Edinburgh Car Hire

Find the best deals in Edinburgh

With a massive choice from the biggest brands, Enjoy the best way to find the best prices for car hire in Edinburgh.

  • Huge choice of cars to suit every budget
  • Save up to 70% compared to buying on the day
  • 10 years experience in car hire

Compare car hire in Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, as well as being the location of the Scottish Parliament, Government, and supreme courts. It has a population of about 530,000, making it the second most densely populated in Scotland, and the seventh most populous city in the UK.
  • When driving in the city of Edinburgh, many streets have a speed limit of 30 miles per hour (48 km per hour), with some streets having an increased limit of 40 miles per hour. Changes to the speed limits around the city are indicated by round road signs with a red border. The rural parts of Edinburgh generally have a speed limit of 60 miles per hour (96 km per hour), and any differences will also be marked with a red bordered road sign.
  • If you’re travelling in the winter months, make sure you drive with extra caution. When the weather gets cold enough for snow and ice the majority of roads are cleared frequently, but there is still a danger of black ice, a dangerous and barely visible layer of ice that makes the roads more slippery.
  • Edinburgh is home to the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, held once a year in August. It is the world’s largest arts festival, bringing thousands of performers of all kinds to hundreds of stages that are scattered across the city. Offering both recognised names and up-and-comers, the Fringe Festival sees a wide variety of performances, from theatre, comedy and dance to physical theatre, cabaret and circus.
  • Edinburgh is served by Edinburgh Airport, which can be found under ten miles west of the city centre; within half an hour, your Enjoy Travel rental can take you right to the centre of all the excitement.

Guide to Edinburgh


Edinburgh skyline
Edinburgh Victoria Street

If you’re not visiting Edinburgh in time for Fringe in August, you can still get a brilliant dose of the finest of entertainment by visiting the Summerhall art centre. From traditional Scottish music and dance every week from the best ceilidh bands in the city, to theatrical performances and screenings of independent and popular films in their gorgeous multi-purpose hall.

Edinburgh offers a wide variety of free museums and art galleries, allowing you to get your fill of their cultural capital without spending a penny – many even offer guided tours for no charge. St Giles’ Cathedral is one of the most popular historical sites in Edinburgh, open to visitors looking to experience the music and architecture. If art is more to your taste, head to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, housed in an iconic building of the city and offering a visual journey through Scotland’s history to the current moment. Although charges may apply to special exhibitions, you can visit the portraits of Mary, Queen of Scots right up until actress Karen Gillan, free of charge.

The Stand is home to a brilliantly entertaining comedy scene in Edinburgh, and every Monday night offers a Red Raw session for a cheap but invigorating evening of watching comics making their way in the industry. If you’re lucky, popular names in the stand-up scene tend to return to this club, with comics such as Dylan Moran and Daniel Kitson frequenting this venue. Featuring both shows for kids and those aimed at adults, the Stand is sure to offer something to tickle everyone’s funny bone.

For a gorgeous driving experience, drive along the impressive Queensferry Crossing, which will take you along from Edinburgh to Fife where you can enjoy the refreshing scenes of the Fife Coastal Route. Alternatively, take the 45 minute drive from the city to North Berwick, a coastal town home to the breathtaking Tantallon Castle. Travelling with your Enjoy Travel rental car is the best way to see the variety and beauty a trip to Edinburgh has to offer both inside and outside of the city centre.

Edinburgh’s Bramble cocktail bar is a sure fire winner if you fancy an evening of drinks in one of the coolest places in the city. Although it doesn’t have the biggest capacity – only fitting less than 100 people – Bramble frequents lists of the best bars to visit often enough that you’re guaranteed a great evening with some delicious drinks. Featuring original concoctions and brilliant flavours, ask the knowledgeable bar staff for recommendations if you just can’t decide on one.


Ross Fountain Edinburgh
Dean Village Edinburgh

Accommodation

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, Edinburgh has got something for everyone and every budget. With well-known names sitting alongside independent hotels, hostels and bed and breakfasts, you can choose to stay in the heart of the city or on the outskirts and still have plenty to choose from.

Edinburgh Old Town

The Edinburgh Old Town runs along the south of the city and has a very historic and gothic look and feel to it. It's quite unique in the UK and world in the way it has been preserved as a natural historic section of a city. There are a range of medieval tours taking you into the unseen old parts of the city and underground where some of the original underground streets, caverns and dens still exist intact.

Some of the hotels remain in the old gothic buildings, though thorough modernised and reonvated inside.

The Radisson Blu, Edinburgh Old Town, is a superb 4 star hotel in the heart of the old town and a 5 to 10 minute walk from Waverly Station. It is 5 minutes from the castle and surrounded by history, pubs, restaurants and guided tours. It has an indoor swimming pool, parking available, Spa and gym. Whilst on the outside it has the appearance of a majestic Scottish castle, the interior is totally modern with all of the luxury you'd expect from a Radisson Blu.

