$34 Car Rental Galway

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Top Car Deals in Galway

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Lowest prices found within the past 12 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Galway car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Galway

Renting a car in Galway gives you the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. It’s an ideal choice for adventure seekers, cultural explorers, and those looking to experience the picturesque Irish countryside. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Eyre Square and Quay Street, both central to Galway’s cultural heartbeat. If you venture a little further, Galway Bay, located just 7 miles away, offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. The convenience of having a car also allows you to explore popular neighborhoods such as Galway City Centre, Claddagh, and the Latin Quarter, where you’ll find a rich blend of history and local charm. Managing your luggage is hassle-free, and you can create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Whether you’re heading for a scenic drive along the coast or diving into the city’s vibrant atmosphere, a rental car ensures that every adventure is within reach, making your trip both enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals in Galway

  • Economy: The economy car is a popular choice for travelers in Galway, comfortably fitting up to 5 people along with 2 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and families seeking to explore the beautiful scenery at their own pace. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through the city and countryside, allowing you to take in the sights while enjoying the flexibility of your travel plans.
  • Midsize: Midsize cars offer a bit more space, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for couples and families who appreciate the extra room for comfort while traveling around Galway. With the ability to carry more luggage, a midsize car allows you to pack everything you need for a longer trip, making it a versatile option for those wanting to explore the area in style.
  • Compact: The compact car option is another excellent choice for travelers in Galway, fitting 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases. This type strikes a balance between size and convenience, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its nimble build is perfect for navigating Galway’s streets and surrounding countryside, providing an enjoyable driving experience while efficiently managing your luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in Galway

  • Budget: With 1 rental location in the area of Galway, Budget is a popular choice among travelers seeking value and convenience. Known for their affordable pricing, Budget offers a selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy cars being the most booked. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to explore Galway and its surrounding attractions without breaking the bank.
  • Enterprise: Also featuring 1 rental location in Galway, Enterprise provides travelers with a variety of vehicle options tailored for comfort and space, particularly with their Midsize SUVs and Economy cars. This supplier is well-regarded for its customer service and offers the flexibility needed for a hassle-free driving experience in and around the vibrant city of Galway.
  • Payless: With 1 rental location in Galway, Payless is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Their most popular vehicles include Economy and Compact cars, ideal for navigating the charming streets of Galway. Payless is known for providing a straightforward rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worry.

Where to go in Galway

  • Galway City Centre: This vibrant neighborhood is the heart of Galway, ideal for those seeking a mix of outdoor activities, family experiences, and scenic beauty. Popular spots include Eyre Square, a cultural piazza, and Quay Street, a lively area for shopping. The University of Galway adds a modern touch to the city vibe. Peak travel season is from July to September, making it a great time to explore local parks and nearby cliffs.
  • Claddagh: Known for its outdoor and scenic offerings, Claddagh is a charming area perfect for families. Attractions like Quay Street and Eyre Square are easily accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy shopping and local culture. The nearby bay and parks enhance the area’s appeal, particularly from June to September when visitor numbers rise, making it a prime time to experience its natural beauty.
  • Latin Quarter: This lively neighborhood is perfect for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities and city life. The Latin Quarter boasts attractions such as Eyre Square and Quay Street, providing ample shopping and culinary experiences. With its vibrant atmosphere, this area is particularly popular from July to September, drawing families and outdoor enthusiasts to its charming parks and bustling streets.

10 tips to save on your Galway car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer days, 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and have better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury 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 operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this could be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case something unanticipated occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a simple process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, look for 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 Galway

The best value period to rent a car in and around Galway is February, when both prices and demand are low. January also offers low demand but at average prices. Following this, March sees a rise in prices and demand, making it the most expensive month for rentals. April and May moderate the pricing, with average demand throughout. In contrast, June through August experience high demand and slightly higher prices, making them the busiest times of the year.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
February42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
July58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
August58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
September55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
November46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
December43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Galway

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Galway

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $34.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$34
 
Our second best deal of the day
$37
 
Our third best deal of the day
$45
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Galway?
Getting around Galway doesn't have to break the bank, with daily car rental prices starting at $34 within the past seven days.
What happens if I need to cancel my Galway car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours ahead of the pickup time, most prepaid reservations offer a refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the rental policy. Read through your confirmation for the details or click through to our Customer Service Portal to find out more.
Where can I go on a road trip from Galway?
There are so many adventures to be had in Galway, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Rent a set of wheels and you can meander around the greater area at your leisure. Add these awesome places to your list:

  • You'll discover Guinness Storehouse and loads of other interesting attractions in Dublin. From Galway, it's approximately 120 miles away.
  • Why not check out the wonders of Waterford too? Unmissable attractions in this happening city include House of Waterford Crystal. Waterford is 110 miles from Galway.
  • Venture into the great outdoors and take in the serenity at Glenveagh National Park. It's 130 miles from Galway.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Galway with Expedia?
Expedia makes it simple to compare prices, offers and rental providers, and to check customer ratings. Combine your Galway car rental with hotel or flight bookings and you'll make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Galway?
The minimum age to rent a car in Galway is 21. A young driver surcharge generally applies, so check before booking and factor in possible additional costs. There may also be restrictions on the types of vehicles that can be rented by young drivers. For instance, some outlets will only rent out economy to medium-sized cars to young motorists. Rules may differ between suppliers, so read the fine print.
What do you need to rent a car in Galway?
While terms and conditions may differ between rental car outlets in Galway, generally the essentials are a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out the company's insurance plan. However, proof of alternative coverage may be required.
What side of the road do you drive on in Galway?
People in Galway drive on the left-hand side, and the steering wheel and other controls are on the opposite side to cars in the U.S. Take some time getting to know your car before taking off.
What is the cheapest car rental in Galway?
Based on prices found over the past seven days, you could've hopped into the driver's seat of a rental car for just $34 a day. The second lowest daily price offered in Galway was $37. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Galway?
Yes, and the awesome news is suppliers often offer lower prices the longer your rental term. Look through our long-term car rental deals in Galway and drive off with a real bargain.
Where can I find a Galway car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a young driver hoping to rent a vehicle in Galway, you'll need to check the policies of the various rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under 25, some may not. There may be extra fees if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To avoid any surprise fees and charges on pickup, make sure you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Galway?
A thorough insurance policy is a wise choice for your upcoming Galway escape. That's why we recommend adding collision protection while organizing your car rental with Expedia. This insures your vehicle against theft, vandalism and accident damage. Some destinations may need you to have a minimum level of liability insurance. This may already be included in your rental cost or your personal auto insurance, so check what you're covered for.
Can I drive in Galway with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in Ireland, then it's likely you'll need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence in order to rent a car. Please also consider that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your current license your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some additional requirements to rent a car internationally are:

  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or over in most places to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of vehicles available to rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you drive away. With rental cars, you usually can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or go off-roading with a rental car.

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