Going on a vacation in Europe can be a real adventure, but finding the right car rental company can make or break your trip. Having a rental car can make all the difference, so you can discover hidden treasures and travel on your own schedule.
For example, renting a car allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Canary Islands, with their hidden beaches and scenic locations. This article is a guide to the top 10 car rental companies for European vacations in 2024. We’ve evaluated customer service, price, car range, and rental terms to help you make a decision.
Selection Criteria
When choosing the top car rental companies, we considered:
- Customer Service: Outstanding customer service is key to a hassle-free rental. This includes easy booking, friendly and efficient rental desk staff, and support for any issues that arise during the rental period.
- Price: Competitive price and value for money are important, especially for budget travelers. We also looked at the transparency of pricing to avoid hidden costs.
- Car Fleet: A wide range of cars, including compact cars, SUVs, luxury vehicles, and electric vehicles, so customers can find a car that suits their needs.
- Rental Terms: Flexible rental terms such as extra drivers, child car seats, and full insurance coverage give added convenience and peace of mind.
- Convenient Locations: Rental desks at airports, city centers, and popular tourist areas make it easier for travelers to access car rental services.
Car Hire Companies Profiles
Choosing the right rental company can make all the difference to your Europe vacation. These companies cater to business trips as well. Whether you want affordability, luxury or convenience the companies above have got you covered.
From Getmancar’s customer service and exclusive deals to Hertz’s car fleet and convenient locations these top 10 car rental companies are ready to give you a hassle free rental experience.
Using the car rental company’s mobile app, you can easily find the nearest rental desk from your current location.
Getmancar Rental Company
Getmancar is a fast-growing car rental company loved by travelers in Europe. Known for outstanding customer service, full insurance coverage, and price, Getmancar offers a hassle-free car hire experience abroad.
Pros:
- Outstanding Customer Service: Getmancar is friendly, efficient, very involved in customer support and helps in any case.
- Car Fleet: Economy, Premium, SUV, Minivan, Convertible cars.
- Convenient Locations: Major airports and city centers.
- Exclusive Deals: Regular promotions and discounts.
Cons:
- Limited Coverage: While growing fast Getmancar is not available in all European countries yet.
Customer Reviews: Customers rate Getmancar for easy booking and good service. The car selection in the fleet and transparency of pricing are also mentioned as the best in the market.
Hertz Car Rental Agency
Hertz is one of the largest car hire and rental companies in the world with a big presence in Europe. They offer a selection of mobility services including car hire for leisure and car hire for business trips.
Pros:
- Hertz Gold: Membership program with benefits like priority service and exclusive deals.
- Car Fleet: Wide selection of cars from compact to luxury.
- Convenient Locations: Multiple rental desks are available at airports, city centers, and tourist areas.
Cons:
- Price: It can be more expensive than some competitors for premium services.
Customer Reviews: Hertz is rated for the car quality and Hertz Gold program.
Enterprise Car Hire Company
Enterprise is customer-centric and has built a large network of locations. It offers car rental services for leisure and business travelers in Europe.
Pros:
- Customer Service: High customer satisfaction.
- Flexible Rentals: Extra drivers, child car seats, full insurance coverage.
- Car Fleet: Wide range of cars, including electric and luxury cars.
Cons:
- Availability: Limited availability in some smaller European destinations.
Customer Reviews: Enterprise is rated for good customer service and flexible hire terms. Car quality and selection are also mentioned.
Sixt Car Rental Services
Sixt is a premium car rental company with a wide selection of high-end cars. With a big presence in Europe, Sixt is known for its modern luxury cars and new fleet.
Pros:
- Luxury Cars: Big fleet of high-end cars.
- Modern Fleet: The fleet is updated regularly with new models.
- Convenient Locations: Available in city centers, airports, and tourist areas.
Cons:
- Price: Higher rental costs, especially for luxury cars.
Customer Reviews: Sixt is rated for luxury and compact cars and services. Customers like easy reservations through the Sixt website and car quality.
Alamo Rental Company
Alamo is a well known car rental company for its affordability and easy reservation process. A popular choice among budget travelers in Europe.
Pros:
- Affordable Cost: Competitive prices and good value for money.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Range of insurance options to cover different needs.
Cons:
- Limited Premium Options: Fewer luxury and high-end cars.
Customer Reviews: Alamo is rated for affordability and simplicity in the rental process. Customers like the clear communication and car quality.
