Finding a car rental in Liverpool is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers in the UK with no booking fees. Pick up Liverpool car hire in the city centre, at Liverpool John Lennon Airport or Lime Street Station and compare automatics, SUVs and family cars. Check unlimited mileage options and plan drives to Manchester, Chester, North Wales and the Lake District.
Location | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
City Centre | • Walking distance from attractions • No airport surcharges • Convenient if staying in the city centre • Can explore city first, then rent |
• Shorter operating hours (8:00-18:00) • Limited vehicle selection • Can be busy during weekdays • Navigating unfamiliar city traffic |
Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) | • Larger vehicle selection • Extended hours (some open until late evening) • Immediate access upon arrival • More automatic transmission options |
• Airport location fees • 7 miles from city centre • Possible wait times after busy flight arrivals • Must navigate to city if staying there |
Train Stations (Lime Street) | • Convenient if arriving by train • Central location • Walkable from many hotels |
• Limited operating hours • Smaller fleets • Advance booking essential |
On average, car rentals in Liverpool cost around €48 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €14 per day.
Compare pick-up locations: Check rates across Liverpool City Centre, LPL Airport, and Lime Street. City centre often avoids airport fees, but has shorter hours. Airport has later returns and more automatics.
Shorten your rental: See the city on foot first, then rent only for day trips. Return during opening hours to avoid paying an extra day.
Watch Liverpool peak dates: Prices jump in June–August, Premier League home weekends, and Grand National week. If you can, shift pick-up/return by a day to dodge spikes.
Choose a smaller car: Compacts fit narrow streets and car parks, and usually cost less to rent and fuel. If you need an automatic, book earlier as supply is tighter.
Skip extras you won’t use: Extra driver fees are about £5–15 per day. Many deals include unlimited mileage — confirm so you don’t pay per mile.
Fuel smart: Fill up at Tesco/Asda/Sainsbury’s and return full to avoid refuelling charges. Using the Mersey Tunnels is about £2.30 each way; the Mersey Gateway is ~£2 and must be paid online by end of the next day.
City Centre Car Parks:
Local Driving Rules:
Local Enforcement:
Rent a car so you can drive to:
Chester – M53
North Wales (Snowdonia) – A55, Betws-y-Coed
Lake District (Windermere) – M6, Kendal
Merseyside coast – Crosby Beach, Formby, Southport
What documents do I need to rent a car in Liverpool? You'll need a valid driver's licence, a passport for ID and the credit card you used for booking. If your licence isn't in English, you'll also need an International Driving Permit. If you're not a UK resident, the rental company might ask you to show proof of your return travel.
Is there a minimum age requirement for renting a car in Liverpool? Most companies will rent standard cars to drivers who are 23–25 or older. Drivers under 25 usually have to pay a young driver fee. For premium cars, companies often set higher minimum ages, usually around 30.
Do I need to pay for the Mersey Gateway Bridge when driving south from Liverpool? Yes, you'll have to pay a toll of about £2 each time you cross the Mersey Gateway Bridge. Unlike the Mersey Tunnels, the bridge has no toll booths. You need to pay online by the end of the following day to avoid a fine.
Are there any emission zone charges in Liverpool? No. Unlike London, Liverpool does not have a Congestion Charge or Low Emission Zone fees.
What type of car is best for visiting Liverpool and surrounding areas? If you're just driving around the city and on short trips, a small car like a Ford Fiesta or VW Polo is best because it's easy to park and manoeuvre. For longer trips to places like the Lake District or Wales, you'll be more comfortable in a midsize car or a compact SUV.
Is it difficult to drive in Liverpool for international visitors? The biggest challenge for you will be getting used to driving on the left and using roundabouts. In the city centre, you also need to watch out for one-way systems and bus lanes. We strongly recommend you use a GPS.
What is the usual fuel policy for car rentals in Liverpool? Most rental companies use a 'full-to-full' policy. This means you get the car with a full tank of fuel and you have to return it full. If you don't, the company will charge you a lot to refuel it.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to Ireland or Isle of Man? Yes, but you have to tell the rental company beforehand. Many companies charge a cross-border fee of about £60-100. This fee covers the paperwork and extra breakdown cover you'll need. Companies usually let you travel to the Republic of Ireland if you get their permission first. Travel to the Isle of Man is harder, as not all companies allow it. You should always check with the company before you book.