Car rental at London City Airport

Rent a Car at London City Airport (LCY)

Compare deals from 10 rental companies right at the airport. Start your trip the moment you land.

LocationAirport
Providers10
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Check 10 companies ⚡ Live prices 🧾 All terms shown upfront ⭐ Cancel for free

Quick answer: At London City Airport you can compare rental cars from 10 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.

About Renting a Car at London City Airport

London City Airport (LCY) is London's most centrally located airport, just 10 km east of City of London in the Royal Docks area. With 10 car rental companies on-site, it's easy to pick up your rental car directly upon arrival and continue within just a few minutes. The airport primarily serves business travelers with direct flights to European cities.

LCY is located in London Borough of Newham, surrounded by the historic Royal Docks – Thames and Silvertown are neighbors. ExCeL London conference center is 1.5 km away and O2 Arena is accessible in approximately 10 minutes via A1020. Canary Wharf financial district is just 3 km west.

Pick up your rental car directly at the terminal to avoid shuttle buses – all rental companies have desks in the arrivals hall. Drive west via A1020 and A13 for the fastest route to City of London, approximately 20 minutes outside of rush hour. Book your car in advance during trade shows at ExCeL when availability drops significantly.

Where are the car rental desks at London City Airport? All rental companies are located together in the arrivals terminal on the ground floor, directly after customs – no shuttle bus is needed. How long does it take to drive from LCY to Canary Wharf?

Canary Wharf is approximately 3 km west and takes 8–12 minutes via Silvertown Way, depending on traffic along A1020. Can I drop off the rental car at LCY if I picked it up elsewhere in London? Yes, most major rental companies allow this but note that a one-way fee applies, which varies depending on the company and distance.

We compare prices from all major providers at London City Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Renting at London City Airport — The Short Version

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of United Kingdom. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at London City Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Dollar
Avis
Aura Car Hire
Routes Car Rental
Hertz
Budget
GreenMotion
Drivalia
Thrifty
DRIVUS

Essential Info for Renting at London City Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At London City Airport you can compare rentals from 10 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in United Kingdom

In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side.

  • Urban speed limit: 48 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,8 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking is available usually in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Have koll på signs and be prepared for to pay fees.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at London City Airport

Which rental companies are available at London City Airport?
You can compare 10 rental companies at London City Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in United Kingdom?
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at London City Airport?
The minimum age to rent in United Kingdom is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in United Kingdom?
In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side. Speed limits: 48 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 113 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at London City Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?
Most providers at London City Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at London City Airport?
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

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Other Rental Locations Near London City Airport

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Real prices, real terms, 10 providers. See what London City Airport has to offer.

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