Europcar Rental Company
Europcar is one of the largest car rental companies in Europe, with big network and wide selection of mobility services too. They offer car rentals for leisure and business travelers.
Pros:
- Wide Network: Locations across Europe, airports, train stations, and city centers.
- Car Selection: Diverse fleet, including electric and luxury cars.
- Dedicated Service: High focus on customer satisfaction.
Cons:
- Cost: It can be more expensive than some competitors for extra services.
Customer Reviews: Customers like Europcar’s network and car variety. Service and compact car quality makes them a top choice for many.
Avis Car Hire
Avis is a well known car rental company with good reputation for quality and service. They have big fleet of cars and services in Europe.
Pros:
- Quality Cars: All cars are clean.
- Convenient Locations: Many rental desks in key areas.
- Comprehensive Services: Child car seats and extra drivers.
Cons:
- Price: It can be more expensive than some other car hire companies.
Customer Reviews: Avis is rated for good customer service and car quality. Customers like the easy management of booking through Avis website and transparent pricing.
Budget Car Rental Company
Budget is known for affordable car rental deal without sacrificing quality. With big fleet of cars, budget is a good choice for travelers who want to save money.
Pros:
- Competitive Cost: Good deals and value for money.
- Big Selection of Cars: Compact cars, SUVs and more.
- Transparent Cost: No hidden charges.
Cons:
- Service: Some customers reported different services at different locations.
Customer Reviews: Customers like Budget’s affordability and transparent pricing. Reliable service and car quality makes them a top choice for budget travelers.
Thrifty Car Rental
Thrifty offers car rental with reliability at competitive prices. Big presence across Europe, Thrifty is a good choice for leisure and business travelers.
Pros:
- Affordable Rates: Competitive prices and good value.
- Flexible Rentals: Extra drivers and various insurance options.
- Convenient Locations: Rental desks at major airports and city centers.
Cons:
Car Variety: Few high-end and luxury cars.
Customer Reviews: Thrifty is rated for affordability and service quality. Customers like flexibility and car range.
National Car Hire Agency
National is known for its premium service and a big network across Europe. They focus on customer satisfaction.
Pros:
- Premium Service: High service and dedicated customer support.
- Big Selection of Vehicles: Compact cars, luxury models and SUVs.
- Convenient Locations: Major airports, cities, and tourist areas.
Cons:
- Cost: Generally, it is more expensive than budget car hire companies.
Customer Reviews: National is rated for premium service and car quality. Customers like the company’s focus on customer satisfaction and easy booking through their website.
Comparison Table
| Company | Customer Service | Vehicle Variety | Pricing | Convenient Locations | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Getmancar | Excellent | Wide range | Affordable | Airports, city centers | Exclusive deals, flexible rentals |
| Hertz | Very good | Extensive | Higher | Airports, city centers | Hertz Gold program |
| Enterprise | Excellent | Wide range | Competitive | Airports, city centers | Flexible rentals |
| Sixt | Very good | Premium | Higher | Airports, city centers | Luxury cars, modern fleet |
| Alamo | Good | Moderate | Affordable | Airports, city centers | Comprehensive coverage |
| Europcar | Very good | Extensive | Moderate to high | Airports, train stations | Electric vehicles |
| Avis | Very good | Extensive | Higher | Airports, city centers | Comprehensive services |
| Budget | Good | Moderate | Affordable | Airports, city centers | Transparent pricing |
| Thrifty | Good | Moderate | Affordable | Airports, city centers | Flexible rentals |
| National | Excellent | Extensive | Higher | Airports, city centers | Premium service |
Comparison tabel of top 10 car rental companies in Europe
Choosing the right car rental company can make a big difference in your European vacation. The top 10 companies above have options for every traveler. Whether you want affordability, luxury, or convenience, there is a car rental company for you.
Tips for Car Rental in Europe
Renting a car in Europe can make your travel more enjoyable, giving you the freedom to go your own way. But remember to follow these tips for a hassle-free car hire:
Know the Driving Rules
Driving rules vary across Europe. For example, in the UK, vehicles drive on the left side of the road, while most European countries drive on the right.
Speed limits, road signs, and parking rules can be different, so get to know the local rules before you hit the road.
Knowing this will help you avoid fines and have a safer journey on European roads.
