Car Hire Edinburgh

Driving in Edinburgh means that not only can you explore the sights within the centre but also escape to the surrounding countryside. Scotland is a magnificent country to drive through – you’ll often find yourself surrounded by rolling hills and passing through charming stone-built towns that offer perfect spots to stop for lunch.

The route into the CBD from Edinburgh Airport takes about 30 minutes along the A90. Roads in the city itself can become very busy, especially during the festival months in the summer. They’re a real mix of well-maintained roads and narrow streets with one-way systems, making driving through the city a real adventure. Roads are well signposted but be aware of the 32 km/h zones in central city areas.

Scotland's capital has excellent links to other parts of the country. You could take the M8 motorway to Glasgow and enjoy the architecture of this creative, fun-loving city or head north on the M90 to Perth.

If you want to take in another country on your trip then you can travel south into England by taking the A68 out of the city and joining the A1 at Newcastle. The speed limit on the motorway is 112km/h and you’ll frequently see signs warning you of speed cameras so make sure you stay within the limit.

For the rules of the road and more about driving in Edinburgh click here. 

A local artist once famously said, “The Scots think of it as their capital; they’re too possessive, Edinburgh belongs to the world”. You’ll quickly see what he means. The people of the city are pleased to welcome and entertain visitors, proudly showing off all Edinburgh has to offer.

Take in the view

The best view of Edinburgh can be seen from what’s warmly referred to as Arthur’s Seat. This imposing hill is actually an extinct volcano and sits proudly above the city, offering spectacular views. You can drive a portion of the climb to make the rest of the expedition a little more leisurely.

If hiking isn’t your thing but you still want to see that incredible view then you can drive your rental car all the way up Calton Hill. At the top you’ll find a replica of Athens’ Acropolis – its official name is the National Monument of Scotland but this memorial to soldiers and sailors who died fighting in the Napoleonic Wars was never finished.

A tale of battles and bagpipes

Edinburgh has a prestigious royal heritage and was once protected by a fortress. Visit Edinburgh Castle, which looms majestically over the city. Explore the Great Hall, a room that has hosted royal celebrations for more than 500 years, or delve deep into the vaults once used to hold prisoners of war.

Just an hour away from Edinburgh is Stirling Castle, another ancient fortress with its own story to tell. Set in beautiful gardens with intricate tapestries and interactive exhibitions for children, it’s a perfect family day out.

A summer of festival fun

If you visit Edinburgh in the summer, there’s a good chance you’ll land in the city while one of the many festivals is in full swing. The Edinburgh Fringe is the most famous and runs for most of August. The world’s largest arts festival, it offers a feast of music, comedy and drama – it’s a good idea to book seats in advance for the most popular shows.

Looking for something a little more traditional? The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a performance like no other, and runs for a few weeks throughout August at Edinburgh Castle. Performers from across the world take part in the spectacle, which is a moving celebration of music and art and includes a magnificent fireworks display – all set against the epic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and to the soundtrack of bagpipes.

Escape the city

Hire a car in Edinburgh then head out of the city to Inchcolm Abbey on Inchcolm Island, an ancient monastery that’s nearly 1,000 years old. Drive to Hawes Pier, South Queensferry and take a boat across, keeping your eyes peeled for the wildlife, including grey seals and puffins which visit the area. The island’s buildings are incredibly well preserved and give an insight into the monastic lives that were once lived there.

If you’re a keen golfer then you’re in the right place. Just an hour and a half away from Edinburgh is St Andrews, referred to as the ‘Home of Golf’. Play on the courses graced by game’s greats and take in the surroundings of this picturesque part of the country.

Whether you’re planning on taking in the sights of the city, or want to explore more of the beautiful landscape beyond, car hire in Edinburgh gives you the freedom to experience it all.