Car Rentals in Dover, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Dover

Renting a car in Dover offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can efficiently manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to experience the stunning outdoor scenery and coastal beauty of the area.

Key attractions such as the iconic White Cliffs of Dover and the historic Dover Castle are easily accessible by car. You can also venture to Folkestone Beach, located only 10 km away, or explore nearby destinations like Folkestone, which is 11 km from Dover, featuring the picturesque Folkestone Harbour. Deal, 12 km away, offers Walmer Castle and Gardens, while St Margaret's at Cliffe provides additional opportunities to see the White Cliffs of Dover and local beaches. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or with friends, a rental car enhances your experience by allowing you to discover the best of Dover and its surroundings comfortably and conveniently.

Most popular car hires in Dover

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for those travelling in and around Dover. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and can handle up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for a versatile vehicle that allows them to explore the area with ease.
• Fullsize Van: The Fullsize Van is perfect for larger groups or families. It can accommodate up to 10 travellers and holds up to 6 large suitcases, making it the ideal choice for those planning group trips or family holidays. With ample space, this vehicle ensures everyone can travel together comfortably, while also providing flexibility in managing luggage.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV strikes a balance between space and comfort, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who desire a reliable vehicle that offers both room for passengers and luggage, making it a practical option for exploring Dover and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Dover

• Europcar: Europcar is a popular choice among travellers in Dover, known for its reliable service and convenient location. The most booked vehicles with Europcar include Standard SUVs and Economy cars, making them an excellent option for both solo travellers and families looking for a comfortable ride. Customers appreciate the flexibility that comes with Europcar, allowing them to explore attractions at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and ease of rental. With a dedicated location in Dover, this supplier offers a selection of Compact and Economy vehicles, ideal for navigating both urban and rural areas. Travellers frequently highlight the helpful staff and efficient check-in process, making Enterprise a reliable choice for those seeking a hassle-free car hire experience.
• Routes: Routes is another top supplier in Dover, providing a range of vehicles that cater to various needs. Their most popular options include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, perfect for those who require a bit more space without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Customers have noted the convenience of having a rental location close by, allowing for easy pick-up and drop-off, which enhances the overall travel experience.

Where to stay in and around Dover

• Folkestone: Located 11 km from Dover, Folkestone offers a delightful coastal experience ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Folkestone Beach and the stunning scenery at Folkestone Harbour. The nearby White Cliffs of Dover provide a perfect backdrop for adventure seekers. The area features a variety of food and drink options, including local wineries, making it a great choice for a beach holiday.
• Deal: Situated 12 km away from Dover, Deal is perfect for those seeking a combination of beach and outdoor activities. Key attractions include Walmer Castle and Gardens, which cater to cultural and romantic getaways, as well as Walmer Beach for beach lovers. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of the White Cliffs of Dover. The town also boasts local wineries and bars, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere.
• River: Just in the vicinity of Dover, River is a charming village that provides a family-friendly environment with plenty of outdoor activities. Notable attractions include the historical Dover Castle and the picturesque Dover Harbour. The area is also home to various urban parks and symbolic landmarks, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and exploration. Dining options and bars are nearby, enhancing the experience for visitors.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economical car to save on costs, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to obtain 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 balanced option that combines cost-effectiveness, 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—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well, but ensure the car is returned empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Dover

The best value period to rent a car in and around Dover is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is average. October also offers decent value, though demand tends to be higher. Mid-range value months include March and May, as they feature slightly lower prices with moderate demand. However, August is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busier time for car hires. July and August are generally quite popular for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
November	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average