$48 Car Rental Edinburgh

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Edinburgh

Renting a car in Edinburgh offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for cultural, family, and city-themed experiences. You can visit iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle, located in the heart of the city, and stroll down the historic Royal Mile, both of which are easily accessible by car. The Grassmarket area is perfect for family-oriented outdoor experiences, and having a vehicle allows you to seamlessly navigate between these key sites.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore popular neighborhoods such as Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh City Centre, and New Town, all featuring attractions like Princes Street and the Grassmarket. Whether you are traveling with family or simply looking to soak in the local culture, a rental car provides the comfort and ease needed to truly enjoy your time in Edinburgh and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Edinburgh

• Compact: The Compact car option is a popular choice for travelers in Edinburgh, comfortably accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families looking for a convenient way to explore the city and its surroundings. Its size allows for easy navigation through Edinburgh's streets while providing enough space for luggage, making it a practical choice for those wanting flexibility in their travel plans.
• Midsize SUV: If you need a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It also accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. This car type offers a higher driving position and more cargo room, which is beneficial for those carrying larger items or traveling with more luggage. Renting a Midsize SUV gives you the freedom to explore the scenic routes around Edinburgh with comfort and ease.
• Economy: The Economy car is another great choice for those visiting Edinburgh, as it accommodates up to 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families seeking budget-friendly rental solutions. The Economy car provides an efficient way to navigate the city while keeping costs low, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about excess expenses.

Top rated car suppliers in Edinburgh

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is known for its friendly service and has 3 rental locations in Edinburgh. Travelers appreciate their quick pickup process and well-maintained vehicles. The most booked cars with Alamo are Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it an excellent choice for those needing space and comfort. Customers often highlight the cleanliness of the cars and hassle-free returns, making Alamo a reliable option for your car rental needs in Edinburgh.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in the Edinburgh area, Enterprise is praised for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. Travelers appreciate the helpful staff and smooth check-in experience. The most popular vehicles among customers are Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to various needs. Enterprise stands out for its wide selection of vehicles, ensuring a great choice for both families and business travelers looking to explore Edinburgh.
• Europcar: Europcar operates 3 rental locations in Edinburgh and is well-regarded for its quick return process and competitive pricing. Customers frequently mention the efficiency of drop-offs, making it an excellent choice for those on tight schedules. Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs are the most booked vehicles, providing comfort and practicality for exploring the area. With a commitment to clean vehicles and customer satisfaction, Europcar is a solid choice for your rental experience in Edinburgh.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh City Centre: Stay in the heart of Edinburgh City Centre to immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural scene. This neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a city-themed experience, with attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the bustling Princes Street nearby. Enjoy easy access to shopping areas, theaters, and a variety of restaurants and breweries, making it a great spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is rich in history and charm, perfect for travelers interested in culture and city experiences. Here, you can explore iconic sites like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. The area is home to numerous shops, theaters, and educational venues, along with a selection of distilleries and restaurants. This neighborhood is particularly suited for families looking to engage with Edinburgh's rich heritage.
• Leith: Leith offers a unique blend of family-friendly activities and cultural exploration. This waterfront neighborhood features the scenic Edinburgh Port and George Street, both ideal for a relaxing city vacation. Leith is known for its vibrant dining scene, including pubs and distilleries, making it a great base for families and those looking to enjoy the local culture while being close to the water.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer adventures, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary significantly based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between affordability, 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 cars—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an additional fee, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies require a credit card for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Edinburgh

The best value period to rent a car in and around Edinburgh is February, as it features low demand and slightly low prices. March follows closely, offering average demand and slightly low prices, making it a solid choice as well. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high demand and prices. June through August see high demand, which can lead to higher rental costs, especially in July, when demand peaks.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Edinburgh

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Edinburgh 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 provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Edinburgh

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Edinburgh. 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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $48.

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