Car Rental in Inverness
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The above prices are only approximate and were last updated at 12:41 on 2021-01-27. Prices may vary based on the booking dates, length of rental, and car class.
Travel Information
Language
English
Currency
GBP
Country code
44
Traffic direction
Left-hand
Speed limit out of town
97 km/h
60 mi/h
Speed limit within town
48 km/h
30 mi/h
Acceptable limit of BAC
0.08%
Why rent a car in Inverness?
Inverness is a great place to visit. The city is small and cozy but has surprisingly many things to explore, from interesting architecture to pubs and restaurants. Inverness is also a great base for seeing the rest of the Scottish Highlands. Whether you’re interested in Loch Ness, the United Kingdom’s highest mountains, or an impressive, rugged coastline, all of these places can be easily reached if you have your own ride.
One-Way Car Rentals in Inverness
The most popular one-way rental options for pick up in Inverness and drop off in another city include:
- From Inverness to Edinburgh - 71 offers from US$ 56.90 per day
- From Inverness to Glasgow - 155 offers from US$ 53.30 per day
- From Inverness to Aberdeen - 71 offers from US$ 55.89 per day
- From Inverness to Derby - 10 offers from US$ 56.90 per day
Top ways to enter Inverness
- Inverness Airport: Known as Port-adhair Inbhir Nis in the local Scottish Gaelic language, Inverness Airport is served by 8 different airlines and hosts flights to the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, Switzerland, and other European countries. The airport is conveniently located only 13km (8 miles) northeast of the city center.
- Aberdeen Airport: Serving the largest city of Northern Scotland, Aberdeen Airport saw more than 3 million travelers in 2018. Aberdeen is about 166km (103 miles) east of Inverness, a distance that can be traveled by car in about two and a half hours.
- Dundee Airport: Serving the city of the same name, as of June 2019, Dundee Airport hosts only one route, connecting the city to London. If you’re arriving there from the capital of the United Kingdom, Inverness will be 215 km (134 mi) north, a distance that can be traveled in less than three hours.
- Edinburgh Airport: Serving the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh Airport is the busiest in Scotland and the sixth-busiest in the United Kingdom. Located 251km (156 miles) south of Inverness, it can be reached in about three hours.
- By rail: If you’re arriving in Inverness by train, you can conveniently pick up your rental car at the Inverness Railway Station.
Useful city facts
- Located near the coast of the North Sea, Inverness has an oceanic climate. The air temperature is around 15°C (59°F) in July and August, the warmest months, and 4°C (39°F) from December to February, the coldest months. Inverness is one of the driest cities in the United Kingdom but experiences some snowy days every year.
- While most of the inhabitants of Inverness are native speakers of English, there is a large community of speakers of Scottish Gaelic. A member of the Celtic linguistic group, it is only distantly related to English and is the native language of the Scottish Highlands. Inverness is known as Inbhir Nis in Scottish Gaelic.
Top destinations and activities
- Inverness Castle. Although not famous for its defensive capabilities (it was invaded, looted, and destroyed multiple times throughout history), Inverness Castle is one of the nicest buildings in the city. Located on an impressive cliff overlooking the River Ness, it offers great panoramic views from its North Tower and having seen no invasions since 1846, it’s safe to say you can relax and enjoy.
- Inverness Museum & Art Gallery. Covering the human habitation of Inverness since ancient times, this museum has exhibits on everything from the mysterious Pictish stones (the Celtic tribe that once inhabited the area) to medieval weapons and stunning paintings of the Highlands. Check out the museum’s official website before visiting - with plenty of rotating exhibits, there’s always something new going on.
- Inverness Botanic Gardens. Located in the Bught Park near the riverbank, the beautiful gardens have many local protected plant species as well as a collection of exotic plants inside its glasshouse. If you’re in a rush and cannot visit one of the national parks nearby, this is the best place in Inverness to spend some time outdoors.
Traffic and parking tips
- 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 lighting.
- 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 population density of the Highlands is quite low, so the roads are not crowded and the driving is very enjoyable. However, many Scottish farmers keep sheep who occasionally wander on the roads and are one of the main reasons for road accidents in the region, so watch out for them.
