$128 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 14, 2026.

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

Renting a car in Old Town Edinburgh offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families, as you can easily store strollers and other essentials in the trunk while visiting family-friendly attractions like the Grassmarket, known for its outdoor experiences. You can also immerse yourself in the rich culture of Edinburgh by visiting iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and strolling along the historic Royal Mile. Both of these attractions are located within Old Town Edinburgh and are easily accessible by car. Additionally, with the Edinburgh City Centre and New Town just under a mile away, a rental car makes it simple to explore even more attractions like Princes Street. Whether you are seeking city-themed experiences, cultural immersion, or family-friendly outings, having a rental car enhances your trip to Old Town Edinburgh, allowing you to discover all that this enchanting area has 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 efficient operations, with a rental location conveniently situated in Old Town Edinburgh. Travelers appreciate the cleanliness of their vehicles and the hassle-free return process. The most popular choices among customers include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making Alamo a reliable option for exploring the area comfortably.
• National Car Rental: With a rental location also in Old Town Edinburgh, National Car Rental is favored for its straightforward service and dependable vehicles. Customers often opt for Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which provide ample space for luggage and comfort during travels. National is a solid choice for those looking to navigate the city and surrounding attractions with ease.
• Europcar: Located less than 1 mile away from Old Town Edinburgh, Europcar is known for its competitive pricing and quick service. The supplier offers a selection of well-maintained Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to various traveler needs. Customers frequently commend the efficiency of the rental and return process, making Europcar a great option for those with tight schedules.

Where to stay around Old Town Edinburgh

• Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is a historic neighborhood known for its cultural charm and rich history. Here, visitors can explore iconic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. The area is perfect for those seeking a city-themed experience, with numerous restaurants, shops, and theaters nearby. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in Edinburgh’s vibrant atmosphere.
• Edinburgh City Centre: Located less than 1 mile away from Old Town Edinburgh, the City Centre offers a bustling urban experience. It features attractions like Princes Street and the Grassmarket, both of which provide excellent dining and shopping options. This neighborhood is great for families and culture enthusiasts looking to explore theaters and historical landmarks within a short distance from Old Town.
• Edinburgh and Lothian: Situated 5 miles from Old Town Edinburgh, Edinburgh and Lothian is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities alongside cultural experiences. This area offers scenic hiking trails and symbolic landmarks, making it an excellent option for those seeking adventure. Key points of interest include the Royal Mile and the National Museum of Scotland, providing further opportunities for exploration.

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 the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and simpler to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There's often an extra fee for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is easy when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out 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 Old Town Edinburgh

The best value period to rent a car in and around Old Town Edinburgh is March, when prices are slightly low and demand remains average. February also offers low demand and slightly lower prices, making it a quiet month for rentals. April sees prices return to average levels with steady demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busy time for travelers in the city.

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