Address: 80 High Street The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH1 1TH

If its 5 star that you want, the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh may appeal to you. This is tucked away at the far end of the old town, and behind Edinburgh Castle. It has an indoor pool, 269 rooms, a fully services spa, health club, a car park, 24 hour business centre, restaurant, bar and terrace. There is free Wi-fi throughout.

Address: 1 Festival Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH4 9SR

If you're on a bit of a budget, but still want something nice, you might like the Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile. This is a 3-star and offers a comfortable, nice quality apartment with kitchenette, near the Royal Mile. Facilities include a 24 hour fitness centre, 24 hour front desk, Playground, Free WiFi and in the rooms you can expect all of the things you would need such as Cookware, dishware and utensils and microwave.

Address: 231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH8 8BJ

Edinburgh New Town

The Edinburgh New Town runs in parallel with the Old Town, to the north of the city. In the medieval times as Edinburgh was developing, the main town (now the Old Town) became more and more over-populated and crowded. A valley ran to the north of the city centre and the New Town was created and built for the rich people to escape the Old Town, hence the name Edinburgh New Town. To this day, this section of the city still has many old and gothic buildings, but is where you will find all of the modern shops and major retailers.

Malmaison Edinburgh City, is located 0.3 miles from Edinburgh Waverly station in the heart of the shopping district. A 4-star hotel, near Princes Street with 72 smoke-free guestrooms, Restaurant and bar/lounge, 24-hour front desk, and Free wifi.

Address: Buchan House, 21-22 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH2 1AY, United Kingdom


National Gallery Edinburgh
Leith Edinburgh

Eating out in Edinburgh

If you are looking for the best steak in town, Steak are waiting for you by Picardy Place roundabout. Ready with a selection of cuts their expert chefs are prepared to cook just to your liking, friendly staff are also on hand to make recommendations if you’re unsure. While you’re there, why not indulge and get the delectable king prawns on the side, just to treat yourself.

To get your day off to the best start, head to Roseleaf bar and café for a delicious and affordable brunch. Situated in the historic Port of Leith, this cosy café serves their brunch menu from 10am until 5pm, giving you all the time you need to enjoy their food before setting off for your next adventure.

Aizle is a popular spot for fine dining, located on St. Leonard’s Street and considered one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh. Their food is locally sourced and cooked to perfection, with their menu regularly adapting to what is available, ensuring you get the best of the best when you go.

For a great quality and family friendly restaurant, La Favorita is said to have the best pizza in the city – and some say in all of Scotland! With plenty of offers and all the classics to please even the fussiest of the family, enjoy the award-winning log fired pizza with all of your loved ones.


Getting to and from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest airport, and many of the most popular airlines operate there. It is accessible by car, bus, and train.

Car Hire in Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
There are a number of car hire companies available at Edinburgh Airport. These include Europcar, Alamo, Sixt and Thrifty. You can find the car rental centre in its newly combined location, directly accessible from the terminal and outside to the left. Car hire prices can start from as little as £4 a day depending on your requirements and the time of year of booking.

Edinburgh Airport Parking

Edinburgh offers a wide choice of car parks to park your car in, depending on your budget and preference you can park onsite at the airport, or off-airport a short distance away. You may be fooled into thinking naturally that the off-airport car parks will be cheaper, but the airport tends to offer very competitive deals on it's onsite car parks, generally in walking distance and with top security.

You can compare airport parking with Enjoy Travel - Airport Parking, as well as search for cheap Edinburgh Airport Parking with FHR - one of our reputable partner brands. With both options you will find the biggest choice of car parks, and prices that cannot be beaten on other comparison websites.

Edinburgh by train

The main train station in Edinburgh is Waverley Station, located to the East of the city centre and bring access to the rest of the UK, England and Scotland.

The bus stop is immediately outside the station, and there is also a tram system running from the city through the western suburbs to the airport.

How To Find Budget Car Hire in Edinburgh

Scotland's capital city is nothing short of fascinating. The cobbled streets whisper ancient stories, while the medieval architecture boasts a rich heritage. The city's skyline is crowned by the majestic Edinburgh Castle, which is perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, a bold symbol of Edinburgh's resilience throughout time. The city lies nestled in between the sea and lush hills, offering exciting outdoor opportunities such as the dormant volcano, 'Arthur's Seat'.

Securing car hire in Edinburgh is a simple process when booking in advance. Peak tourism primarily occurs during the summer months from June to August and during festivals. Costs tend to rise and you'll find yourself paying anywhere from £33 to £50 per day. You can easily avoid paying higher prices by booking at least three months in advance and travelling during quieter seasons. Autumn and winter months from September to January are much easier on the pocket. Car hires are expected to range from between £15 to £30 per day. Less busy periods also provide you with more choice when browsing and allow you to secure a vehicle that is suited to you.

