If you’re planning to visit Estonia, one of the most important things you need to consider is transportation. While public transportation is available in most parts of the country, renting a car is often the most convenient and efficient option. In this article, we’ll discuss the local rules and requirements for renting a car in Estonia and provide a list of major car rental companies you can choose from.
Rules and Requirements for Renting a Car in Estonia
To rent a car in Estonia, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license from your home country. Some rental companies may require you to have an International Driving Permit (IDP), so it’s best to check with your rental company beforehand. Additionally, most rental companies require a credit card to cover the rental fees and any additional charges.
It’s important to note that driving in Estonia can be challenging for foreign visitors. Traffic can be heavy in urban areas and roads can be narrow in rural areas. Additionally, some areas of the country have poor road conditions, particularly in winter. It’s important to exercise caution and be prepared for unexpected driving situations.
When renting a car in Estonia, it’s also important to obtain the necessary insurance coverage. Most rental companies offer Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance, which covers damage to the rental vehicle in case of an accident. However, this coverage may not include damage to third-party vehicles or property. To be fully covered, you may need to purchase additional insurance.
Finally, it’s important to note that Estonia has strict laws against drinking and driving. If you’re caught driving under the influence, you could face heavy fines and even imprisonment.
Major Car Rental Companies in Estonia
There are several car rental companies operating in Estonia, including both international and local brands. Below are some of the major car rental companies you can choose from:
Hertz
Hertz is one of the largest car rental companies in the world, with locations in over 150 countries. In Estonia, Hertz has locations in major cities such as Tallinn and Tartu, as well as at the Tallinn Airport. They offer a range of vehicle types, from economy cars to luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.hertz.ee/p/car-rental/estonia
Europcar
Europcar is a global car rental company with locations in over 140 countries. In Estonia, they have rental locations in major cities such as Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu, as well as at the Tallinn Airport. Europcar offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.europcar.ee/en/
Sixt
Sixt is a global car rental company with locations in over 110 countries. In Estonia, they have rental locations in major cities such as Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu, as well as at the Tallinn Airport. Sixt offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.sixt.ee/
Budget
Budget is a global car rental company with locations in over 120 countries. In Estonia, they have rental locations in major cities such as Tallinn and Tartu, as well as at the Tallinn Airport. Budget offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.budget.ee/en/
AVIS
AVIS is another well-known car rental company with locations in Estonia. They have rental locations in major cities such as Tallinn and Tartu, as well as at the Tallinn Airport. AVIS offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can book your rental online through their website, and they offer a rewards program for frequent renters.
Website: https://www.avis.ee/en/home
Renting a car in Estonia is a convenient and efficient way to explore the country, but it’s important to be aware of the local rules and requirements. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license, obtain the necessary insurance coverage, and exercise caution when driving in Estonia. With several major car rental companies operating in the country, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and book your rental online for a hassle-free experience.