Car Rentals in Groningen, NLD

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Groningen

Renting a car in Groningen provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Grote Markt, Groninger Museum, and Centrum Beeldende Kunst Groningen, all located within Groningen. This convenience allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, making it ideal for various types of travellers. For those interested in culture-themed experiences, a car enables you to immerse yourself in the rich artistic offerings of the city.

Moreover, having a car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Eelderwolde, just 5 km away, and Westerbroek, located 9 km from Groningen. These areas also feature prominent cultural sites, providing additional opportunities for exploration. Whether you are a family requiring space for strollers and luggage or a group seeking outdoor adventures, a rental car simplifies your travel experience. Navigate Groningen’s roads with ease and enjoy a personalised journey, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant region.

Most popular car hires in Groningen

• Economy: A popular choice for those exploring Groningen, the Economy car accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a flexible and budget-friendly way to navigate the city and surrounding areas. Its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre through Groningen's streets while offering the freedom to manage your luggage comfortably.
• Compact: The Compact car is another well-booked option in Groningen, providing room for 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for solo adventurers, couples, or families who want to explore at their own pace. The Compact option balances size and efficiency, allowing for easy parking in city centres while ensuring sufficient space for luggage and personal belongings.
• Mini: Ideal for smaller groups, the Mini car accommodates up to 4 travellers with up to 2 small suitcases. This car type is perfect for solo travellers or couples who prefer a more intimate travel experience. The Mini is particularly well-suited for navigating Groningen’s urban environment, offering a convenient and efficient way to get around while maintaining flexibility in your travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers in Groningen

• Avis: Avis is a top choice for car hire in Groningen, with a dedicated rental location in the area. Known for its reliable service, Avis offers a range of vehicles, with Compact and Economy cars being the most booked options. This flexibility allows travellers to navigate Groningen comfortably and at their own pace.
• Hertz: Also operating from a single rental location in Groningen, Hertz is a popular supplier offering high-quality vehicles. With Compact and Economy cars leading their bookings, Hertz provides an excellent solution for those looking to explore the region conveniently. Their reputation for customer service adds to the appeal of choosing Hertz for your car hire needs.
• Budget: True to its name, Budget offers great value for car hire in Groningen. With one rental location, this supplier focuses on providing Economy cars that are perfect for travellers looking for affordable options. Renting from Budget ensures you can manage your itinerary effectively without overspending, making it a practical choice for your journey.

Where to stay in and around Groningen

• Binnenstad: Situated in the heart of Groningen, Binnenstad is the ideal location for travellers seeking a rich cultural and urban experience. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, visitors can explore key attractions such as the Grote Markt, Groninger Museum, and Centrum Beeldende Kunst Groningen. This neighbourhood is perfect for those interested in arts, city life, and sports, making it a lively base for your stay.
• Eelderwolde: Located 5 km from Groningen, Eelderwolde offers a charming blend of culture and city experiences. This area features local attractions such as the Grote Markt and Groninger Museum, making it an excellent choice for art enthusiasts. With venues for motor racing and theatre, Eelderwolde provides a unique and quieter alternative while remaining close to the energetic atmosphere of Groningen.
• Westerbroek: Just 9 km from Groningen, Westerbroek presents a quaint escape with easy access to cultural and sports activities. Visitors can enjoy local attractions like the Grote Markt and Groninger Museum while also benefiting from nearby dining options. This neighbourhood is perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat while still being within reach of Groningen’s vibrant offerings.

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

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-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may incur 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 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals adhere to a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but for some, the added convenience may be worthwhile.
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 provide additional peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
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 Groningen

The best time to rent a car in and around Groningen is May, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. This period offers excellent value for those looking to explore the area. Additionally, April and September can provide decent options with average pricing and demand. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, as demand increases and prices rise. June through August also see higher demand and average prices, making them busier times for rentals.