Car Rental in Exeter
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates
Exeter South Downtown
Mini
Kia Picanto
or similar
$24.35
per day
Exeter Airport
Economy
Vauxhall Corsa
or similar
$28.63
per day
Exeter Airport
Compact
Ford Focus
or similar
$32.97
per day
Exeter Airport
Intermediate SUV
Nissan Qashqai
or similar
$40.16
per day
Most Popular Car Rental Deals
Exeter Airport
Standard SUV
Vauxhall Insignia
or similar
$50.94
per day
Exeter Airport
Compact Elite
Mercedes Benz A Class
or similar
$57.04
per day
Exeter Airport
Premium
Mercedes Benz C Class
or similar
$84.62
per day
Exeter Airport
Full-size SUV
Volvo XC60
or similar
$56.77
per day
The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 6:45 PM on 12/10/24. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
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).
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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.
Travel Information
Languages
English
Currency
GBP
Drive on
Left-hand side
Country code
+44
Average car rental price
$47 per day
Average car rental length
6 days
Speed limit within town
48 km/h or 30 mph
Speed limit out of town
96 - 112 km/h or 60 - 70 mph
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Average gas price
$1.81 per liter or $6.87 per gallon
Lowest gas price
$1.81 per liter or $6.87 per gallon
Highest gas price
$2.03 per liter or $7.69 per gallon
Why rent a car in Exeter?
Exeter is one of the great historic cities of southern England. Most famous for its impressive cathedral, it is home to a wealth of interesting architecture and sites dating back all the way to the Roman times in Britain. The region of Devon, where Exeter is located, is also worth exploring for its long beautiful beaches and protected nature areas. And with a rental car, you can travel even father all the way to neighboring Cornwall or cities like Bristol and London.
One-Way Car Rentals in Exeter
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Exeter and drop off in another city include:
- From Exeter to Barrow-in-Furness - 9 offers from $35.17 per day
- From Exeter to Bristol - 32 offers from $35.17 per day
Top ways to enter Exeter
- Exeter Airport: Small and mainly active during the summer months, Exeter Airport nonetheless served almost one million travelers in 2018. The airport is served by five different airlines and hosts flights to and from many destinations in the United Kingdom and across Europe. The airport is located about 10 km (6 miles) east of Exeter and can be reached in 15-20 minutes.
- Bristol Airport: Serving the famous city of the same name and historically also known as Lulsgate Airport, it handled nearly nine million travelers in 2018. The airport is a large hub for low-cost carriers like easyJet, TUI Airways, and Ryanair and is also served by around ten other airlines. Bristol Airport is 114 km (71 miles) northeast of Exeter and can be reached in only 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Cardiff Airport: Serving the capital city of Wales, Cardiff Airport handled 1.5 million travelers in 2018. The airport hosts flights to and from many European countries like Spain, France, and the Netherlands, as well as Doha in Qatar. Cardiff Airport is 206 km (128 miles) northwest of Exeter and takes 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach.
- Bournemouth Airport: A small airport on the coast of southern England, it mainly serves flights to and from holiday destinations in Spain, Greece, Turkey, and other countries. Bournemouth Airport is located 145 km (90 miles) east of Exeter and can be reached in about two hours, with most of the road following the coastline.
- Newquay Airport: Also known as Cornwall Airport after the region which it serves, it handled about 450,000 travelers in 2018. The airport is served by eight different airlines and offers flights to and from other destinations in the United Kingdom, as well as in Southern Europe, Western Europe, and Scandinavia. Located near the village of St. Mawgan, Newquay Airport is 125 km (78 miles) west of Exeter and takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach.
City facts
- Located in South East England, Exeter has an oceanic climate with mild summers, cool winters and relatively little temperature change between the seasons. The average high temperature is 22°C (71°F) in July, the warmest month, and 6°C (42°F) in February, the coldest. Precipitation is quite even throughout the year with an increase from October to January.
- Inhabited since at least the Iron Age and home to ancient Celtic tribes, Exeter was conquered by the Romans in the first century AD and renamed Isca. Romans built a large number of buildings and structures, and although most have not survived to this day, about 70% of the city walls are still standing and is nowadays one of the main tourist attractions of the city. A large portion of the walls can be found near the Rougemont Gardens.
Top sights and activities
- Exeter Cathedral. The main attraction of Exeter and the one that gives it the noble title of Cathedral City, the building of this beautiful church started nearly 1,000 years ago. Destroyed a number of times and later renovated - to an extent that it could be said it was completely rebuilt - the now-Anglican cathedral is a beautiful mixture of Norman and English Gothic architecture. Arguably the most famous church of Southeast England, seeing the cathedral is a highlight of any visit to Exeter.
- Rougemont Castle. Also known as Exeter Castle, the castle was built in 1068 when Exeter was one of the last places in England that tried to stand against the invasion of William the Conqueror and the Normans. Home to a fascinating and sometimes grim history - over centuries, it withstood a number of sieges and was also the place where that last witch trial in England took place - the castle complex was completely rebuilt in the 18th and 19th century except for the impressive castle walls that still stand to this day.