- It’s not a bad idea to get familiar with the Highway Code, an official guide book of driving rules and tips in England, Scotland, and Wales, issued by the UK Government. The guide book can be downloaded online for free on its official website.
- Proof of insurance and the documentation 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 mile) 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 a day-trip
- Culloden. Its name meaning “back of a small pond” in Gaelic, Culloden is a small village near Inverness. Famous since ancient times as the location of clootie wells, a network of sacred springs, Culloden is also the location of Clava cairn, a mysterious burial complex, the site of the Battle of Culloden, and a place mentioned in Shakespeare’s tragedy of Macbeth. Even if you’re not big on history, Culloden is the perfect place for a nice day outdoors. Located just a 15-minute drive east of Inverness, it’s easy to reach, too.
- Loch Ness. Although you might not be lucky enough to meet its most famous inhabitant, the Loch Ness Monster, with the impressive Urquhart Castle, old lighthouses, rugged beaches, and deep blue water, this lake is still a stunning place to visit. Dores, the closest village on the lake’s northwestern coast, is just 15km (9 miles) south of Inverness and can be reached in about 20 minutes. But don’t stop there continue along the entire route around Loch Ness as it is considered to be one of the most picturesque in Europe.
- Cairngorms National Park. With 1.8 million visitors every year, you might think the Cairngorms is a crowded place, but its 4,500 square kilometers of mountain plateaus, huge rocks, and vast wetlands provide enough space and freedom for everyone. A semi-tundra moorland, the park is home to unique species like the rock ptarmigan, red grouse, otter, reindeer, and wild cat. Boat of Garten, one of the nearest settlements to the national park, is about 47km (29 miles) southeast of Inverness and can be reached in less than 50 minutes.
Most popular rental types and cars
The most popular rental car types in Inverness are economy, compact, and intermediate, while the most popular rental cars are the Vauxhall Corsa, the Vauxhall Astra, and the Ford Focus.
Further destinations
- Ben Nevis. Part of the impressive Nevis Range, Ben Nevis is the highest summit in the British Isles. Surrounded by formidable cliffs, its clouded peak can only be accessed by experienced climbers, but even just hiking the lower paths will feel awesome. The summit of Aonach Mòr, Ben Nevis’s neighbor mountain, can be accessed by a cable car. The nearest town, Fort William, is also worth a visit, thanks to both the spectacular nature of its surroundings and landmarks like the West Highland Museum. Fort William is about 106km (66 miles) southwest of Inverness and can be reached in less than two hours.
- Aberdeen. Located on the coast of the North Sea, Aberdeen is often called the Oil Capital of Europe but has plenty to offer even if you’re not interested in the extractive industries. Its unique granite architecture is unrivaled in the United Kingdom, Aberdeen Maritime Museum tells the story of the city’s proud seafaring past and present, and the Union Terrace Gardens, Winter Gardens, and the Aberdeen beach offer a great day outdoors (or even great surfing, if you’re visiting in summertime). Located 167km (104 miles) east of Inverness, it takes less than three hours to reach it by car.
- Edinburgh. With its many castles and churches, unique areas like the Royal Mile and Portobello, and long beautiful coast, Edinburgh is perhaps the most picturesque city in the United Kingdom. Go to a folk concert in the Old Town, visit the National Gallery of Scotland, or explore Edinburgh’s libraries which would make Hogwarts proud. The capital of Scotland is about 251km (156 miles) south of Inverness and can be reached in a little more than three hours.
Car Rental Prices in Inverness
- Station wagons - from $194 per day
- Large cars - from $58 per day
- Medium cars - from $44 per day
- People Carriers/Vans - from $132 per day
- Small cars - from $34 per day
- SUVs - from $110 per day
How can I save money on my rental car?
These are the things you can do to land a cheap rental car in the Scottish Highlands:
- 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 rental prices are the cheapest. According to our data, visiting Inverness is the cheapest in February when renting a car is about 45% cheaper than the yearly average. Come visit in the Highlands in wintertime!
