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 you the freedom to explore the rich history and vibrant culture at your own pace. With attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile located within the neighbourhood, you can easily navigate the iconic sites while managing your luggage conveniently. Families will appreciate the flexibility to visit the Grassmarket for outdoor experiences, all without the hassle of public transport. A rental car also allows easy access to nearby areas, such as Edinburgh City Centre, which is less than 1 km away, where you can discover more of the city's charm. If you're keen to venture a bit further, New Town is just 1 km away, offering additional experiences and attractions. Whether you're travelling for cultural immersion, a family outing, or simply to soak in the sights, a hire car enhances your journey, making it straightforward to create personalised travel plans. Enjoy the convenience of having your own transport, ensuring your time in Old Town Edinburgh is as enjoyable and flexible as possible.

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 has established a solid reputation for customer satisfaction with its convenient rental location in Old Town Edinburgh. Travellers favour the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV options, which provide ample space for luggage and comfort for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Alamo is well-regarded for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it a reliable choice for visitors seeking flexibility during their trip.
• Enterprise: With a presence in Old Town Edinburgh, Enterprise offers a great selection of vehicles that includes popular options like the Midsize SUV and Compact. Customers appreciate the flexible rental options and exceptional customer service provided by the friendly staff. Enterprise is known for its seamless check-in process, making it an excellent choice for travellers looking for ease and convenience while exploring Edinburgh.
• Budget: Budget provides a cost-effective car hire solution in Old Town Edinburgh, featuring a selection of Economy and Compact SUV vehicles. Many travellers praise Budget for its competitive pricing and convenient location, allowing for hassle-free pick-up and drop-off. This supplier is particularly appealing for those looking to manage their travel expenses while enjoying the freedom to explore at their own pace.

Where to stay around Old Town Edinburgh

• Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. This area is perfect for those seeking a rich cultural experience, with its cobbled streets and historic architecture. Visitors can explore numerous theatres, shops, and dining options, making it a vibrant choice for family and city-themed holidays.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located less than 1 km from Old Town, Edinburgh City Centre is bustling with activity. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, shopping areas, and theatres. Key highlights include Princes Street, which is ideal for city holidays, and the historic Edinburgh Castle. The area is also well-equipped with restaurants and distilleries for those looking to enjoy local cuisine and beverages.
• Edinburgh and Lothian: Situated 8 km away, Edinburgh and Lothian provide a delightful blend of outdoor and cultural experiences. With attractions like the Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland, it caters to both families and culture enthusiasts. The area also features scenic hiking trails and a variety of dining options, making it a great destination for those seeking adventure and history.

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 types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy 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 busy 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 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 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 typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 if the unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required 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 prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This makes for a quieter experience. March and April are also good months, as both prices and demand are average. However, May sees slightly high prices and demand, making it the most expensive month. June through August tend to maintain this high demand and pricing, making them busier times for car hires.