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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 is a captivating city steeped in history and academic prestige, offering a wealth of attractions to explore. While public transport is available, renting a car grants you the freedom and flexibility to discover Oxford and its surroundings at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City Center. With a rental car, you can easily venture beyond the city center to discover the idyllic Cotswolds, charming nearby villages, and historic landmarks without relying on train schedules or bus routes.
Convenience and Comfort. A rental car offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel, especially if you are traveling with family, luggage, or have specific mobility needs. Avoid crowded buses and train stations with your own vehicle.
Time-Saving Efficiency. Maximize your time in Oxford by quickly reaching multiple destinations without the delays associated with public transport or taxis. Whether it's visiting colleges, museums, or scenic viewpoints, a car ensures an efficient itinerary.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Oxford
Before booking a rental car in Oxford, ensure you meet the necessary requirements and understand the rental terms. Key considerations include age restrictions, license requirements, insurance options, deposit policies, and any potential additional fees.
Area
45.59 square kilometers (17.60 square miles)
Population
Approximately 150,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Day trips and exploring the Cotswolds
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Rating
4.7/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Oxford require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, some providers may have a minimum age of 25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English. Ensure your license is valid throughout the rental period.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals typically include basic insurance. However, consider additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection. A security deposit is usually held on the renter’s credit card and refunded upon vehicle return, provided the car is undamaged.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies vary—many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. Always clarify these details upon booking.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, optional add-ons like GPS and child seats, and potential congestion charges if driving in central Oxford.
Car Rental Prices in Oxford – 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 £9 / $11 / €10 per day
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 Oxford?
Booking a car in Oxford is straightforward. Compare prices, choose the right car for your needs, and carefully review the rental terms and conditions to avoid any surprises. Booking early, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure the best rates.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various car rental providers in Oxford based on your dates and preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, whether it’s a compact car for navigating city streets or a larger vehicle for family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Thoroughly review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and proof of identification when collecting your rental. Double-check the car's condition before leaving the rental location.
General Information About Oxford
Oxford seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. While its compact city center is easily walkable, a car is invaluable for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions. Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules, parking options, and fuel availability to enhance your driving experience.
Oxford is a vibrant city renowned for its prestigious university and stunning architecture. Located in Oxfordshire, [COUNTRY PLACE], it offers a unique blend of academic heritage and cultural attractions. While Oxford has efficient public transportation, renting a car provides the flexibility to discover the Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace, and other nearby gems at your own pace. However, be mindful of traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, and familiarize yourself with parking regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
University of Oxford
Explore historic colleges such as Christ Church, Magdalen, and New College.
Ashmolean Museum
Visit the University of Oxford's art and archaeology museum.
Bodleian Library
Discover one of the oldest libraries in Europe.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use services like Westgate Shopping Centre car park or Oxpens car park for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but often limited and time-restricted, particularly in the city center.
Park & Ride
Utilize the Park & Ride services located on the outskirts of Oxford for easy access to the city center via bus.
Gas Stations in Oxford
Availability
Fuel stations are readily available on the outskirts of Oxford and along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for brands like Shell, BP, Esso, and Texaco.
Navigation
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Oxford
Use Contactless Payment
Many places in Oxford accept contactless payments for added convenience.
Watch for Cyclists
Be aware of cyclists, especially in the city center and near the university.
Allow Extra Time
Factor in extra time for traffic, especially during rush hours and tourist season.
Check for Events
Check local event listings as they may affect traffic and parking availability.
Key Transportation Hubs in Oxford
Major Bus Stations
Oxford Bus Station
Located in the city center, it serves local and regional bus routes.
Railway Stations
Oxford Railway Station
Provides frequent services to [CURRENT PLACE], Birmingham, and other major cities.
Airports
Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Located approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles) southeast of Oxford.
Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Situated about 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Oxford.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Located approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Oxford.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Oxford?
Renting a car in Oxford requires a few key documents and meeting certain criteria. Ensure you have everything in order before you pick up your vehicle to avoid any issues.
You'll need a full, valid driver's license. If your license is not in English, you may also 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. Some companies may only accept credit cards.
A passport or another form of identification 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 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.
Oxford exceeded expectations! So easy to get around with a car, and the city's beauty was breathtaking.
Eleanor Jones
Reviewed: 18.05.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Brown
Reviewed: 02.12.2024
Relaxing, good drive.
Maya Garcia
Reviewed: 29.08.2024
Busy trip, but having a car made Oxford access easy. The Bodleian Library was less impressive than I'd hoped, though.
Ava Lee
Reviewed: 01.07.2025
Such a lovely trip! Oxford's charm was easily accessible, thanks to my car.
Isabelle Davis
Reviewed: 30.05.2025
Summer in Oxford was fantastic! Having a car made getting around so much easier. The Botanic Garden was lovely, though the cafe there had a bit of a slow service.
Liam Miller
Reviewed: 13.06.2025
Oxford was charming! Exploring the colleges and punting on the Cherwell was perfect for a weekend getaway. Having a car made getting around so easy.
Alice Smith
Reviewed: 09.08.2025