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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 historic city brimming with academic charm and scenic countryside. While walkable, a car unlocks the full potential of the region, offering unmatched flexibility to explore its hidden gems.
Explore the Cotswolds. Just a short drive from Oxford, the Cotswolds offer quintessential English villages and rolling hills. Public transport options are limited, making a car essential for a comprehensive visit.
Visit Blenheim Palace. This magnificent stately home, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, is easily accessible by car and offers ample parking. Without a car, access is considerably more complex.
Discover Hidden Villages. Venture beyond the city limits to find charming villages like Woodstock and Burford. A car provides the freedom to explore these lesser-known destinations at your own pace.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Oxford
Before renting a car in Oxford, ensure you understand the rental terms. These include age restrictions, license requirements, insurance, deposit policies, mileage limitations, and fuel policies. Being aware of these factors will help ensure a smooth and trouble-free rental experience.
Area
45.59 square kilometers (17.60 square miles)
Population
Approximately 162,100 residents
Time Zone
GMT & BST (GMT +1) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their original license.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is held on your credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy; unlimited mileage is preferable for exploring. Fuel policies vary, so understand whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, GPS, child seats, or out-of-hours returns.
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 £9.50 / $12 / €11 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists.
Low season (November to February): Often comes with discounts as demand decreases.
*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 rental car in Oxford is a straightforward process. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective rental experience.
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 needs, considering size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially 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 documents when collecting your rental.
General Information About Oxford
Oxford is a historic city known for its prestigious university and beautiful architecture. Driving can be challenging due to narrow streets and congestion, but a car is invaluable for exploring the surrounding Oxfordshire countryside.
As a vibrant city with a rich history, Oxford offers a unique blend of academic and cultural experiences. While the city center is best explored on foot, having a car allows you to easily access attractions beyond the city limits. However, be mindful of traffic, parking restrictions, and local driving regulations to ensure a pleasant visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
University of Oxford
Explore the historic colleges, museums, and gardens that make up this world-renowned institution.
Christ Church College
Visit the Great Hall, used as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies, and the stunning cathedral.
Ashmolean Museum
Discover art and archaeology from around the world, housed in Britain’s oldest public museum.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages like the Westgate Shopping Centre car park for secure and convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but they are often limited and expensive, especially in the city center.
Park & Ride
Utilize the Park & Ride services located on the outskirts of the city for affordable and stress-free access to the center.
Gas Stations in Oxford
Shell
Located on Botley Road and other major routes.
BP
Found on the A40 and other key roads around Oxford.
Esso
Available on various arterial roads leading into and out of the city.
Useful Tips for Visiting Oxford
Use Park & Ride
Park & Ride services are highly recommended to avoid city center traffic and parking issues.
Watch for Cyclists
Oxford is a cycling city; be aware of cyclists and give them plenty of space.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-6:00 PM) when roads are congested.
Check Parking Restrictions
Pay close attention to parking signs to avoid fines and towing.
Key Transportation Hubs in Oxford
Railway Stations
Oxford Railway Station
Main railway station providing services to London, Reading, and other major cities.
Bus Stations
Gloucester Green Bus Station
Central bus station for local and national bus services.
Airports
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Approximately 75 miles (120 km) southeast of Oxford, offering international flights.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Located about 60 miles (96 km) north of Oxford, providing domestic and European flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Oxford?
Renting a car in Oxford requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria to ensure a smooth rental experience.
A valid driver's license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Young drivers under 25 may face additional surcharges.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is necessary for the security deposit and rental payment.
A passport or other government-issued photo ID may be required for identification purposes, especially for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Oxford as
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Oxford exceeded expectations! Meeting friends and exploring easily with a car was perfect.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 02.01.2025
Summer in Oxford was idyllic! Having a car made exploring the Cotswolds effortless.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 24.11.2024
Loved exploring Oxford! So much history, and having a car let me see more of the countryside.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 03.04.2025
Oxford in the summer was bustling! Exploring the colleges was wonderful, though the crowds at the Bodleian Library were a bit overwhelming. Having a car gave me great flexibility.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 08.04.2025
Oxford was delightful! A perfect weekend getaway, easily exploring all the sights with my rental car.
Olivia Brown
Reviewed: 24.07.2025
Oxford's charm was captivating! Having a car made exploring the beautiful summer countryside so easy.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 29.05.2025
Oxford was charming! Exploring the colleges was a highlight, and having a car made day trips to the coast so easy. The perfect blend of history and relaxation – a truly memorable getaway.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 20.02.2025