Shetland Islands Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Shetland Islands

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Lerwick

Lerwick

What you need to know for your Shetland Islands car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Shetland Islands

Renting a car in the Shetland Islands is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the region at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you gain the freedom to visit key attractions such as the Up-Helly-Aa Exhibition in Lerwick, a cultural experience that showcases the islands' heritage. You can also easily reach Fair Isle, known for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, or the Sullom Voe Oil Terminal, which offers a glimpse into the industrial side of Shetland culture. The flexibility of having a car allows you to manage your luggage conveniently and travel without being tied to public transport schedules. Whether you are interested in culture, outdoor adventures, or beach-related experiences, a rental car makes it simple to explore destinations like Brae and Shetland city, where you can discover the Ayre of Hamnavoe and Lunna Kirk. This added convenience enhances your travel experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and diverse offerings of the Shetland Islands.

Most popular car rentals in Shetland Islands

  • Mini: This car option accommodates 4 travelers with up to 2 small suitcases, making it ideal for solo travelers or couples. Its compact size makes navigating the Shetland Islands convenient, allowing for easy parking and maneuverability on narrow roads.
  • Economy: With space for 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases, this option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families. The Economy car provides a balance of comfort and efficiency, giving you the flexibility to explore the Shetland Islands without compromising on luggage space.
  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, this car accommodates 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV offers extra room and comfort, making it a great choice for those planning to travel with more luggage while exploring the scenic routes of the Shetland Islands.

Where to stay in Shetland Islands

  • Lerwick: Lerwick is a vibrant city that offers a rich cultural experience along with outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the Up-Helly-Aa Exhibition and Bressay Lighthouse, both significant landmarks that highlight the region’s history. The Lerwick Town Hall is also a must-see for history enthusiasts. With nearby hiking trails and beautiful beaches, Lerwick is perfect for those looking to combine cultural exploration with outdoor activities, especially in the warmer months when the weather is most inviting.
  • Gott: Gott is another cultural hub in the Shetland Islands, known for its engaging museums and galleries. The Up-Helly-Aa Exhibition is a local highlight, alongside the Lerwick Town Hall, both offering insights into the unique heritage of the area. Additionally, the Shetland Museum provides deeper historical context for visitors. Gott is ideal for travelers interested in cultural themes, and it is best experienced during the summer when local events and exhibitions are in full swing.
  • Brae: Brae is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. The Sullom Voe Oil Terminal stands as a key monument in the area, while the Ayre of Hamnavoe offers a serene beach experience. Lunna Kirk is a charming church worth visiting for its historical significance. Brae provides a mix of adventure and culture, making it a great stop for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty and history of the Shetland Islands, particularly during the milder seasons.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Shetland Islands

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and have greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well, but make sure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  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 Shetland Islands

The best value period to rent a car in the Shetland Islands is October, when prices are lower and demand remains high. Surrounding months like April and December also offer slightly lower prices with average demand. On the other hand, November tends to be the most expensive month, despite having low demand, making it less favorable for rentals. September is another busy month with high demand, which can drive up rental prices.

