County Clare Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in County Clare

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Ennis

Ennis

Reasons to book a car hire in County Clare

Renting a car in County Clare is an excellent choice for those looking to explore this beautiful region of Ireland at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This freedom is particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers who wish to experience the stunning scenery County Clare has to offer. You can visit iconic attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher, perfect for breathtaking views and outdoor activities, or immerse yourself in culture at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. If you're a golf lover, Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club is also within reach. Exploring cities like Doolin, with its famous cave and nearby beaches, or Ennis, known for its historic sites like Ennis Cathedral, becomes effortless with a hire car. You can also discover Shannon, home to Atlantic Airventure and more. Having a car allows you to uncover the hidden gems of County Clare, making your journey more enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car hires in County Clare

  • Economy: The Economy car option is perfect for those travelling in small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This choice is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to explore County Clare without the need for excessive space. The compact size of Economy cars makes them easy to navigate through the charming streets of the region, offering both flexibility and convenience during your adventures.
  • Midsize: The Midsize car is an excellent option for couples or families, comfortably seating up to 5 travellers and capable of carrying up to 3 large suitcases. This type of vehicle offers a bit more room for passengers and luggage, making it suitable for those who may have more gear or wish for extra comfort on longer journeys. The Midsize car is a great balance between space and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your travels across County Clare with ease.
  • Compact: The Compact car option is a versatile choice, accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. With its smaller footprint, a Compact car is easy to park and manoeuvre in busy areas, allowing you to explore County Clare’s attractions without the hassle of larger vehicles. It offers a practical solution for those who value efficiency without sacrificing comfort.

Where to stay in County Clare

  • Doolin: Nestled in County Clare, Doolin is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The area is renowned for its stunning scenery, with attractions such as the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and the fascinating Doolin Cave within a short distance. Visitors can also enjoy leisure activities like golf at local courses or relax at nearby pubs offering great food and drinks. For beach lovers, Lahinch Beach is a must-visit, providing a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months.
  • Ennis: The vibrant city of Ennis offers a blend of culture and adventure, making it a great base for exploring County Clare. Notable sites include the historic Ennis Cathedral and the romantic Knappogue Castle, both of which are just a short distance apart. Ennis is also a hub for outdoor activities, including golf at the Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club. The town's shopping centre and various breweries ensure that guests can enjoy a lively atmosphere and local flavours throughout their stay.
  • Bunratty: Known for its rich cultural heritage, Bunratty is perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway. The iconic Bunratty Castle and Folk Park offers an immersive experience into Irish history, while King John's Castle provides stunning views and a glimpse into the past. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club. With charming parks and a historic village atmosphere, Bunratty is particularly delightful during the spring and summer months, when the landscape comes to life.

10 tips to save on your car hire in County Clare

  • 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 drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal match for your journey.
  • Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  • Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  • Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to 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 refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure the car is returned empty in such cases.
  • Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  • Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses while providing peace of mind should something unexpected arise during your trip. It's simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
  • Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  • Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

    • Best time to rent a car in County Clare

    The best value period to rent a car in County Clare is February, when both prices and demand are low. January also offers quiet conditions, making it a good time to consider. March and April see average prices and demand, providing a reasonable shoulder period. However, August is the most expensive month, with high demand and rental costs. July also tends to be pricier, as summer travel peaks during these warmer months.

    Expedia.co.uk offers car hire in County Clare to meet every traveller's needs. Whether you are looking for cheap cars or cars fit for the stars - Expedia.co.uk has the car hire for you. So choose from car hire in County Clare or destinations around the world and discover how easy it is to make your car hire on Expedia.co.uk.

    Car Hire Information

    Popular car types:
    		SUV, Full Size, Economy
    From the airport to your hotel:
    		Airport Transportation