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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Penzance
Penzance
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Penzance
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Penzance
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Penzance
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 Penzance?
Penzance, a charming coastal town in Cornwall, offers stunning views, historical sites, and easy access to other Cornish gems. While local transport is available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace.
Explore Scenic Routes. Penzance is the perfect starting point for scenic drives along the Cornish coast. With a rental car, you can easily reach Land's End, St Michael's Mount, and numerous hidden coves.
Visit Nearby Attractions. Many of Cornwall's top attractions are located outside Penzance. Having a car allows you to visit places like the Minack Theatre, the Eden Project, and the Lizard Peninsula without relying on public transport schedules.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience. Public transportation in rural areas can be infrequent and time-consuming. A rental car gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and travel at your own convenience.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Penzance
Before renting a car in Penzance, be aware of the standard rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
Approximately 12.77 square kilometers (4.93 square miles)
Population
Approximately 21,200 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring Cornwall's coast and countryside
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during peak tourist season, particularly in summer months
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Penzance require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may have higher age requirements for certain vehicle types, and young driver surcharges might apply for those under 25.
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. Always carry your passport or ID for verification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for peace of mind. A security deposit is typically required, held on your credit card, and refunded upon safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the rental agreement for mileage limits. Many rentals offer unlimited mileage, but some may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary, with many requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or add-ons like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Penzance – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €24
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €12
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €36
7 Seater:
from £40 / $50 / €48
Automatic:
from £25 / $31 / €30
SUV:
from £15 / $19 / €18
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 Penzance?
To secure the best car rental in Penzance, it's essential to compare prices, choose the right vehicle for your needs, and carefully review the rental terms. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
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 solo trips or a larger vehicle for families.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better prices and vehicle availability by booking early, especially during the summer months.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and passport or ID when collecting your rental.
General Information About Penzance
Penzance is a charming town with a rich maritime history and stunning coastal scenery. Driving in Penzance offers the freedom to explore the surrounding areas, but it's important to be aware of local traffic conditions and parking regulations.
Penzance, located in the far west of Cornwall, is a popular destination known for its beautiful coastline and historical sites. While the town itself is relatively small, a car is highly recommended for exploring the wider region. Driving within Penzance is generally straightforward, but narrow streets and limited parking in the town center can be challenging. Before you set off, it is advisable to familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and parking options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
St Michael's Mount
An iconic tidal island with a medieval castle and stunning views.
Land's End
The westernmost point of mainland Cornwall, offering dramatic coastal scenery.
Minack Theatre
An open-air theatre carved into the cliffs, offering unique performances with a breathtaking backdrop.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Look for car parks in the town center, such as the one near the harbor, offering secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but can be limited, especially during peak seasons.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service at Lelant Saltings for easy access to St Ives and surrounding areas.
Gas Stations in Penzance
Convenient Locations
Fuel stations are readily available on the outskirts of Penzance and along major roads.
Major Brands
Find brands like BP, Shell, and Texaco for your refueling needs.
Plan Ahead
Ensure you have enough fuel for your journeys, especially if exploring remote areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Penzance
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of potential congestion during peak tourist season, especially in summer.
Narrow Roads
Many roads in Cornwall are narrow, so drive carefully and be prepared to give way.
Contactless Payment
Use contactless payment for parking and other transactions for convenience.
Explore Local Villages
Use your car to explore charming nearby villages like Mousehole and St Just.
Key Transportation Hubs in Penzance
Major Bus Stations
Penzance Bus Station
Located in the town center, it provides regular services to other parts of Cornwall and beyond.
Railway Stations
Penzance Railway Station
The westernmost railway station in mainland [COUNTRY PLACE], offering connections to major cities like [CURRENT PLACE] and Plymouth.
Airports
Newquay Airport (NQY)
Located approximately 58 kilometers (36 miles) from Penzance, offering domestic and some European flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Penzance?
Renting a car in the [COUNTRY PLACE] is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need
If you're from the [COUNTRY PLACE], your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most 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, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required 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, 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 Penzance 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.
Family vacation in Penzance was fantastic! Exploring Cornwall with our rental car was so easy and fun.
Sarah Williams
Reviewed: 07.05.2025
Returning to Penzance after years, it was lovely! Having a car made things so much easier. The harbour was a bit underwhelming, though.
Eleanor Davies
Reviewed: 24.02.2025
Pretty chill, really.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 17.05.2025
Perfect coastal getaway! Having a car was ideal for exploring the area. So relaxing.
Susan Jones
Reviewed: 13.07.2025
Penzance charmed me! Getting around with a car was a breeze, allowing for easy coastal drives and scenic exploration. Highly recommend!
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 11.01.2025
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Mia Garcia
Reviewed: 05.09.2024
Pretty laid-back place
Beth Wilson
Reviewed: 15.08.2025
Penzance was delightful! Exploring Cornwall with the family was a breeze, having a car made everything so much easier.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 09.06.2025
Wonderful weekend in Penzance! Having a car made exploring so easy and enjoyable. Highly recommend.
Jessica Taylor
Reviewed: 25.06.2025
First time in Penzance, and loved exploring the coast! The town itself felt a bit quiet, though. Definitely worth a visit.
Alice Smith
Reviewed: 30.10.2024