Thinking about renting a car in Europe for a holiday? But which car hire company to choose & what to be aware of when renting a car?
Picture this: You’ve just landed in Europe, ready for the adventure of a lifetime. You’re about to embark on the most exciting road trip across this gorgeous continent. But before you can hit the road, there’s one thing to sort out – your trusty four-wheeled companion!
Getting the right ride can make or break your vacation. We’re here to guide you through the jungle of car rental companies in Europe. Let’s steer you toward your perfect rental!
Europe is a massive playground for travellers, and each corner has a different vibe. You’ll want to choose a car rental company that lets you roll in style without breaking the bank. But with so many options, finding the best car rental in Europe can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Fear not, we’re here to help!
Whether you want to cruise the autobahn in a sleek sedan or explore Tuscan vineyards in a vintage convertible, we’ve got you covered. Our aim is to guide you to the best European car rental companies that align with your needs and budget.
Each company has its own strengths. Some of the big players might offer you a wide range of models, from compact city cars to spacious family SUVs. On the other hand, local vendors might charm you with their personalized service and unique vehicles.
While some travellers might be drawn to the biggest car rental companies in Europe, others might prefer a local, boutique-style vendor. No choice is wrong! It all depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.
So, buckle up and get ready for the ride! With our tips, we hope you’ll find the perfect fit to explore Europe at your own pace. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. So make it count with the best car rental for Europe. Enjoy the freedom, the thrill, and the unforgettable memories your European road trip will bring!
Europe rental car companies
Best car rental in Europe – in short:
Anyone looking for the best European car hire company needs to compare the prices! We can’t stress that enough.
We have rented cars many times during our trips in Europe and we always used discovercars.com – they have simply the best deals and work with the top car rental companies Europe.
Whatever your destination in Europe is you can be sure that discovercars.com will have an offer for you.
How to find the best car rental company in Europe?
Let’s be honest, it is always better to rent a car in Europe while travelling across this continent. Having your “own” 4-wheels will give you much-needed freedom and will allow you to get to places where public transport doesn’t go – so you can discover the best places to visit in Europe in your rented car.
Best car rental sites in Europe?
Best car rental companies in Europe types:
| Best rental car in Europe: | Europcar |
| Best car rental site for Europe: | discovercars.com |
| Best car rentals in Europe, Spain: | Gold |
| Best rental car company Europe, Portugal: | Hertz |
| Best European car rental companies in Greece: | Avis |
| Best European car rental Italy: | GreenMotion |
As nice as this sounds, renting a car in Europe can be a headache for a non-European tourist as some renting car companies might try to take advantage of you! The cost of renting a car in Europe will vary from company to company. Do not always go for the cheapest car hire company! Look for additional charges like the cross-border fee or other additional costs while hiring a car!
Do NOT get fooled! Read our guide to renting cars in Europe so you are aware of all rules and differences in European renting companies.
Renting a car in EUROPE:
9 things you always wanted to ask about renting a car in Europe and European car hire companies:
#1 Best car hire company in Europe?
Best car rental in Europe? First of all – compare!
Car hire comparison Europe: there are many car rental companies in Europe and depending on the country, one will be more popular than another. Just remember, when you rent a car in Europe you have to check the reviews. We have seen that many times – the best car rental company in Italy can be worse in another location.
Best rental car companies in Europe:
We don’t really have a favourite one and we always compare the prices on discovercars.com before booking a car. You can also use other comparison websites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Just make sure you book the car in advance, that will save you stress and most of the time money too
Car hire Europe compare:
#2 What will affect the price of your rented car in Europe?
Looking for a low-cost car rental in Europe? There are many factors that can increase the price of your rented car by a huge margin. Some of them will be obvious and you are most probably aware of the additional cost, but many can be a very unpleasant surprise.
