Car Rentals in Old Town Edinburgh, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Renting a car in Old Town Edinburgh offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this historic neighbourhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, located within Old Town, perfect for culture and romantic experiences. The Royal Mile, ideal for city exploration, and the family-friendly Grassmarket are also conveniently accessible by car.

A car hire is especially beneficial for families, allowing for easy luggage management while keeping everyone together during your adventures. You can navigate to nearby areas like Edinburgh City Centre, less than 1 km away, which features Princes Street and other attractions, or venture to New Town, situated 1 km from Old Town, for additional sightseeing. Having a rental car means you can create flexible travel plans that suit your interests, whether you're seeking cultural experiences or family outings. The ease of driving in and around Old Town Edinburgh enhances your visit, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Most popular car hires in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travellers in Old Town Edinburgh, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, and families seeking a convenient vehicle that offers flexibility while exploring the city and its surroundings. With a compact size, these cars are easy to manoeuvre through the narrow streets of Old Town, making them ideal for urban driving.
• Midsize SUV: If you're travelling with a group or family, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably seats up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, providing ample space for your luggage. This car type combines comfort with versatility, making it suitable for those who need extra room for both passengers and belongings while navigating the beautiful sights around Old Town Edinburgh.
• Economy: The Economy car is an economical choice for those looking to explore Old Town Edinburgh without breaking the bank. It accommodates 5 travellers and has space for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This option is ideal for those who appreciate affordability and efficiency while enjoying the freedom to travel at their own pace throughout the area.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers in Old Town Edinburgh, known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles. With a rental location in the area, Alamo offers a selection of vehicles that include Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, catering to various travel needs. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the hassle-free return process, making it a reliable option for those looking to explore Edinburgh at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise provides exceptional customer service with its rental location situated in Old Town Edinburgh. This supplier is favoured for its extensive selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which suit both families and solo travellers alike. Customers often commend the helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a pleasant rental experience. With a focus on flexibility, Enterprise is an excellent choice for those wanting to manage their itinerary effortlessly.
• Budget: Budget stands out for its competitive pricing and convenient location in Old Town Edinburgh. It offers a range of vehicles, particularly Economy and Compact SUVs, which are ideal for navigating the city's narrow streets. Travellers appreciate the straightforward booking process and the efficiency of the service provided. Budget is a solid option for those seeking value for money while exploring the rich history and attractions of Edinburgh.

Where to stay around Old Town Edinburgh

• Old Town Edinburgh: Rich in history and culture, Old Town Edinburgh is home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. This area offers a unique blend of historic charm and vibrant city life, making it ideal for those seeking a cultural or family-themed experience. With its narrow streets and medieval architecture, the atmosphere is truly captivating, and there are numerous dining options nearby for a delightful culinary experience.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located less than 1 km away from Old Town Edinburgh, the City Centre is a bustling area perfect for those interested in shopping, theatre, and exploring historic sites. Highlights include Princes Street and Grassmarket, where visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars. This neighbourhood is well-suited for family and city-themed experiences, with plenty of attractions within easy reach.
• Edinburgh and Lothian: Approximately 8 km from Old Town Edinburgh, this area offers outdoor and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the picturesque hiking trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Key points of interest include the Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland, making it an excellent choice for those looking to delve deeper into Scotland's rich history and outdoor adventures. The area also features charming cafes and distilleries for local dining options.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia can help you discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be convenient, but ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh

The best time to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh is January and February, when demand is moderately low and prices are slightly low. March and April also offer average prices with steady demand, making them decent options. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high demand as well. June through August see higher prices and moderately high demand, which can make rentals more costly during that busy period.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately 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	Moderately High	Average
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately 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	Moderately Low	Average