Car Hire in Glasgow
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Cheapest Car Hire Rates
Glasgow Airport
Mini
Volkswagen Up
or comparable
€15.32
per day
Glasgow Airport
Economy
Vauxhall Corsa
or comparable
€20.10
per day
Glasgow Airport
Compact
Kia Ceed
or comparable
€24.46
per day
Glasgow Airport
Intermediate SUV
Nissan Qashqai
or comparable
€29.45
per day
Most Popular Car Hire Deals
City Centre
Standard SUV
Vauxhall Insignia
or comparable
€38.04
per day
Glasgow Airport
Compact Elite
Mercedes Benz A Class
or comparable
€41.91
per day
Glasgow Airport
Premium
Mercedes Benz C Class
or comparable
€57.84
per day
City Centre
Full-size
BMW 3 series
or comparable
€67.91
per day
The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 03:04 on 20/10/2024. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Languages
English
Currency
GBP
Drive on
Left-hand side
Dialing code
+44
Average car hire price
€37 per day
Average car hire length
7 days
Speed limit within city centre
48 km/h or 30 mph
Speed limit out of city centre
96 - 112 km/h or 60 - 70 mph
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Average petrol price
€1.76 per litre or €6.65 per gallon
Lowest petrol price
€1.71 per litre or €6.47 per gallon
Highest petrol price
€1.86 per litre or €7.06 per gallon
Why hire a car in Glasgow?
Glasgow is a great city to explore by car. The largest in Scotland, it’s a beautifully diverse city that has everything from historical architecture and impressive museums to fun, youthful neighborhoods and its own unique take on the British cuisine. The city is also well-connected to other parts of the United Kingdom, whether you’d like to travel to nearby Edinburgh, go south to England, or explore the coastal areas Scotland.
One-way Car Hire in Glasgow
The most popular one-way car hire options for pick up in Glasgow and drop off in another city include:
- From Glasgow to Edinburgh - 294 offers from €34.03 per day
- From Glasgow to Aberdeen - 104 offers from €33.85 per day
- From Glasgow to London - 106 offers from €38.11 per day
- From Glasgow to Inverness - 104 offers from €40.01 per day
Top ways to enter Glasgow
- Glasgow Airport. Also known as Glasgow-Paisley thanks to the nearby town in which it is located, Glasgow’s main airport is among the ten busiest in the UK as it serves around 10 million passengers every year. The airport is about 16 km (10 mi) from Glasgow’s city center.
- Glasgow Prestwick Airport. The other, much smaller, of the two airports serving the city, Glasgow Prestwick hosts only one airline, the low-cost carrier Ryanair. Nevertheless, it connects Glasgow to many different destinations in mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Poland, Malta, Portugal, and Italy.
- Edinburgh Airport. Serving nearly 15 million passengers annually, Edinburgh Airport is the largest in Scotland. It is only about 50 minutes drive from downtown Glasgow.
- By rail. If you’re arriving in Glasgow by train, you can conveniently pick up a rental car at Glasgow Central Railway Station or Glasgow Queen Street Railway Station.
City facts
- Much like the rest of Britain, Glasgow has a cool oceanic climate with small temperature changes between seasons. Summer is the least humid part of the year, with an average temperature in July of 16 °C (60 °F), although it can get significantly warmer on individual days. The average temperature in December, the coldest month, is 4°C (39 °F). Snowfall in Glasgow is very rare and infrequent.
- The population of the Greater Glasgow Metropolitan area is around 1.6 million, meaning that nearly every third inhabitant of Scotland lives in or near the city.
- Although the main official language is English, Scots (a Germanic language closely related to English), Scottish Gaelic (a Celtic language), and Scottish Sign Language are also officially recognised in Glasgow.
Top sights and activities
- Glasgow Green. One of the most beautiful urban parks in the entire UK, Glasgow Green is a place where you can easily spend a whole day, either having a picnic, meeting locals, or by observing some of the landmarks of the park such as Nelson’s Memorial, the People’s Palace with its Winter Gardens, or the Doultain Fountain, the largest terracotta fountain in the world.
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Located in one of the most stunning buildings of the city, Kelvingrove has artworks by world-famous artists such as Van Gogh, Monnet, and Dalí, but also truly fascinating collections of wildlife, anthropology, and natural sciences.
- Riverside Museum. Also known as the Glasgow Museum of Transport, the Riverside Museum won the 2013 European Museum of the Year Award, and for a good reason. Famous exhibits include Tall Ship, a former cargo ship built in 1896, and a steam locomotive. The museum is located in the Glasgow Harbor area that’s been rapidly rebuilt over the last decade.
