Car Rentals in Manchester, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Manchester

Renting a car in Manchester offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal option for families or those seeking city-themed experiences. Key attractions such as Heaton Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the AO Arena, which hosts various sports events, are conveniently accessible. You can also discover the vibrant Deansgate street for a taste of city life.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture beyond Manchester City Centre, where you can visit nearby destinations like Salford, located just 3 km away, which features attractions like Salford Quays and Heaton Park. The Northern Quarter is another area you can explore, home to several key sites. Having your own vehicle ensures you can easily navigate between these highlights without the constraints of public transport, making your trip to Manchester more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car hires in Manchester

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for those looking to accommodate up to 5 travellers with ease. With space for up to 3 medium suitcases, this vehicle is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a comfortable ride around Manchester. Its versatility allows you to navigate city streets while still having room for your luggage, making it an ideal option for exploring the attractions at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV comfortably fits 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who want to embark on adventures in and around Manchester without feeling cramped. The added space is beneficial for longer journeys, ensuring that you can carry everything you need for a convenient road trip.
• Economy: The Economy car is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, accommodating up to 5 passengers with capacity for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to explore Manchester without the need for a larger vehicle. The Economy car allows for easy manoeuvrability in urban areas, making it a sensible choice for those wanting to enjoy the freedom of the open road while keeping costs down.

Top rated car suppliers in Manchester

• Alamo Rent A Car: With a rental location in Manchester, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility. Their most booked vehicles include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, which are ideal for navigating the city and surrounding areas with ease. Alamo prides itself on providing a straightforward rental experience, making it a great option for those looking to explore at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Renowned for its extensive presence, Enterprise boasts over 5 rental locations throughout Manchester. This accessibility ensures that you can conveniently pick up your vehicle wherever you are in the city. The most popular vehicles available include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, perfect for comfortable travel while managing your luggage. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise is a reliable choice for your car hire needs.
• Greenmotion: With a single rental location in Manchester, Greenmotion offers a selection of vehicles that cater to budget-conscious travellers. Their most sought-after models include the Compact and Economy cars, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritise efficiency and value. Greenmotion's commitment to providing affordable options allows you to explore Manchester and its surroundings without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in and around Manchester

• Manchester City Centre: Manchester City Centre is an ideal neighbourhood for travellers seeking a vibrant city experience. With attractions such as the AO Arena, a popular venue for sports events, and Deansgate, a bustling street perfect for shopping and dining, you will find plenty to explore. Enjoy nearby restaurants and sweet treat options, making it perfect for families and business-themed visits alike. The proximity to landmarks like Salford Quays adds to its appeal, making it a central hub for various activities.
• Salford: Located 3 km from Manchester, Salford offers a mix of outdoor and city-themed experiences suitable for families. It boasts the picturesque Salford Quays, a vibrant neighbourhood with shopping malls and dining options. Heaton Park, an urban park ideal for outdoor activities, is also nearby. The AO Arena, which is accessible from Salford, provides further entertainment options, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy both culture and leisure.
• Stockport: Situated 10 km away from Manchester, Stockport is perfect for those seeking outdoor and family-friendly experiences. The city features a variety of attractions, including the Chadkirk Chapel Museum, which offers insights into local history. Visitors can also explore the Old Town Dungeon & Court House for a cultural holiday. With recreational areas and the AO Arena for sports events, Stockport caters to diverse interests, making it a worthwhile destination for your trip.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you identify the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are 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 less expensive to rent and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance 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—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable; just remember to return the vehicle empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car from airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Manchester

The best value period for renting a car in and around Manchester is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is also on the lower side. October and February can also offer decent value, with moderate prices and demand. In contrast, August tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand running high. July and August see busy periods, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
October	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

Car hire prices in Manchester

You can hire a car in Manchester from approximately £12* when booking early, as advance booking is when you tend to find some of the best deals. As well as how far in advance you book, the time of year you travel also affects the cost of car hires in Manchester. Busy times of the year, like bank holiday weekends, nearly always have a higher price tag for vehicle hire. The fuel policy is another factor that influences costs, with full-to-empty contracts representing the least value. Be sure to compare different insurance options and inclusions when comparing rates for car hire in Manchester, too.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car hire in Manchester

If you're looking to score some of the best car hire deals in Manchester, make sure you compare different pick-up locations throughout the city. Keep in mind that if you're arriving by plane, airport vehicle rental usually costs more than in the city. Being flexible with your dates is another top tip to land cheap Manchester car hire deals. Be sure to select the 'Great Deal' and 'Exclusive offers' filters in the search wizard, and if you see the green 'Great Deal' label in the search results, you're onto a winner.

Some of the best car hire companies in Manchester

With Expedia, you can choose from a wide range of some of the best Manchester car hire companies, including big names like Sixt and Enterprise. Other popular companies you'll find on Expedia include Hertz and Europcar. It's always a good idea to read up on the reviews for each company before booking, and you'll often see ratings next to their logo in the search results. You can also filter by provider, but it's normally best to compare all options if you want to land a cheap vehicle hire in Manchester.

Some of the best places to hire a car in Manchester

You can pick up Manchester rental cars from locations throughout the city, as well as at Manchester International Airport. The city centre and Piccadilly Station are among the most popular places to grab the keys to your ride, but there are also options in suburbs like Trafford Park and Old Trafford. Expedia's search wizard even has a handy map you can use to pinpoint the most convenient location to hire a car in Manchester based on your plans.

Manchester car rental types

Take your pick from a wide choice of different types of rental cars in Manchester, from small economy vehicles to big vans for large groups. When choosing the best ride for you, consider things like where you'll be using the car and for what purpose. If you only need it for shopping at the Trafford Centre or catching a match at Etihad Stadium, a mini or compact will do. But if you're planning to explore the nearby Peak District and Yorkshire Dales, you may want to consider a midsize or even an SUV for added comfort.

Advice on car hire in Manchester

When you hire a car in Manchester, you'll need to show a valid UK driving licence, and in some cases, your passport and proof of current address. Don't forget to take a credit card with you, as this is used to charge a refundable deposit. Some car hire companies even ask for your DVLA code to check for any penalty points on your licence. You can get yours online through the UK government website. As each provider has different policies, it's a good idea to check before you travel – you can find this information in the 'Trips' section when logging in to Expedia.

One-way and long-term car hire in Manchester

One-way car hire in Manchester allows you to pick up your ride in one location and drop it off in another. This type of vehicle rental is particularly useful if you're planning to explore the nearby cities of Liverpool, Leeds, or Sheffield. When using the search wizard, click 'Add a different drop-off location' to view some of Expedia's best one-way rental cars in Manchester. If you need a ride for several weeks or months, enter your approximate date range into the search wizard to browse the best long-term car hire deals.

Benefits of booking a Manchester car hire with Expedia

As Expedia works with most of the world's biggest vehicle hire companies, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to scoring some of the best car hire deals in Manchester. Expedia's handy search wizard and filters make comparing hundreds of offers a breeze. There are even filters like 'Great Deal' and 'Exclusive offers', which allow you to save money on your Manchester car hire at the click of a button. You'll also get free cancellation on most Expedia car hires, and you'll only need to make a small upfront payment to book.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.