Edinburgh's Driving Rules and Regulations for Car Renters

Edinburgh has fantastic road links, signposts and overall an incredibly easy system for you to be able to explore the city and beyond. However, if you wish to get behind the wheel in Scotland, you must become familiar with the following Scottish laws:

  • A valid full driving licence issued in a European Community/European Economic area (EC/EEA)
  • A valid, full national licence issued in your country
  • A provisional (learner's) driving licence issued abroad is not valid for use in the UK
  • You must have held a full licence for a minimum of 1 year to drive a hire car.
  • You must be 21 years old or above to hire a car, though some rental companies may require the age to be 25.

Here are some driving tips for you to note before you start driving across the Scottish roads:

  • Always drive on the left-hand side of the road
  • When approaching a roundabout, give priority to traffic approaching from the right, unless otherwise indicated
  • All vehicles must give way to emergency services vehicles in a safe way
  • You can be fined up to £500 if you don't wear a seatbelt
  • The maximum amount of alcohol allowed in the blood is 0.08 per cent. There is a Penalty of up to £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment and 12 months withdrawal of driving licence if it is a first-time offence

Getting Around Edinburgh

Navigating around Edinburgh is an enjoyable process due to the city's efficient and diverse transportation options. The well-connected and affordable buses, trains and roads allow locals and visitors to move around swiftly. The compact city centre encourages exploration on foot as many of the sites are walkable. Taxis are readily available and cycling is a popular and enjoyable method of discovering hidden gems.

Range of Vehicles for Car Hire in Edinburgh

When looking for low-cost and efficient car hire then look no further than Enjoy Travel. We offer the full range whether that be a compact, fuel-efficient car to whizz around the city, or a family-friendly car to accommodate the group. We pride ourselves on our ability to serve exactly what our customers desire and offer them high-quality vehicles at affordable prices.

Working with the Best Car Hire Suppliers in Edinburgh

Enjoy Travel works with the best and most reputable car hire suppliers in Edinburgh to ensure our customers have access to high-quality vehicles as well as impeccable service. Some of the suppliers include Europcar, National, Avis, Enterprise, Sixt and Budget. Go ahead and book your car hire today with Enjoy Travel for a stress-free experience.

Top Tips when hiring a car in Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh is as old as one can get, as far as Scottish cities go, even compared to most cities in the United Kingdom. This results in abundance of castles and medieval villages, giving the city a very royal feel.
  • Offering cheap Edinburgh car hire is a great destination for Scottish day trips.
  • While visiting the Scottish capital you must pay a visit to the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria and see the magnificent castle in Alnwick. They are very iconic parts of medieval art and make for great road trips.
  • Additionally if you’d rather visit attractions closer to the city proper, you can instead visit the Edinburgh Royal Mile and the underground vaults of Auld Reekie. Just make sure you don’t get too spooked with the haunted stories about it.
  • In fact there are interesting places to explore in every part of the city and the best way to do so efficiently is via car hire.
  • Once you land in Edinburgh Airport it’s advisable to try going to the nearest established car hire company. They can be easily accessed through the covered walkway at the airport. They're just a short walk away.
  • Edinburgh car hire companies are very close to the domestic and international terminals.
  • You will encounter several big car hire companies such as SIXT, Hertz, Alamo, Dollar, Avis and other cheap car hire agencies. You can pick up your hire car right there and then.
  • The city of Edinburgh is 30 minute drive away from Edinburgh Airport and can easily be reached via car hire. This will add convenience and comfort to your arrival in this beautiful city.
  • Anyone planning their itinerary to Edinburgh are advised to pay extra attention to the traffic rules, be aware of its map and navigate carefully.
  • If you're having trouble navigating through the town and you have a companion it's advisable to let them give you directions, so you are not distracted by the GPS devise. This is especially important if it's your first time in Edinburgh.
  • Streets in Edinburgh commonly single and double carriageways. The main roads are called A, and the minor ones B.
  • It is true that you can encounter many cheap car hire agencies in Edinburgh spread out across the city. However, if you are older than 70, you will be required to obtain a Special British driving license if you wish to drive anywhere throughout the UK.
  • Luckily for those travelers who would like to get their hire car as soon as they land at the airport, the Edinburgh Airport actually has a consolidated car hire area where all the car hire companies are, making it very easy to pick up your hire car.
  • Scottish traffic laws are very strict when it comes to using a cell phone while driving, so if you're using a hire car and are new to the city, it's recommended to either look up the way in advance or have a friend guide you, to avoid trouble.
  • After picking up your Edinburgh car hire, you should familiarise yourself with the rush hours of the city. For example the morning rush hour starts from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Then there is the evening rush hour, when people are done with work and returning home, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. During those hours you'll find the main roads full of cars but residential areas remain calm.
  • Additionally if you'd like to know the parts of the city to avoid when trying to evade traffic, steer clear from major avenues and intersections such as Sheriffhall Roundabout and the Hermiston Junction.
  • If you are doubting whether to go for an Edinburgh car hire or not, then here's another thing to consider. If you don't have your own rental car to move around in, exploring the city and even the surrounding countryside will be a challenge.
  • You can't say you've had a complete Scotland trip if you didn't experience the incredible lochs and mountains and the nearby Scottish Highlands. These are not as easily reachable without a rental car.
  • Some of the most breathtaking parts of the Scottish countryside and surrounding area include but as not limited to Loch Ness, Stirling Castle, and the Lammermuirs.
  • You can find car hire deals in Edinburgh for less than £35 a day.
  • The best car hire deals begin at £29 per day.
  • When you book your car hire you can pick any car model between many options. These include luxury car but also more common models.
  • If you book your Edinburgh car rental in advance by even one day before your trip, you are guaranteed to get a below-average price plus a variety of car choices to pick from.
  • Hiring a car in Edinburgh Airport and general airport locations is in most cases cheaper than car rentals in the city or other locations in Edinburgh. This applies even if they are a one way car hire.
  • Economy car hires in Edinburgh are way cheaper than other car types on average.