Insurance Tips
Rental companies offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection, but these come with high excess fees. Consider buying additional coverage to reduce these fees, or check if your credit card or travel insurance already covers rental cars.
Check what’s covered to avoid surprises in case of an accident. This will make your rental more smooth and save you money on hidden costs.
Booking Tips
Book in advance to get the best car hire deals, especially during peak travel periods. Compare prices on different rental websites and look for early booking offers.
Booking directly with the rental company website can sometimes give you better rates or exclusive deals.
Always read the small print and confirm the total cost to avoid hidden costs that can blow your budget.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Renting a car can be convenient, but it comes with hidden costs that can add up to your overall expenses. Being aware of these charges will help you manage your budget better and avoid surprises.
Hidden Fees:
- Some common hidden costs are fees for additional drivers. Young driver surcharges for drivers under 25 or sometimes under 30 and fuel policies.
- Some companies require you to return the car with a full tank of gas, while others will charge you inflated rates to refill it themselves.
How to Avoid Them:
To minimize these extra charges, read the rental agreement carefully before signing. Choose rental companies that offer transparent pricing with fewer hidden fees. For example, German car has the best deals and no hidden fees.
Returning the car on time is key to avoid late return fees which can be big. Check the fuel policy in advance and make sure the tank is full before you return the car to save you money.
Limit the number of additional drivers and make sure any young drivers meet the company’s requirements to save costs.
How to Choose the Right Rental for You
- Travel or business trip:
Your rental car choice may vary depending on the type of trip you’re going to. For city travel, an enterprise that offers a wide range of compact cars might be best as these cars are easier to drive and park in tight city spaces.
For long road trips or rural areas, you might prefer an enterprise that offers larger vehicles like SUVs or vans, as these provide more comfort and storage space for your baggage.
- Vehicle Selection:
The type of vehicle you choose to rent should match your travel needs. If you’re traveling with family or a group, consider renting a larger vehicle or an SUV to have enough space for everyone and their luggage.
For business trips, a mid-size or luxury car might be more suitable, as it looks professional and is more comfortable.
Also, if you’re eco-friendly, look for companies that offer electric or hybrid vehicles.
- Extras:
Different car rental companies offer various extras that can improve your travel experience. For example if you’re not familiar with the area, a rental agency that provides GPS or has vehicles with modern navigation system can be very helpful.
If you’re traveling with young children, check if the rentals offer child seats. Some companies also offer roadside assistance which can be a lifesaver in case of breakdown or other issues.
- Locations:
Make sure the rental enterprise has suitable locations, rental desk at airport and in city center. This will make pick up and drop off much easier. Companies with more locations are usually more flexible and can cater to your travel needs better.
- Customer Reviews:
Check customer feedbacks and ratings to gauge the service quality of the rental agency. Companies like Getmancar, Hertz, Enterprise and Sixt are known for their excellent customer service and high customer satisfaction. Good feedbacks means reliable assistance and good rental experience.
- Membership and Rewards:
Many rental companies offer membership and rewards programs like Hertz Gold which provides additional benefits like priority service and exclusive offers. These programs are beneficial for frequent renters and business travelers as it provides more convenience and savings.
- Pricing and Offers:
Compare prices across different rental companies and look for promotions or offers. Companies often have special promotions or offers during peak travel season, like July.
Transparent pricing is key to avoiding hidden costs that can blow your budget. Make sure to check for any additional fees or charges that are not included in the quote to pay.
- Cancellation:
Check the car rental company’s cancellation policy. Flexible cancellation policy can give you peace of mind especially if your travel plans change unexpectedly. Some companies offer free cancellation up to a certain point before the rental period starts.
- Sustainability:
If you’re concerned about the vehicle and environmental impact, look for companies committed to sustainability. Companies that offer electric vehicles like Europcar or have initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint, like Getmancar, are moving towards more sustainable mobility services.
For Different Types of Travelers
- Budget Travelers: Getmancar, Alamo, and Budget for competitive pricing and good value for money.
- Luxury Travelers: Sixt and National for premium service and high-end vehicles.
- Family Travelers: Getmancar, Hertz, and Europcar for a wide selection of vehicles and extra services like child seats.
- Business Travelers: Enterprise, Getmancar, and Avis for excellent customer service and flexible rental options. They have a wide range of vehicles to cater to every need, so you’ll have a smooth and efficient business trip.