Galway car rentals
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Galway car rental information
| Pick-up location | Galway |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Compact SUV, Compact station wagon, Economy, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Mini, Premium, Standard |
| Rental locations | 8 |
| Airport locations | 0 |
| Popular agencies | Payless, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, CARHIRE.ie, Budget |
Cheap car rentals in Galway
| Economy | $19/day |
| Compact | $25/day |
| Intermediate | $29/day |
| Standard | $31/day |
| Mini | $19/day |
| Premium | $55/day |
| Compact SUV | $27/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $35/day |
| Compact station wagon | $58/day |
Top tips for renting a car in Galway
- You can never go wrong with car rentals in Galway if you are visiting Ireland. Unlike public transportation, which has fixed schedules, car rentals offer convenience and flexibility for exploring the region’s attractions within the town and further afield. Some scenic drives in Galway include the area between Galway and Lettermore, Lough Corrib, and the Oranmore to Gort historic drive. If you are here for an extended period, you will spend less on car rentals than on buses and trains.
- Hiring Galway car rentals at the airport ensures you leap into adventure as soon as you land. The city is served by two airports: Ireland West Airport (NOC) and Shannon Airport (SNN), both lying about an hour’s drive from the city center of Galway. If you arrive via Ireland West Airport, you will find numerous car agencies running their counters within the terminal, to the left as you enter the arrivals hall. Also, car rental desks at Shannon Airport are in the arrivals hall. Agencies operating at both airports include Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, and Thrifty.
- As a small, medieval city, finding numerous one-way streets and narrow roads in Galway is unsurprising. Nevertheless, car rentals in Galway should be a manageable task. Ensure you learn and understand the various letter coding in the city. For instance, L stands for local roads (often tiny), M is for motorway tolls, N represents national roads, and R refers to regional routes. Remember that the region features roundabouts. Therefore, when driving Galway car rentals, the cars already in the roundabout have the right of way.
- Significant cities in Ireland experience road congestion during rush hours, and Galway is no exception. Sometimes, the satellite navigation system may not pick the L roads, and you risk finding yourself on a narrow alley behind a tractor. As such, consider using a paper map to complement the GPS. Winters in Galway are usually cold and freezing, resulting in wet surfaces. It is thus a good idea to fix your car rentals in Galway with winter tires as a safety precaution. Also, there is poor visibility, requiring drivers to use dipped headlights during the day to be easily seen and keep a safe distance from the car in front.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Galway for $48 or less
- Book your rental car in Galway at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Economy rental cars in Galway are around 23% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Galway
How much does it cost to rent a car in Galway?
On average a rental car in Galway costs $63 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Galway found in the last 2 weeks is $35.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Galway?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at CARHIRE.ie ($19/day), Payless ($19/day) and Budget ($25/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at CARHIRE.ie Motor Park null (1 miles from city center).
Can I rent an automatic car in Galway?
Yes, automatic cars are available in most car renting companies in Galway. As cars with manual transmission are more common in many countries, you might have to pay an additional charge for renting an automatic car.
How much is gas price in Galway?
The average gas price in Galway is $7.22 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $87 and $116, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Galway?
Economy (Skoda Citigo or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Galway.
How can I find car rentals near me in Galway?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Galway?
An Economy car rental in Galway costs $81 per day, on average.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Galway?
An Intermediate car rental in Galway costs $58 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Galway?
A Compact car rental in Galway costs $81 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Galway?
In Galway, cars are most frequently rented at Enterprise Rent-A-Car Ballybane Industrial Estate (2 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Galway?
On average a rental car in Galway costs $440 per week ($63 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Galway?
On average a rental car in Galway costs $1,885 per month ($63 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Galway?
Most car rental providers in Galway offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Galway, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Galway?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 7 car rental agencies in Galway.
Which car rental companies in Galway have updated their vehicle cleaning and safety policies because of Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Some car rental companies in Galway which have updated their car rental health and safety policies due to COVID-19 to make sure vehicles are clean and disinfected include Budget and Enterprise Rent-A-Car
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Galway?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Galway?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Galway so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What type of car is recommended for driving in Galway?
Ireland and Galway are known for their tiny roads and streets; getting a smaller car might be the best way to navigate these streets. To this end, choose the smallest possible vehicle when hiring car rentals in Galway, provided it can accommodate your luggage and yourself. Bear in mind that most car rental agencies in the region are manual. Suppose you can only drive automatic cars. In that case, endeavor to reserve in advance. Furthermore, a smaller car is more fuel efficient, and you’ll spend less on transportation.
What’s the speed limit in Galway?
Observing speed limits will save you from trouble with traffic authorities. Always pay attention to the speed signs as they override other traffic regulations. Motorists must keep it 30 km/h (18 mph) in school and residential zones; 50 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas; 80km/h (50 mph) on regional roads, and 100km/h (62 mph) on national roads. For those who like cruising, you should be at most 120km/h (74 mph) on motorways. You may drive slower than the stipulated speeds during rush hours and on windy days.
Where are the best places to park in Galway?
On-street parking is free in Galway between 6:30 pm and 8:30 am from Monday to Saturday and Sunday. In between, the slots are metered by a pay-and-display system. Still, check the signs when parking to know if you understand the rules and charges. Covered car parks are plenty, and the rates start from €2.00 ($2.15) per hour—be sure to book online for cheaper rates.
