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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Brighton
Brighton
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Brighton
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Brighton
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Brighton
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Brighton?
Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its iconic pier, unique shops, and beautiful seaside views. While Brighton is walkable, renting a car provides the freedom to explore beyond the city centre and discover the surrounding South Downs National Park and nearby coastal towns.
Explore the South Downs. With a rental car, you can easily access the scenic South Downs National Park, offering stunning views and charming villages.
Visit Nearby Coastal Towns. Drive to picturesque towns like Worthing, Eastbourne, and Hastings, each with its own unique charm and attractions.
Convenience for Families. If you're travelling with family, a rental car provides the space and convenience needed for luggage, beach gear, and exploring at your own pace.
Flexibility to Discover Hidden Gems. With a car, you can venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems, scenic viewpoints, and local experiences that are not easily accessible by public transport.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Brighton
Before renting a car in Brighton, ensure you meet the age requirements, possess a valid driving licence, and understand the rental company's insurance, deposit, and fuel policies.
Area
82.66 square kilometres (31.92 square miles)
Population
Approximately 290,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during winter time
Ideal for
Exploring the coast and countryside
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Brighton require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories, and young driver surcharges may apply for those under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English. A passport or other form of identification is typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements usually include basic insurance. Additional coverage options, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, are often available. A security deposit is typically held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies also vary, but it’s common to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional charges may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Brighton – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand.
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available during these months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Brighton?
To book a car in Brighton, compare prices, select the right car, and carefully review the rental terms to avoid any surprises. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals based on your travel dates and car preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your specific needs, such as an economy car for city driving or an SUV for countryside exploration.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected fees.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking well in advance, particularly during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when you collect your rental car.
General Information About Brighton
Brighton is a vibrant city offering a mix of seaside charm and cultural attractions. Exploring Brighton and its surroundings is best done with an understanding of traffic rules, parking regulations, and local fuel access.
Brighton, a city known for its iconic pier and vibrant arts scene, offers a unique blend of seaside charm and cultural experiences. While the city centre is easily walkable, renting a car opens up opportunities to explore the surrounding South Downs and coastal towns. Driving in Brighton requires awareness of local traffic laws and parking regulations. Understanding these details ensures a smoother and more enjoyable visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Brighton Pier
An iconic Victorian pier with amusement rides, arcades, and food stalls.
Royal Pavilion
An extravagant palace with Indian-style architecture and opulent interiors.
The Lanes
A maze of narrow streets filled with independent shops, boutiques, and cafes.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like NCP or local council car parks for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but often limited, especially in central areas.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service to avoid city centre traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in Brighton
Availability
Fuel stations are available on the outskirts of Brighton and along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for brands like BP, Shell, and Esso.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Brighton
Contactless Payment
Use contactless payment for buses and parking meters for convenience.
Pedestrians and Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the city centre.
Traffic Delays
Plan for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours and weekends.
Low Emission Zone
Be aware of the Brighton & Hove Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Key Transportation Hubs in Brighton
Major Bus Stations
Brighton Station
The primary bus station is located near Brighton Railway Station, serving local and regional bus routes.
Railway Stations
Brighton Railway Station
The main railway station connects Brighton to London, Gatwick Airport, and other major cities.
Airports
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Located approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) north of Brighton, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Brighton?
To rent a car in Brighton, you need to meet certain requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid driver's licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country licence.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some charging extra fees for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other government-issued photo ID may be required.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Brighton as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 28.07.2025
Quick business trip, easy car rental, Brighton's charm delightful!
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Having a car made exploring Brighton so easy during our road trip. The Lanes were charming, and the seafront was gorgeous! Definitely worth a visit.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 09.06.2025
Pretty relaxed, really.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 18.02.2025
I'd heard so much about Brighton, and it lived up to the hype! Getting around with a car was perfect for seeing everything, from the pebbled beach to the quirky shops. Absolutely loved it!
Emily Wilson
Reviewed: 27.08.2024
First time in Brighton, and it was fantastic! Exploring was a breeze, having a car made everything so easy. Loved it!
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 06.03.2025
Brighton in the summer was lovely! The beach was crowded, but the pier was fun. The seagulls were a bit much, though.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 05.01.2025