Car rental in
Edinburgh
Our top branches in Edinburgh
Our services at Edinburgh
SIXT Car Rental in Edinburgh
Pick up your SIXT car rental in Edinburgh from conveniently located branches, including at the Edinburgh Airport (EDI), Edinburgh City Centre/Waverley, or the Edinburgh Old Town. Our varied fleet includes cars from top brands and flexible booking options via the SIXT app help ensure a smooth rental process. When you choose to rent a car in Edinburgh, you enjoy Edinburgh’s remarkable historic sites, charming neighborhoods, and countryside escapes at your own pace.
Reserve your SIXT car rental in Edinburgh now and travel in comfort and style.
Recommended Vehicle Options for Car Rental in Edinburgh
- Compact cars: Best for navigating central Edinburgh’s narrow, historic streets and grabbing spots in tight city parking garages.
- SUVs: A smart choice for venturing out to the Scottish Highlands, lochs, or for comfortable travel in unpredictable weather.
- Station wagons: Provide ample space for families and luggage, making them perfect for longer drives or golf holidays.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Edinburgh?
Find the best rental car prices for your trip with SIXT during the booking process. The costs depend on various factors:
- Vehicle type: From compact cars to spacious SUVs and premium luxury models, each category comes with its own daily rate.
- Length of rental: Weekly, weekend, and monthly rentals are generally cheaper per day than daily rentals.
SIXT Pro Tip: To access the most competitive prices, book early and compare travel dates.
Add-ons & Protection Packages
Customize your booking with functional extras and comprehensive protection:
- Available add-ons include GPS, child safety seats, additional drivers, and winter tires.
- Choose from our various protection options for greater peace of mind.
Lock in your booking now for clear pricing, expert assistance, and high-quality vehicles.
Driving Tips for Edinburgh
Driving in Edinburgh demands navigating both medieval streets with modern roadways, requiring you to pay special attention to local signage and restrictions.
Traffic Rules in Edinburgh
- Drive on the left: All traffic drives on the left side of the road and vehicles have steering wheels on the right side.
- Low Emission Zones: Edinburgh’s city center LEZ only allows compliant vehicles; all SIXT rental vehicles meet the emissions standards for entry.
Road Conditions and Navigation
- Central Edinburgh features cobbled streets and steep gradients so prepare for a potentially bumpy ride, they’re well maintained throughout the city.
- Sudden weather shifts, including rain and fog, are common and can impact visibility and traction.
Parking in Edinburgh
Edinburgh operates Controlled Parking Zones with pay-and-display parking, meters, and multi-story garages around key destinations.
- NCP Castle Terrace parking lot: Convenient for visiting Edinburgh Castle and sights around the Old Town.
- Waverley Station Car Park: Best for travelers connecting to the city by train or exploring Princes Street and Calton Hill.
Fueling Instructions
- Local labels include Petrol (unleaded) and Diesel. Gas stations typically offer self-service with payment by card or cash inside.
- Use the RingGo app to find nearby gas stations.
SIXT Pro Tip: Save time when you return your vehicle by letting us take care of refueling with our prepaid fuel service.
Tolls
No tolls apply for local roads or city access in Edinburgh, and Scotland’s motorways and main highways are toll-free.
Neighboring England operates some tolls, such as the M6 Toll and specific bridges, so always check your route when planning longer drives through the UK.
Top Places to Visit by Car in Edinburgh
A SIXT car rental in Edinburgh provides convenient access to historical landmarks, cultural highlights, and scenic areas.
Edinburgh Castle: The City Icon on the Hill
- Distance from City Centre/Waverley: 1.5 km (under 1 mile)
- Estimated driving time: 8 minutes
Dominating the skyline atop Castle Rock, this world-famous castle is the most visited attraction in Edinburgh. The site’s origins date back to the Iron Age, and the complex includes the Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, and sweeping city views.
The Royal Yacht Britannia: A Regal Experience on the Water
- Distance from EDI airport: 15.8 km (9.8 miles)
- Estimated driving time: 32 minutes
Moored in Leith, this former royal vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family at sea. The five decks include royal apartments, the engine room, and a stunning veranda. Take an audio tour to discover the secrets of this royal boat.
Arthur’s Seat & Holyrood Park: Edinburgh’s Outdoor Playground
- Distance from City Centre/Waverley: 2.5 km (1.5 miles
- Estimated driving time: 10 minutes
Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and the highest point in Holyrood Park, offering panoramic views and outdoor trails. It’s a favorite for local hikes and sunset picnics, and it forms the backdrop to the city.
Edinburgh Zoo: For Wildlife Encounters on Corstorphine Hill
- Distance from Edinburgh Old Town: 6.9 km (4.3 miles)
- Estimated driving time: 16 minutes
Home to cute penguins and hundreds of other species, Edinburgh Zoo is a hit with families and animal lovers. Opened in 1913, it’s notable for its conservation efforts and renowned Penguin Parade.
A car rental in Edinburgh gives you the flexibility to enjoy the city and nearby destinations on your own schedule. Book now!
Customer reviews & feedback
What our customers are saying
*Our Customer Excitement Score is based on a survey sent to all customers who booked in Edinburgh. The score is an average of all customer responses.
