Car Rentals in Galway, IRL

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Galway

Renting a car in Galway offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Eyre Square, Quay Street, and Galway Harbour, all located in the city centre. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those travelling with luggage or seeking outdoor adventures. You can also venture to the picturesque neighbourhoods like the Latin Quarter and Claddagh, where you can enjoy more local experiences, including Grattan Beach and cultural spots.

Having a car allows for spontaneous trips to nearby scenic areas, enabling you to immerse yourself in Galway's beautiful landscapes without adhering to public transport schedules. Families will find a rental car especially useful, as it provides ample space for children’s necessities and luggage. Additionally, the ease of travelling between attractions means you can explore the vibrant streets of Galway while managing your time effectively. Overall, hiring a car enhances your visit to Galway, allowing for a more personalised and enjoyable experience as you navigate the city and its stunning surroundings.

Most popular car hires in Galway

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly solution. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Galway’s streets while providing the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Midsize: Perfect for couples or families, the Midsize car can hold up to 5 travellers and offers room for 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it a great choice for those needing more luggage space. Renting a Midsize vehicle allows for an enjoyable travel experience while accommodating a bit more gear for your trip.
• Compact: The Compact car option, which fits 5 travellers and has space for 3 medium suitcases, is a versatile choice suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its smaller dimensions lend themselves to easy parking and manoeuvring in urban areas, while still providing sufficient room for essentials. This makes the Compact a popular selection among those looking for a convenient and efficient way to explore Galway.

Top rated car suppliers in Galway

• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently situated in Galway, Enterprise stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction. Travellers appreciate the flexibility that comes with renting from this supplier, particularly with their popular Economy and Midsize SUV options. Ideal for exploring the scenic surroundings at your own pace, Enterprise is a trusted choice for many visitors.
• Budget: Renowned for offering competitive rates, Budget has a rental location in Galway that provides easy access to a variety of vehicles. Their most booked options include Compact and Midsize cars, making them an excellent choice for those looking for practicality without compromising on comfort. Budget is popular among travellers who value affordability and convenience.
• Europcar: Europcar is a reputable supplier with a rental location in Galway, making it a convenient option for tourists. They offer a range of vehicles, with Economy and Compact cars being the most favoured choices among renters. This supplier is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of quality and value, ensuring a pleasant driving experience while exploring the Galway region.

Where to stay in Galway

• Galway City Centre: Situated at the heart of Galway, the City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for outdoor, family, and scenic experiences. With attractions like Eyre Square and Quay Street nearby, visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural activities. The Galway Harbour adds a lovely touch for those seeking beautiful views. The area has a variety of food and drink options, including breweries and pubs, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Claddagh: Known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor activities, Claddagh offers a family-friendly atmosphere. Key highlights include Grattan Beach, which is perfect for beach lovers, and the charming Eyre Square. The neighbourhood is also home to various shopping areas and dining options, including coffee shops and dining establishments. Its proximity to parks and cliffs makes Claddagh a lovely place to explore the natural beauty of Galway.
• Latin Quarter: The Latin Quarter is a lively neighbourhood renowned for its outdoor and city-themed experiences. It features popular spots like Eyre Square and Quay Street, which are filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. This area is ideal for families looking to enjoy golf and various local attractions. With its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to parks, the Latin Quarter is an excellent choice for those wanting to experience the heart of Galway's culture and community.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater 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 strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 mandate 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 alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the expense.
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 offers additional peace of mind should something 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 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 Galway

The best value period to rent a car in and around Galway is November, when prices are typically lower and demand is at its quietest. October also shows low demand, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travellers. March can be another good option, with moderately low prices and average demand. In contrast, September tends to be the most expensive month with higher demand, often making it less appealing for renting a car.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately High
February	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	44.1°F (6.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
April	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately High
May	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low
July	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
November	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average