So, what are the top factors influencing the best car rental prices? Learn about hiring a car in Europe rules:
Size of the car you will rent
There are 7 categories of car rental companies in Europe are using:
- Small cars
- Medium cars
- Large cars
- Estate cars
- Premium cars
- People carriers
- SUVs
In general, cars from the beginning of the list will be cheaper than those from the end of the above list. But don’t go just for the cheapest option! You have to consider what you will be using the rented car for. E.g. if you travel as a couple for a few days in England and want to go for a day trip out of London, a small or medium car will be fine.
But if you plan to drive around Gran Canaria or across Madeira you will need a much stronger car for the amazing mountains roads. You don’t really want to compromise while exploring the best landscapes in Europe! Also, if you travel with family or friends, you will need a people carrier or an SUV so you can pack all your pieces of luggage easily.
When I look for car hire in Europe I often go for an SUV.
Manual vs. Automatic
Depending on your preferences you can choose your favourite gearbox. I rather rent a car with a manual gearbox as it’s more fun driving 😉 Cars with automatic gearboxes are usually slightly more expensive.
You will see this option while choosing your rented car:
Most cheap car rentals in Europe will be manual.
Different Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
OK, when it comes to cheap car rental in Europe this one is the one you have to be careful with.
Take a look at the location of the counter (airport terminal or outside of the terminal) – some of the cheaper cars will be located away from the main airport terminal.
You might take a shuttle bus to the car park to collect your car – this be probably a slightly cheaper option but you will need more time at the airport – and time is money 😉
The destination of return would matter too! There are 3 options for you to choose from.
- The same as the pick-up location – no additional fee
- Other national locations – some companies would charge a small fee, others don’t (always double-check with the car rental company)
- International location – most car hire companies in Europe will add a fee (sometimes very high which can be even higher than the cost of renting the car)
Would this affect your decision when looking for the best car hire in Europe?
Cross Border Fees
Don’t get fooled on this one! Some car rental companies in Europe will charge you a huge fee for using the rented car outside of its home country. Yes, the best car rental companies in Europe will also charge you for crossing the border!
Even if you plan one day trip during your 7 days holiday they will still charge you for 7 days! This obviously is a scam so don’t let them do this.
A workaround could be to rent your car for 5-6 days, return it and then rent another car with the border fee for 1-2 days only 😉 It’s a bit more time-consuming but you can save a lot of your bucks!
Car rental tax
Value-Added Tax (VAT) in each European country is usually ~20%. This is usually included in the car rental price. It is nevertheless reasonable to double-check it.
Other non-negotiable (unfortunately) charges such as “road tax” or “environmental tax” also vary from country to country in the whole of Europe. Road tax is usually less than $5 per day and you should expect to pay approximately $5-10 per day for environmental charges.
Again, all the above taxes may already be included in the price of your rented car in Europe. But, when you choose your best European car hire company do double check that!
Age
Age limit for rental cars in Europe:
Even the top car rental companies in Europe will look at your DoB.
This is an obvious one, which is pretty much the same on every continent. Young drivers are considered more dangerous on the road and more likely to have an accident. Therefore, you will have to pay premium insurance if you are below 25.
Note that some car hire companies will consider a driver under 30 as a young driver – so always check the T&Cs before renting a car in Europe!
Insurance
Best car rental deals in Europe? One moment, check the insurance first!
This is the most annoying part of renting a car in Europe! Almost every company will try to sell you full insurance. You obviously need to have one – and we definitely encourage everybody who’s renting a car to have one, but…
You might already have international insurance which covers renting a car in Europe. Or your credit card may already cover additional insurance. So always check before purchasing additional insurance.
Full insurance is the biggest additional cost when renting a car in Europe. This is due to the deposit you HAVE to PAY (even if you have full insurance from another place!). The deposit will depend on the size and category of your rented car and can be anything from $1000 to $3000 which will be blocked on your credit card. Make sure your credit card has a limit that will allow you to cover this.
As you can see hiring a car in Europe can get expensive!
The only option not to have the deposit taken from your credit card is to purchase full insurance with your car renting company. Now you see what I meant! 😉
IMPORTANT: if you don’t purchase the full insurance and you have an accident (or something happens to the car) the car renting company will take the money from your deposit to cover the cost. Then you can get back to your insurance provider to clam it back – this can be a time-consuming process.
