Introduction
Cambridge is a compact, bike-friendly city, and many visitors explore it entirely on foot or by bicycle. However, renting a car can be invaluable for exploring the wider region, including Ely Cathedral, the Norfolk coast, Suffolk villages and stately homes such as Audley End and Wimpole Estate.
Business travellers, families and residents without a car also benefit from flexible rental options. Here are ten of the best car rental companies in Cambridge.
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise is one of the most popular rental companies in Cambridge, known for excellent customer service and its convenient pickup service. Its wide range of vehicles suits everything from short trips to longer journeys.
2. Europcar
Europcar offers a wide range of vehicles, including vans, and is well regarded for flexible rental terms. Its competitive pricing makes it a strong choice for both leisure and business travellers.
3. Hertz
Hertz combines global reliability with a broad fleet and loyalty benefits. It is a dependable choice for travellers who value consistent service.
4. Avis
Avis offers premium service, modern vehicles and a strong loyalty programme. It is popular with business travellers who value efficiency.
5. Sixt
Sixt is known for premium vehicles, including luxury and electric cars. Its stylish fleet appeals to travellers seeking something special.
6. Budget
Budget offers affordable rentals without sacrificing reliability, making it a good choice for cost-conscious travellers.
7. Enterprise Car Club
Enterprise Car Club allows members to rent cars by the hour from locations around Cambridge. It is ideal for residents who only need a car occasionally.
8. Zipcar
Zipcar offers app-based car sharing with vehicles available for short-term use. It provides flexibility for city residents.
9. Thrifty
Thrifty provides value-focused rentals with straightforward pricing, ideal for budget-conscious drivers.
10. Local Independent Rental Firms
Independent rental companies in Cambridge often offer personal service, flexible terms and competitive pricing, particularly for vans and longer rentals.
Tips for Renting a Car in Cambridge
Book in advance, compare insurance options and check fuel policies. Remember that driving in central Cambridge can be challenging due to restricted streets and limited parking, so consider Park and Ride options.
Day Trips by Car from Cambridge
A rental car opens up East Anglia. Ely and its magnificent cathedral are a short drive north, while Saffron Walden, Lavenham and Long Melford offer picturesque medieval streets. The Imperial War Museum Duxford is ideal for aviation enthusiasts, and the Norfolk coast, with its wide sandy beaches and nature reserves, makes a rewarding longer excursion.
Understanding Rental Insurance and Extras
Rental prices often look straightforward until insurance and extras are added. Most rentals include basic collision damage waiver with a significant excess, and companies offer additional cover to reduce this. Independent excess insurance purchased in advance can be cheaper. Check charges for additional drivers, young drivers, child seats and satellite navigation, and always inspect and photograph the car for existing damage before driving away.
Driving and Parking in Cambridge
Central Cambridge has bus gates, restricted streets and limited, expensive parking, so it is rarely sensible to drive into the historic core. Five Park and Ride sites around the city offer free or low-cost parking with frequent buses into the centre. Many hotels have limited parking, so check availability before arriving. Outside the city, roads are generally quiet and pleasant for exploring.
Electric Vehicle Rentals
Electric vehicles are increasingly available from major rental companies in Cambridge. Charging infrastructure is expanding across the city, at Park and Ride sites and along major routes. Before choosing an EV, check the range, the charging cables provided and how charging will be billed, then plan stops for longer journeys.
Van and Specialist Vehicle Hire
Cambridge has high demand for van hire thanks to its large student population, frequent house moves and active small business community. Many rental firms offer small, medium and large vans, as well as minibuses for group travel and luxury vehicles for weddings and special occasions. Booking van hire well in advance is advisable at the end of university terms, when demand peaks as students move between homes.
Choosing the Right Pickup Location
Rental branches are spread across the city and nearby towns, as well as at major airports. Picking up a car on the edge of the city avoids central traffic, while airport rentals suit visitors arriving by plane. Check opening hours carefully, as some branches close early on weekends.
One-Way and Long-Term Rentals
Many rental companies offer one-way hires, allowing you to collect a car in Cambridge and return it at an airport or another city. This is convenient for touring East Anglia before flying home. For longer stays, such as academic visits or work placements, monthly rentals and subscription services can be far cheaper than daily rates and provide the flexibility of a car without the commitment of ownership.
Car Rental Trends
Electric vehicles are increasingly available, along with app-based rentals and contactless pickup. Car clubs are growing as residents move away from car ownership.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need a car for a day trip or a business journey, Cambridge has excellent rental options. Compare prices, check terms and enjoy the freedom to explore the beautiful East Anglian countryside.