Cardiff car hires from £21/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car hire in Cardiff with a pick-up date of 30/5 and drop-off date of 13/6. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of hire. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
Driver's age: 26-65
Sat 4/5
Sat 11/5

Search hundreds of hire car sites at once for hire car deals in Cardiff

Here is why travellers choose KAYAK

Save up to 48%Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.

Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.

Cardiff car hire information

Pick-up locationCardiff
Car typesCompact, Compact SUV, Economy, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Mini, Premium, Standard
Hire locations30
Airport locations8
Popular agencieskeddy by Europcar, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz, Avis

Cheap car hire in Cardiff

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates
Choose your dates
Economy£21/day
Compact£23/day
Intermediate£28/day
Standard£46/day
Mini£21/day
Premium£48/day
Intermediate SUV£26/day
Compact SUV£27/day
Best prices found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Cardiff

  • You can make your cheap car hire in Cardiff even better value by opting for an electric vehicle hire, which tends to cost less to charge than standard cars do to refuel. You can get an electric car hire at agencies such as Enterprise on Penarth Road or Ipswich Road. You will find lots of electric vehicle charging stations in the city. Many of these are pay-to-use, but there are some that are free.
  • When you get a cheap car hire in Cardiff you should ensure you know about the hiring requirements in the country. All drivers must be 21 years of age to hire a car in England and have held their driver’s licence for a minimum of one year without any discrepancies. There are normally age restrictions on certain vehicle categories, such as luxury. If you are below 25 you will probably need to pay a surcharge too. Remember to bring the correct documents, including a valid photo ID, such as a passport, and proof of address. You will also need a credit or debit card in the name of the main driver.
  • Drink driving is taken very seriously and if you’re caught above the legal alcohol limit when driving your Cardiff car hire you will be prosecuted. The limit for blood alcohol content is 0.08%, so if you have more than this in your system you will be fined, banned, and possibly even imprisoned.
  • The expansive countryside and beautiful views are some of the main attractions that Cardiff and Wales offer to visitors. Undeniably, driving offers one of the best ways to enjoy both of those attractions. It is highly recommended that visitors to Cardiff rent a car with this in mind so that they, too, can take the chance to explore the Welsh landscape for themselves.
  • For travelers landing at Cardiff Airport, the airport’s hire car counters are located both in the main terminal’s Arrivals Hall and just outside in the main parking lot.
  • Drivers should note that in Cardiff, and in Wales in general, signaling to other drivers via waves and nods is expected on the road. This is partly because of the small town vibe and culture, but there is also just a local emphasis on being polite. So, when you encounter another car on a narrow road, expect that you may have to stop to let them pass -- and both parties are expected to wave and acknowledge each other.
  • Cardiff has a moderate amount of rush hour traffic during the work week, with the morning rush hour typically running from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. As for the afternoon and evening rush hour period, it usually lasts starts up at around 4:00 p.m. and slows down at around 6:00 p.m. Two of the roads that are hit hardest by congestion during rush hour are St Mary Street and the A4161. Drivers are advised to skirt around both, if possible, during peak traffic hours.
  • 25% of our users found a car hire in Cardiff for £23 or less
  • Book your car hire in Cardiff at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Off-airport car hire locations in Cardiff are around 42% more expensive than airport locations on average
  • Premium car hire in Cardiff are around 14% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about car hire in Cardiff

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Cardiff?

    It is recommended that visitors renting vehicles in Cardiff stick to smaller vehicles such as compacts and sedans. This is because many of the city’s streets can be somewhat narrow and on the smaller side. As such, larger cars may struggle to navigate them comfortably, particularly when it comes to finding streetside parking spots large enough for them.

  • What’s the speed limit in Cardiff?

    Unless posted signage say otherwise, speed limits in built-up areas go up to 30 mph in Cardiff. Roads outside of built-up areas often have fairly moderate speed limits, but they do occasionally go up to 60 mph on larger roads. Dual carriageways and motorways, on the other hand, feature speed limits that top out at 70 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in Cardiff?

    If you are looking for parking in the central downtown areas of Cardiff, parking garages are likely your best bet. While there are streetside spots available, they often fill up quickly in the morning, particularly in the most popular areas. In residential areas, though, streetside parking is much more available and is often the most popular option. As for the cost of parking garages, parking rates typically start as low as £2.00 ($2.53) per hour.

  • How much does it cost to hire a car in Cardiff?

    On average a car hire in Cardiff costs £34 per day.

  • What is the cheapest car hire company in Cardiff?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest car hires were found at keddy by Europcar (£21/day), Hertz (£21/day) and Avis (£35/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest hire car price was found at keddy by Europcar Short Stay Car Park Cardiff International Airport CF62 3BD (9 miles from the city centre).

