Self-Drive Car Rental in Cardiff, United Kingdom

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Choose from 30 pick-up spots

When's the cheapest time to hire a car in Cardiff?

Our data shows that August is the cheapest month to rent a car in Cardiff. It’s around ₹ 3,452 per day in August, compared to the yearly average of ₹ 3,912 per day.
Cheapest month avgAugust • ₹ 3,452
Yearly avg price₹ 3,912

Select your Cardiff pick-up location

There are 30 car hire providers in Cardiff. Check out the map below to find the most convenient pick-up spot.

Car hire pick-up spots in Cardiff

Compare car hire prices at airports, train stations and in different neighbourhoods across Cardiff. You might find a better price, or the perfect pick-up point nearby. Start your journey where it suits you.
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These are estimated prices to help you choose from a large number of options. Each is an average based on the lowest car rental prices found for each destination over the last 15 days.

The most popular car rental companies in Cardiff

What's the most popular car to hire in Cardiff?

Based on recent Skyscanner data, the Vauxhall Corsa is the most popular car to hire in Cardiff, with prices starting from ₹4,802 per day. The Nissan Juke and similar models are also popular drives in Cardiff.
Vauxhall Corsa
Vauxhall Corsa15% chose this
Nissan Juke
Nissan Juke7% chose this
Fiat 500
Fiat 5007% chose this
Nissan Qashqai
Nissan Qashqai4% chose this
Most popular carVauxhall Corsa
Why?Small, practical, easy to park

Cardiff's cheapest car hire providers

Switch has the cheapest car hire in Cardiff right now, with prices from ₹4,802 per day. You'll save an average of ₹1,807 per day when you book with them.
Switchfrom ₹4,802 per day
Enterprisefrom ₹4,831 per day
Hertzfrom ₹7,275 per day
Dollarfrom ₹7,720 per day
Cheapest providerSwitch
Book with them to save around₹1,807 per day

Choose from the best car hire companies in Cardiff

Hiring a car in Cardiff: Fast facts

Here's everything you need to know to hit the road happy.
Most popular car hire companyEuropcar
Most popular carCompact, SUV
Average daily price₹ 15,182
Best time to bookLess than 1 week before

How to book the best car rental deals in Cardiff

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Cardiff car rental search.

How to find a cheap car hire deal in Cardiff

  • Searching for a cheap rental car in Cardiff? You're exactly where you need to be. With prices averaging ₹ 15,182 a day, we compare the best deals so you can choose fast, spend less, and drive away happy.

  • The cheapest daily rental price in Cardiff is ₹ 4,802.

  • Staying a while and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? ₹ 33,614 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.

  • Timing can make all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a Cardiff car hire. Try booking around four weeks before you go.

  • Line up your ride with Keddy By Europcar, Enterprise or Budget. They're some of the most popular providers in the city.

  • The coverage Keddy By Europcar or another supplier offers for your Cardiff car hire can differ, so always read the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge extra for it.

  • Booking one-way could snag you a cheaper rate on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching the cars for rent in Cardiff.

  • Cut down on fuel costs by choosing a vehicle that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car with a full tank and refill it before drop-off, so you only pay for what you use.

  • Hit the road without watching the miles and racking up extra fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you explore further.

Best value car hire options right now

  • You get the best value with this company, with average prices at ₹ 16,531 a day.

  • Offering daily rates of around ₹ 11,376, this provider is next in line.

  • The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly ₹ 13,297 a day with this supplier.

  • The Compact rental category is a reliable option if you're not sure which wheels are right for you. It's also the car type that's booked the most in Cardiff.

Flying to Cardiff? Think about an airport pick-up

  • Get a head start on your Cardiff trip by booking a car hire at Cardiff Airport. The city centre is about 19 kilometres away from this airport, which is a drive of around 25 minutes.

Compare car hire types in Cardiff

  • Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Cardiff makes getting around affordable and hassle-free. These zippy, fuel-efficient rides are good for city driving and short trips.

  • Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to handle in cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.

  • Large: You've got the kids, the luggage, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to fit it all in without a hassle. Perfect for long-distance journeys, this Cardiff car hire category includes full-size cars.

  • SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel fix for wanderlust. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and scenic backroads alike.

  • Van: Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Cardiff makes light work of big hauls and group travel. They're roomy, reliable, and ready to take on any task.

