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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Reading
Reading
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Reading
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Reading
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Reading
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 Reading?
Reading is a vibrant town with a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and beautiful surrounding countryside. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that are not easily accessible by bus or train.
Explore the Thames Valley. With a rental car, you can easily visit picturesque villages, historic landmarks, and scenic spots along the River Thames.
Visit Nearby Attractions. Places like Windsor Castle, Henley-on-Thames, and the Chiltern Hills are within easy driving distance, allowing you to make the most of your time.
Flexibility and Convenience. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, having your own car gives you the freedom to create your own itinerary and travel on your own schedule.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Reading
Before booking a rental car in Reading, be sure to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
40.04 square miles (103.7 square kilometers)
Population
Approximately 163,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT (GMT+1 during British Summer Time)
Ideal for
Business and leisure trips
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 rental companies in Reading 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) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is typically required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies usually require returning the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra fees may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Reading – How Much Does It Cost?
Car rental prices in Reading can vary depending on the time of year, the type of car, and the rental company.
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €12 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
7 Seater:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Automatic:
from £25 / $31 / €30 per day
SUV:
from £15 / $19 / €18 per day
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 as demand decreases.
Rental prices fluctuate based on the season.
How to Book a Car in Reading?
Booking a car in Reading 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 needs, considering size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure lower prices and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Reading
Reading is a large town in Berkshire, England, known for its historical significance and modern amenities.
Located in the Thames Valley, Reading offers a mix of urban and rural attractions. Renting a car allows you to explore not only the town center but also the surrounding countryside and nearby cities. However, driving in Reading requires awareness of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and congestion.
Top Attractions to Discover
Reading Abbey Ruins
Explore the historical ruins of Reading Abbey, founded in 1121 by Henry I.
Reading Museum
Discover the town's history and art at the Reading Museum.
Forbury Gardens
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Forbury Gardens, a Victorian-era public park.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages like The Oracle and Broad Street Mall for secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but often limited, especially in the town center.
Park & Ride
Utilize the park-and-ride service for convenient access to the town center from the outskirts.
Gas Stations in Reading
Major Brands Available
Find gas stations from major brands like BP, Shell, and Esso throughout Reading.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are easily accessible on main roads and highways in and around Reading.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Reading
Use Contactless Payment
Pay for parking and public transport with contactless payment for convenience.
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the town center.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM) when roads are congested.
Key Transportation Hubs in Reading
Major Bus Stations
Reading Bus Station
Located in the town center, it serves as a hub for local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
Reading Railway Station
A major railway station providing services to London, Oxford, and other destinations.
Airports
Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Located approximately 25 miles east of Reading, offering international and domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Reading?
To rent a car in Reading, you'll need to meet a few essential requirements.
You'll need a valid driver's license. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card is needed for the security deposit. Some companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or other form of identification might be necessary for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Reading 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.
Relaxing, good drive
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 12.07.2025
Having a car made exploring Reading so easy during the summer holidays! Beautiful town, lovely parks.
Ava Jones
Reviewed: 06.06.2025
Car rental fine, town meh. Bit bland.
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 08.12.2024
Family vacation in Reading was fantastic; exploring easily with our rental car.
Oliver Davis
Reviewed: 06.05.2025
Adequate, car helpful
Noah Wilson
Reviewed: 25.02.2025
Pleasant enough, really
Maya Garcia
Reviewed: 18.05.2025
Pretty chill, really
Liam Smith
Reviewed: 20.06.2025