Top 20 Cities near Inverness
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London Car Rentals from $22.40 per day721.3 km / 448.2 miles away
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Glasgow Car Rentals from $12.73 per day187.2 km / 116.3 miles away
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Manchester Car Rentals from $13.96 per day479.0 km / 297.6 miles away
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Birmingham Car Rentals from $10.85 per day584.4 km / 363.2 miles away
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Edinburgh Car Rentals from $9.17 per day181.8 km / 113.0 miles away
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Belfast Car Rentals from $12.97 per day344.3 km / 213.9 miles away
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Leeds Car Rentals from $15.96 per day435.2 km / 270.4 miles away
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Liverpool Car Rentals from $16.05 per day474.0 km / 294.6 miles away
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Luton Car Rentals from $11.30 per day672.8 km / 418.1 miles away
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Bristol Car Rentals from $10.88 per day690.3 km / 428.9 miles away
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East Midlands Car Rentals from $27.31 per day551.5 km / 342.7 miles away
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Newcastle Car Rentals from $19.28 per day314.2 km / 195.2 miles away
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Cardiff Car Rentals from $30.28 per day684.9 km / 425.6 miles away
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Southampton Car Rentals from $29.17 per day753.4 km / 468.2 miles away
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Aberdeen Car Rentals from $12.10 per day117.0 km / 72.7 miles away
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Bournemouth Car Rentals from $28.26 per day765.4 km / 475.6 miles away
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Exeter Car Rentals from $22.12 per day758.1 km / 471.1 miles away
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Newquay Car Rentals from $34.12 per day792.1 km / 492.2 miles away
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Norwich Car Rentals from $23.23 per day638.1 km / 396.5 miles away
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Doncaster Car Rentals from $25.42 per day484.1 km / 300.8 miles away
Top 20 Locations near Inverness
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Inverness Airport Car Rentals from $19.61 per day1.4 km / 0.9 miles away
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Inverness Train Station Car Rentals from $25.77 per day11.4 km / 7.1 miles away
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Aberdeen Airport Car Rentals from $12.10 per day118.3 km / 73.5 miles away
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Dundee Airport Car Rentals from $41.21 per day136.7 km / 84.9 miles away
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Edinburgh Airport Car Rentals from $9.17 per day182.1 km / 113.1 miles away
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Edinburgh Waverley Train Station Car Rentals from $10.40 per day184.7 km / 114.7 miles away
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Glasgow Airport Car Rentals from $12.73 per day187.0 km / 116.2 miles away
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Glasgow Central Train Station Car Rentals from $42.89 per day187.5 km / 116.5 miles away
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Prestwick Airport Car Rentals from $34.31 per day228.2 km / 141.8 miles away
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Newcastle Airport Car Rentals from $19.28 per day314.8 km / 195.6 miles away
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Belfast Cruise Port Car Rentals from $17.35 per day343.2 km / 213.3 miles away
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George Best Belfast City Airport Car Rentals from $12.97 per day343.8 km / 213.6 miles away
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Belfast International Airport Car Rentals from $8.96 per day347.2 km / 215.7 miles away
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Isle of Man Airport Car Rentals from $40.97 per day386.1 km / 239.9 miles away
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Leeds Bradford Airport Car Rentals from $15.96 per day435.7 km / 270.7 miles away
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Holyhead Port Car Rentals from $33.57 per day471.4 km / 292.9 miles away
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Liverpool Airport Car Rentals from $16.05 per day474.2 km / 294.7 miles away
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Manchester Airport Car Rentals from $13.96 per day479.2 km / 297.8 miles away
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Doncaster Sheffield Airport Car Rentals from $25.26 per day491.6 km / 305.5 miles away
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Humberside Airport Car Rentals from $22.69 per day499.2 km / 310.2 miles away
Map of Car Rental Locations
Which is the cheapest month to rent a car in Inverness?
Car rental prices in Inverness vary a lot according to the time of year. This graph compares month-to-month price changes to help you find the best offer.
Average Rental Price in Inverness
The best month to rent a car in Inverness is February (when prices for an Economy class start from $49.21). This is 45% cheaper than the yearly average and 73% cheaper than renting in November (when rental prices start at $182.87 for a Compact class). Knowing this can help you find the best price.