- Exeter Quay. A place of symbolic importance for local Exonians, the old quayside was, for centuries, an entry and exit point for ships traveling along the Exeter Canal and therefore a center for trading and commerce. The ships have long since stopped coming, but the city’s visitors can still see the beautiful old Custom House, cross the River Exe on a cable ferry, or simply enjoy a long leisurely walk along the water.
- Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Focused on the topics of zoology, anthropology, and other natural and social sciences, but also fine arts, the RAMM is one of the most diverse – and most interesting – museums in this part of the country. Situated in an attractive 19th-century Gothic Revival building that’s been created out of the local red sandstone, the museum welcomes more than 300 thousand visitors every year.
- Exeter Synagogue. Dating back to the 18th century, this is the third–oldest synagogue in the United Kingdom. The Jewish community of Exeter originated from Italy and Germany, and while it lost its numbers in the 19th century — there has been no permanent rabbi ever since — the synagogue technically continues to fulfill its original function to this day, all the while also remaining an important historical landmark.
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 next to 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 lighting.
- In England and Wales, the legal alcohol limit is 0.08% for both experienced and novice drivers. Do keep in mind, however, that in Scotland the legal alcohol limit is 0.05% for both experienced and novice drivers. Exceeding the limit can lead to large fines, a suspended license, or even imprisonment.
- The insurance documentation and registration of the car need to be in it whenever you’re driving.
- When driving, 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 43km (27 miles) 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 6a.m. to 11p.m.), £5.30 for using the toll road on Saturday or Sunday (from 6a.m. to 11p.m.), and £4.10 for using the toll road at night time on any day (from 11p.m. to 6a.m.). Find out more on the M6 Toll official website.
Ideas for day trips
- Exmoor. A large protected area shared by Devon and neighboring Somerset, Exmoor is where visitors can observe or go on a walk in moorlands, a unique habitat that is characteristic to southern England. In addition to the moors, Exmoor also has picturesque hills, ancient forests, and prehistoric rock formations. Exmoor National Park, a part of the area, is home to a number of protected and unique plant species. The entrance to the national park is in the town of Dulverton which is 61 km (38 miles) north of Exeter and can be reached in about one hour.
- Exmouth. A pretty little town, Exmouth is best known for its long and beautiful beaches. Although you should only swim in specifically designated areas - the rapid currents can be quite dangerous - there’s plenty to do on the coast, including getting a tan, going on a long walk, or visiting a restaurant with a sea view. Some opportunities for water sports like kitesurfing can be found, too. Exmouth is also a starting/ending point of the Jurassic Coast, a 154 km (96 miles) long area of coastline, bays, and cliffs where a staggering amount of fossils have been preserved. A highlight of the area is the beautiful Lulworth Cove which even has an absolutely unique petrified forest. Exmouth is just 24 km (15 miles) south of Exeter and can be reached in about 15 minutes; if you wish to explore the Jurassic Coast, you can easily travel to most of its important spots by car.
- Plymouth. The largest city of Devon, Plymouth is a port city that was especially important during the times of the British Empire. The port continues to operate to this day, and there are also a number of other attractions, including the impressive National Marine Aquarium, the fun and historic Barbican neighborhood, and the Plymouth Hoe, a large park on the waterfront. Located 72 km (45 miles) southeast of Exeter, Plymouth can be reached in about 55 minutes.
Most popular cars
The most popular rental car in Exeter is the Vauxhall Astra, although Vauxhall Corsa and Fiat 500 are also frequently picked by travelers. The most popular rental car types are economy, compact, and mini.
Further destinations
- Cornwall. The westernmost county of England, Cornwall is a unique and underrated travel destination. The home of the legendary King Arthur is one of the last places in England where Celtic culture continues to thrive which can be seen in its traditions, events, and everyday speech. If that alone is not a reason enough to visit, Cornwall also has impressive ancient castles, stunning beaches, and a seriously impressive, seafood-based cuisine. Truro, the largest city in the area, is 140 km (88 miles) southwest of Exeter and can be reached in about 1 hour and 40 minutes; you can explore the rest of Cornwall from there.
- Bristol. Although, like many other English cities, Bristol is a historical maritime and industrial center, during the last decades it has also been a hotbed of creativity - famous British electronic music bands like Massive Attack and Portishead hail from the area, and so does the street artist Banksy whose graffitis can be observed on many of Bristol’s walls. Consequently, the city punches way above its size when it comes to contemporary art spaces, performance venues, and cultural events. But there are other attractions, too, including interesting museums, the impressive St Mary Redcliffe Church, and the old harbor area which is just waiting to be explored. Located 135 km (84 miles) northeast of Exeter, Bristol takes just 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach.
