Compare cheap car hire at Ireland West Airport Knock with desk locations, pickup details, driving routes and prices.
Ireland West Airport Knock (NOC) is one of the most convenient airports for exploring the west of Ireland. Located in County Mayo, it offers direct access to regions like Mayo, Sligo, Galway and the Wild Atlantic Way.
The airport is compact and easy to navigate, making it a very straightforward place to pick up a rental car.
Exactly Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Knock Airport is small, so everything is close together.
- Car hire desks are located inside the arrivals hall
- They are positioned just after you exit baggage reclaim
- All providers are grouped in one clearly marked area
You can reach them within a minute or two of entering arrivals.
Where You Collect the Car
Once your paperwork is complete:
- Vehicles are collected from the car rental parking area directly outside the terminal
- This is just across from the arrivals exit
- No shuttle bus is required
The entire process is quick and hassle-free.
Airport details and facilities are available on the official Ireland West Airport website.
Direct Flights from Ireland & UK
Knock Airport mainly serves domestic and UK routes.
- London (multiple airports)
- Manchester
- Birmingham
- Liverpool
It’s also used by travellers from across Ireland due to its western location.
Car Hire Companies at Knock Airport
You’ll find a good mix of major providers.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Enterprise
All operate on-site with vehicles located directly outside the terminal.
Typical Car Hire Prices at Knock
| Season | Small Car | Mid-size | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | €25 – €55 | €55 – €90 | €90 – €140 |
| Spring | €35 – €70 | €70 – €110 | €110 – €170 |
| Summer | €60 – €120 | €120 – €180 | €180 – €260 |
| Autumn | €40 – €80 | €80 – €130 | €130 – €200 |
Choosing the Right Car
The west of Ireland includes rural roads, coastal routes and small towns.
- Small cars – easier for narrow rural roads
- Family cars – better for longer journeys
- Estate cars – useful for luggage
- People carriers – ideal for families and groups
Smaller vehicles are often easier to manage on country roads.
Driving from Knock Airport
Knock is well positioned for exploring the west coast.
- Castlebar – about 25 minutes
- Westport – around 45 minutes
- Sligo – roughly 50 minutes
- Galway – about 1 hour 30 minutes
The N17 and N5 roads connect the airport to surrounding towns and regions.
If you are comparing routes, you may also consider Shannon Airport or Dublin Airport depending on your travel plans.
Driving in the West of Ireland
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, with speed limits in kilometres per hour.
Key things to expect:
- Rural roads can be narrow and winding
- Traffic is generally light outside towns
- Fuel stations are available but less frequent in remote areas
Driving is relaxed and scenic once you leave main towns.
For travel inspiration, see Wild Atlantic Way.
Where a Car is Most Useful
A car is essential for exploring this part of Ireland.
- Wild Atlantic Way – coastal driving routes
- Achill Island – dramatic landscapes
- Westport – lively town and base for exploring Mayo
- Sligo coastline – beaches and scenery
Public transport is limited in rural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Knock Airport?
They are located inside the arrivals hall just after baggage reclaim.
Where do I collect the car?
From the car rental parking area directly outside the terminal.
Is Knock Airport easy for car hire?
Yes, it’s one of the simplest airports in Ireland for pickup.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are more common.
Is driving in the west of Ireland difficult?
No, but rural roads can be narrow in places.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Knock Airport?
Yes, though availability depends on demand.
Are there toll roads nearby?
No, there are no toll roads in the immediate area.
Is fuel easy to find?
Yes, but stations are less frequent in rural areas.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the left-hand side.