What’s the usual rental length in Inverness?
Travel lengths vary from month to month: in April, travelers rent a car for an average of 6 days in November, the average rental period is 3 days.
Average Rental Length in Inverness
What's the most popular month to rent a car in Inverness?
While travelers visit Inverness year-round, the most popular month for renting a car is October, and the least popular is November.
Popularity of Car Rental in Inverness by Monthly Searches
Most Popular Car Models of Rental Suppliers
| Rental Agency | Model | Doors | Luggage | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alamo | Ford Focus | 4 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Alamo | Vauxhall Corsa | 2 | 2 | Small cars |
| Avis | Vauxhall Crossland | 2 | 2 | Medium cars |
| Alamo | Toyota Aygo | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Enterprise | Vauxhall Corsa | 2 | 2 | Small cars |
| Europcar | Nissan Qashqai | 5 | 2 | SUVs |
| Europcar | Fiat 500 | 3 | 1 | Small cars |
| Alamo | Ford Kuga | 5 | 3 | SUVs |
| Alamo | Range Rover Sport | 4 | 3 | SUVs |
| Enterprise | Ford Focus | 5 | 2 | Medium cars |
Our Customers Reviews
WZ
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Crossland
September 10, 2020
Go to Isle of Skye!
IR
Netherlands
Nissan Tiida
August 2, 2019
The absolute north of Scotland is fabulous. The Orkneys were just amazing but we like Scotland Mainland a lot as well. We were very happy to drive an automatic, sos I didn't have to worry about using the gear, since the roads in the north are very small, and often just one lane wide. That means stopping a lot at the passing places! But these small roads (even the main ones) are in such an beautiful area, that that doesn't matter at all. It gives you just a little bit more time to enjoy the scenery as a driver as well!
RT
United Kingdom
Vauxhall Corsa
June 4, 2019
easy access to Skye and the North of Scotland
JS
United Kingdom
Ford Fiesta
April 27, 2019
Explore the Black Isle, Colloden battlefield and the area around Loch Ness. For a true Highlands experience head to Applecross.
Eat at the River House in Inverness
DR
United Kingdom
Hyundai Tucson
September 2, 2018
Excellent scenery. Lovely coastine in Moray.
EM
Germany
Toyota Yaris 5d
August 26, 2018
local Highland Games is always a great experience for travellers.
DR
United Kingdom
Renault Kadjar
August 21, 2018
Highly recommend travel combination to explore Highlands, Caledonian Sleeper then Car Rental in Inverness
DS
India
VAUXHALL CORSA
June 26, 2018
Inverness, Lockness and isle of the Sky are a must see on any itinerary while in UK. The lovely Cruz n the beauty of the drive around is simply out of the world
Top 8 Suppliers in Inverness in 2021
Enterprise
+4401667461199
Dalcross, Inverness IV2 7JB
Alamo
+4401667461199
Dalcross, Inverness IV2 7JB
National
01667461199
UNIT 1 SITE 6 DALCROSS IND EST,
SIXT
+448444993399
14a Dalcross Ind Est
Keddy
+4403713841121
TERMINAL BUILDING
Working hours
Mon:08:00-21:30
Tue:08:00-21:30
Wed:08:00-21:30
Thu:08:00-21:30
Fri:08:00-21:30
Sat:08:00-21:30
Sun:09:00-21:30
Avis
+4403445446017
Inverness Airport
Working hours
Mon:09:00-12:00
Tue:09:00-12:00
Wed:09:00-12:00
Thu:09:00-12:00
Fri:09:00-12:00
Sat:09:00-12:00
Sun:09:00-12:00
Alamo
01667461199
Unit 1 Site 6 Dalcross Ind Est
Working hours
Mon:08:00-17:00
Tue:08:00-17:00
Wed:08:00-17:00
Thu:08:00-17:00
Fri:08:00-17:00
Europcar
+4403713841121
Dalcross, Inverness IV2 7JB
Working hours
Mon:08:00-16:00
Tue:08:00-16:00
Wed:08:00-16:00
Thu:08:00-16:00
Fri:08:00-16:00
Sat:10:00-19:00