Car hire in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Edinburgh

Finding cheap car hire deals in Edinburgh is simple, with over 25 pickup locations to choose from. Skyscanner makes it easy to compare options, ensuring you get the best deal possible. Take advantage of our feature that highlights car hire options with free cancellation, offering you flexibility in your plans. A great way to save money is by looking for 'full to full' deals, where you only pay for the fuel you use. To save even more time, consider keyless pick-up options to avoid queues and get on the road faster. Use our search tool to explore the available locations and deals tailored to your needs.

The best time to book a car in Edinburgh

Depending on your plans, booking your car hire in Edinburgh just a week before you arrive can give you some great deals. June is the cheapest month to book, making it easier on the pockets if you're planning to explore the city and beyond. However, if your visit coincides with popular events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, it's wise to plan further in advance as car hire availability can be limited due to the influx of visitors. Planning ahead ensures you get the best car at the best price, ready for your Scottish adventure.

What you'll need when hiring a car in Edinburgh

Skyscanner makes it effortless to find car hire options in Edinburgh. While you can legally start driving at 17 in the United Kingdom, to rent a car through most providers, you need to be at least 21 years old. Some car hire providers may impose young driver surcharges if you are under the age of 25. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation: a valid driving licence is a must, and an international driving permit might also be required, depending on the provider's rules. With Skyscanner, you can easily compare different car hire options to find the best deal for your needs, making your Edinburgh adventure smooth and hassle-free.

Car hire in Edinburgh: top tips for driving in the United Kingdom

Driving in Edinburgh means keeping to the left side of the road. Speed limits in the United Kingdom are straightforward: 70 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 30 mph in urban areas. Google Maps coverage is excellent, making navigation smooth. For a quick getaway from the city, Glasgow is about a 75 km drive and can be reached in roughly an hour. Stirling is closer, around 57 km away, with a travel time of about 50 minutes. If you have more time, Aberdeen is approximately 194 km from Edinburgh, which you can cover in about two and a half hours.