Got a Question? Chat with our UK support team

Online chat help is open 08:30am to 17:00 weekdays. Email: [email protected]

ENJOY FAIR FUEL POLICY

FAQs about car hire in Edinburgh

Most frequently asked questions about hiring a car in Edinburgh

Depending on your selected company and model, car rental costs in Edinburgh vary as they do everywhere. As a general guide, a small to medium car can typically be rented for £10-16 per day at the time of writing, going all the way to £100 per day for a large nine-seater Mercedes Vito minivan.
The cost of car hire in Edinburgh depends on various factors such as duration, rental company, and time of year. On average, expect to pay between £33 to £50 per day during peak seasons and £15 to £30 per day during less busy periods. Costs also vary depending on the type of vehicle you select, with luxury cars being on the pricier side.
You can secure affordable car hire deals in Edinburgh when booking in advance and taking into consideration the time of year and type of vehicle. Budget-friendly options during less touristy seasons can start from around £20 per day for a small economy car, with discounts and promotions reducing the costs even further.
The cost of hiring an economy car in Edinburgh depends on factors such as time of year, location, and rental company. On average, daily rates can range from £20 to £50; however, these prices fluctuate during peak tourist seasons and festivals. It is advisable to book in advance to secure cheaper deals as well as ensure availability.
The minimum age to hire a car in Scotland as a whole depends on the rental company. Most will require the driver to be at least 21 years old with at least one year's driving experience. However, some companies will require the driver to be at least 25 years old. Drivers under the age of 25 may encounter a young driver surcharge, which will increase the overall cost.
It is common in Edinburgh to be charged additional costs beyond the base rental fee. Some of these may include young driver fees for those under the age of 25, or airport surcharges if you are picking up and dropping the vehicle off at the airport. Fuel policies vary, and you could be charged if the car is not returned with a full tank. It's also important to be aware of excess mileage, late return fees, and penalties for breaching rental terms.
Most car rental companies in Edinburgh allow additional drivers to be added to the agreement for a fee which varies. Typically, the additional drivers would need to meet the age and license requirements for the rental company. Adding additional drivers to the agreement is an excellent way of exploring the city and further without having to do all of the traveling yourself. Sharing the responsibility allows you to take breaks and enjoy your trip even further.
If you're involved in an accident while driving a rental car in Edinburgh, the priority is ensuring safety. Contact local authorities immediately to report the incident. Exchange details with the other party involved and gather witness information if possible. Notify the car rental company promptly and follow their specific instructions. Most rental cars come with insurance, but be aware of your coverage limits and any deductibles.
Those looking to save the pennies and bag the best deal possible should book at least three months in advance. You'll have far more choices to browse through during your search, and it ensures availability.
You can hire a 7-seater minibus in Edinburgh – the city is brimming with a diverse range of vehicles and rental companies. These vehicles are more suited for larger groups and families looking to explore together. Some of the rental options include popular models such as Ford Galaxy, Volkswagen Touran, or similar. The prices will depend on rental duration, location, and season.
When looking for an affordable vehicle to hire in Edinburgh, it's best to go for cars that typically fall under the economy or compact category. Models such as Fiat Panda, Fiat 500, or similar smaller vehicles from different brands are often cost-efficient options. Prices will vary among rental companies, and it's important to take location, time of year, and rental duration into consideration.

Enter your email address for the latest discount codes and special offers across car hire, holiday accomodation and much more!

Get the latest travel news and offers
Thanks for signing up