Greater London Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Greater London

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London

London

What you need to know for your Greater London car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Greater London

Renting a car in Greater London offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This convenience is especially beneficial for families and those interested in cultural experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, and Tower Bridge without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore popular destinations within Greater London, including the vibrant neighborhoods of Canary Wharf and London City Centre. These areas feature landmarks like One Canada Square and the Museum of London Docklands, all easily accessible by car. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely day in Hyde Park or immerse yourself in the history of Buckingham Palace, having a car provides the opportunity to experience Greater London in a way that suits your itinerary. Overall, renting a car enhances your sightseeing experience, allowing you to discover the diverse attractions that Greater London has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Greater London

  • Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for both passengers and luggage, making it perfect for those who want to explore Greater London comfortably. The midsize SUV offers a blend of versatility and comfort, allowing you to navigate the city while having room for your belongings.
  • Compact: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The compact car is a great choice for those looking to maneuver through busy streets and find parking with ease. Its size helps keep fuel costs low and is perfect for navigating the urban landscape of Greater London.
  • Economy: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The economy car is a practical choice for those who prioritize budget-friendly options while still needing space for essentials. It offers efficient fuel consumption and is well-suited for short trips around Greater London, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Where to stay in Greater London

  • London: As a vibrant metropolis, London is perfect for family, city-themed, and culture-themed experiences. You’ll find iconic attractions like Hyde Park, ideal for outdoor activities, and Buckingham Palace, which showcases rich history. Tower Bridge adds to the cultural allure. The city is home to numerous shopping areas and theaters, as well as a variety of restaurants, pubs, and wineries to enjoy local food and drinks options.
  • Richmond-upon-Thames: This charming borough offers a mix of family, outdoor, and city-themed experiences. With its beautiful parks and proximity to theaters, Richmond-upon-Thames is a great spot for relaxation and entertainment. The local dining scene includes inviting restaurants and drinking pubs. Explore the urban parks or enjoy the serene atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and families alike.
  • Coulsdon: Known for its outdoor and sports activities, Coulsdon is a family-friendly city. Here, you can explore golf courses and hiking trails, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Attractions like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey are not far away, adding a cultural spin to your stay. Coulsdon also features a selection of wineries and dining options, allowing you to unwind after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Greater London

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your travel date. Booking in advance often allows you to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  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 typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty if you choose this option.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek 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 Greater London

The best value period to rent a car in Greater London is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. March also offers a good option, with still affordable prices and average demand. As the year progresses, however, June through August see slightly higher prices and moderately high demand. December is typically the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining average. November can also be pricier, although demand starts to decline slightly.

Find Greater London Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Greater London car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Greater London, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Greater London offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Greater London car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Greater London to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Greater London airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Greater London rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Greater London airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Greater London?
You can find cheap car rentals in Greater London from $10 a day with Greenmotion's economy 4-5 door cars. Car rentals for exploring Greater London are picked up in London, which is co-located with London Heathrow Airport (LHR). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Wembley and Croydon. Suppliers such as Europcar, Budget, and Alamo Rent A Car offer competitive rates across the region. Europcar and Budget both offer options starting from $11 a day, while Alamo Rent A Car has rentals from $12 a day. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Greater London.
What are the best car rentals in Greater London?
Car rentals across Greater London offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — London, Wembley, and Croydon. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize elite SUV
  • Compact elite SUV
  • Compact SUV
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo traveler looking for something nimble, a couple seeking comfort, or a family needing more space. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving primarily in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Greater London.

What are the best car rental companies in Greater London?
For car rentals across Greater London, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — London, Wembley, and Croydon. Other reliable options include Europcar and Budget. These companies provide a variety of car classes to suit different travel needs, from compact cars for city driving to SUVs for regional exploration. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) for exploring Greater London?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) for exploring Greater London. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. London Heathrow Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from London to Wembley and Croydon.
Can I rent a car one-way in Greater London?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Greater London — pick up in one city, such as London, and drop-off in another, like Wembley, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Greater London?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Greater London, including in London and Wembley. Enterprise and Europcar both offer hybrid plug-in options from $10 a day, while Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car provide electric vehicles from $14 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Greater London?
For luxury car rentals across Greater London, Sixt offers fullsize elite SUV cars from $24 a day (and luxury from $36 a day), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like London and Wembley. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Greater London.
What are the best car rentals in Greater London for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Greater London, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from London to Wembley:
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $14 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize passenger van from $39 a day — seats up to 9 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize SUV from $26 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Greater London.

What are the best car rentals in Greater London for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Greater London for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like London and Wembley:
  • Economy car, from $11 a day (Budget) — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $11 a day (Budget) — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Greater London.

What are the best car rentals in Greater London for couples?
The best car rentals in Greater London for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like London and Wembley:
  • Midsize SUV, from $13 a day (Europcar) — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $12 a day (Europcar) — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium car for scenic drives around Greater London. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Greater London.

What are the closest airports to Greater London for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Greater London offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
  • London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
  • London Stansted Airport (STN)
These major airports serve the entire Greater London region, including cities like London, Wembley, and Croydon. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Greater London by rental car?
From Greater London, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the London hub include:
  • Piccadilly Circus, approximately 1 mile from the London hub
  • Buckingham Palace, approximately 1 mile from the London hub
  • Trafalgar Square, approximately 1 mile from the London hub
Time your trip around events like Notting Hill Carnival, or add activities such as London: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour with Transfers. With cities like Wembley and Croydon also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Greater London.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Greater London?
In Greater London, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities like London, Wembley, and Croydon, and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Greater London?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Greater London. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Greater London?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Greater London?
Budget car rental in Greater London can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Greater London?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Greater London. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Greater London car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Greater London?
To rent a car in Greater London, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Greater London car rental?
If you need to cancel your Greater London car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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