London City Airport is one of the capital’s most convenient gateways, especially for business and short-stay travellers. With so many car rental companies on-site and nearby, choosing the right one can be time-consuming.
This guide narrows it down to the top 10 car rental companies at London City Airport, offering a quick overview of services, pricing, and customer ratings helping you hit the road faster and smarter.
Why Should You Consider Renting a Car at London City Airport?
London City Airport (LCY) is a key gateway for both corporate visitors and holidaymakers heading into central London.Positioned in the heart of London, it offers swift access to major business districts, tourist attractions, and residential areas. Opting for a car rental from LCY allows travellers to bypass public transport limitations, offering convenience, flexibility, and the ability to explore London and beyond on their own terms.
Whether you’re staying for a day or a month, having your own vehicle can be a game changer especially when you’re trying to stick to a tight schedule or travelling with family or equipment. The convenience of picking up your rental vehicle directly from the airport saves both time and effort.
What Are the Key Factors to Look for in a Car Rental Company?
Choosing the right car rental provider can significantly impact your travel experience. Before making a reservation, it’s essential to consider:
Vehicle Variety
A good rental company should offer everything from compact cars for city drives to SUVs and executive vehicles for business trips.
Pricing & Transparency
Clear pricing with no hidden fees is critical. Look for services offering breakdown cover, unlimited mileage, and insurance packages.
Location Convenience
Companies with on-site counters at LCY or easy shuttle access to nearby depots are more convenient for arrivals and departures.
Customer Service
Check for support options, ease of booking, and post-rental service quality through Google reviews and comparison sites.
Flexibility
Look for options such as one-way rentals, long-term hire, and cancellation policies that align with your travel plans.
Which Are the Top 10 Car Rental Companies at London City Airport?
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car – “We’ll Pick You Up, Even at the Airport”
Enterprise is renowned for its customer-first approach and comprehensive car rental services. Located just outside London City Airport, the branch is easily accessible and features a wide range of vehicles from economy hatchbacks to executive saloons. Their commitment to cleanliness and flexibility has earned them strong repeat customer loyalty.
Service Focus
Known for reliable full-service car hire and efficient airport operations.
Ideal User
Tailored for business professionals and flexible travel planners.
Pricing: Starts from £39/day for economy class
- Website: enterprise.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 8563 7400
- Address: 200 King St, London W6 0RA, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Quick pick-up and drop-off! The car was spotless and the staff went above and beyond.”
2. Europcar – “Move Your Way”
Europcar provides a well-balanced offering of affordability, service, and selection. Its location at London City Airport makes it an ideal choice for those looking to pick up a vehicle immediately upon arrival. The fleet includes electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as spacious family cars and standard city models.
Fleet Advantage
Offers a broad vehicle lineup with eco and family-friendly models.
Recommended For
Great fit for environmentally aware families and mixed group travellers.
Pricing: From £35/day
- Website: europcar.co.uk
- Phone: +44 371 384 5962
- Address: Multi Storey Car Park, London N1C 4QP, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Great range of vehicles and the hybrid option saved me on fuel!”
3. Hertz – “Let’s Go!”
A familiar name in the global rental market, Hertz offers reliability and efficiency to travellers at London City Airport. Their digital booking tools and loyalty perks streamline the rental process, making it easier for customers to get on the road fast.
Core Offering
Tech-forward rental solutions with fast-track service and trusted branding.
Most Suitable For
Frequent fliers and professionals seeking a quick, consistent experience.
Pricing: Starts from £38/day
- Website: hertz.co.uk
- Phone: +44 843 309 3049
- Address: 35 Edgware Rd, Tyburnia, London W2 2JE, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Effortless booking and fast service. It’s my go-to every time I land in London.”
4. Sixt – “Drive First Class. Pay Economy.”
Sixt is the premium player in the London City Airport rental market. With a fleet that features BMWs, Audis, and Mercedes, it’s the ideal choice for travellers looking to drive in style. Their service blends luxury with affordability for discerning clients.
Premium Appeal
Luxury-oriented fleet with executive-level service and comfort.
Best Suited To
Corporate executives and style-focused drivers on city stays or events.
Pricing: From £45/day
- Website: sixt.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7018 8246
- Address: Pancras Rd, London N1C 4QP, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“The Audi was spotless and practically brand new. Definitely worth it for the comfort.”
