Friesland Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Friesland

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Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden

What you need to know for your Friesland car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Friesland

Renting a car in Friesland is a popular choice for travelers looking to explore this beautiful province at their own pace. With a rental car, you have the freedom and flexibility to visit key attractions like the historic Oldehove tower, which offers a glimpse into the region's culture, or the Fries Museum, an art museum that showcases local art and history. Families will appreciate the convenience of visiting the Nature Center Ameland, a natural history museum perfect for educational experiences.

In addition to these attractions, a rental car allows you to easily navigate to popular destinations such as Leeuwarden, where you can find the Oldehove, the Fries Museum, and Cambuur Stadium all within reach. You can also venture to Ameland Island to enjoy Nes Beach and the Ameland Lighthouse, or explore Vlieland, known for its Bunkermuseum Wn 12H and Ecomare. With a rental car, managing your luggage is simple, and you can create flexible travel plans that cater to your interests, whether they lean towards outdoor activities, scenic views, or romantic experiences.

Most popular car rentals in Friesland

  • Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for travelers in Friesland, accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is especially ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families seeking a versatile vehicle that handles city streets well and offers easy parking. Its size makes it perfect for navigating Friesland’s charming towns while maintaining fuel efficiency.
  • Standard SUV: The Standard SUV provides a spacious and comfortable ride for up to 5 travelers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is great for couples, families, or groups who desire a bit more space and versatility. Ideal for those planning to explore Friesland, a Standard SUV offers the added benefit of a higher driving position and enhanced comfort for longer journeys.
  • Economy: The Economy car option is another excellent choice for those visiting Friesland, accommodating 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a budget-friendly rental. Economical in terms of fuel consumption, it provides an efficient way to explore Friesland while keeping travel costs down.

Where to stay in Friesland

  • Leeuwarden: Leeuwarden is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor and romantic experiences, making it an ideal choice for travelers. Highlights include the historic Oldehove Tower and the Fries Museum, both suitable for culture vacations. Enjoy local venues like the Cambuur Stadium for sports or theaters for entertainment. The area also offers nearby lakes and a variety of food options, including local breweries and wineries, providing a delightful taste of Friesland. Leeuwarden is particularly enjoyable in the spring and summer months when outdoor activities are abundant.
  • Ameland Island: Ameland Island is a picturesque destination renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Travelers can indulge in water sports or relax at Nes Beach, ideal for a beach vacation. Key attractions include the Nature Center Ameland, which offers insights into the island's natural history, and the historic Ameland Lighthouse. The island's tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty make it a romantic getaway, especially in late spring and summer when the weather is most favorable for outdoor exploration.
  • Vlieland: Vlieland is a charming city that caters to families and adventure seekers alike. With its beautiful beaches and visitor center, it’s perfect for outdoor fun and exploration. Key points of interest include the Bunkermuseum Wn 12H for culture enthusiasts and Ecomare, a nature reserve that promotes environmental awareness. The island is especially appealing during the summer months when families can enjoy its scenic landscapes and a variety of activities tailored for all ages, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Friesland

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in these cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the 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 you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Friesland

The best value period to rent a car in Friesland is November, when prices are moderately low and demand tends to be low. This is followed closely by September, which also offers moderate prices with average demand. March is another option, typically showing low demand, while June through August see higher prices and increased demand, making them the most expensive months for car rentals. April particularly stands out as the busiest month with high demand and average pricing.

Find Friesland Car Rentals

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

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Friesland?
You can find cheap car rentals in Friesland from $11 a day with Sixt's midsize suv. Car rentals for exploring Friesland are picked up at the region's main gateway, Groningen Airport (GRQ). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Makkum and Hollum, where rates can be found from $22 a day if you pick up in those cities. Suppliers such as Sixt and Avis 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 Friesland.
What are the best car rentals in Friesland?
Car rentals across Friesland offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt and Avis, broadly available in the region's main cities — Makkum, Hollum, and Anjum. The most common car classes include:
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize elite SUV
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Economy SUV
  • Fullsize elite 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 Friesland.

What are the best car rental companies in Friesland?
For car rentals across Friesland, well-rated providers like Sixt and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Makkum, Hollum, and Anjum. 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 Groningen Airport (GRQ) for exploring Friesland?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Groningen Airport (GRQ) for exploring Friesland. Providers including Sixt, with rates from around $35 a day, and Avis, with rates from $42 a day, operate at the airport. Groningen Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Makkum to Hollum.
Can I rent a car one-way in Friesland?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Friesland — pick up in one city, such as Makkum, and drop-off in another, like Hollum, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $40 a day. Providers like Sixt and Avis 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 Friesland?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Friesland, including in Makkum and Hollum. Sixt offers hybrid options from $58 a day and electric options from $71 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 Friesland?
For luxury car rentals across Friesland, Sixt offers fullsize elite SUV cars from $41 a day (and fullsize elite 4-5 door from $59 a day) — 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 Makkum and Hollum. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Friesland.
What are the best car rentals in Friesland for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Friesland, SUVs give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Makkum to Hollum:
  • Sixt: fullsize elite SUV from $41 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Sixt: economy SUV from $48 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize SUV from $193 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 4 large 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 Friesland.

What are the best car rentals in Friesland for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Friesland 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 Makkum and Hollum:
  • Economy car, from $42 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $45 a day — 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 Friesland.

What are the best car rentals in Friesland for couples?
The best car rentals in Friesland for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Makkum and Hollum:
  • Compact SUV, from $35 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
  • Fullsize elite 4-5 door, from $59 a day — fits up to 3 large or 5 medium suitcases with smooth cruising for two
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium option for scenic drives around Friesland. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Friesland.

What are the closest airports to Friesland for car rental pick-up?
Groningen Airport (GRQ) is the primary airport for car rental pick-up when exploring Friesland. It serves as the main gateway to the region, offering convenient access to cities like Makkum and Hollum. Compare rental rates at Groningen Airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.
What are the best road trip destinations from Friesland by rental car?
From Friesland, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Makkum hub include:
  • Ameland Lighthouse, Hollum, Friesland, Netherlands, approximately 2 miles away
  • Hollum Beach, Hollum, Friesland, Netherlands, approximately 2 miles away
  • Lauwersmeer National Park, Lauwersoog, Groningen, Netherlands, approximately 5 miles away
These destinations offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural interest, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families. With cities like Hollum and Anjum also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Friesland.

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

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