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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Highland
Highland
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Highland
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Highland
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Highland
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 Highland?
Highland is a region of rugged mountains, serene lochs, and dramatic coastlines. While public transport connects major towns, a car unlocks the true essence of Highland, allowing you to explore hidden gems at your own pace.
Uncover Hidden Gems. Highland’s most breathtaking landscapes are often off the beaten path. A rental car grants you access to remote glens, secluded beaches, and historic sites inaccessible by public transport.
Embrace Flexibility. Public transport schedules can be restrictive, especially in rural areas. With a car, you can spontaneously change your itinerary, linger longer at scenic spots, and chase the sunset across the moors.
Maximise Your Time. Highland is vast, and distances between attractions can be significant. A car allows you to cover more ground efficiently, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Highland
Before booking a rental car in Highland, ensure you understand the essential terms and conditions. These include age requirements, licence stipulations, insurance coverage, and fuel policies.
Area
26,484 square kilometres (10,225 square miles)
Population
Approximately 232,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summertime
Ideal for
Scenic road trips
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic in Inverness during peak hours (8 AM - 9 AM and 5 PM - 6 PM)
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Highland require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is mandatory. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included, but consider additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit will be held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy; unlimited mileage is often available. Fuel policies vary, so clarify whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, or optional extras like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Highland – 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 £10 / $13 / €12 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect higher demand and prices, increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often offers discounts and lower demand
*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 Highland?
Booking a car in Highland is a straightforward process. By comparing prices, choosing the right car, and reviewing rental terms, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site 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 rugged terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Highland
Highland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. Exploring the region by car requires awareness of local driving conditions and regulations.
Highland, located in the northern part of Scotland, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, deep lochs, and dramatic coastlines. While some areas have public transport, renting a car is essential for fully exploring the region's remote and scenic locations. Driving in Highland requires caution, especially on narrow, winding roads and single-track routes. Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and parking regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Loch Ness
Famous for its mythical monster, offering boat tours and scenic viewpoints.
Eilean Donan Castle
One of Scotland's most iconic castles, perched on an island where three lochs meet.
Isle of Skye
A stunning island with dramatic landscapes, including the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools.
Where to Find Parking
Town Centres
Pay-and-display parking is available in most town centres, but spaces can be limited.
Attraction Car Parks
Many popular attractions have dedicated car parks, but they may charge a fee.
Remote Areas
Parking is often free in remote areas, but be mindful of designated parking spots and avoid obstructing roads.
Gas Stations in Highland
Main Towns
Fuel stations are readily available in major towns like Inverness, Fort William, and Portree.
Rural Areas
Fuel stations can be sparse in remote areas, so plan your refuelling stops accordingly.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby fuel stations in real time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Highland
Drive on the Left
Remember to drive on the left side of the road.
Single-Track Roads
Be prepared for single-track roads with passing places; use them to allow oncoming traffic to pass.
Weather Conditions
Check the weather forecast before travelling, as conditions can change rapidly in the Highlands.
Allow Extra Time
Factor in extra time for driving, as roads can be slow and winding.
Key Transportation Hubs in Highland
Railway Stations
Inverness Railway Station
The main railway hub in the Highlands, connecting to major cities in Scotland and England.
Fort William Railway Station
Offers scenic routes, including the West Highland Line.
Airports
Inverness Airport (INV)
The primary airport in the Highlands, serving domestic and international flights.
Wick Airport (WIC)
A smaller airport serving regional flights.
Benbecula Airport (BEB)
Located in the Outer Hebrides, connecting to Highland.
Ferry Terminals
Uig Ferry Terminal (Isle of Skye)
Connects Skye to the Outer Hebrides.
Mallaig Ferry Terminal
Provides ferry services to Skye and other islands.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Highland?
Renting a car in Scotland is a straightforward process, provided you meet the necessary requirements. Here's what you'll typically need.
You'll need a full, valid driver's licence. If your licence isn't in English, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and some may charge extra 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 form of photo identification may be required, particularly 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 Highland 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.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 08.01.2025
So glad I returned to Highland after all these years! Having a car made exploring so effortless.
Katherine Lee
Reviewed: 23.06.2025
Scenic drive through Highland! The local bakery was a bit underwhelming, but otherwise a lovely stop on our road trip.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 29.06.2025
Highland was breathtaking! First time there, and exploring by car was perfect. So much to see.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 22.05.2025
Back in Highland after years away, and it's even more beautiful! Having a car made exploring so easy.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 15.02.2025
Loved exploring the Highlands! Having a car was key; so much freedom to discover hidden gems.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 02.10.2024
Pretty chill, overall
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 14.08.2025