There are many sides of Scotland’s capital to enjoy, from shopping and medieval architecture to clubs and festivals. Opting for car rental in Edinburgh ensures that you can enjoy the city's history without missing a thing, from touring the HMY Britannia, the former royal vessel, to exploring the historic Holyrood Palace, a 16th century palace that serves as the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland. Whether you are into museums or gastronomy trips, you can make the most of your visit with car rental in Edinburgh.
Car rental Edinburgh - the most important rental sites
Reserving a rental car in Edinburgh is easy and you can do it online or on-site. The great thing about using a rental car in Edinburgh is the flexibility that you will have when visiting the capital and neighbouring areas. Forget about packed buses when you rent a car in Edinburgh. Feel like joining a spooky tour? Go to St. Mary’s Close and go on a haunted walking tour of Edinburgh. Drive to Calton Hill and enjoy the view from its Observatory. When you opt for car rental, you can compare cheap deals from different rental companies and pick up the vehicle of your choice at one of the following locations:
Rental Site | Address | Main Opening Times* |
Edinburgh Airport | Ingliston, Edinburgh EH12 9DN, Great Britain | 00:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
Edinburgh Railstation Office (Waverly Station) | Edinburgh EH1 1BB, Great Britain | 07:00 a.m. - 08:00 p.m. |
*The opening times may differ and vary depending on the rental site. Precise information can be found in the listing details. Pick-up/return of vehicles outside of opening hours might be possible for an extra charge.
Rent a car in Edinburgh and see the sights
Car hire in Edinburgh makes it easy to cover the city's many attractions. For historic buildings, St. Cuthbert’s Church is an important landmark, as well as the Scottish Parliament, Scott Monument, and Greyfriars Kirk. Travelling to nearby counties is also an option when you rent a car from Edinburgh. Visit the Highlands, sleep in an authentic castle, or do a whisky tour in Dalwhinnie. Other important attractions that you should visit include the following:
Scottish National Gallery: Visit this neoclassical building for its vast art collection, specializing in painting. Masters in the collection include Degas, Seurat, Monet, El Greco, and many more.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Enjoy the lush gardens and fine examples of biodiversity at this botanical garden founded in 1670.
Princes Street Gardens: Take a break from shopping on famous Princes Street in this garden, just below Edinburgh Palace.
Museum of Childhood: The museum displays many toys and games.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery: This collection specialises in Victorian portraits.
Getting around in Edinburgh
If you decide to stay in Edinburgh long term, having a vehicle is convenient and practical. Even Edinburgh visitors coming from other parts of the UK should be aware of basic rules, however. Scotland, like the rest of the UK, drives on the left. The Old Town in the city of Edinburgh has narrow streets and some parts are a bit hilly, but drivers will grow accustomed to these aspects. When approaching a roundabout, pay attention to traffic coming from your right. The busy Princes Street is not open to private cars, but you can park on one of the side streets. There are also several streets that are one-way in Edinburgh. Seat belts and child seats are required by law. Mobile phones are not allowed at all when driving.