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4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Oxford
Oxford
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Oxford
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Oxford
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Oxford
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 Oxford?
Oxford, with its historic university and charming surroundings, offers numerous attractions best explored with the convenience of a rental car. While public transportation is available, a car provides unparalleled flexibility to discover hidden gems and venture beyond the city limits.
Explore Beyond the City: Oxford is the gateway to the Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, and other scenic destinations. A rental car allows you to easily access these attractions, which are difficult to reach by public transport.
Visit University Colleges: While central Oxford is walkable, driving allows you to quickly visit multiple colleges and libraries spread across the city and its outskirts.
Flexibility and Comfort: Enjoy the freedom to create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, without being tied to bus or train schedules. This is especially beneficial if you are travelling with family or have specific needs.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Oxford
Before renting a car in Oxford, familiarise yourself with the standard terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential extra fees. Understanding these rules will ensure a smooth and trouble-free rental experience.
Area
45.59 km²
Population
Approximately 155,000
Time Zone
GMT (GMT+1 during British Summer Time)
Ideal for
Exploring Oxford and the Cotswolds
Rush Hours
7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Oxford require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur additional young driver surcharges.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included, but additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is available. A security deposit is usually required, held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy; unlimited mileage options are often available. Fuel policies vary, so understand whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional charges can apply for extra drivers, GPS, child seats, or one-way rentals. Late returns may also result in fees.
Car Rental Prices in Oxford – How Much Does It Cost?
Renting a car in Oxford can vary in price depending on the type of vehicle and the time of year.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17 per day
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
7 Seater:
from £50 / $63 / €57 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to summer holidays and tourist influx.
Low season (November to February): Often sees discounts as demand decreases, providing better deals.
Prices fluctuate based on demand and season. Booking in advance is always recommended.
How to Book a Car in Oxford?
Booking a car in Oxford involves a few key steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best rates from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the fine print regarding mileage limits, insurance, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any required identification to collect your rental car.
General Information About Oxford
Oxford is a city steeped in history and culture, known for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture. Navigating Oxford by car requires understanding local traffic conditions, parking regulations, and fuel availability.
As a bustling city, Oxford experiences its share of traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. A rental car offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding Cotswolds and nearby attractions. However, driving within the city requires awareness of parking restrictions and one-way streets. Before setting off, review local traffic laws and plan your routes to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
University of Oxford
Explore the historic colleges, libraries, and museums.
Blenheim Palace
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Dukes of Marlborough.
Ashmolean Museum
The University of Oxford's museum of art and archaeology.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilize city-center garages for secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but can be costly and time-limited.
Park & Ride
Use park-and-ride services for easy access to the city center via public transport.
Gas Stations in Oxford
Availability
Fuel stations are available on the outskirts of Oxford.
Major Brands
Look for brands like BP, Shell, and Esso along main roads.
Navigation Apps
Use apps like Google Maps to locate nearby stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting Oxford
Contactless Payment
Use contactless payments for buses and parking.
Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM).
Plan Ahead
Plan your route in advance and be aware of one-way streets.
Key Transportation Hubs in Oxford
Railway Stations
Oxford Railway Station
Main railway station providing connections to London, Birmingham, and other major cities.
Airports
Oxford Airport (OXF)
Primarily serves private and business aviation.
Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Located approximately 70 miles from Oxford, offering extensive international flights.
Bus and Coach Stations
Oxford Bus Station
Located in the city center, offering local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Oxford?
Renting a car in Oxford requires a few essential items to ensure a smooth rental experience.
A valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card in the driver’s name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of ID may be required.
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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 Oxford 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.
Okay, but kinda pricey
Alex Smith
Reviewed: 21.10.2024
Oxford was even more beautiful than I remembered! Having a car made exploring so easy. A wonderful return trip.
Eleanor Davies
Reviewed: 15.03.2025
Pretty laid-back, really.
Liam Jones
Reviewed: 04.01.2025
Oxford was charming! So convenient having a car for our road trip, made exploring the colleges a breeze.
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 16.01.2025
Lovely weekend in Oxford! Getting around with a car was effortless, and catching up with friends was perfect.
Isabelle Garcia
Reviewed: 20.01.2025
Pretty decent, really.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 29.05.2025
Oxford exceeded expectations! Having a car was brilliant for exploring the Cotswolds nearby. Everything went smoothly, and I loved every minute.
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 21.03.2025
Oxford's charm was delightful; road trip made easy.
Grace Murphy
Reviewed: 11.02.2025
Family trip perfect; Oxford's beauty unmatched. Car rental a breeze.
Sophia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 10.06.2025
Pretty chill, actually.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 02.03.2025