If your trip to Irvine is all sorted out but your itinerary is looking a bit empty, let us give you a helping hand.Not too far from the city center, Irvine Beach is one attraction you might like to put on your to-do list. If you still have space on that travel itinerary, Glasgow Gailes and Scottish Maritime Museum will keep you entertained as well.

With some terrific day trip options available in the surrounding area, renting a car makes good sense. Without one, it’d be much harder to explore everything that Rothesay, 20 miles away, has to offer. Mount Stuart, Rothesay Castle and Rothesay Ferry Terminal alone make the drive out worth it. The locals will also likely point you toward Cumnock, 20 miles away. If you only see one thing here, make sure it’s Dumfries House. (But we’re also big fans of New Cumnock Community Open-Air Swimming Pool and New Cumnock Golf Club.)

If you’re visiting Irvine with the young ones, a fun day by the sea is a terrific way to keep them busy. Pack the trunk with some buckets and spades, and journey out to one of these gorgeous coastal stretches:

• Ayr Beach (11 miles away).
• Croy Beach (17 miles away).

Whether you’re heading away solo or with the entire family, CarRentals.com can help you find the best ride for your adventure in Irvine. A compact car is a fabulous choice if you’re going to be spending lots of time in the downtown area. Thrifty and fuel-efficient, these vehicles will get you from point A to B comfortably and easily. If you feel like making a big impression, browse our special category. You’re certain to find something that’ll elicit some envious stares! Got the kids with you? A roomy full-size SUV should suit all your needs.

Sometimes it’s all about the journey, which makes your car choice important. If you’re planning an amazing road trip around Irvine, a roomy SUV could be a good choice. If you want the cheapest possible price and plan on staying mostly in the city, a versatile compact is a clever pick. All you have to do is decide what suits you best, throw your bags in the trunk, and clock up those miles.

There’s more to getting on the road in Irvine than simply sliding behind the wheel and turning the key. Get the lowdown on a few of the most important rules and regulations here:

Stay on the left-hand side of the road in Irvine. If you’re planning to discover this destination on wheels, take note that the steering wheel will be on the right. It could take a little getting used to!

If you want to leave your car in the heart of town and roam the area by foot, you shouldn’t have too many problems bagging a spot. Just make sure you look out for any parking signs and follow the rules. You don’t want to ruin an exciting day out with a fine.

As with many destinations, you can expect more traffic in the rush hours before and after work. However, with a population of about 33,700, traffic isn’t a big problem in Irvine.

More often than not, your chosen rental car company will charge the amount listed on the fine to your credit card, including local surcharges and taxes. Or they may provide your contact details to the relevant local authority, who’ll then send a fine to your postal address.