Car Rental Old Town Edinburgh

These Old Town Edinburgh insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 18, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Old Town Edinburgh

Renting a car in Old Town Edinburgh offers excellent freedom and flexibility for your sightseeing adventures. With a rental car, you can explore key attractions like the historic Edinburgh Castle, located right in Old Town, or take a leisurely stroll down the iconic Royal Mile. Families can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere of the Grassmarket, all while having the convenience of managing luggage easily and adjusting travel plans on the fly. Additionally, you can venture beyond Old Town to nearby neighborhoods such as Edinburgh City Centre and New Town, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find even more attractions like Princes Street. The ability to drive allows you to visit these areas at your own pace, making it ideal for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you want to stop for a quick photo op or enjoy a longer stay at a local café, having a car enhances your overall experience in Edinburgh. Embrace the convenience of a rental car and discover all that Old Town Edinburgh and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Compact: The Compact option is a popular choice for those traveling in Old Town Edinburgh. Accommodating up to 5 travelers and 3 medium suitcases, it's ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. This size makes it easy to navigate the narrow streets of the city while still providing enough space for your luggage. Whether you're exploring local attractions or venturing further afield, the Compact car offers a balance of comfort and convenience.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for extra space. With the capacity for 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases, this vehicle allows for a comfortable ride while providing ample room for your belongings. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for road trips around Old Town Edinburgh, accommodating both passengers and luggage with ease.
• Economy: The Economy car type is a favored option for those seeking efficient travel in Old Town Edinburgh. This car accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. The Economy car is not only budget-friendly but also easy to maneuver through the city, ensuring you can explore at your own pace without sacrificing comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Old Town Edinburgh

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is recognized for its friendly service and convenient location in Old Town Edinburgh. Travelers appreciate the efficient pickup process and the cleanliness of the vehicles. The most popular choices among customers are the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the area comfortably. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo stands out for its hassle-free returns, ensuring a positive rental experience.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental also has a prime location in Old Town Edinburgh, making it easily accessible for tourists. Known for its reliable service, customers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which are ideal for navigating both the city and surrounding areas. National provides flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to manage their itineraries smoothly while enjoying the sights of Edinburgh.
• Europcar: Located less than 1 mile from Old Town Edinburgh, Europcar is a popular choice among renters seeking proximity and reliability. This supplier is favored for its competitive pricing and well-maintained vehicles. Customers tend to book Midsize SUVs and Compacts, perfect for both urban exploration and countryside adventures. Europcar is noted for its efficient service, making it an excellent option for those who value quick and easy drop-off processes.

Where to stay around Old Town Edinburgh

• Old Town Edinburgh: This historic area is the heart of Edinburgh, offering a rich cultural experience. Stay here to be close to major attractions like the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the bustling Royal Mile. The narrow alleys and medieval architecture provide a unique atmosphere, perfect for exploring local shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located less than 1 mile from Old Town, the City Centre is ideal for those seeking a vibrant urban experience. You'll find attractions such as Princes Street and various theaters in this area. The proximity to shopping areas and dining options makes it a convenient choice for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
• Edinburgh and Lothian: Situated 5 miles from Old Town, this area offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the scenic hiking trails and historic landmarks. Key points of interest include the Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland, making it a great choice for those who enjoy both nature and history.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to lock in lower prices and have a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles 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 available. This can also apply to renters aged 70 and above. Always verify age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid 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 Old Town Edinburgh

The best time to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh is February, offering low demand and slightly lower prices. March and November also present good opportunities, with slightly low prices and average demand. As summer approaches, demand increases, making June the busiest month with average pricing. July and August follow closely, with both months typically seeing higher rental rates due to increased tourist activity. This trend continues through the busy summer season, making it a more expensive time to rent a car.

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