Exploring the Scottish Highlands: Car Rental in Inverness
What to See?
Start your exploration of the Scottish Highlands with a car rental from Inverness, the gateway to the north. This city, with its charming old town and modern amenities, offers a perfect base for your journey. Inverness is the ideal starting point for exploring the rugged beauty of the Highlands, from the Cairngorms National Park to the Loch Ness. Rent a car and embark on a scenic drive to the nearby villages of Fort William and Lochaber, where you can visit the famous Loch Ness and explore the ancient Caledonian Forest.
How to Get There?
Inverness Airport serves the city with flights from various UK and European cities. Alternatively, you can take a train from London Euston or Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness, with the journey taking around 5 to 6 hours. Once in Inverness, you can find numerous car rental agencies at the airport and train station, or explore local options like Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis.
When to Go?
The best time to rent a car in Inverness is during the shoulder seasons, particularly from April to June and September to October. The weather is generally mild, and the roads are less congested. However, if you prefer the warmer weather, July and August are also great options, though expect larger crowds and higher prices.
What It Costs?
Expect to pay around £30 to £40 per day for a compact car, with insurance and taxes adding an additional £20 to £30 per day. A full-size SUV or 4x4 can cost up to £50 per day. Keep in mind that longer rental periods often come with discounts. It's also worth noting that parking in Inverness can be expensive, with daily rates starting at £5 to £10.
Where to Stay Nearby?
Stay within walking distance of Inverness city center to avoid the hassle of driving in the city. The city offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The Inverness City Hotel offers comfortable rooms and a prime location, while the Cairngorms Hotel provides a more upscale experience with stunning views. Both are within a 10-minute walk from the car rental agencies.
FAQs?
What are the best car rental companies in Inverness?
Popular car rental companies in Inverness include Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. These companies offer a range of vehicles, including compact cars, SUVs, and 4x4s, to suit your travel needs.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Inverness?
The cost of renting a car in Inverness varies depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the rental. A compact car typically costs around £30 to £40 per day, with insurance and taxes adding an additional £20 to £30 per day. A full-size SUV or 4x4 can cost up to £50 per day.
What are the opening hours for car rental agencies in Inverness?
Car rental agencies in Inverness are usually open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, some agencies may offer extended hours or 24/7 service, especially at the airport and train station locations.
Are there any downsides to renting a car in Inverness?
The main downside to renting a car in Inverness is the cost, particularly for longer periods. Additionally, parking in the city center can be expensive, with daily rates starting at £5 to £10. However, driving in the city can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking availability.
Planning Your Trip?
For more detailed information on attractions, tours, and hotels, visit our destinations and tours pages. Explore our hotels section for recommendations on where to stay near Inverness.
Sources?
For more information on car rental in Inverness, visit the official VisitScotland website or the Scottish Government website.
Booking in Inverness: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- QEEQ — Car hire comparison with price drop alerts
- Auto Europe — Car hire across Europe and the UK
- Welcome Pickups — Fixed-price airport transfer, driver waits for you
- GetTransfer — Private transfers, price agreed upfront