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Find competitive car rental prices in York with Road Genius. Compare live rates of SUVs, compact cars, people carriers and reserve with no booking fees. Pick up in York city centre or near York Railway Station, with options at suburban depots like Clifton Moor and Monks Cross, or compare deals at Leeds Bradford Airport. Book early for summer holidays and university term dates, and choose a compact for the city or a small SUV for road trips to the Moors and Dales.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| York City Centre | • Lower rates than airport rentals • Multiple locations including near railway station • Convenient if staying in York |
• Limited operating hours (8am-6pm weekdays) • Many offices closed on Sundays • Limited parking at some rental offices |
| York Railway Station | • Convenient for train arrivals • Multiple rental companies nearby • Easy to find |
• Can be busy during peak times • Higher rates than some outer locations • Limited selection at smaller offices |
| Suburban Locations (Clifton Moor, Monks Cross) | • Easier parking and pickup • Sometimes lower rates • Avoid city centre traffic |
• Requires travel from city centre • May have limited hours • Smaller vehicle selection |
| Leeds Bradford Airport (alternative) | • Multiple major companies • Wider vehicle selection • Longer opening hours to match flights |
• 30 miles from York (50-60 minutes) • Higher rates (airport premium) • Less convenient unless flying in |
On average, car rentals in York cost around €42 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €22 per day.
Compare pick-up spots in York: City centre is often cheaper than the airport, and suburban sites like Clifton Moor or Monks Cross can be lower again. It’s a short bus or taxi from the centre. Also compare one-way vs same-location returns, as fees vary by direction and season.
Be smart about timing: For summer, school holidays, York Races, Christmas Market, and uni term start/end, booking 4-8 weeks ahead helps. If you’re flexible, shift dates into Nov–Feb for rates that can be 25-35% lower.
Plan pick-up/return to avoid extra days: Most city offices run roughly 8am–6pm and many close Sundays. Align your times within 24-hour blocks, use after-hours key drop for late returns, and if you arrive in the evening, stay in York and collect next morning instead of paying an airport premium.
Choose the right car: Compacts are cheaper and easier for York’s narrow streets. Manual is standard and usually cheaper; automatics cost extra and sell out, so compare early if you need one.
Leverage length-of-rental pricing: Weekly rates can beat 5–6 separate days. Compare totals across different lengths and confirm unlimited mileage.
Cut running costs: Use York’s Park & Ride instead of pricey city-centre parking, and refuel at supermarket stations for cheaper fuel.
Parking Options:
Local Driving Rules:
Rent a car to visit:
North York Moors National Park
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Yorkshire Coast – Whitby, Scarborough, Robin Hood's Bay
Castle Howard
Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal
Harrogate and Leeds
Is it necessary to have a car in York? York's historic centre is small, so you can easily explore it on foot. You don't need a car to visit city attractions, but it's very useful for exploring the wider Yorkshire region, countryside and coastal areas.
Are there restrictions on driving in York city centre? Yes, many streets in York's historic centre are for pedestrians only or have restricted access. Rising bollards control several areas, and only permit holders can enter at certain times. We advise you to park outside the city walls and walk or use public transport to explore the city centre.
What is the best way to park when visiting York? We highly recommend using the Park & Ride service. You can find six sites around York that offer parking and frequent bus services to the city centre. You'll find this option is cheaper and less stressful than trying to find a park in the city centre, especially when it's busy.
Is there a congestion charge in York? No, York doesn't currently have a congestion charge or a clean air zone that affects private cars.
What documents do I need to rent a car in York? You'll need a valid driving licence, a credit card in your name and proof of ID (like a passport for international visitors). If you are visiting from overseas, you must have held your licence for at least 1 year.
When is the best time to visit York and Yorkshire by car? We find the best times to drive are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). You'll experience pleasant driving conditions and find fewer tourists than in summer. The countryside looks especially beautiful at these times and the roads are not as busy.
Are automatic transmission cars available in York? Yes, but you'll find they are less common than manual cars. You should book well in advance and expect to pay about £5-15 extra per day for an automatic.
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