Rent a Car in Edinburgh

Tips for renting a car in Edinburgh

Although Edinburgh’s historic center is highly walkable and well connected by buses and trams, renting a car in Edinburgh is strongly recommended for travelers planning to explore the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Inverness, or the North Coast 500. Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes are best experienced by road trip, allowing visitors to stop at castles, whisky distilleries, scenic viewpoints, and remote villages along the way.

Most rental car companies operate directly at Edinburgh Airport, including Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, and National. Airport pickup locations generally provide the best rates and the largest vehicle availability. Compact vehicles are practical for navigating narrow Scottish roads and small village parking areas, while SUVs may offer additional comfort for longer Highland drives.

Visitors should remember that driving in Scotland is on the left-hand side of the road. Rural roads in the Highlands often become narrow single-track routes with passing places, requiring extra caution and patience. Weather conditions can also change rapidly, particularly in winter months. Parking within Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town is limited and expensive, making it more practical to rent a vehicle only when leaving the city for day trips or multi-day scenic drives.