- Glasgow Cathedral. Also known as the High Kirk of Glasgow and St. Mungo’s Cathedral, it is one of the most impressive churches of Scotland. Built in the 12th century as Catholic church, it later came under the control of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. A fine example of Gothic architecture, it remains one of the symbols of Glasgow to this day.
- Glasgow Chambers. Another famous building, the City Chambers house the Glasgow City Council. Built in the 19th century, the Chambers are located on George Square, which is often referred to as the center of Glasgow. After looking at the chambers from outside, consider taking a tour of the inside to also see the ornate halls and mosaics.
Traffic and parking
- The United Kingdom drives on the left-hand side of the road
- On-street parking is usually heavily restricted. Never park on a white, double yellow or double red line (stopping on motorways and along red lines is illegal).
- You are not allowed to use your mobile phone while driving, unless you use a hands-free system.
- Unless specifically indicated otherwise, the speed limits are 112 km/h (70 mph) on motorways, 112 km/h (70 mph) on dual carriageways, 96 km/h (60 mph) on single carriageways and 48km/h (30 mph) in residential areas and areas with street lightning.
- In Scotland, the legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for both experienced and novice drivers. In the rest of the UK, the legal alcohol limit is 0.08% for both experienced and novice drivers. Exceeding the limit can lead to large fines, a suspended license, or even imprisonment.
- The insurance and documentation of the car needs to be in it whenever you’re driving.
- If you’re the driver, you need to have your passport or ID card with you at all times.
- The emergency numbers are 999 and 112.
Toll roads
Currently there is only a single toll road in the United Kingdom, the M6 toll. You also have to pay a toll for using a number of bridges and tunnels, as well as for entering the central areas of London and Durham (a city in North East England).
As an alternative to the M6 around Birmingham, the M6toll is a 43 km (27 mi) long portion of the road, also known as the Birmingham North Relief Road (BNRR), that relieves congestion on the M6 itself. There are toll gates where you can pay by either cash or credit card. As of March 2019, the price is £6.40 for using the toll road from Monday to Friday (from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.), £5.30 for using the toll road on Saturday or Sunday (from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.), and £4.10 for using the toll road at night time on any day (from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.). Find out more on the M6 Toll official website.
Find out more about toll roads in the United Kingdom on the European toll road website.
Ideas for day trips
- Stirling. Located roughly halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh, the small city of Stirling is most famous for its stunning hilltop castle and monument to William Wallace, a Scottish national hero. Stirling lies roughly on the border between the Scottish Lowlands and the Highlands, giving you the opportunity to explore both. The distance to Glasgow is just 45 km (28 mi).
- Isle of Arran. Often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature”, the Isle of Arran is a relaxing place just west of the Scottish mainland. It is best known for the Brodick Castle and Garden, but make sure to also see the Machrie Moor Standing Stones, drive around the little villages, or go into the mountains where you can sometimes spot golden eagles. Isle of Arran can only be reached by ferry. Some, although not all, ferry companies, carry passenger vehicles, and it is best to book a ticket in advance. Find out more about visiting Arran on the island’s official homepage.
- Houston. A proper Scottish village, Houston is just 40 minutes drive west of Glasgow, but unless you’re traveling with a friend who can also drive, you should consider making it a two day trip. The reason? It’s one of the most famous brewing communities in Scotland, and while it is a lovely place in its own right, it would be a shame to go there and not to sample some of the fine local produce.
- The Trossachs. Made up of thick woodlands, deep valleys or glens, and picturesque hills, the Trossachs is a beautiful nature area just a short drive north of Glasgow. The Trossachs include several protected areas like the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park and Great Trossachs Forest Reserve, and is a great place for scenic drives, hiking, or simply enjoying nature.
- Cairngorms National Park. Located in the eastern part of the Highlands, Cairngorms is the largest protected nature area in Scotland. An austere and wild landscape, the national park is made up of snowy peaks, moors, marshes, and a portion of the ancient Caledonian Forest. The park’s walking paths take you past impressive rock formations and waterfalls; there are also opportunities for skiing, mountain biking, canoeing, and other sports. The Highland Wildlife Park is located in the Cairngorms and is home to many local species, as well as animals like Amur tigers, yaks, and red pandas. There are some villages inside the park, so it’s possible to find a place to stay.
Most popular cars
The most hired car in Glasgow is the Fiat 500, although the VW Polo and the VW Golfo are also picked a lot by travelers. The most popular car types are mini, economy, and compact.
Further destinations
For more about traveling around Scotland with a hired car, check out our complete guide.
- Edinburgh. Just 74 km (46 mi) east of Glasgow and quite similar in size, Scotland’s capital is nevertheless a very different place when it comes to atmosphere. Famous for its castles, museums, and many festivals, it would be a shame to miss it if you’re going to Scotland.