Galway car rental reviews and directory
Europcar
10.0
Wonderful
1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
10.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Galway
Budget
7.7
Good
19 reviewsCleanliness
8.1
Comfort
8.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.1
Value for money
7.0
One location in Galway
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2022
6.0 Okay
Dec 2020
Pros:
Staff at counter was personable and professional.Cons:
Two block walk to pick-up location, agent did not disclose specific location, vehicle was on the fourth floor. Instructions for drop off equally uncertain.4.0 Mediocre
Oct 2019
Pros:
My experience at Budget in Galway last week was pretty abysmal. Adrian met me out front and asked if I had a reservation, which I did. He then started off by demanding who I stayed with the previous night and where they live (really not sure why they need this information). Next he asked about insurance at which point I provided my letter from Chase (PDF on my phone) outlining my eligibility for "worldwide coverage under the Auto Rental Collision Damage waiver benefit." I had called Chase before my trip specifically to confirm that Ireland was not excluded from their coverage (given past rules) and they assured me that Ireland was included in their worldwide coverage benefit, and sent me this letter as proof. Adrian insisted that the letter must specifically state Ireland and refused to rent me the car I had reserved until I was able to provide one. The other options he provided were to go elsewhere or to get coverage through Budget and quoted me $500. At this point I would have loved to walk away but really needed the car and to get on the road. I called Chase and the woman I spoke with kindly offered to speak to Adrian but he declined, stating it would do not good without a letter. I then asked for his name but he refused to give me his last name saying he was not required to do so (was not wearing a badge or any form of identification). I then asked to speak with someone else and he called his manager, who confirmed that "worldwide coverage" is sufficient, and told him to move forward with my reservation. He proceeded to go through the steps and never once apologized for his misunderstanding of the policy. I am not one to write reviews and generally give people the benefit of the doubt- but I do feel like feedback is warranted in this case in hopes that others can avoid this experience. Adrian and Galway Budget aside, the car I rented was great and I had no issues with the drop-off at Shannon Airport. Despite this I will be avoiding Budget in the future.Cons:
Better treatment of the customer and understanding of the policies. Wearing a name badge seems appropriate, and apologizing for the error would have also gone a long way.6.0 Okay
Sep 2019
Pros:
Dropoff difficult. Busy street. No instructions on how to park.. once I over came that, courteous and simple return. BUT see below.Cons:
I was given a credit on my credit card for the tank of gas that had been reserved. Two days later and the credit has not shown up on my account.4.8 Mediocre
Aug 2019
Pros:
The car did not break downCons:
Service was not great at galway. Car was a bit small. High price and new drop off fee. I am also being charged 119$ for no reason and it has not gone off my credit card yet. I would like a call from someone at budget to clear this charge because I refuse to pay it since we dropped it off with fueEasirent
7.6
Good
6 reviewsCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.6
Value for money
8.0
One location in Galway
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2022
6.0 Okay
Aug 2022
6.0 Okay
Jul 2022
8.0 Very good
Jul 2022
6.0 Okay
Apr 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2022
Payless
6.1
Okay
8 reviewsCleanliness
7.5
Comfort
6.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.8
Value for money
5.1
One location in Galway
Filters
Reviews
3.2 Poor
Oct 2019
Pros:
Nothing.Cons:
I was quoted one price and then when I went to pick to pick the car up they made me pay 3.5x the price because I was booking on a Euro credit card not and American credit card. Then they have you walk 4 blocks and to the top of a parking garage to collect the car. God help you if you have bags or it’s raining. If it was cheap to rent I would t have minded walking. But at that outrageous cost you’d expect a little bit of service maybe bring the car to the rental shop?!2.0 Poor
Jul 2023
6.0 Okay
Jun 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2023
8.0 Very good
Aug 2022
8.0 Very good
Jun 2022
keddy by Europcar
8.6
Very good
No reviews available
One location in Galway
CARHIRE.ie
6.4
Okay
No reviews available
One location in Galway
Sunnycars
No score available yet
3 locations in Galway
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
No score available yet
One location in Galway
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2017
Pros:
I have rented from both companies in Galway...they are like night and day. Enterprise is very reliable, customer oriented and efficient. Cars have all been high quality, in stark contrast to their competitors at Budget. The prices advertised by Enterprise are often higher than Budget, but in my experience the quality far exceeds the price difference and the folks at the Galway Budget office will intimidate you and flat out lie to get you to buy extras that you don't need...entirely unprofessional, but they know you often don't have the option to walk out on the rental by the time you get to the desk. I have rented from Enterprise 7-8 times and have been thoroughly impressed with their professionalism, honesty and efficiency every time.8.8 Very good
Feb 2017
Pros:
It was clean and easy to useCons:
I was worried the car couldn't handle long distances.Car rental locations in or near Galway
When to book a rental car in Galway
Airports serving Galway
Popular rental types in Galway
- Van Rentals in Galway
- Luxury Car Rentals in Galway
- Pickup Truck Rentals in Galway
- SUV Rentals in Galway
- Convertible Car Rentals in Galway
- Cargo Van Rentals in Galway
- 6 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 7 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 8 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 9 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 10 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 12 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
- 15 Passenger Van Rentals in Galway
Transport stations in Galway
Neighborhoods in Galway
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