  • How much is the price of fuel in Cardiff?

    The average price of fuel in Cardiff is £5.60 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between £67 and £90, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Cardiff?

    Premium (BMW X5 or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Cardiff.

  • Which car hire agencies are at Cardiff Wales airport (CWL)?

    Car hire companies onsite at Cardiff Wales airport include Budget, Europcar, Avis, Hertz and keddy by Europcar.

  • Which car hire companies will pick you up at Cardiff Wales airport (CWL)?

    Car hire companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Cardiff Wales airport to off-airport locations include Budget, Europcar, Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo, Hertz, keddy by Europcar and National.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Cardiff?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does a Premium car hire cost in Cardiff?

    A Premium car hire in Cardiff costs £53 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Compact car hire cost in Cardiff?

    A Compact car hire in Cardiff costs £45 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Standard car hire cost in Cardiff?

    A Standard car hire in Cardiff costs £21 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular car hire location in Cardiff?

    In Cardiff, cars are most frequently hired at GREEN MOTION The Old Forge, Bridgewater Road (22 miles from city centre).

  • How much does a car hire in Cardiff cost for a week?

    On average a car hire in Cardiff costs £238 per week (£34 per day).

  • How much does a car hire in Cardiff cost for a month?

    On average a car hire in Cardiff costs £1,019 per month (£34 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when hiring a car in Cardiff?

    Most car hire providers in Cardiff offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in Cardiff, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.

  • What extras can I get for my cheap car hire in Cardiff?

    When you get a hire vehicle in Cardiff you can include add-ons to enhance your journey. If you are new to Cardiff then a sat-nav will help you navigate around the streets. For those planning on driving long distances, an additional driver allows you to share your time behind the wheel. Whereas 24/7 breakdown cover ensures you get roadside assistance if there is an issue with your car.

  • What to look out for when driving a Cardiff car hire

    Cardiff is a busy city and the capital of Wales. There are lots of cyclists that use the roads regularly, so you need to take care when driving in the city centre. Whilst there are cycle paths in the city, the majority of the time bikes and cars need to share the road. So you should check your mirrors regularly, especially at turns. There are also lots of students and locals that enjoy the great pubs and bars at night, so if you’re driving after hours be sure to look out for party-goers crossing the road.

Cardiff car hire reviews and directory

Budget

9.7

Wonderful

6 reviews
Best rated
Most popular

Cleanliness

9.7

Comfort

8.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.7

Value for money

9.4

2 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

14-22 Tudor Street

+44 344 544 8478

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Cardiff Internation Airport

+44 344 544 6006

Monday09:30 - 18:00
Tuesday09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday09:30 - 18:00
Thursday09:30 - 18:00
Friday09:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:30 - 18:00
Sunday09:30 - 18:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2022

KAYAK
Everything was great , but i did not like the headrest position on the peugeot 308, I am 5ft 10 and it bent my neck forward, any changes in height or seat positioning made no difference. My wife at 5 ft 4 had no problem as she did not touch the headrest. So next time rental it will be another make.

10.0 Wonderful

May 2022

KAYAK
Service was very friendly, location was easy to find and the car was as described. Could have been a little quicker off the mark when we came to drop it back, but they were professional throughout.

1 out of 1

Europcar

8.5

Very Good

4 reviews

Cleanliness

9.3

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

8.6

3 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

8 - 9 Newport Road

+44 371 384 3486

Monday08:00 - 18:0018:30 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 18:0018:30 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 18:0018:30 - 23:59
Thursday18:30 - 23:5908:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:0018:30 - 23:59
Saturday13:30 - 23:5908:00 - 18:00
Sunday

8&9 Dominion Way Industrial Estate

+44 371 384 3486

Opening times not available

Car Hire Centre

+44 371 384 3404

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

7.6 Good

Jun 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was kind and helpful

Cons:

The confirmed car wasn’t available

8.0 Very Good

Aug 2022

KAYAK
I was expecting a smaller car as the new Vauxhall Corsa is a bigger size but the car was great to drive.

1 out of 1

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

4.6

Mediocre

4 reviews

Cleanliness

4.0

Comfort

4.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

4.6

Value for money

4.6

4 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

45 Penarth Road

+44 29 2038 9222

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00
Sunday11:00 - 15:00

Enterprise House

+44 292 038 9222

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00
Sunday10:00 - 16:00

Ipswich Road

+44 29 2047 2800

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Unit 2, Freemans Parc, Penarth Road

+44 29 2038 9222

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Jul 2023

KAYAK
The experience was the worst possible. We made a reservation, received a confirmation (number 1650637509) and when we arrived, there were no cars available.

