Car Rentals in Plymouth, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Plymouth

Renting a car in Plymouth offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With convenient luggage management, a rental car is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with gear. You can easily visit key attractions such as Hoe Park, ideal for outdoor experiences, and the historic Mayflower Steps, both located within Plymouth. For a relaxing day at the beach, Mothecombe Beach is also nearby, providing a perfect spot for sun and sand.

A car hire allows you to venture beyond Plymouth, with nearby cities like Torpoint, just 4 km away, where you can enjoy Whitsand Bay Beach and Polhawn Fort. Saltash, located 7 km from Plymouth, offers beautiful sites including Cotehele House and Gardens. Additionally, exploring the Barbican neighbourhood in Plymouth gives you access to the same attractions as well as local culture. Whether you are seeking adventure or simply enjoying the scenic views, having a rental car ensures that you can make the most of your time in and around Plymouth without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Plymouth

• Economy: This car type is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. The Economy option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to explore Plymouth at their own pace while managing luggage with ease.
• Midsize SUV: Offering room for 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior provides comfort during your travels, making it suitable for longer journeys around Plymouth.
• Compact: The Compact car can accommodate 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families who appreciate a balance of space and manoeuvrability while exploring the attractions in Plymouth.

Top rated car suppliers in Plymouth

• Hertz: With a convenient rental location in Plymouth, Hertz is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility in their journeys. They offer a range of vehicles, with Economy and Compact cars being the most booked options. This allows you to navigate the attractions around Plymouth with ease, making it an excellent option for those looking to explore at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Boasting two rental locations in Plymouth, Enterprise stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction. Their most popular vehicles include Economy and Compact SUVs, ideal for families or groups needing extra space. With multiple locations, you can enjoy a hassle-free car hire experience, allowing you to manage your luggage and itinerary effortlessly during your stay.
• Europcar: Europcar offers a rental location in Plymouth, providing a reliable option for those looking to hire a vehicle. Their top choices include Economy and Compact cars, perfect for solo travellers or couples wanting to explore the city and surrounding areas. The straightforward pick-up process makes Europcar a convenient choice for visitors eager to discover all that Plymouth has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Plymouth

• Saltash: Located 7 km from Plymouth, Saltash offers a blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. It is ideal for those seeking activities like golf and exploration of national parks and beaches. Key attractions include the historic Cotehele House and Gardens, Port Eliot House and Gardens, and Mary Newman's Cottage. The area is also well-equipped with dining options, making it a great base for culture enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.
• Torpoint: Just 4 km away from Plymouth, Torpoint is well-known for its picturesque beaches and recreational areas. This location is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy Whitsand Bay Beach and Polhawn Fort, both offering splendid views and historical significance. With a variety of restaurants and bars nearby, visitors can easily unwind after a day of exploration.
• Barbican: Situated around Plymouth, Barbican is a vibrant neighbourhood that caters to families and city explorers. Its attractions include the lovely Hoe Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the historic Mayflower Steps, which hold cultural significance. With numerous shops and dining options available, Barbican offers a lively atmosphere where visitors can enjoy both leisure and history.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a sensible 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 luxury models—might be unavailable. Renters over the age of 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a 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 option is generally the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge when collecting your rental car at airport locations, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in the event of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when reserving through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring 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 Plymouth

The best value period to rent a car in and around Plymouth is October, when prices are moderately low and demand is high. Following closely are January and February, which also offer good value with average demand. As summer arrives, July tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and demand. June, while not as busy, still sees average demand, making it pricier than the earlier months. August, however, is quieter with lower demand, but prices remain moderately high.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
February	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Moderately High
August	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately High
September	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Moderately Low
November	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Moderately Low
December	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average