Scotland Car Rentals

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Edinburgh

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What you need to know for your Scotland car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Scotland

Renting a car in Scotland is a popular choice for travelers seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring the stunning landscapes and rich history of the region. With a rental car, you can visit attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture at your own pace. Additionally, a scenic drive to Loch Lomond offers opportunities for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views, making it perfect for nature lovers and romantics alike.

The convenience of a rental car also makes it easier to explore popular cities such as Glasgow, known for Buchanan Street and Glasgow Green, or Inverness, home to Inverness Castle and Urquhart Castle. Having your own vehicle allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly and adjust your travel plans as needed, ensuring a comfortable experience for families or groups. Whether you are an adventurer seeking outdoor experiences or a culture enthusiast visiting historic sites, renting a car in Scotland offers the flexibility to create your own itinerary and discover the beauty of this remarkable destination.

Most popular car rentals in Scotland

  • Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice among travelers, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its fuel efficiency and smaller size make it easier to navigate through Scotland's narrow roads and urban areas, providing a comfortable and convenient way to explore at your own pace.
  • Midsize SUV: If you need more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. With room for 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases, this vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups. The added height and space make it a comfortable choice for longer journeys across Scotland, ensuring everyone has ample legroom and luggage capacity for your adventures.
  • Economy: The Economy car is a practical choice for travelers looking to save on rental costs while still accommodating up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases. This option is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families, providing a balance of comfort and affordability. Its compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in various locations throughout Scotland, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

Where to stay in Scotland

  • Edinburgh: A vibrant metropolis, Edinburgh is perfect for culture-themed and family experiences. Explore iconic landmarks like the historic Edinburgh Castle, located near the Royal Mile and Princes Street, both ideal for city vacations. The area offers a variety of restaurants and breweries, allowing visitors to enjoy local food and drinks. With its rich cultural scene, Edinburgh is best visited during the summer months when festivals abound, creating a lively atmosphere.
  • Glasgow: Known for its entertainment and romantic vibes, Glasgow features attractions such as Buchanan Street, a bustling shopping precinct suitable for family outings. The beautiful Glasgow Green offers an urban park setting for outdoor activities, while George Square provides a cultural hub for visitors. The city is home to numerous dining options and distilleries. Spring and autumn are excellent times to visit Glasgow, offering mild weather and vibrant local events.
  • Inverness: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Inverness is surrounded by stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Key attractions include the historic Inverness Castle and the ruins of Urquhart Castle, both showcasing the region's rich heritage. The area is also near national parks, perfect for hiking and exploring nature. With various distilleries and restaurants nearby, visitors can indulge in local flavors. Late spring to early autumn is considered the best time to enjoy the outdoor adventures Inverness has to offer.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Scotland

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always confirm the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure 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 the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most 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 if unexpected issues arise during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Scotland

The best time to rent a car in Scotland is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. March follows closely, offering similar price levels with average demand. April and May see average prices with moderate demand, making them decent options as well. However, July and August are the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly high prices that can put a strain on your budget.

Find Scotland Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Scotland car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Scotland, 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 Scotland offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Scotland 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 Scotland 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 Scotland 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 Scotland rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Scotland car reservation?
If you need to switch your plans around, most bookings are eligible for a total refund. Cancellations will need to be made at least six hours prior to the pickup time. Read through your cancellation policy for any exceptions. Your booking details will have more details, or jump onto our Customer Service Portal for more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Scotland with Expedia?
Check customer reviews, choose your car class and compare offers from leading brands. Expedia makes it a cinch to get the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Scotland car rental with flight or hotel bookings and hit the road with extra savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Scotland?
The minimum age is 21. But there are a few age-related rules to bear in mind before reserving your wheels in Scotland. If you're a young motorist, most rental suppliers will charge an extra fee and limit the kinds of cars you're able to rent. The precise surcharge, and which ages it applies to, varies between companies. Be sure to compare the requirements.
What do you need to rent a car in Scotland?
A valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? In that case, you may also require proof of other coverage. Rules can differ between providers, so have a thorough read of your policy.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Scotland?
Yes, and you'll find your perfect set of wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Simply enter your trip dates and we'll show you fantastic offers from various trustworthy companies.
Where can I find a Scotland car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the rental companies that operate in Scotland. They often have different age policies. If you've found an outlet that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, keep in mind that additional costs may apply. Conduct some research into what those charges could be before booking your rental car.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Scotland?
It's a good idea to add collision damage protection while reserving your Scotland rental car with Expedia. This protects your ride against collision damage, theft and vandalism throughout your vacation. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and 24-hour emergency support, you can relax knowing you'll be covered if the unexpected occurs. It's easy to opt in to this insurance while making your booking.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Scotland?
You can find cheap car rentals in Scotland from $11 a day with Greenmotion's compact monospace. You can also find competitive rates if you pick up directly in cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, both starting from $11 a day. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, Greenmotion, and Europcar operate across the region. 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 Scotland.
What are the best car rentals in Scotland?
Car rentals across Scotland 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 - Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Compact elite SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize elite SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Scotland.

What are the best car rental companies in Scotland?
For car rentals across Scotland, well-rated providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Sixt offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. 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 Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for exploring Scotland?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for exploring Scotland. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Greenmotion operate at the airport, with rates from around $17 a day. Edinburgh Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Edinburgh to Glasgow.
Can I rent a car one-way in Scotland?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Scotland - pick up in one city, such as Edinburgh, and drop-off in another, like Glasgow, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 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 Scotland?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Scotland, including in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Sixt offers electric options from $11 a day and hybrid options from $11 a day. Enterprise also provides electric options from $11 a day and hybrid plug-in options from $11 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 Scotland?
For luxury car rentals across Scotland, Sixt offers luxury elite passenger van cars from $56 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 Edinburgh and Glasgow. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Scotland.
What are the best car rentals in Scotland for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Scotland, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Edinburgh to Glasgow:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $24 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize passenger van from $31 a day
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $32 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 Scotland.

What are the best car rentals in Scotland for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Scotland 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 Edinburgh and Glasgow:
  • Greenmotion: mini 2 or 4 door from $11 a day - fits up to 4 people with room for 2 small suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Europcar: economy 2 or 4 door from $13 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 2 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 Scotland.

What are the best car rentals in Scotland for couples?
The best car rentals in Scotland for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow:
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $13 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Europcar: compact SUV from $15 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 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. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your trip around Scotland. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Scotland.

What are the closest airports to Scotland for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Scotland offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
  • Glasgow Airport (GLA)
  • Inverness Airport (INV)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Scotland by rental car?
From Scotland, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Within Edinburgh, you can visit local attractions like:
  • Edinburgh Castle, approximately 1 mile away
  • Princes Street, approximately 1 mile away
  • University of Edinburgh, approximately 1 mile away
  • Grassmarket, approximately 1 mile away
For longer road trips, a car allows you to explore the wider Scottish Highlands, with tours like the 'Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour' departing from Edinburgh. You could also time your trip around events such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, or explore other regional cities like Glasgow and Inverness. Having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Scotland.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Scotland?
In Scotland, 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 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 Scotland?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Scotland. 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 Scotland?
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 Scotland?
Budget car rental in Scotland 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 Scotland?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Scotland. 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 Scotland car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Scotland?
To rent a car in Scotland, 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 Scotland car rental?
If you need to cancel your Scotland 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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