Ireland Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Ireland

What you need to know for your Ireland car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Ireland

Renting a car in Ireland offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for adventure seekers, scenic explorers, and sightseers. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to key attractions like Trinity College, where you can immerse yourself in rich culture, or enjoy family-friendly experiences at St. Stephen's Green. If you're in the mood for some city exploration, Grafton Street awaits you with its vibrant atmosphere. The convenience of managing your luggage and having the ability to plan your itinerary makes a rental car an ideal choice, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Additionally, having a car allows you to explore popular destinations such as City Centre Dublin, where you can visit all the noted attractions. You can also venture to Galway City Centre, known for its charming Eyre Square and lively Quay Street, or head to Tralee to discover Tralee Town Park and the scenic Blennerville Windmill. The ability to travel at your own pace enhances your experience, ensuring you can truly appreciate the beauty and charm of Ireland, making car rental an essential part of your journey.

Most popular car rentals in Ireland

  • Midsize SUV: This option fits 5 travelers comfortably and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. It's an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Ireland's scenic landscapes. The spacious interior and higher driving position provide a comfortable ride, making it ideal for longer journeys through the countryside.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, this car type also fits 5 travelers but can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Ireland's charming towns and busy city streets. The economy is budget-friendly, offering a great balance between comfort and cost for those who wish to maximize their travel experience.
  • Compact: This car option is suitable for 5 travelers and can accommodate up to 3 medium suitcases. It's a versatile choice for solo travelers, couples, or families who want a balance of comfort and space without sacrificing ease of handling. The compact design makes it easier to park and maneuver in urban areas while still providing enough room for luggage, making it a popular choice among travelers.

10 tips to save on your Ireland car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers can make it worthwhile.
  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. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Find Ireland Car Rentals

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

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


Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Ireland car reservation?
We know that plans change and flexibility is important. That's why many bookings offer a complete refund if canceled a minimum of six hours ahead of the scheduled collection time. It's a good idea to check your rental agreement though as there are some exemptions. If the info isn't there, click on our Customer Service Portal.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Ireland with Expedia?
Getting an amazing deal on your Ireland rental car is a breeze with Expedia. Choose your preferred car type, add in a few more details and compare prices from big-name brands. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll score even bigger savings when you create a vacation package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Ireland?
Rental vehicle rules in Ireland require drivers to be 21 and above. Are you a younger driver? A few surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental outlets impose what's known as a young driver surcharge, which is an extra fee to the cost of the rental car. Restrictions often apply to the sorts of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may vary between providers, so check before you book.
What do you need to rent a car in Ireland?
A current driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Opting out of the company's insurance plan? In that case, you may also require proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between suppliers, so be sure to read through your policy.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Ireland?
You can rent a vehicle for a month or even longer in Ireland, so don't hestitate to extend your hard-earned vacation! Just enter your trip information into our long-term car rental deals page and lock in your perfect ride.
Where can I find an Ireland car rental if I am younger than 25?
Renting a car if you are under 25 years old in Ireland often depends on the rental supplier you choose. Some places have a surcharge for young drivers between 21 and 24 years old, yet others may not have any extra costs for this age range. Make sure you go through the terms and conditions of your preferred rental company to escape unnecessary costs when picking up your keys.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Ireland?
You should have collision damage protection to safeguard your Ireland rental car against accident damage, theft and vandalism. And with Expedia, you can easily purchase this insurance for your vehicle during the booking process. Providing up to $35,000 in primary coverage, it also offers 24/7 emergency help and no deductible if you need to make a claim. Plans changed? If you cancel your insurance before your scheduled collection time, you'll get all your money back.

Car Rental Information

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