Car rental in Bristol, United States

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Driving in Bristol: What to expect on the road

Documents you'll need
You'll need your driver's license, passport, and a credit card to rent a car in Bristol.
Most visitors can use their regular license. You may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license isn't in English. Rental companies usually ask for matching ID and a credit card for the deposit.
Navigating city driving
Bristol has busy central roads and several one-way systems.
Traffic slows near Cabot Circus and Harbourside. Navigation apps can help you avoid bus lanes and guide you across the city's bridges. Routes to the airport and highways are well marked.
Tolls, emissions zones, and charges
Bristol has a Clean Air Zone covering parts of the city center.
Some vehicles must pay to enter, though most rental cars meet the standards. There are no local toll roads, but nearby bridges may charge depending on your route.
Parking your car in Bristol
Parking is easier in park lots than on busy streets.
The center has limited street parking and controlled zones. Multi-story parking garages near Broadmead and Harbourside are reliable. Hotels may offer parking, but spaces are often limited near the city center.
Finding fuel or charging points
Fuel is easy to find, and EV charging stations in Bristol are widespread.
Gas stations are located on major roads and near supermarkets. Charging points are common in public parking lots. Apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare can help you find available chargers.
Local driving style and tips
Drivers are patient, but traffic builds during peak hours.
Expect slower movement near the center. Cyclists are common, so take care when turning or overtaking. Keep a steady pace and follow bus lane signs closely.
Find Bristol car rental deals

The most popular car rental companies in Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol: Fast facts

Here's everything you need to know to hit the road happy.
Most popular car rental companyEnterprise

How to book the best car rental deals in Bristol

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car rental rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Bristol car rental search.

Book now, cancel later

We clearly highlight car and van rental options in Bristol that have free cancellation. So you can bag the best deal with total flexibility to change your plans if you need to.

Rent a car in Bristol for a whole month

Want to rent a car for almost a month? Often, car rental companies in Bristol avoid costly admin in between pickups by renting out cars for longer periods. So see whether monthly car rental is cheaper than the three weeks needed by selecting 30 days.

Compare fuel policies

To save money on filling up the tank as you take off in Bristol, look out for deals with a "full to full" fuel policy, as opposed to a "half-full to full" one.

Skip the lines

We call out keyless pickup when you search for cars with us. No keys to pick up means no lines. Just turn up at your preferred Bristol car rental location, hop in, and hit the road.

Frequently asked questions

If you're looking for freedom to explore Bristol, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car rental deals with a "full to full" fuel policy as opposed to a "half-full to full" one.

We also clearly highlight car and van rental options in Bristol that have free cancellation
Yes – you can easily find car rental companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select "Return car to a different location" when you search with us.
Public transportation can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, and for as long as you want. You'll also be able to discover more outside of Bristol.
Most places – Bristol included – allow people under the age of 25 to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance deductible for young drivers. 
Of course. Most major car rental companies like Enterprise, Budget and Hertz offer baby and child seats as an add-on when you book.
Other travelers rated National as the best overall in terms of experience.