$91 Car Rental Edinburgh and Lothian

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Edinburgh and Lothian

Renting a car in Edinburgh and Lothian offers you the freedom to explore the beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it perfect for families or those with outdoor gear. You can visit key attractions such as the Royal Mile, Grassmarket, and the National Museum of Scotland, all located just 5 miles away from Edinburgh and Lothian. The convenience of a car allows you to explore the vibrant metropolis of Edinburgh, which features iconic sites like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, or venture to the charming Old Town, also 5 miles away.

A rental car also makes short trips to nearby destinations easy, such as Loanhead, less than 1 mile away, where you can find Grassmarket and Rosslyn Chapel. This flexibility is ideal for those seeking outdoor and cultural experiences, ensuring you can maximize your time in this stunning area. Whether you want to enjoy a family outing or delve into the rich history and culture, having a car provides the convenience to discover everything Edinburgh and Lothian has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for travelers looking to navigate the bustling streets of Edinburgh and Lothian. Accommodating up to 5 travelers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases, it is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. This car type provides the maneuverability needed for city driving while ensuring that you can manage your luggage effectively.
• Midsize SUV: For those traveling with a bit more gear or seeking extra comfort, the Midsize SUV is a popular option. It comfortably seats 5 travelers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle type is particularly suited for longer road trips, providing ample space and a more elevated driving experience while exploring the scenic surroundings of Edinburgh and Lothian.
• Economy: The Economy car is a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on convenience. Accommodating 5 travelers and allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases, it is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families. This car type is perfect for those who want to keep rental costs low while still enjoying the freedom of exploring the area at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located 5 miles away from Edinburgh and Lothian, Alamo is a popular choice among travelers. Known for its excellent customer service, Alamo specializes in Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle for your journey. With a straightforward rental process, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the beautiful surroundings at your own pace.
• National Car Rental: Also situated 5 miles from Edinburgh and Lothian, National Car Rental is a top option for visitors. They offer a selection of Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which are ideal for navigating both city streets and the scenic countryside. Their commitment to customer satisfaction ensures a smooth and hassle-free rental experience, perfect for your travel needs.
• Enterprise: With two locations, the nearest being 4 miles from Edinburgh and Lothian, Enterprise provides added convenience for your car rental needs. They feature a diverse range of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Compacts, to suit various traveler preferences. Renowned for their reliable service and quality, Enterprise is a great choice for those looking to explore Edinburgh and its beautiful surroundings with ease.

Where to stay around Edinburgh and Lothian

• Edinburgh: As a vibrant metropolis, Edinburgh offers a rich cultural experience. Located only 5 miles from Edinburgh and Lothian, it features prominent attractions like the historic Edinburgh Castle and the bustling Royal Mile. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping and theater, while also savoring local food and drinks at nearby restaurants and breweries. The city's mix of history and modernity makes it a great base for exploring the region.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Situated 5 miles from Edinburgh and Lothian, Edinburgh City Centre is ideal for those seeking a blend of culture and family-friendly activities. Key highlights include Princes Street and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. This neighborhood boasts a range of shopping areas and theaters, alongside numerous restaurants and distilleries that enhance the local dining scene. Its central location provides easy access to various attractions, making it a prime choice for travelers.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Also located 5 miles from Edinburgh and Lothian, Old Town Edinburgh is steeped in history and charm. It offers a unique city-themed experience, with attractions like the Royal Mile and Grassmarket. The area is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts, providing access to shopping, education, and theater experiences. Visitors can enjoy a diverse array of food and drink options, including local distilleries, ensuring a memorable stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Edinburgh and Lothian

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover 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. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters aged 70 and above. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 added charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can be acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 Edinburgh and Lothian

The best value period to rent a car in and around Edinburgh and Lothian is February, when both prices and demand tend to be low. January also offers a quiet experience with slightly low prices. March and April see average prices and demand, making them decent shoulder months. However, from June through August, rental prices and demand rise, with August being the most expensive month. This peak season can make it more challenging to find better deals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Edinburgh and Lothian

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Edinburgh and Lothian into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Edinburgh and Lothian and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Edinburgh and Lothian

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Edinburgh and Lothian. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Edinburgh and Lothian

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $91.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals