Car Hire in Perth - Scotland's Fair City

Perth, known as the 'Fair City,' sits at the heart of Scotland where the Highlands meet the Lowlands. Once Scotland's capital and coronation place of kings at nearby Scone Palace, Perth today is a prosperous city on the banks of the River Tay. From here, you're perfectly positioned to explore Highland Perthshire - often called 'Big Tree Country' for its magnificent forests. With a hire car, you can visit Scone Palace where Scottish kings were crowned, explore the whisky distilleries of the region, or head north to Pitlochry and the stunning mountain scenery beyond.

Perth and Perthshire Attractions

Scone Palace

Historic home of the Stone of Destiny and crowning place of Scottish kings including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. Beautiful grounds and maze.

Perth City Centre

Elegant Georgian architecture, independent shops, excellent restaurants, and riverside walks along the Tay. St John's Kirk dates from the 15th century.

Pitlochry

Victorian Highland resort town 30 minutes north. Festival theatre, whisky distilleries, salmon ladder, and beautiful scenery.

The Hermitage

National Trust woodland walk near Dunkeld with Britain's tallest trees and the spectacular Black Linn waterfall. Ossian's Hall viewpoint.

Loch Tay & Killin

Beautiful loch stretching to Ben Lawers. The village of Killin has the dramatic Falls of Dochart.

Driving from Perth

Main Roads

  • A9 - North to Inverness via Pitlochry, South to Edinburgh
  • M90 - South to Edinburgh via the Forth Road Bridge
  • A85 - West to Crieff and Oban
  • A90 - East to Dundee (25 mins)
  • A93 - North to Blairgowrie and Braemar
  • A94 - Southeast to Coupar Angus and Forfar

Driving Tips

  • The A9 north is being upgraded - expect some roadworks but improving all the time
  • Highland Perthshire roads are scenic but often single carriageway
  • Braemar road (A93) can close in winter snow
  • Perth's ring road helps avoid city centre traffic
  • Many attractions north of Perth have limited parking in peak season

Parking

City centre car parks at Mill Street, Canal Street, and South Inch. Scone Palace has its own parking. Most Highland attractions have free parking.

Why Hire a Car in Perth

  • Gateway to Highland Perthshire - endless scenic drives
  • Visit whisky distilleries including Edradour and Blair Athol
  • Explore Big Tree Country - ancient forests and nature reserves
  • Central location for day trips to Edinburgh, Dundee, or Stirling
  • Access beautiful lochs - Tay, Earn, and Rannoch
  • Perfect for walkers - Munros and gentler hills within easy reach

Nearby Destinations

Pitlochry (30 mins)Scone Palace (5 mins)Dundee (25 mins)Dunkeld & The Hermitage (15 mins)Crieff (25 mins)

Local Tip

Take the scenic route to Pitlochry via Dunkeld and stop at The Hermitage - the walk to the waterfall takes only 20 minutes but feels like you've stepped into an ancient forest.

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