Additional driver(s)
The European car rental companies will also charge you for the 2nd driver. Not all of them but when you hire a car in Europe and you want to share it with another driver check if there is a deal to be made.
Expect to pay around $10-20 per day to add an additional driver. It is only worth the effort if you really plan to share the driver’s responsibilities. If you go for a short European trip it’s better to pay only for one driver.
The good news is that some car rental companies in Europe do promotions with no fee for the 2nd driver – so keep looking as the biggest car rental companies in Europe have always some deals.
Remember that if you allow another driver, who is not on the list, entered the wheel and an accident has occurred, your insurance will not cover this cost.
Children’s seats
Each of the European countries has different legal requirements for child seats. And this is not always in line with the latest US regulations – so be aware of this! But all the best car rental companies should be able to explain this to you. Nevertheless, even a cheap car hire in Europe can get a bit more expensive.
If you don’t bring a child seat from your home country you can book one with the car hire company – expect to pay an additional $20-50 per day! Yes, it’s a huge extra cost…
GPS
When looking for a European car hire comparison think about the navigation too.
Having a map is essential when driving in Europe and it’s good to have it with you! Double-check if the car you rent is equipped with GPS navigation and if not, how much it costs to rent navigation. It could be cheaper to take your GPS from home or alternatively to use Google Maps if your roaming in Europe is not too expensive.
Collecting time vs. return time
Companies, which have the cheapest car hire in Europe will also be the most popular. This means only one – potential trouble!
Note that when you rent a car in Europe, the car hire company will charge you for every 24 hrs you start. So if you book your car from 8 am and will return it at 10 am you are paying a full day price for the 2 hours! You get it, right? 😉
Sometimes it’s better to delay collecting your car by an hour or two or return it a bit earlier to save $20-30.
So be smart when choosing the best European rental car companies!
Mileage limit
Cheap Europe car hire can also get more expensive if you… drive too much!
Most European car hire companies will give you unlimited mileage for the rented car. But some have limits of 200-400 km per day so if you plan to drive a lot, double-check if you have unlimited mileage included in the price of the car.
Ferry crossing
Make sure to compare European car hire if you are planning to use ferry crossings.
In some European countries, you will have to pay an additional fee/insurance if you plan to use a ferry. Some car rental companies will not allow you to use any ferry at all! But in most cases, this should not be an issue. We used a ferry during our holiday in Malta when we went for a day trip to Gozo and there was no additional fee 🙂
Fuel Policy
When looking for car hire for a Europe trip, double-check the fuel policy too!
Most car hire companies in Europe will offer a Full to Full fuel policy. This means that you collect the car with a full tank and you will also have to return the car with a full tank.
But don’t even think that the car rental companies will trust you! 😉 Oh no! They will take a deposit (yes, an additional one, on top of the deposit you pay for not purchasing full insurance) which will be released upon the car return – as long it will have a full tank.
Even the cheapest European car hire companies can get a bit richer if you make a mistake! 😉
Other driving costs
When looking for the cheapest car hire in Europe, consider also the below costs and charges:
- Fuel – it will depend on the millage you will do. Fuel is much more expensive in Europe than in the US.
- Parking at your hotel – double check if there is free parking, otherwise you can expect to pay $10-15 a day for a parking space near your hotel
- Public parking – while travelling around this can cost you a few bucks per hour. Most of the parking in Italy is paid while in Spain is free.
- Road/motorway tolls – Italy and France are expensive, while Germany is totally free.
- Booking cancellation – if you decide to cancel your booking before the trip some car hire companies will charge you a fee
#3 Can I visit other countries with the rented car?
Can you rent a car in Europe and drive to other countries?
Yes, most companies will let you do that for an additional fee/insurance. There might be some restrictions (mainly in Eastern Europe) so always double-check with the car hire company.
Rent car Europe return different country:
Many people also ask if you rent a car in Europe and return different country. The truth is, even the best rental car company will charge you a lot! Personally, I wouldn’t do that unless your end destination is miles away and it doesn’t make sense for you to drive back.