- Scottish Highlands region. When many people think of Scotland, the first thing that’s on their mind is its wild nature, and in no other place can you experience in better than in the Scottish Highlands. Not only is the region beautiful, it’s also culturally unique. Go on a three hour drive to the regional capital, Inverness, and you can easily explore the rest from there.
- Newcastle. A large city in Northern England, Newcastle is a unique and lively place. It is famous for its many beautiful bridges crossing the Tyne River, the ancient Roman fort of Segedunum, and its close proximity to wildlife areas like the Northumberland National Park and the North York Moors National Park. Coming from Glasgow, it’s just a three hour drive south.
- Aberdeen. Sitting on the North Sea coast in eastern Scotland, Aberdeen doesn’t enjoy the same amount of popularity as Glasgow and Aberdeen. That is a shame, as the city has plenty for a traveler to enjoy, from unique granite architecture to beautiful public gardens and even the northernmost surfing opportunities in Europe. Located 240 km (150 mi) northeast of Glasgow and easily reachable in three hours, Scotland’s third city is definitely worth a shot.
Car hire prices in Glasgow
- Station wagons - starting at €31 per day
- Large cars - starting at €22 per day
- Medium cars - starting at €18 per day
- People Carriers - starting at €45 per day
- Premium cars - starting at €40 per day
- Small cars - starting at €15 per day
- SUVs - starting at €20 per day
Money-saving and other tips
There are many ways to get a good car hire deal in Glasgow:
- Compare rates of different car hire companies
- Book your car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit during the month when the prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Glasgow is the cheapest in January when hiring a car is a whole 70% cheaper than the yearly average.
Top 20 cities near Glasgow
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1.9 km / 1.2 miles
-
66.7 km / 41.4 miles
-
112.2 km / 69.7 miles
-
144 km / 89.5 miles
-
176 km / 109.4 miles
-
187.2 km / 116.3 miles
-
195.1 km / 121.2 miles
-
196.2 km / 121.9 miles
-
201.6 km / 125.3 miles
-
210.9 km / 131 miles
-
219.9 km / 136.6 miles
-
249.5 km / 155 miles
-
250.1 km / 155.4 miles
-
257.9 km / 160.3 miles
-
285 km / 177.1 miles
-
298.7 km / 185.6 miles
-
300.1 km / 186.5 miles
-
300.6 km / 186.8 miles
-
312.6 km / 194.2 miles
-
313.3 km / 194.7 miles
Top 20 locations near Glasgow
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66.7 km / 41.4 miles
-
78.1 km / 48.5 miles
-
166.6 km / 103.5 miles
-
176 km / 109.4 miles
-
187.2 km / 116.3 miles
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195.1 km / 121.2 miles
-
196.2 km / 121.9 miles
-
201.6 km / 125.3 miles
-
285 km / 177.1 miles
-
298.7 km / 185.6 miles
-
300.1 km / 186.5 miles
-
312.6 km / 194.2 miles
-
393.4 km / 244.4 miles
-
418.3 km / 259.9 miles
-
502.7 km / 312.4 miles
-
506.6 km / 314.8 miles
-
511.8 km / 318 miles
-
518 km / 321.9 miles
-
538.4 km / 334.5 miles
Map of Car Hire Destinations
In which month is car hire in Glasgow the most affordable?
According to our data, prices for hiring a car in Glasgow fluctuate depending on the time of year. This graph displays the average hire prices in each month in order to help you find the best bargain.
Average price for hiring a car per day in Glasgow
The best month to hire a car in Glasgow is January (when the average price is €24.55 per day). This is 42% less than the yearly average and 60% less than hiring in May (when the average price is €61.99).
This information can help you determine the low season. But note that these prices are only averages. The cost of your car hire is determined by the type of car you select, the length of time you hire it for, and how much in advance you book. Simply select your dates in the form at the top of the page to find out the exact prices.
This information can help you determine the low season. But note that these prices are only averages. The cost of your car hire is determined by the type of car you select, the length of time you hire it for, and how much in advance you book. Simply select your dates in the form at the top of the page to find out the exact prices.
What's the usual period for which people keep their hire cars, on average, in Glasgow?
Car hire lengths vary from month to month: in January, the average hirer keeps their car for 7 days, and in February, they keep their car for 5 days.
Average number of hire days in Glasgow
What is the most favoured month for hiring a car in Glasgow?
Given the number of searches made by our customers, the most popular month for hiring a car in Glasgow is August, and the least popular is February.
