Bristol car hire

Driver's age: 26-65

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Car Rental Deals

Cheap car hire in Bristol

Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.
Economy car
Economy
M
Compact car
Compact
M
Intermediate car
Intermediate
M
Standard car
Standard
M
Full-size car
Full-size
M
Luxury car
Luxury
M
People carrier car
People carrier
M
Passenger van car
Passenger van
M
Commercial car
Commercial
M
Pick-up truck car
Pick-up truck
M
Useful Info

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Bristol car hire

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to hire a car in Bristol with confidence.

How far in advance should you book car hire in Bristol?

You should book your car hire in Bristol around 71 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the best car hire company in Bristol?

Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in Bristol are National (7.9), Dollar (5.6), and Easirent (4.6).
National
National
Rated 7.9/10
Dollar
Dollar
Rated 5.6/10
Easirent
Easirent
Rated 4.6/10
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Rated 0.0/10

What is the cheapest month to hire a car in Bristol?

The cheapest month to hire a car in Bristol is November at an average cost of R870/day. June is the most expensive month to hire a car in Bristol when prices are R1 438/day on average, which tends to be 2 335% above the yearly average hire price for Bristol.

Which car hire company in Bristol has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 2 locations in Bristol, more than any other car hire company.

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Bristol

  • Bristol car rentals provide flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace without being restricted by public transportation schedules. This freedom is precious when visiting places like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the SS Great Britain, and the picturesque Cotswolds villages. While public transport might be available, one often needs more convenience and direct access a car provides, making car rentals the optimal choice for a comprehensive and personalized Bristol experience.
  • Upon arriving at Tri-Cities Airport (TRI), convenient rental car counters are within the terminal on the ground level. After securing your rental from agenciess like National or other reputable companies, proceed to the designated pick-up area, often located in Car Park A adjacent to the arrival terminal. Pre-booking is advised for a seamless experience. This strategic setup eliminates the need for shuttles and ensures quick access to your rental vehicle, enhancing overall travel convenience.
  • Driving in Bristol offers a mix of driving styles. While the overall atmosphere tends to be relatively calm and relaxed, there can be pockets of impatience and occasional aggressiveness, especially during rush hours. Bristolians generally respect traffic rules, although some instances of rule-bending may occur. The city has many bicycles and cyclists are given adequate consideration. While driving car rentals in Bristol, you'll encounter a fair share of trucks, particularly around commercial areas. Pedestrians crossing outside designated areas is not uncommon. Common vehicles include compact cars, SUVs, and public vehicles.
  • In Bristol, rush hour traffic occurs from around 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays, leading to congestion on major roads like the M32, A38, and A4. Due to heavy traffic and slower speeds, these times can be particularly challenging for driving car rentals in Bristol. Moreover, the winter months, from December to February, can bring difficult driving conditions to Bristol. The city's hilly terrain and potential icy or rainy weather make roads slippery and increase the risk of accidents. Areas like Park Street on a steep incline can become especially treacherous during these months.

FAQs about hiring a car in Bristol

  • How can I find car hires near me in Bristol?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Bristol?

    A compact or mid-sized car is recommended to navigate Bristol's diverse and sometimes congested roads. These cars offer better maneuverability through narrow streets and ease of parking, both crucial in Bristol's city center. Considering a minivan or SUV with ample seating and storage space could be beneficial if traveling in large groups. These vehicles provide comfort and flexibility for group travel, ensuring everyone can ride together comfortably while accommodating luggage and belongings effectively.

  • What's the speed limit in Bristol?

    While navigating car rentals in Bristol, speed limits can vary depending on your driving area. In residential zones, the speed limit is generally 25 mph to ensure safety for pedestrians and residents. The speed limit on main roads and highways ranges from 35 to 55 mph. It's essential to be aware of school zones where the speed limit drops to 15 or 25 mph during school hours. Also, be cautious around the downtown district, as speed limits can be lower there. Be attentive to signage, as occasional speed cameras in certain areas enforce speed limits effectively.

  • Where are the best places to park in Bristol?

    While driving car rentals in Bristol, finding convenient parking can be achieved by utilizing various options. Downtown areas offer both street parking and public parking lots, with costs averaging around $1 to $2 per hour. Some establishments may offer free parking for patrons. When attending events at the Bristol Motor Speedway, event-specific parking lots are available, typically ranging from $10 to $20. It's advisable to arrive early for events to secure a spot. Being mindful of time limits and payment methods is essential.

Bristol car rental reviews and directory

 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car hire booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

National

7,9

Good

One location in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

+1 423 323 5897

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Dollar

5,6

Fair

One location in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

+1 423 325 6200

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

4,6

Mediocre

One location in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

Tri-Cities Regional TN/VA Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

No score available yet

2 locations in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

1138 W Main St

+1 276 619 4555

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2123 Volunteer Pkwy

+1 423 989 6169

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Cindy, Jul 2024

People carrier

KAYAK
This was the worst experience I have ever had with a car rental agency. When I went to pick up my SUV for a trip that was the next morning, they did not have my vehicle or anything usable. And the worst part was how rude they were. And I was calm! They said they had tried to "confirm" my vehicle twice that morning and had left messages at my house. There were zero messages on my voicemail. I will drive to the airport if I can to use a different agency.

8,0 Very Good

Anonymous, Nov 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Friendly staff

Cons:

Price

1 out of 1

Avis

No score available yet

One location in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

+1 423 325 6440

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Budget

No score available yet

One location in Bristol

Show locations

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

+1 423 323 6304

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Anonymous, May 2025

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Short wait. Friendly staff. Beautiful vehicle (we were upgraded for free). Would absolutely rent through budget again.

4,0 Mediocre

ylljam, Aug 2024

Economy

KAYAK
The car was making an engine clangor that I have never experienced before with rentals cars the money should be returned or having a credit for the next rental car thank you

4,0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Sept 2022

KAYAK
The car is was awful.

8,0 Very Good

Jeffrey, Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Smooth transaction

Cons:

Lower prices

10,0 Wonderful

Amanda, Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Seamless check in service. Free upgrade to a new, spacious vehicle. Very easy, safe modified drop off during COVID.

1 out of 4

Eagle Rent A Car

No score available yet

One location in Bristol

Locations in Bristol

Bristol City Location

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Bristol

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

No score available yet

One location in Bristol

Locations in Bristol

2525 Highway 75

+1 423 325 6200

Monday08:00 - 23:59
Tuesday08:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:59
Thursday08:00 - 23:59
Friday08:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 23:59
Sunday08:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Car hire locations in or near Bristol

Bristol car hire information

Pick-up locationBristol
Car types
Hire locations1
Airport locations0

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