5. Avis – “We Try Harder”
Avis brings both reliability and convenience to London City Airport travellers. Known for modern cars and swift service, Avis delivers consistent performance with useful digital booking features. The mobile app simplifies both check-in and return.
Operational Strength
Mobile-friendly booking with consistent, up-to-date vehicles.
Perfect Match For
Digital-first travellers and solo business visitors who value efficiency.
Pricing: Starts from £36/day
- Website: avis.co.uk
- Phone: +44 344 544 8886
- Address: 10, 12 Semley Pl, London SW1W 9QL, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Booking via the app saved me time. I was out of the airport in under 15 minutes!”
6. Budget – “Rent Smarter. Travel Better.”
As the name implies, Budget focuses on affordability without sacrificing quality. It’s a top choice for travellers looking for straightforward rentals at lower prices. It operates under the same parent company as Avis but targets value-conscious renters.
Rental Specialty
Affordable yet dependable car hire for everyday use.
Well-Matched To
Cost-conscious renters, students, and short-stay visitors on a budget.
Pricing: Starts from £30/day
- Website: budget.co.uk
- Phone: +44 344 544 6140
- Address: Train Station, Semley House, 10-12 Semley Pl, London SW1W 9QL, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★☆☆
“Great value for money, although the wait at the desk was a bit long during peak time.”
7. Alamo – “Drive Happy”
Alamo’s reputation at LCY is built on simplicity and good value. Their counter staff are known for friendliness, and the rental process is streamlined. Alamo is especially popular with tourists due to its simple terms and inclusive packages.
Customer Benefit
Straightforward rental process with friendly staff and all-in pricing.
Recommended Traveller
Tourists, holidaymakers, and first-time UK drivers needing simplicity.
Pricing: Starts from £34/day
- Website: alamo.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7631 4700
- Address: 49 Woburn Pl, London WC1H 0JZ, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Staff were friendly, and the insurance was all clearly explained great for a tourist like me.”
8. National Car Rental – “Go Like a Pro”
National is built for professionals. Its Emerald Club lets frequent users skip queues and go straight to their cars, making it the ideal solution for tight schedules. Its fleet includes business-class and premium vehicles.
Key Feature
Priority-based rentals with time-saving club access and executive cars.
Best Fit
Professionals, consultants, and frequent travellers with tight schedules.
Pricing: Starts from £37/day
- Website: nationalcar.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7278 6307
- Address: Ncp Car Park, 170 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5AR, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Walked straight to the car no paperwork, no delays. That’s how it should be.”
9. Green Motion – “Green is the New Smart”
Green Motion targets environmentally aware travellers with hybrid and electric vehicle rentals. Their pricing is competitive, and their commitment to sustainability sets them apart in the LCY market. The company is a strong advocate for lower-emission travel.
Eco Focus
Specialises in sustainable rentals with electric and hybrid vehicles.
Ideal For
Environmentally minded travellers and low-emission advocates.
Pricing: Starts from £29/day
- Website: greenmotion.co.uk
- Phone: +44 20 7186 0016
- Address: 1010 Dockside Rd, London E16 2QT, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★☆☆
“Loved the electric car option, but the wait for pick-up was longer than expected.”
10. Thrifty Car Rental – “Great Cars, Great Rates”
Thrifty is known for offering affordable car hire without compromising on vehicle quality or customer service. Conveniently located near London City Airport, Thrifty appeals to travellers looking for no-nonsense rentals, modern vehicles, and transparent pricing. It’s a great choice for both short city drives and longer UK trips.
Rental Strength
Straightforward pricing and practical vehicles for cost-focused car hire.
Best Matched With
Ideal for everyday travellers, budget holidaymakers, and those needing a dependable ride on a tight budget.
Pricing: From £31/day for standard vehicles
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Website: thrifty.co.uk
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Phone: +44 20 7403 3458
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Address: 178A Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 3LS, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Easy booking and the car was clean and comfortable—great value for the price!”
How Do These Car Hire Services Compare on Price and Vehicle Options?