- Wales. With most international travelers focused on the great English cities or the impressive mountains of Scotland, Wales remains something of a hidden gem among British travel destinations. Those who do venture to this hospitable land, however, are rewarded with quaint medieval towns; tranquil, sparsely populated nature areas; and youthful university cities like Swansea and Cardiff. The latter, which is also the capital of Wales, is just 184 km (113 miles) from Exeter and can be reached in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Car rental prices in Exeter
- Large cars - from $38 per day
- Medium cars - from $28 per day
- Vans - from $77 per day
- Premium cars - from $53 per day
- Small cars - from $24 per day
- SUVs - from $31 per day
Money-saving and other tips
Land a great rental car in Exeter by following these tips:
- Compare the rates of different rental car providers
- Book your rental car well in advance
- Plan your route before you go
- Know your fuel and mileage requirements
- Visit during the month when the rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Exeter is the cheapest in February when renting a car is about 48% cheaper than the yearly average and a whole 77% cheaper than renting a vehicle in July.
Top 20 cities near Exeter
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38.3 km / 23.8 miles away
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61.7 km / 38.3 miles away
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66.2 km / 41.1 miles away
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73.8 km / 45.9 miles away
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87.2 km / 54.2 miles away
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100.9 km / 62.7 miles away
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105.2 km / 65.4 miles away
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109 km / 67.7 miles away
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116.3 km / 72.3 miles away
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127.2 km / 79 miles away
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146.4 km / 91 miles away
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148.2 km / 92.1 miles away
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148.6 km / 92.3 miles away
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159.7 km / 99.2 miles away
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164.9 km / 102.5 miles away
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164.9 km / 102.5 miles away
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171.6 km / 106.6 miles away
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181.2 km / 112.6 miles away
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187 km / 116.2 miles away
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190.8 km / 118.6 miles away
Top 20 locations near Exeter
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73.8 km / 45.9 miles away
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87.2 km / 54.2 miles away
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98.6 km / 61.3 miles away
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110.6 km / 68.7 miles away
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116.3 km / 72.3 miles away
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140.9 km / 87.6 miles away
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141.9 km / 88.2 miles away
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146.4 km / 91 miles away
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190.8 km / 118.6 miles away
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222.1 km / 138 miles away
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223.1 km / 138.6 miles away
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230.5 km / 143.2 miles away
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239 km / 148.5 miles away
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242 km / 150.4 miles away
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242.5 km / 150.7 miles away
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243.2 km / 151.1 miles away
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243.6 km / 151.4 miles away
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245.2 km / 152.4 miles away
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245.4 km / 152.5 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Exeter?
Car rental prices in Exeter vary by time of year. This graph shows the average prices per month to help you find the best time of year to rent.
Average rental costs per day in Exeter
The cheapest month to rent a car in Exeter is April (when prices average $16.53 per day). This is 70% cheaper than the yearly average and 85% cheaper than renting in January (when prices average $106.82).
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
This information can help you identify the low season. But these are only average numbers. How much your car rental will cost will depend on the type of vehicle you rent, how long you’ll rent it for, and how far ahead you book. Simply enter your dates in the form at the top of the page to see the exact prices.
What’s the usual rental length in Exeter?
How long travelers keep their rental cars for varies from month to month: in December, the average renter keeps their car for 14 days, and in February, they keep their car for 3 days.
Average number of rental days in Exeter
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Exeter?
Based on the number of searches by our customers, the most popular month for renting a car in Exeter is August, and the least popular is December.
Monthly searches in Exeter by pick-up date relative to the average
Car rental information
| Car rental locations | 5 |
| Airport locations | 1 |
| Popular suppliers | Routes Car Rental, Alamo, Enterprise, Budget, National |
| Popular car categories | SUVs, Small cars, Medium cars, Vans |
| Lowest price | $24 per day |
| Cheapest supplier | Hertz |
Most popular car models of rental suppliers
| Rental Supplier | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Routes Car Rental | Ford Focus | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Budget | MG ZS | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Routes Car Rental | Opel Corsa | 5 | 1 | Small cars |
| Alamo | Toyota Aygo | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Alamo | Nissan Juke | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Enterprise | Nissan Juke | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| National | Nissan Juke | 4 | 3 | SUVs |
| Routes Car Rental | Opel Crossland | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Enterprise | Vauxhall Corsa | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Keddy | Vauxhall Astra | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
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.
DF
United Kingdom
Toyota Aygo
6/13/23
Lovely trip to south of England coast. Friendly people and nice coastal scenery
AM
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Insignia
6/10/18
Uncomplicated booking procedure. Check prices at agency are aas quote online.
Car Rental Statistics
Highest-rated company
Enterprise
8.3 / 10
Lowest-rated company
Dollar
7.6 / 10
Total number of reviews
3
Total rental companies
11
Average daily price
$46.94
Lowest daily price
$24.35
Total cars available
267
Top 11 suppliers in Exeter in 2024
Enterprise
3 locations
$28 - $223
Europcar
2 locations
$40 - $70
Avis
1 location
$48 - $85
Hertz
1 location
$24 - $38
Alamo
2 locations
$30 - $223
National
2 locations
$36 - $223
Budget
2 locations
$38 - $103
Keddy
1 location
$30 - $182
Thrifty
1 location
$30 - $182
Routes Car Rental
2 locations
$57 - $64
Dollar
1 location
$57 - $64
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 Rental Agencies
SimilarWeb - Top 50 Car Rental Websites
Highly recommended by our customers
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