Car Rentals in Sumburgh, GBR

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Sumburgh

Renting a car in Sumburgh offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the historic Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, which provides a wonderful cultural experience, and the fascinating Jarlshof, showcasing the region's rich heritage. Additionally, the scenic St Ninian's Isle Tombolo, located 11 km away, invites outdoor adventures on its stunning beach. A rental car also enhances your convenience, especially when managing luggage or planning spontaneous travel. You can venture to nearby destinations like Boddam, just 5 km away, or Dunrossness, 6 km from Sumburgh, both of which feature the same notable sights. Scousburgh, 9 km away, offers the Shetland Crofthouse Museum alongside these attractions. Whether you are seeking cultural experiences or outdoor activities, having a car allows you to tailor your journey to your interests. This means you can enjoy the local sites without the constraints of public transport schedules, making your trip more enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car hires in Sumburgh

• Mini: The Mini is a popular choice for those travelling solo or as a couple, accommodating up to 4 travellers with room for 2 small suitcases. This compact vehicle is perfect for navigating the picturesque roads of Sumburgh, offering ease of parking and fuel efficiency. Its size makes it an ideal option for those who prefer a more intimate driving experience while still enjoying the freedom to explore the scenic surroundings at their own pace.
• Economy: The Economy car is a versatile option that caters to a range of travellers, accommodating up to 5 individuals and their 2 medium suitcases. This car type is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or families seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort. With its efficient design, the Economy car allows for a smooth drive through Sumburgh, ensuring you have the flexibility to visit various attractions with ease.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV stands out as an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, providing ample space for up to 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle offers a balance of comfort and capacity, making it ideal for those who need extra room for luggage or equipment. With its robust build and spacious interior, the Midsize SUV is perfect for navigating the diverse landscapes around Sumburgh while ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers.

Top rated car suppliers in Sumburgh

• Avis: Avis is the most popular car hire supplier in Sumburgh, offering a rental location in the area. Travellers frequently choose Avis for its flexible options, making it easy to explore the beautiful surroundings at your pace. The Mini and Economy models are the most booked cars with Avis, providing convenient and economical choices for your journey. With a reputation for reliable service, Avis is a solid option for those looking to hire a car in Sumburgh.

Where to stay around Sumburgh

• Sandwick: Located 15 km from Sumburgh, Sandwick offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore the local landmarks, including the historic Jarlshof site and the Shetland Crofthouse Museum, both ideal for those interested in history. The stunning St Ninian's Isle Tombolo is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Sandwick is best enjoyed in the summer months when the weather is most favourable for outdoor activities.
• Scousburgh: Situated 9 km away from Sumburgh, Scousburgh is a charming area known for its culture, beaches, and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and the Shetland Crofthouse Museum, both celebrating the rich heritage of the region. The beautiful St Ninian's Isle Tombolo also provides a wonderful setting for beach activities. Visiting during late spring to early autumn offers the best weather for enjoying the coastal scenery.
• Dunrossness: Located 6 km from Sumburgh, Dunrossness is a delightful place to stay for those seeking culture and outdoor experiences. The historical Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and the Jarlshof site are both significant attractions in the area. Additionally, the picturesque St Ninian's Isle Tombolo is ideal for relaxation and outdoor pursuits. This area is particularly inviting in the warmer months, making it an excellent choice for a summer getaway.

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

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 the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify 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 reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance can often secure you lower rates and improve 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 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements 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 advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports; however, the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 something 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 extended 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Sumburgh

The best time to rent a car in and around Sumburgh is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This month offers great value, making it ideal for those looking to save. February and March follow closely, with slightly high prices but lower demand, providing reasonable options. However, June tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand increasing. The period from October to December shows moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
April	45.0°F (7.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
June	51.6°F (10.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
November	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low