Car Rentals in Edinburgh and Lothian, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Edinburgh and Lothian

Renting a car in and around Edinburgh and Lothian offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. You can visit key attractions like the Royal Mile, Grassmarket, and the National Museum of Scotland, all located 8 km away from Edinburgh and Lothian. Additionally, a rental car makes it easy to discover popular destinations such as the vibrant city of Edinburgh, with its famous sites like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, also just 8 km away. The nearby Old Town Edinburgh and Loanhead, only 1 km away, offer further exploration opportunities, featuring attractions like Rosslyn Chapel. Whether you are travelling with family or looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, having a car allows you to enjoy the varied experiences that Edinburgh and Lothian have to offer without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Compact: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases, compact cars offer an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. Their smaller size makes them ideal for navigating the bustling streets of Edinburgh while also providing easy parking options. With a compact car, you can explore the scenic beauty of Lothian at your leisure, ensuring a comfortable journey without the hassle of larger vehicles.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, midsize SUVs can comfortably accommodate 5 passengers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for those who require extra space for luggage or prefer a higher driving position for better visibility. Renting a midsize SUV allows you the freedom to venture beyond Edinburgh, making it a fantastic choice for longer trips across the stunning landscapes of the Lothian region.
• Economy: Economy cars are a great fit for up to 5 travellers while providing room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking an economical way to explore. With lower fuel costs and easy handling, economy cars make it simple to navigate Edinburgh and its surroundings, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without the burden of larger vehicle expenses.

Top rated car suppliers around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo provides a reliable car hire option with a location situated 8 km away from Edinburgh and Lothian. Known for its quick pickup service and friendly staff, Alamo ensures a smooth experience for travellers. The most booked vehicles include Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, making it a great choice for those seeking comfort and space during their journeys. Alamo's well-maintained fleet and hassle-free returns contribute to a satisfying rental experience.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations and the nearest one just 7 km away from Edinburgh and Lothian, Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers. Customers appreciate the exceptional service and flexible rental options provided by the staff. The most commonly booked vehicles are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to various needs. Enterprise's reputation for helpful staff and smooth check-in processes makes it an excellent option for both families and business travellers.
• Budget: Budget operates a rental location 7 km from Edinburgh and Lothian, offering competitive rates for its services. This supplier is particularly noted for its Economy and Compact vehicles, making it suitable for budget-conscious travellers who still want quality and reliability. Customers often highlight the ease of the rental process and the convenience provided by Budget, ensuring a straightforward experience for those exploring the region.

Where to stay around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Edinburgh: A vibrant metropolis located 8 km from Edinburgh and Lothian, Edinburgh is renowned for its cultural, family, and city-themed experiences. Popular attractions such as the majestic Edinburgh Castle, the historic Royal Mile, and the bustling Princes Street are easily accessible. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shopping areas, theatres, and dining options, including restaurants and breweries, making it an ideal spot for travellers seeking a lively atmosphere.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Situated 8 km from Edinburgh and Lothian, Edinburgh City Centre is a hub for culture, family activities, and city exploration. The area features key points of interest like Princes Street and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. With numerous shopping centres and theatres nearby, it offers a vibrant urban experience. Food enthusiasts will also find a variety of restaurants and distilleries, making it a perfect base for those wishing to immerse themselves in the city's offerings.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Also located 8 km from Edinburgh and Lothian, Old Town Edinburgh is steeped in history and charm, ideal for city-themed, cultural, and family experiences. Visitors can explore the historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the lively Grassmarket area. This neighbourhood is rich in shopping opportunities and educational venues, complemented by a diverse range of dining choices, including local distilleries. It is a fantastic location for those wanting to experience the essence of Edinburgh.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Edinburgh and Lothian

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to find the best fit 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance typically ensures lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just be sure to return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although the added convenience may justify the 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 peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Edinburgh and Lothian

The best value period for renting a car in and around Edinburgh and Lothian is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month follows January and February, which are typically the quietest times with low demand and slightly low prices. The shoulder months of March and April see average prices and demand, making them decent choices as well. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month due to high demand, alongside June and August, which also experience increased rental activity.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average