#4 Is an international driver’s license required in Europe?
If you are staying in Europe for less than 90 days, you can drive with your valid US driver’s license in most European countries without IDP. But it is generally recommended to get an International Driving Permit which is actually a translation of your valid driving license – it is not an additional permit.
Yes, it is needed in case a police officer (or a cop as you call them) will have to write a ticket for you.
#5 How to pay when renting a car in Europe?
What is the best credit card for car rental in Europe? One, that will be accepted!
Most car hires companies in Europe will only recognize credit cards are the payment method. The trick is that some of them do allow you to use a debit card while doing an online reservation. But then, you need a credit card at the counter when collecting a car.
Otherwise, they will not rent you a car! That happened to us when we visited Amsterdam and we wanted to rent a car for a day to drive outside of the capital city and visit Keukenhof Garden 😐 I know! A rookie mistake 😉
So remember to always have your credit card on you!
#6 Do I need insurance while renting a car?
YES! We highly recommend always having insurance when renting a car in Europe. It’s totally up to you, whether you get one from the car hire company, book it on discovercars.com or have another provider. Just make sure you get one – even a small accident in Europe can cost you a fortune (especially in countries like Iceland, Norway, or Switzerland).
#7 Petrol, benzine, or gasoline – what’s the difference?
No dear American friend, we don’t drive on “gas” in Europe 😉
We call it benzine (Germany and Austria), gasoline (Spain) or simply petrol in most European countries.
You should be looking for the label “95” at the petrol station. There is also a label called “98”, which is also petrol, but nobody really uses it.
And then we also have diesel, which is currently under the spotlight in few countries.
Make sure you put the correct fuel into your car! A mistake can be costly 😉 The right type of fuel will be displayed inside the gas tank door and usually on your car key as well.
#8 Left or right? Which is the correct side of the road? (UK & Ireland only)
Right! No, I mean left if you drive in the UK or Ireland (e.g. Ring of Kerry) 🙂 You probably will not need a car in London, if you want to visit the capital city in one day unless you plan a day trip out of the capital city. There are many interesting places you should see while visiting England, like Stonehenge or Cotswolds, but if we have never driven on the other side of the road 😉 our advice will be:
rent an automatic car!
This will help you focus more on the road instead of how to change the gear with your other hand 🙂
Remember, cheap car rentals Europe will be expensive if you drive on the wrong side on the road!
#9 Returning your rented car – what to do?
Whether you look for car hire UK to Europe and back or just for the cheapest car rental Europe there are a few rules you have to follow then returning your car:
- Be on time – if you are late, the car hire company might charge you a fee.
- Make sure the tank is full
- Take pictures of the car to have a proof of its condition – also, take a photo of the millage and fuel level
- Record a short video of you returning the key (only if you are returning outside of car hire company opening hours)
- Keep all documentation for a year
- Double–check your bank account a few days after returning the car to make sure your deposit has been returned
- Check your credit card statement from time to time – one car hire company in Italy did take a fee 6 months after we hired a car from them! Thankfully our bank has stopped that fraud 🙂
Car rental Europe FAQ:
Europe has numerous car rental companies, both international and local, with the former including Enterprise, Hertz, Europcar, Avis, and Sixt, and local companies varying by country. It’s advisable to compare rates and terms from different companies to find the best fit for your needs.
The biggest car rental companies in Europe include multinational brands like Europcar, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Sixt, Avis Budget Group, and Hertz. These companies have extensive networks across Europe, offering a wide range of vehicles and rental options.
The cheapest country to rent a car in Europe varies due to factors like local taxes, demand, and operational costs, but Eastern European countries like Poland, Czech Republic, and Hungary are often more affordable than Western European countries. Be aware that additional charges can apply for cross-border travel.
Renting a car in Europe for a month can be arranged with many providers, often at a discounted rate compared to daily prices. Companies like Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt offer long-term rentals, but always check the terms and conditions, particularly regarding insurance and mileage.