Below is a table comparing daily rental rates, available vehicle types, and average customer ratings based on Google Business reviews (as of May 2025):
| Company | Starting Daily Rate (GBP) | Vehicle Types | Avg. Google Rating |
| Enterprise | £39 | Economy, SUV, Executive | 4.5 |
| Europcar | £35 | Compact, Hybrid, Estate | 4.2 |
| Hertz | £38 | Hatchback, Luxury, Family | 4.1 |
| Sixt | £45 | Executive, Sports, Luxury SUV | 4.4 |
| Avis | £36 | Economy, Saloon, Electric | 4.0 |
| Budget | £30 | Economy, Compact, SUV | 3.9 |
| Alamo | £34 | Standard, SUV, People Carrier | 4.2 |
| National | £37 | Premium, Business, Compact | 4.3 |
| Green Motion | £29 | Electric, Hybrid, Economy | 3.8 |
| Keddy by Europcar | £28 | Compact, Hatchback, Estate | 3.7 |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on season, availability, and location.
What Are the Benefits of Booking Car Rentals Online in Advance?
Booking your vehicle online before arrival comes with several benefits:
Better Rates
Online bookings often include discounts not available at the counter.
Guaranteed Availability
Especially during peak seasons, early booking ensures you get the vehicle type you want.
Time-Saving
Skip paperwork at the counter with pre-filled online forms and mobile check-in.
Exclusive Add-Ons
Access additional perks like free GPS, child seats, or extra driver coverage.
Are There Any Budget-Friendly or Premium Options Available?
Yes, London City Airport offers options for every kind of traveller.
Budget Options
Companies like Budget, Green Motion, and Keddy by Europcar cater to price-sensitive customers. These services offer basic vehicles with essential features at competitive rates.
Premium Services
If you’re looking for style and comfort, Sixt, Hertz, and Enterprise offer high-end models such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. Ideal for business meetings or luxury weekend getaways.
What Tips Can Help You Save Money on Airport Car Hire in London?
To make the most of your rental:
Book Early
Prices rise closer to your rental date book as far in advance as possible.
Compare Prices
Use aggregator sites or the company’s own website for exclusive deals.
Avoid Extra Insurance
If you already have travel insurance or credit card coverage, you may not need to buy additional cover.
Refuel Before Returning
To avoid extra fees, it’s wise to top up your fuel tank at a nearby station before returning your rental.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence Rental Company Choices?
Customer reviews offer real-world insight into service quality. Google Business reviews especially highlight wait times, vehicle conditions, billing transparency, and staff professionalism. Rental companies with consistently high ratings tend to offer more reliable services.
What Should You Know Before Picking Up Your Rental Car at LCY?
Documentation
A full driving licence, a major credit card, and an official ID like a passport are typically required to collect your rental vehicle.
Check for Damages
Always inspect your vehicle and take photos of existing dents or scratches before driving off.
Understand Fuel Policy
Most rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you’ll need to refill before returning.
Return Procedure
Many services offer after-hours returns via secure drop-boxes. Always confirm the process in advance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right London City Airport car rental company depends on your travel style, budget, and priorities. Whether you’re after eco-friendly hybrids or luxury sedans, there’s a provider ready to meet your needs.
By booking in advance and comparing services, you’ll maximise value and ensure a stress-free London journey. Don’t forget to check customer reviews and understand your rental terms for a smooth experience from start to finish.
FAQs About London City Airport Car Rental Companies
What documents are required to rent a car at London City Airport?
A full valid driving licence, a credit card in the renter’s name, and an ID or passport are typically required.
Is it cheaper to rent a car from the airport or city centre?
Renting from the city centre may offer lower base rates, but airport locations are more convenient and often include promotions.
Do all rental companies offer unlimited mileage?
Not all do always check the mileage policy in the rental agreement before confirming your booking.
Can you rent a car with a debit card in London?
Some companies allow debit card rentals but may require a higher deposit and stricter ID checks.
Are there electric vehicles available for hire at LCY?
Yes, providers like Green Motion and Europcar offer EVs and hybrid models.
What if my flight is delayed and I miss my scheduled car rental pick-up?
If your flight is delayed, inform the rental company promptly most will hold your booking for a short period, especially with flight details provided.
Can I return the rental car outside business hours at LCY?
Yes, several companies provide 24/7 drop-off boxes. Always confirm your company’s return procedure.