Global Major Cities Guide

Car rentals are available for exploring Edinburgh and the Scottish countryside at your own pace.

Sections

1. Rental Companies in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a wide range of car rental companies, from international brands to local providers. Most rental companies have offices at Edinburgh Airport, in the city center, and at major train stations like Waverley Station.

Major Rental Companies:

Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Multiple locations, including Edinburgh Airport and the city center.
Hertz: Available at Edinburgh Airport and city locations.
Avis: Offices at Edinburgh Airport and in the city.
Europcar: Locations at the airport and in the city.
Sixt: Available at Edinburgh Airport and in the city center.
Budget: Affordable options, with offices at the airport and city locations.
Alamo: Known for competitive pricing, available at the airport.
Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental: A trusted local company with multiple locations.

Local and Niche Providers:

McNicoll Vehicle Hire: A local company offering competitive rates.
Celtic Legend: Specializes in car rentals for exploring Scotland.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

The cost of renting a car in Edinburgh depends on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental duration, time of year, and additional services.

Average Costs:

Economy Cars: £30–£50 per day.
Compact Cars: £40–£70 per day.
SUVs: £70–£120 per day.
Luxury Cars: £100–£250+ per day.
Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available for longer rentals, with economy cars starting at around £200–£300 per week.

Additional Costs:

Fuel: Most rentals come with a full-to-full fuel policy. Petrol costs around £1.50–£1.70 per liter.
Insurance: Basic insurance is included, but additional coverage (e.g., collision damage waiver) can cost £10–£30 per day.
Young Driver Surcharge: Drivers under 25 may face an additional fee of £20–£40 per day.
Extras: GPS (£10–£15/day), child seats (£10–£15/day), and additional drivers (£10–£20/day).

3. Required Documentation

To rent a car in Edinburgh, you’ll need the following:

For UK Residents:

A valid UK driving license.
Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).
A credit or debit card for payment and deposit.

For International Visitors:

A valid driving license from your home country.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English (check if your country requires one).
Passport for identification.
A credit card in the driver’s name for payment and deposit.

4. Insurance Options

Rental companies in Edinburgh typically include basic insurance, but you may want to consider additional coverage for peace of mind.

Types of Insurance:

Third-Party Liability: Usually included in the rental price.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your financial liability in case of an accident. Costs £10–£30/day.
Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle.
Excess Insurance: Reduces or eliminates the excess (deductible) you pay in case of damage. You can purchase this from the rental company or a third-party provider (often cheaper).

Tip: Check if your travel insurance or credit card offers car rental coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.

5. The Process for Renting a Car

Book in Advance: Use comparison websites like Rentalcars.com, Kayak, or Skyscanner to find the best deals.
Pick Up the Car:
- Arrive at the rental office with your documents.
- Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s noted in the rental agreement.
- Familiarize yourself with the car’s controls, especially if you’re not used to driving on the left side of the road.
Return the Car:
- Return the car with a full tank of fuel (if applicable).
- Inspect the car with the rental agent to confirm there’s no new damage.

6. Local Driving Regulations

Driving in Edinburgh and the UK has some unique rules and considerations:

Key Rules:

Drive on the Left: The UK drives on the left-hand side of the road.
Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 20–30 mph (32–48 km/h).
- Rural roads: 60 mph (96 km/h).
- Motorways: 70 mph (112 km/h).
Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
Mobile Phones: Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal.
Roundabouts: Give way to traffic coming from the right.
Parking: Pay attention to parking restrictions. Use public car parks or pay-and-display zones.

Congestion and Low Emission Zones:

Edinburgh does not currently have a congestion charge, but Low Emission Zones (LEZs) are being introduced. Check if your rental car meets emission standards.

7. Tips and Considerations for Driving in Edinburgh

City Traffic: Edinburgh’s city center can be congested, especially during peak hours (8–10 AM and 4–6 PM). Consider walking or using public transport for city-center travel.
Narrow Streets: Many streets in Edinburgh’s Old Town are narrow and cobbled. Be cautious when driving in these areas.
Parking:
- On-street parking is limited and often expensive (£2–£4/hour).
- Use multi-story car parks like NCP or Q-Park for convenience.
Weather: Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for rain and fog, especially if driving in rural areas.
Exploring Beyond Edinburgh: A rental car is ideal for visiting nearby attractions like Rosslyn Chapel, Stirling Castle, or the Highlands. Plan your route in advance and check for road closures.

8. Cultural Nuances

Politeness: Scottish drivers are generally courteous. Use your indicators and thank other drivers with a wave if they let you pass.
Roundabouts: These are common in the UK. Take your time to understand how they work if you’re unfamiliar.
Fuel Stations: Most are self-service. Pay at the pump or inside the shop.

9. Alternatives to Renting a Car

If you’re unsure about driving in Edinburgh, consider these alternatives:

Public Transport: Buses and trams are efficient and affordable.
Tours: Many companies offer guided tours to popular destinations like Loch Ness or the Isle of Skye.
Taxis and Rideshares: Uber and local taxi services are widely available.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and navigate Edinburgh and its surroundings with ease. Enjoy your trip!

Edinburgh

Car Rentals