Hertz Car Rental operates extensively in Europe, offering various vehicle options from compact cars to luxury vehicles. Known for their quality customer service and convenient locations, they also offer a loyalty program for frequent renters.
Budget Rent a Car operates in many European countries, offering competitive pricing on a range of vehicles. They’re known for their affordability, but service and vehicle quality can vary by location, so it’s advisable to read reviews before booking.
Almo and Europcar are two of our favourite and best car companies in Europe.
Avis Car Rental is a well-known international brand operating throughout Europe, offering a variety of cars to choose from. They also provide services like one-way rentals and a loyalty program, but prices can be higher compared to budget rental companies.
Alamo Rent a Car, part of the Enterprise Holdings family of brands, operates in various locations across Europe. They offer a range of vehicles and are often found at major airports, providing a balance of affordability and service, but customer experiences can vary.
Gold is probably one of the cheapest car rental company in Europe when you compare all types of cars.
Europcar and GreenMotion are the best car hire companies we have used while on holiday in Italy.
Can I rent a car and drive around Europe?
Yes, you can rent a car and drive around Europe. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need to have a valid driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (IDP) if your home country license is not recognized in the country you plan to drive in.
Additionally, you will need to be aware of any specific regulations or laws in the countries you plan to visit, such as speed limits and traffic rules. It’s also important to be familiar with road signage and to have the right insurance coverage.
Where is it cheapest to rent a car in Europe?
The cost of renting a car in Europe can vary depending on several factors, including the country you are renting in, the type of car you are renting, and the length of your rental period. However, generally speaking, some of the cheaper countries to rent a car in Europe include:
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Romania
- Poland
- Hungary
- Czech Republic
- Greece
It’s always good to check the prices and compare them with different renting car companies, you may find a better deal. Keep in mind that prices can also vary depending on the season, so it’s a good idea to check prices in advance and book early if possible.
Check out discovercars.com for the best prices!
Can I rent a car in Europe with UK driving Licence?
Yes, you can rent a car in Europe with a UK driving license. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required in some countries. An IDP is a translation of your UK driving license, and it is required in certain countries where the authorities do not speak English. Check the countries you plan to visit rules and regulation regarding driving licenses.
It’s also worth noting that some car rental companies may have their own specific requirements for renting a car, such as minimum age or credit score, so it’s important to check with the specific company you plan to rent from.
It’s also important to check with the specific country you plan to visit their regulations, as some may have stricter rules and different driving cultures.
Why are rental cars so expensive in Europe?
There are several factors that contribute to the higher cost of renting a car in Europe compared to other parts of the world. Some of the main reasons include:
- Taxes and fees: European governments often impose high taxes and fees on car rentals, which can add significantly to the cost of renting a car.
- Insurance: European car rental companies are required to provide a certain level of insurance coverage, which can add to the cost of renting a car.
- Demand: Europe is a popular tourist destination and during peak season demand for rental cars can be high, which can drive up prices.
- Location: Renting a car in major cities or tourist destinations can be more expensive than in rural areas.
In addition, some of the other factors that can affect the cost of renting a car in Europe include the type of car you are renting, the length of your rental period, and the rental company you are renting from.
It’s always a good idea to check prices from different companies and compare the prices, and also to book in advance to avoid the high season prices.
Is it cheaper to drive or train around Europe?
The cost of traveling around Europe by car or train can vary depending on several factors such as the location, the distance, and the type of transportation you choose.
Driving a car can be cheaper if you’re traveling with a group of people and you can split the cost of the rental car and fuel. However, if you’re traveling alone or with just one other person, the cost of renting a car and the fuel can add up quickly and may be more expensive than taking the train. Also, it’s important to consider the cost of parking, tolls, and possible fines.
Taking the train can be a more affordable option if you’re traveling alone or with just one other person, as train tickets tend to be cheaper than renting a car. Plus, trains offer the convenience of not having to worry about parking and navigating through unfamiliar roads. However, train tickets tend to be more expensive for groups of people and traveling by train can also be less flexible than traveling by car.
