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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Exeter
Exeter
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Exeter
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Exeter
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Exeter
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 Exeter?
Exeter, a city steeped in history and surrounded by stunning Devonshire countryside, offers endless opportunities for exploration. While public transport is available, renting a car provides the freedom to discover hidden gems and travel at your own pace.
Explore Devon's Countryside. Dartmoor National Park, with its rugged landscapes and picturesque villages, is easily accessible by car. Enjoy scenic drives and discover charming local pubs.
Visit Coastal Towns. The beautiful coastal towns of Exmouth, Sidmouth, and Budleigh Salterton are a short drive away. A rental car allows you to explore the Jurassic Coast and enjoy stunning sea views.
Discover Historic Sites. Exeter Cathedral, Powderham Castle, and other historical landmarks are easily reachable by car, allowing you to delve into the rich history of the region.
Convenience and Flexibility. With a rental car, you can travel on your own schedule, stop at local attractions along the way, and enjoy the convenience of having your own transportation.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Exeter
Before renting a car in Exeter, ensure you meet the necessary requirements. These typically include age restrictions, a valid driving license, and understanding the insurance and deposit policies. Familiarise yourself with mileage and fuel policies to avoid unexpected charges.
Area
47.04 square kilometres (18.16 square miles)
Population
Approximately 130,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring Devon's countryside and coastal towns
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 rental companies in Exeter require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories, and young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driving license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. A passport and a credit or debit card in the driver’s name are typically required.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are available. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals come with unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies vary, with many requiring the car to be returned with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Exeter – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $12 / €11
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
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 Exeter?
Compare prices, choose the right car, and review rental terms to avoid surprises. Booking early ensures the best rates, especially during peak seasons. Remember your license, credit card, and ID when picking up the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site like rentycars.com to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring Dartmoor.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, particularly during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Exeter
Exeter is a historic city with a blend of cultural attractions and modern amenities. Exploring the surrounding Devon countryside and coastal towns is best done with a car, allowing you to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
As the capital of Devon, Exeter is a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings. It offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and modern attractions. While Exeter has public transport, renting a car is ideal for exploring beyond the city to Dartmoor, the coast, or nearby towns. However, driving in Exeter requires awareness of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station availability to ensure a smooth and stress-free visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Exeter Cathedral
A stunning example of Gothic architecture with a rich history.
Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM)
Explore Exeter's history and culture through diverse exhibits.
Exeter's Historic Quayside
Enjoy waterfront views, shops, and restaurants in a historic setting.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like NCP or local council car parks for secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but time limits and costs can vary.
Park & Ride
Leave your car at a Park & Ride site and use the bus to access the city centre.
Gas Stations in Exeter
Major Brands Available
Find BP, Shell, Esso, and Texaco stations throughout Exeter and surrounding areas.
Convenient Locations
Fuel stations are located on major roads and in residential areas for easy access.
Use Navigation Apps
Use Google Maps or similar apps to locate nearby stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Exeter
Use Contactless Payment
Pay for parking and public transport with contactless cards for convenience.
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the city centre.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (07:30–09:30 / 16:30–18:30) to minimise delays.
Key Transportation Hubs in Exeter
Railway Stations
Exeter St Davids
Main railway station serving destinations across the [COUNTRY PLACE].
Exeter Central
Provides services to local and regional destinations.
Airports
Exeter Airport (EXT)
Located approximately 8 kilometres (5 miles) east of Exeter, serving domestic and European flights.
Bus and Coach Stations
Exeter Bus Station
Located in the city centre, providing local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Exeter?
Renting a car in Exeter is straightforward, but meeting a few key requirements is essential before you start your journey. Here’s what you’ll need
If you’re from the [CURRENT COUNTRY], your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from many countries can use their home-country license for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some charging extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is needed for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters.
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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 Exeter 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 relaxed vibe
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 03.06.2025
Lovely weekend in Exeter! Catching up with friends was easy thanks to my rental car. Highly recommend!
Jessica Garcia
Reviewed: 12.04.2025
Pretty chill, really
Beth Smith
Reviewed: 01.03.2025
Exeter was a delightful spontaneous weekend! Exploring with a car made everything so easy and enjoyable.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 18.02.2025
Coastal charm and city ease; perfect getaway!
Amelia Davis
Reviewed: 22.04.2025
Okay, but kinda pricey
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 11.02.2025
Exeter surprised me! Getting around with a car was a breeze, and exploring the city and coast was effortless. Highly recommend!
Evelyn Wilson
Reviewed: 10.12.2024
Pretty chill place
Mia Thompson
Reviewed: 01.08.2025
Exeter exceeded expectations! Having a car made exploring the city and nearby coast effortless and fun.
Anna Johnson
Reviewed: 13.04.2025
Meh. Cathedral underwhelming.
Kai Nguyen
Reviewed: 01.04.2025
Exeter was efficient for my quick business trip. Having a car was perfect for getting around.
David Lee
Reviewed: 23.12.2024