We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Athlone. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Athlone in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Athlone and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Athlone and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Athlone so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Athlone?

Renting a car in Athlone offers the flexibility to explore the town's rich historical sites, such as Athlone Castle and the ancient monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise, at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can also venture into the surrounding countryside, discovering hidden gems like the Bealin High Cross and the scenic Portlick Millennium Forest.

Having a car allows you to experience the diverse attractions of the Midlands region, from the vibrant cultural events in Athlone to tranquil lakeside retreats along Lough Ree. This convenience ensures you can fully immerse yourself in both the urban and rural charms of central Ireland.

Car rental tips for Athlone

  • Athlone is conveniently located in the heart of Ireland, making it an excellent base for exploring the Midlands. Renting a car allows you to visit nearby attractions such as Clonmacnoise and Lough Boora Discovery Park at your own pace.
  • When driving in Athlone, be prepared for narrow streets and occasional one-way systems in the town centre. A smaller vehicle can make navigation and parking more manageable.
  • If you're arriving by train or bus, several car rental agencies are available in Athlone. Booking in advance can ensure availability and may offer better rates.
  • Before setting out on rural roads, ensure your rental car is equipped with a reliable GPS or have a detailed map, as some areas may have limited signage.

FAQs about renting a car in Athlone

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is ideal for navigating Athlone's streets and the surrounding countryside. If you plan to explore rural areas or travel with family, consider a vehicle with ample space and comfort for longer journeys.

What are the parking options?

Athlone offers various parking options, including on-street parking and public car parks in the town centre. Be mindful of parking regulations and fees, especially during peak hours. Some attractions may provide dedicated parking facilities for visitors.

What's the speed limit?

In Ireland, the general speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 80 km/h (50 mph) on regional and local roads, 100 km/h (62 mph) on national roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways. Always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.

Popular attractions

  • Athlone Castle: A 13th-century fortress offering interactive exhibits on the town's history and panoramic views of the River Shannon.
  • Luan Gallery: A contemporary art gallery showcasing works from local and international artists, situated along the scenic riverfront.
  • Sean's Bar: Recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 900 AD, offering a unique historical ambience.
  • Baysports: Ireland's largest inflatable water park located on Hodson Bay, providing fun-filled water activities for all ages.
  • Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum: A museum displaying a vast collection of artefacts reflecting rural life in Ireland over the past century.

More places to visit

  • Clonmacnoise: An ancient monastic site featuring well-preserved ruins, including round towers and high crosses, offering insights into Ireland's early Christian history.
  • Birr Castle Gardens & Science Centre: A historic castle with beautifully landscaped gardens and interactive science exhibits, making it a great day out for families.
  • Lough Boora Discovery Park: A sanctuary of nature, art, and archaeology with numerous walking and cycling trails, outdoor sculptures, and peaceful scenery.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Athlone

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

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Enterprise Car Hire

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National Car Hire

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Alamo Car Hire

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SIXT Car Hire

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Budget Car Hire

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Hertz Car Hire

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Europcar Car Hire

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Thrifty Car Hire

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Keddy Car Hire

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AVIS Car Hire

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Firefly Car Hire

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Athlone: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.