It’s always a good idea to check prices from both options, compare and choose the one that best suits your budget and needs.
Is it expensive to rent a car in Europe?
The cost of renting a car in Europe can vary depending on several factors such as the location, the type of car, and the length of the rental period. However, in general, the cost of renting a car in Europe can be considered relatively expensive when compared to other parts of the world.
There are taxes and fees imposed by European governments on car rentals, which can add significantly to the cost. Additionally, European car rental companies are required to provide a certain level of insurance coverage, which can also add to the cost. Furthermore, Europe is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season demand for rental cars can be high, which can drive up prices.
However, it’s worth noting that prices can vary greatly depending on the country, location, and rental company. Some countries and locations may be cheaper than others, and it’s always a good idea to compare prices from different companies before making a decision. Also, booking in advance, avoiding the high season, and looking for deals and discounts can help keep the cost down.
How do I avoid expensive car rental?
Here are a few tips on how to avoid expensive car rental in Europe:
- Book in advance: Booking your car rental early can help you secure a better rate, as prices tend to increase closer to the rental date.
- Compare prices: Compare prices from different rental companies and check for deals and discounts.
- Avoid peak season: Prices for car rentals tend to be higher during peak tourist season. Consider traveling during the off-season to get a better deal.
- Opt for a smaller car: Renting a smaller car can often be cheaper than renting a larger one.
- Pick-up and drop-off in different locations: Some car rental companies may charge extra if you pick up and drop off the car in different locations, so it’s a good idea to check the policies in advance.
- Check the fuel policy: Some car rental companies charge more for a full-to-full fuel policy, so it’s worth checking if it’s cheaper to pay for a full tank of fuel upfront or pay as you go.
- Consider additional insurance: European car rental companies are required to provide a certain level of insurance coverage, but it’s always good to check if you have additional coverage from your credit card or travel insurance.
- Take advantage of loyalty programs: If you are a frequent renter, consider joining a loyalty program as it can offer discounts or rewards.
By considering these tips, you can save money and have a better experience in your European car rental.
How much is a car rental for a week in Europe?
The cost of renting a car for a week in Europe can vary depending on several factors such as the location, the type of car, and the rental company you choose. It’s also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the season and time of booking.
On average, a basic economy car rental for a week can cost between $150 to $300 USD, however, luxury and bigger cars can cost more. Prices can also vary significantly depending on the location, with rentals in major cities or tourist destinations typically being more expensive than in rural areas.
It’s always a good idea to compare prices from different rental companies, and also to check for any deals or discounts that might be available. And if you are planning to rent a car for a week, booking in advance and avoiding peak season can help you get a better deal.
What are the best days to rent cars?
The best days to rent a car can vary depending on the location and the rental company you choose. However, there are a few general tips that can help you get a better deal:
- Rent on weekdays: Prices for car rentals tend to be higher on weekends, so consider renting on a weekday to get a better deal.
- Rent during the off-season: Prices for car rentals tend to be higher during peak tourist season, so consider traveling during the off-season to get a better deal.
- Avoid holidays: Prices for car rentals tend to be higher during holidays, so try to avoid renting during these times if possible.
- Check for last-minute deals: Some rental companies may offer last-minute deals or discounts if they have cars that haven’t been rented.
- Compare prices: Compare prices from different rental companies and check for deals and discounts.
It’s worth noting that these tips are general and prices can vary depending on the location and rental company, but it’s always a good idea to check prices and compare them. It’s also worth noting that rental companies have dynamic pricing, so prices can change depending on the demand and time of rental.
Is it better to book rental car directly?
Whether it’s better to book a rental car directly with the rental company or through a third-party agency can depend on a few factors such as your personal preferences and the specific rental company and agency you choose.
Booking directly with the rental company can have some advantages, such as:
- You can get the best rates and deals, as the rental company may offer promotions or discounts that are not available through third-party agencies.
- You have a direct contact with the rental company, which can make it easier to resolve any issues or make changes to your reservation.