2.0 Poor

Aug 2022

KAYAK
They didn’t give me a car. Didn’t notify me until last minute

10.0 Wonderful

Feb 2022

KAYAK
Couldn't fault the service from Enterprise. Very quick turnaround on collection and delivery

1 out of 1

Hertz

7.2

2 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

Bessemer Road

+44 29 2022 4548

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00

Cardiff Airport

+44 1446 711722

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very Good

May 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Pickup service was excellent. Car great. Mileage very good.

Cons:

Hertz rep explained that because Hertz is the only rental agency at LGW North, the airport authorities will not allow more rental return signage. Follow the specific instruction given by the Sofitel porters in the layby.

7.6 Good

Apr 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The gentleman who I gave the car to was very helpful. He helped order me a taxi after and was very nice.

Cons:

There wasn't anywhere to park the car. They didn't have a parking lot or any designated places for returning cars. It was very frustrating. I didn't like that even though I prepaid for a full tank of gas, I didn't get any money back when I returned it more than half full. Felt a little cheated there.

1 out of 1

keddy by Europcar

4.0

Mediocre

No reviews available

Cheapest deal

5 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

265-273 Penarth Rd

Opening times not available

8-9 Dominion Way Industrial Estate, Newport Road

+44 371 384 3486

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday10:00 - 16:00

Cardiff Central Station

+44 371 384 3485

Opening times not available

Instore Morrisions Super market

+44 371 384 3485

Opening times not available

Short Stay Car Park Cardiff International Airport

08713843404

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00
Sunday16:00 - 22:30

Filters

No reviews available

Firefly

7.9

Good

No reviews available

One location in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

Bessemer Road

+44 292 022 4548

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00
Sunday10:00 - 16:00

Filters

No reviews available

Sixt

7.4

Good

No reviews available

One location in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

Hadfield Road

+44-8444993399

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

INTERRENT

4.8

Mediocre

No reviews available

One location in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

10 Dominion Way Industrial Estate

+44 371 384 3486

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

2.0

Poor

No reviews available

One location in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

Unit 8 Hadfield Rd

+44 29 2022 7808

Monday08:30 - 17:30
Tuesday08:30 - 17:30
Wednesday08:30 - 17:30
Thursday08:30 - 17:30
Friday08:30 - 17:30

Filters

No reviews available

FLIZZR

8.2

Very Good

No reviews available

One location in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

13-15 Hadfield Rd

+44 844 499 3399

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

3 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

Airport

Opening times not available

Bessemer Road

Opening times not available

Newport Road

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Avis

No score available yet

2 locations in Cardiff

Show locations

Locations in Cardiff

14-22 Tudor Street

+44 344 544 6047

Monday08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:00
Thursday08:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 18:00

Cardiff International Airport

+44 344 544 6006

Monday09:30 - 18:00
Tuesday09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday09:30 - 18:00
Thursday09:30 - 18:00
Friday09:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:30 - 18:00
Sunday09:30 - 18:00

Filters

No reviews available

YourRent

No score available yet

2 locations in Cardiff

Locations in Cardiff

Cardiff International Airport

Opening times not available

Cardiff Rail Station Office

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

No score available yet

One location in Cardiff

Locations in Cardiff

Holiday Inn Express

+44 144 650 0810

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

6.4 Okay

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Vehicle was as specified - not a substitute - which was important as we would not have coped with a different vehicle or smaller minivan. Most of the large Car Rental chains do not offer the larger minivans (Galaxy, Sharan, Alhambra) and visitors from USA will be surprirzed at how relatively small a UK minivan is as offer by the standard chains.

Cons:

Off Airport locations means calling the hotel or Easirent as no shuttle exists. Large credit card down payments and insurance options a surprise. Deposit for potentially no returning with a full tank a surprise.

Free2Move

No score available yet

One location in Cardiff

Locations in Cardiff

Nash House

+44 29 2038 7221

Monday08:00 - 18:0013:00 - 16:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:0013:00 - 16:00
Wednesday08:00 - 18:0013:00 - 16:00
Thursday13:00 - 16:0008:00 - 18:00
Friday08:00 - 18:0013:00 - 16:00
Saturday13:00 - 16:0008:00 - 18:00

Filters

No reviews available

16 travellers who hired a car in Cardiff gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7.4

Car hire locations in or near Cardiff

Good to know

Most popular agency

GREEN MOTION

Most popular car type

Premium

Average price

£34/day

Good deal

£23/day

When to book a car hire in Cardiff

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches

Car hire insurance in Cardiff

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection Waiver

Some Cardiff car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Cardiff.

Deductible

Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your Cardiff car hire.