Ireland Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Ireland

A city street with historic buildings, a prominent church spire, and a variety of shops.
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Dublin

Dublin

Most popular car hires in Ireland

  • Economy: The Economy car option is a popular choice for up to 5 travellers and can accommodate up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is particularly suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly vehicle. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Ireland's charming towns and cities, providing an economical option for those exploring at their own pace.
  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups, offering space for up to 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This car type provides a comfortable ride with extra room for luggage, making it an excellent choice for those planning longer journeys or trips with more gear. Its larger size also allows for a more commanding view of the road, enhancing your driving experience in Ireland.
  • Compact: The Compact car option accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This versatile choice is suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families who desire a vehicle that balances size, comfort, and efficiency. Its smaller footprint makes it easy to park in urban areas, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of exploring Ireland's scenic routes without the hassle of a larger vehicle.

Where to stay in Ireland

  • Dublin: A vibrant metropolis, Dublin offers a rich cultural experience. The city is home to notable attractions such as St. Stephen's Green, an urban park perfect for family outings, and Grafton Street, a lively shopping area. O'Connell Street, another prominent thoroughfare, is ideal for exploring the city's dynamic atmosphere. Within close proximity, visitors can enjoy a variety of local food and drinks options, including breweries and distilleries. The best time to visit Dublin is during the spring and summer months when the city's parks and outdoor areas are in full bloom.
  • Galway: Known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures, Galway is a charming city that captivates travellers. Key points of interest include Eyre Square, a lovely piazza that serves as a cultural hub, and Quay Street, bustling with shops and eateries. For those keen on breathtaking views, Galway Harbour offers a scenic escape. The city is also surrounded by opportunities for golfing and exploring the nearby cliffs. The ideal time to experience Galway is during the late spring and early summer when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
  • Killarney: A haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts, Killarney boasts stunning landscapes and various outdoor activities. Visitors can explore Killarney National Park, perfect for hiking and enjoying the scenery. Ross Castle, a historic site, adds a touch of culture and romance to the experience, while Muckross House offers insights into the region's heritage. With plenty of theatre options and local distilleries nearby, Killarney is an excellent destination year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly delightful for those seeking to enjoy its natural beauty.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Ireland

  • Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
  • 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’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  • Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • 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—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  • Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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 favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
  • Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  • Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  • Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  • 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 Ireland

    The best value period to rent a car in Ireland is February, when prices are moderately low and demand is slightly low. January also offers good deals, making it a quiet time for rentals. March and April see average prices and demand, providing another shoulder period for value seekers. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and slightly high demand, as many tourists flock to the country during this time.

    Renting a car in Ireland will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that Ireland has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

    With Expedia, booking you Ireland car hire is easy. Each hire car in Ireland option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in Ireland with confidence through Expedia.

    At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of Ireland car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in Ireland with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every Ireland hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

    It has never been easier to find a rental car in Ireland. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in Ireland today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in Ireland with Expedia.

    Car Hire Information

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