- You can usually choose from a wider range of vehicles and options
- You can have access to the rental company’s loyalty program, if they have one.
On the other hand, booking through a third-party agency can have some advantages, such as:
- You can compare prices and deals from multiple rental companies in one place, which can save you time and effort.
- You can sometimes find lower prices, especially if you book through an online travel agency
- Some third-party agencies offer additional services, such as travel insurance or car rental protection.
In general, it’s a good idea to compare prices and deals from both the rental company and third-party agencies, and see which one offers the best deal for you. Also, it’s a good idea to read the rental company’s and third-party agency’s terms and conditions and cancellation policy before making a reservation.
Is it worth it to rent car in advance?
It can be worth renting a car in advance for several reasons:
- Better Rates: Renting a car in advance can help you secure better rates, as prices tend to increase closer to the rental date. Booking early also gives you more time to compare prices and deals from different rental companies.
- Availability: Renting a car in advance can help ensure that the car you want is available when you need it, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays when demand is high.
- Peace of mind: Renting a car in advance can give you peace of mind, knowing that your transportation is taken care of and you won’t have to worry about it when you arrive at your destination.
- Flexibility: By renting a car in advance, you can choose the type of car you want, the rental company you want and the location of the rental office, which can give you more flexibility and control over your transportation.
- Cancellation policy: Renting a car in advance, you can check the cancellation policy and know the terms and conditions of the rental company. This can be important if your plans change and you need to cancel your reservation.
However, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and deals from different rental companies, and also to check the company’s terms and conditions and cancellation policy before making a reservation, also to keep an eye on the prices changes as they can change depending on the demand and time.
Is Enterprise or Hertz more expensive?
The cost of renting a car from Enterprise or Hertz can vary depending on several factors such as the location, the type of car, and the length of the rental period. However, in general, the cost of renting a car from these two companies is usually similar.
Both Enterprise and Hertz are considered major car rental companies and they have a wide range of vehicles and locations to choose from. However, the prices can vary depending on the location, the type of car and the time of the year. It’s always a good idea to compare prices and check for deals and discounts from both companies before making a decision.
It’s also worth noting that Enterprise and Hertz are both known for their good customer service, so it’s important to check their policies and terms of service before making a reservation. Both companies offer different types of insurance, fuel policies, and extra services, and it’s a good idea to check them and see which one best suits your needs.
Rental cars can have hidden fees, so it’s important to be aware of them and to read the fine print before making a reservation. Some of the most common hidden fees associated with rental cars include:
- Insurance: Rental car companies often offer additional insurance coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or personal accident insurance (PAI), which can add to the cost of the rental.
- Fuel: Some rental car companies charge extra fees for not returning the car with a full tank of fuel.
- Additional driver fee: Some rental car companies charge extra fees for each additional driver added to the rental agreement.
- Toll fees: Some rental car companies charge extra fees for any tolls incurred during the rental period, even if you use electronic toll systems.
- Taxes and fees: Rental car companies are required to charge taxes and fees on top of the rental price, such as VAT, airport surcharge and additional local taxes.
- Late return fee: Some rental car companies charge extra fee if you return the car later than the specified time.
It’s important to read the terms and conditions and ask the rental company about any additional fees before making a reservation. It’s also a good idea to compare prices and check for deals and discounts from different rental companies.
Is it better to rent a car in the morning or afternoon?
The best time to rent a car can vary depending on the location and the rental company you choose. However, in general, it may be better to rent a car in the morning rather than in the afternoon.
- Availability: Rental cars may be in high demand during the afternoon, especially in popular tourist destinations or during peak travel seasons. Renting a car in the morning can help ensure that you get the car you want.
- Crowds: Rental car counters can be crowded during the afternoon, especially at airports, meaning you may have to wait in long lines to pick up your car. Renting a car in the morning can help you avoid crowds.
- Service: Rental car companies are usually less busy in the morning, which means you may be able to get more personalized service from the staff.
- Return: Renting a car in the morning allows you to return the car during office hours, which could be more convenient than returning it in the evening or at night.