Insurance and optional extras

  • Adding excess insurance to your Cardiff car hire can take the stress out of driving. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of damage or theft. Insurance policies can vary between rental providers, so always compare your options.

  • Upgrade your ride with handy extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. They can turn your drive into a smoother experience when you rent a car in Cardiff.

Good to know

  • To rent a car in the United Kingdom, you usually have to be at least 21 years old. Some places may allow younger drivers to rent vehicles for a higher fee, so carefully review the policies before confirming your booking.

  • Planning a trip with the kids? Car seat rules vary by location, and the right setup may depend on their age, height and weight. Confirm whether you need to add one to your Cardiff car hire reservation.

  • Make sure you have the necessary documents when you pick up your ride. As a rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with room for the security deposit (most companies don't accept debit cards), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will outline the exact requirements.

  • Driving in the United Kingdom can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the left side of the road.

  • Keep within local speed limits of about 40kph through built-up areas and around 100kph on highways. Road signs will indicate if the limit is different.

  • In the United Kingdom, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you think you'll be drinking, leave the driving to someone else or choose another way to travel.

  • One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 5pm. Make travel easier by steering clear of peak periods.

  • The British pound (GBP) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and activities. Pay with your card when it's convenient, but have some cash handy when electronic payments aren't accepted.

Best hotels in Cardiff for drivers

  • Spend less time hunting for a parking spot and more time enjoying the comfort of Central Studios. Around 2 kilometres from central Cardiff, it comes with parking, a kitchen and Wi-Fi.

  • Alternatively, take advantage of the parking at Tyr Winch. The city centre is roughly 6 kilometres from this option, which also features a restaurant and internet access.

  • Want more inspiration? Browse the full list of hotels in Cardiff. You can fine-tune your search with the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If your car's electric, there's also an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.

  • After you've locked in a car hire deal in Cardiff and your hotel, the only thing left is to decide where to go first. Start your trip with must-see attractions such as Cardiff Castle, St. Fagans National Museum of History and St. David's Cathedral.

Hit the road: Where to drive to from Cardiff

  • Bristol should be on your itinerary if you're eager to visit Banksey and Clifton Suspension Bridge. This city is around 40 kilometres east of central Cardiff.

  • You'll be well looked after at Mercure Bristol Holland House and Future Inn Bristol, two comfortable accommodation options with parking in Bristol.

  • Or pick up your cheap car hire in Cardiff and travel roughly 16 kilometres northeast to Newport. Featuring Newport Transporter Bridge and Caerleon Amphitheatre, its attractions speak for themselves.

  • Newport has some great accommodation options including Ibis Budget Newport and Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel. Both are convenient choices for guests with cars.

  • Still got fuel in the tank? Cruise on over to Birmingham, about 145 kilometres northeast of Cardiff. From Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery to Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre, it'll round out your trip nicely.

  • Hit the hay in Birmingham at either Holiday Inn Express Birmingham - Snow Hill by IHG or Novotel Birmingham Centre. They've got a room waiting for you and a place for your wheels too.

Frequently asked questions

On average, hiring a car in Cardiff will set you back around ₹ 15,182 per day or ₹ 54,593 per week. 

The cheapest car to rent in Cardiff is a compact sports car. The most popular is Compact, SUV.

The cheapest car hire companies in Cardiff are currently Enterprise and Switch.

Bagging the best car hire deal depends on when you book  – often, it pays to book your wheels as far in advance as possible. But according to our data, the cheapest month to rent a car in Cardiff is currently August.

On average, around ₹ 54,593. But the best price we found for car hire for a week in Cardiff is ₹ 33,614.

If you're looking for freedom to explore Cardiff, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Cardiff that have free cancellation

Yes – you can easily find car hire companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select ‘Return car to a different location’ when you search with us.

Public transport can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, for as long as you want. And you'll be able to discover more outside of Cardiff.

Most places – Cardiff included – allow under 25s to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance excess for young drivers. 

The cheapest price we found for an economy car is ₹ 4,831 per day. The average price per day is around ₹ 21,225.

Of course. Most major car hire companies like Europcar, Keddy By Europcar and Enterprise offer baby and child seats as an add-on when you book.

Other travellers rated Budget as the best overall in terms of experience.

Yes – van hire is available in Cardiff.