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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Cardiff
Cardiff
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Cardiff
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Cardiff
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Cardiff
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Cardiff?
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, offers a mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks. While public transport is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city center.
Explore Scenic Wales. Cardiff is the perfect starting point for exploring the Welsh countryside, including the Brecon Beacons National Park and the stunning coastline. A rental car allows you to visit these beautiful locations with ease.
Visit Historical Sites. Drive to nearby castles like Cardiff Castle, Caerphilly Castle, and Castell Coch, each offering a unique glimpse into Welsh history. Public transport to these sites can be infrequent or require multiple transfers.
Convenience and Flexibility. Having a car means you can travel on your own schedule without being tied to bus or train timetables. This is especially useful if you're traveling with family or have specific destinations in mind.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Cardiff
Before booking a rental car in Cardiff, it's crucial to understand the rental terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, license stipulations, insurance, and deposit policies. Being aware of these details will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
140.3 square kilometers (54.2 square miles)
Population
Approximately 360,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring Cardiff and surrounding areas
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 Cardiff require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, some companies may have stricter age limits or charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is essential. Visitors from outside the UK may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English or Welsh. Always carry your passport as identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you can opt for additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy – some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have daily or weekly limits. Fuel policies vary, but returning the car with a full tank is common to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra costs, such as fees for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Cardiff – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £18 / $23 / €21
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Executive:
from £27 / $34 / €32
7 Seater:
from £30 / $38 / €36
Automatic:
from £19 / $24 / €23
SUV:
from £10 / $13 / €12
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand.
Low season (November to February): Often comes with discounts and lower rates.
*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 Cardiff?
Booking a car in Cardiff involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car well in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season, to secure better rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documentation when you pick up your rental car.
General Information About Cardiff
Cardiff is a lively city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Understanding local driving conditions and regulations can enhance your car rental experience.
As the capital of Wales, Cardiff offers a blend of historic sites, modern attractions, and beautiful parks. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore beyond the city center, but be aware of traffic conditions and parking regulations.
Top Attractions to Discover
Cardiff Castle
A historic castle with Roman, Norman, and Victorian architecture.
Principality Stadium
Home of Welsh rugby and a major venue for concerts and events.
Cardiff Bay
A revitalized waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use city center car parks for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available, but check time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Utilize park and ride services for convenient access to the city center.
Gas Stations in Cardiff
Major Brands Available
Find BP, Shell, and Texaco stations throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Refuel Before Returning
Fill up the tank before returning the car to avoid extra charges.
Use Navigation Apps
Use Google Maps or similar apps to locate nearby fuel stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Cardiff
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of rush hour traffic, especially during weekdays.
Watch for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Exercise caution and be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians.
Use Contactless Payment
Contactless payment is widely accepted for parking and tolls.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Allow extra travel time during peak seasons.
Key Transportation Hubs in Cardiff
Major Bus Stations
Cardiff Central Bus Station
Located in the heart of the city, it serves as a hub for local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
Cardiff Central
The main railway station, providing connections to major cities throughout the UK.
Cardiff Queen Street
A secondary station serving local and regional routes.
Airports
Cardiff Airport (CWL)
Located approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Cardiff, serving domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Cardiff?
Renting a car in Cardiff requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria.
A full, valid driver’s license is required. If your license is not in English or Welsh, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the driver’s name is needed for the security deposit. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
A passport or other government-issued photo ID may be required, especially for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Cardiff as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill, overall
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 23.04.2025
Pretty chilled vibe.
Liam Evans
Reviewed: 03.02.2025
Pretty relaxed, overall
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 10.03.2025
Exploring Cardiff was a breeze! So much to see, and having a car made it perfect.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 08.07.2025
Cardiff was a lovely stop on our road trip. So easy to get around with a car!
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 13.03.2025
Quick Cardiff trip to see friends; having a car was helpful. The castle was amazing, though the cafe was a bit pricey.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 07.08.2025
Fantastic spontaneous weekend! Getting around with a rental car was so convenient. Loved Cardiff!
Benjamin Davis
Reviewed: 30.08.2024
Cardiff was even better than I'd heard! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful city, loved it!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 14.12.2024