Popularity of Car Hire in Glasgow by Monthly Searches
Car hire information
| Car hire locations | 7 |
| Airport locations | 1 |
| Popular suppliers | Drivalia, Arnold Clark, Keddy, GreenMotion, Enterprise |
| Popular car categories | Small cars, SUVs, Medium cars, People Carriers |
| Lowest price | €15 per day |
| Cheapest supplier | Drivalia |
Most popular car models of suppliers
| Hire Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivalia | Volkswagen Polo | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Drivalia | Fiat 500 | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Drivalia | Renault Captur | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Keddy | Citroen C3 Aircross | 5 | 1 | SUVs |
| Arnold Clark | Ford Fiesta | 5 | 2 | Small cars |
| Arnold Clark | Kia Ceed | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Keddy | Vauxhall Astra | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Arnold Clark | Renault Kadjar | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Keddy | Fiat 500 | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Arnold Clark | Renault Kadjar | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
Our customers' reviews
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
OS
Australia
Toyota Aygo
31/08/2024
Scotland was wonderful. Amazing scenery makes for interesting driving. But the real highlight was I proposed to my partner on this trip... We returned the car as an engaged couple!
DS
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
08/04/2024
Nice holiday on Isle fo Bute
JB
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
03/01/2024
Great festive visits to family and friends on the east coast of Scotland
MG
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
25/10/2023
Scotland, beautiful
RH
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
17/09/2023
Visiting family.
DP
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
26/06/2023
Perfect for a longish (450 miles) road trip around Scotland
RE
United States of America (USA)
Ford Fiesta
14/06/2023
Car rental allowed us to explore off the beaten path places like Cairngorms Natl Park and small towns such as Aboyne and bBalleter. We visited the east coast too at Stonehaven.
CR
United Kingdom
Ford Focus
21/05/2023
Goldcar is always first class, I have never had an issue. First class.
NK
United Kingdom
Ford Kuga
06/05/2023
The car I rented was ideal for carrying 5 adults in comfort. My visitors enjoyed visiting Stirling area, and Edinburgh.
PE
United States of America (USA)
Kia Ceed
22/04/2023
We spent 5 days driving all over Scotland, through the Highlands and Lowlands. We were provided a hybrid vehicle and we used maybe in total one tank of gas for the entire time. It was a fun little car to get around in…after I adjusted to driving on the opposite side of the road.
AL
United Kingdom
Fiat 500
31/08/2022
Needed a car while mine was in repair.
DP
United Kingdom
Nissan Juke
08/06/2022
Road trip in scotland
BS
United Kingdom
Peugeot 308
19/04/2022
Visited the highlands of Scotland including Fort William. Ben Nevis is a prominent site there and worth a walk up. Boat trip on Loch Ness great from shame it’s not longer it’s 50 minutes long but great all the same. Isle of sky is worth a visit the most amazing scenery. There is an amazing pub and hotel just after Loch Lomond and before the highlands of Scotland called the drovers inn. Definitely worth a visit or even a stay!
WM
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Mokka
27/06/2021
West coast of Scotland, simple beautiful, good road system with stunning Glen and Lochside views
Car Hire Statistics
Highest-rated company
Enterprise
9.2 / 10
Lowest-rated company
GreenMotion
7.3 / 10
Total number of reviews
72
Total rental companies
15
Average daily price
€36.88
Lowest daily price
€15.32
Total cars available
814
Top 15 suppliers in Glasgow in 2024
Enterprise
2 locations
€24 - €138
Arnold Clark
4 locations
€29 - €168
Keddy
2 locations
€20 - €45
Alamo
1 location
€26 - €137
Europcar
3 locations
€24 - €99
Hertz
1 location
€27 - €42
SIXT
3 locations
€41 - €146
Drivalia
2 locations
€15 - €104
Avis
3 locations
€27 - €160
National
2 locations
€27 - €149
Budget
3 locations
€25 - €173
Dollar
1 location
€27 - €42
Goldcar
1 location
Routes Car Rental
2 locations
€44 - €145
GreenMotion
2 locations
€20 - €147
Why book with us?
Special offers
As a market leader, we get special offers like contactless pick-ups, great prices, and free upgrades.
Award-winning
World's Leading Car Rental Booking Website in the World Travel Tech Awards (4 years in a row).
Highly-rated
A combined rating of 4.5 with 175k+ total reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, Google, and Review Center.
4M users
Have already booked on one of the fastest-growing car rental booking websites.
Awards
World Travel Tech Awards - World's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023
World Travel Tech Awards - World's Best Car Rental Booking App 2023
Magellan Awards Gold Winner 2023
Travel & Hospitality Awards 2021
FT 1000: Europes Fastest Growing Companies - Top 300 Companies 2021
FT 1000: Europe's Fastest Growing Companies - Top 100 Companies 2020
Uzakrota Travel Awards - World’s Leading Car Rental Website 2022
Inc. 5000 Europe - Top 500 Companies 2019
Trustpilot - Top 10 Car Hire Agencies
SimilarWeb - Top 50 Car Hire Websites
Our clients highly recommend us
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