Find Shetland Islands Car Rentals

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

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

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Shetland Islands car reservation?
If you need to switch up your plans, the majority of bookings qualify for a total refund. Just notify us a minimum of six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time. Scan the rental policy for any exceptions. Your confirmation will have more details, or head over to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Shetland Islands with Expedia?
Check out customer reviews and ratings, choose your preferred car class and compare prices from the most popular suppliers. Expedia makes it easy to find the best deal on your rental wheels. Bundle your Shetland Islands car rental with flight or hotel bookings and start your road trip with even more savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Shetland Islands?
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in Shetland Islands is 21. An extra fee for young drivers generally applies, so check before you book and factor in any extra 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 small to medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Rules may be different between outlets, so be sure to read the fine print carefully.
What do you need to rent a car in Shetland Islands?
The main things are your driver's license and a credit card in your name. Most car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may have to provide proof of other coverage if you prefer to opt out. Be sure to check with your rental provider to avoid any problems.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Shetland Islands?
Click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and then secure your ideal ride. Whether you're stopping in Shetland Islands or venturing far beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at a fantastic rate.
Where can I find a Shetland Islands car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the car rental companies that are found in Shetland Islands. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a place that does cater to drivers under 25, keep in mind that extra fees may apply. Conduct some research into any extra charges before you collect the car.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Shetland Islands?
For a stress-free getaway, add Expedia's collision protection while booking your rental car. This insurance covers your vehicle against theft, vandalism and collision damage. It also provides customers with 24/7 emergency assistance in times of need. Opt in to this plan while finalizing your Shetland Islands ride with Expedia and save time and money at the rental counter.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Shetland Islands?
You can find cheap car rentals in Shetland Islands from $57 a day with Avis's mini 4-5 door. The cheapest car rentals for exploring the Shetland Islands start from $57 a day, picked up at the region's main gateway, Sumburgh Airport Shetland Islands (LSI). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Lerwick, where rates also start from $57 a day, and Scalloway. Avis is a supplier operating 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 the Shetland Islands.
What are the best car rentals in Shetland Islands?
Car rentals in the Shetland Islands offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Avis and Europcar, broadly available in the region's main cities - Lerwick, Scalloway, and Whiteness. The most common car classes include:
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Midsize crossover
  • Fullsize 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
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 the Shetland Islands.

What are the best car rental companies in Shetland Islands?
For car rentals across the Shetland Islands, providers like Avis and Europcar offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Lerwick, Scalloway, and Whiteness. 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 Sumburgh Apt Shetland Isl (LSI) for exploring Shetland Islands?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Sumburgh Apt Shetland Isl (LSI) for exploring Shetland Islands. Providers including Avis and Europcar operate at the airport, with Avis rates from $57 a day. Sumburgh Apt Shetland Isl (LSI) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Lerwick to Scalloway.
Can I rent a car one-way in Shetland Islands?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across the Shetland Islands - pick up in one city, such as Lerwick, and drop-off in another, like Scalloway, which is ideal for regional road trips. Providers like Avis and Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Shetland Islands?
For luxury car rentals across the Shetland Islands, Avis offers midsize crossover cars from $81 a day (and fullsize 4-5 door from $84 a day), while Europcar also adds 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 Lerwick and Scalloway. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in the Shetland Islands.
What are the best car rentals in Shetland Islands for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Shetland Islands, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Lerwick to Scalloway:
  • Avis: midsize crossover from $81 a day - seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize 4-5 door from $84 a day - seats up to 5 people 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 Shetland Islands.

What are the best car rentals in Shetland Islands for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in the Shetland Islands for solo travelers are mini, 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 Lerwick and Scalloway:
  • Mini 4-5 door, from $57 a day - fits up to 4 people with room for 2 small suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Economy 4-5 door, from $64 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 2 medium suitcases, offering good fuel efficiency
  • Compact 4-5 door, from $93 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in the Shetland Islands.

What are the best car rentals in Shetland Islands for couples?
The best car rentals in the Shetland Islands for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Lerwick and Scalloway:
  • Midsize crossover, from $81 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, offering a comfortable ride for two
  • Fullsize 4-5 door, from $84 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, providing ample space for luggage and smooth cruising
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in the Shetland Islands.

What are the closest airports to Shetland Islands for car rental pick-up?
Sumburgh Apt Shetland Isl (LSI) is the primary airport in the Shetland Islands offering car rental pick-up, giving you a convenient option close to your arrival point. Compare rental rates at the airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Shetland Islands?
In the Shetland Islands, 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 Lerwick and Scalloway, 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 Shetland Islands?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Shetland Islands. 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 Shetland Islands?
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 Shetland Islands?
Budget car rental in Shetland Islands 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 Shetland Islands?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Shetland Islands. 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 Shetland Islands car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Shetland Islands?
To rent a car in Shetland Islands, 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 Shetland Islands car rental?
If you need to cancel your Shetland Islands 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
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