Is it cheaper to rent a car through airline?
Renting a car through an airline can sometimes be cheaper than renting directly from a car rental company or through a third-party agency. This is because airlines often have partnerships with car rental companies and can offer discounted rates or special deals to their customers. However, it’s important to compare prices and deals from different sources to see if renting through an airline is the best option for you.
It’s also worth noting that when you book a rental car through an airline, you may have to pay an additional fee for the service, and sometimes the rental car is not included in the price of the airline ticket.
Additionally, you might find that some airlines offer free or discounted car rentals as part of their loyalty program. So it’s worth checking if you are a frequent flyer with any airline.
Overall, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and deals from different sources and see which option is the best for you.
Is it better to rent a car at the airport or online?
The best option for renting a car can depend on several factors such as your personal preferences, the specific location and rental company you choose.
Renting a car at the airport can have some advantages, such as:
- Convenience: You can pick up your rental car as soon as you arrive at the airport, which can save you time and effort compared to renting from an off-site location.
- Availability: Airport locations often have a larger fleet of vehicles and may be more likely to have the car you want available.
On the other hand, renting a car online can have some advantages, such as:
- Better rates: You can compare prices and deals from different rental companies and check for discounts and promotions.
- Flexibility: You can choose the type of car you want, the rental company you want, and the location of the rental office, which can give you more flexibility and control over your transportation.
- Cancellation policy: You can check the cancellation policy and know the terms and conditions of the rental company.
Is renting a car in Europe worth it?
Renting a car in Europe can be worth it depending on your travel plans and preferences. There are a few advantages to renting a car in Europe, such as:
- Flexibility: Renting a car in Europe allows you to travel at your own pace and visit places that might not be easily accessible by public transportation.
- Cost-effective: Renting a car can be cost-effective if you’re traveling with a group of people, as you can split the cost of the rental car and fuel.
- Convenience: Renting a car can be more convenient than relying on public transportation, especially if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or have mobility issues.
- Experience: Renting a car can give you a unique experience of the country you are visiting, and allow you to visit the beautiful countryside, small towns and villages that are not accessible by public transportation.
However, it’s important to consider the cost of renting a car in Europe, which can be relatively expensive when compared to other parts of the world. It’s also important to consider the taxes and fees imposed by European governments on car rentals, as well as the cost of fuel, parking, and tolls.
Any other questions about renting a car in Europe?
Please let us know if you liked our guide to hiring a car while on vacation in Europe. We hope you have a lot of fun while driving around our stunning continent – there are many great road trips in Europe you can make and many romantic cities in Europe waiting for you to explore them!
Whether you are going for a weekend getaway in Europe or doing a longer trip, make sure you rent a car – it’s always fun driving in Europe. Onward! 🙂
Read also:
- Golden Circle in Iceland – MAP + self-drive tour for newbies
- Where is the best place for Road Trip in Europe? Europe’s TOP 15 Roads
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In this adventure called travel, choosing the right car rental company in Europe is akin to selecting your travel buddy. A companion that complements your journey and enhances your experience can create unforgettable memories.
From the winding country roads of Tuscany to the fast-paced autobahns of Germany, there’s no denying that Europe offers a unique tapestry of experiences. The best car rental companies in Europe are those that offer reliability, value for money, and cater to your specific needs.
Finding the best car rental company in Europe requires a balance of research, understanding your needs, and being open to exploring different options. Whether you’re leaning towards the biggest car rental companies in Europe or are intrigued by the charm of local vendors, each has its unique benefits.
If comfort and extensive options matter to you, the larger companies might be your best bet. However, if personalized service and unique, localized fleet options spark joy, smaller European car rental companies might be your speed.
In a nutshell, the best car rental in Europe will offer the kind of freedom that only a road trip can bring – the freedom to explore at your own pace, change your itinerary on a whim, and seek out hidden gems that lie off the beaten track.
When all’s said and done, the best car rental for Europe is the one that lets you drive your European dream into reality, while adding a touch of magic to your journey. So buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the ride with the perfect car rental companion by your side!
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