 provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at 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 unexpected expenses and provides you with peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward 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 prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is required for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in County Galway

The best value period to rent a car in County Galway is November, when prices are generally lower and demand tends to be less intense. Surrounding months like March and June also offer decent value, with moderate demand and prices. However, September typically stands out as the most expensive month, with higher demand and rental costs. During this time, many travellers flock to the area, making it a busy period for car hires.