Asheville Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Asheville

Renting a car in Asheville, North Carolina, offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. This option is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the historic Biltmore Estate, located conveniently in the area of Asheville, or the picturesque French Broad River, just 3 km away, perfect for outdoor activities. The Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Entrance is also accessible, offering eco-friendly family experiences amidst beautiful landscapes.

A rental car simplifies your travel plans, allowing you to explore popular neighbourhoods like Downtown Asheville, with its landmarks including Pack Square and the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, or West Asheville, which features the Asheville Treetops Adventure Park. Additionally, Biltmore Village is nearby, boasting Historic Biltmore Village and more attractions. Whether travelling with family, managing luggage, or seeking adventure, having a rental car ensures you can make the most of your visit to Asheville and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Asheville

• Midsize: This car option is a top choice for those exploring Asheville, accommodating up to 5 travellers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for couples or families looking to enjoy their journey comfortably while managing their luggage with ease. Renting a midsize car allows you the freedom to navigate the beautiful surroundings of Asheville at your own pace.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the compact SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This versatile car type offers a balance of space and manoeuvrability, making it a popular choice for those wanting to explore Asheville’s attractions while ensuring everyone has enough room for their belongings. The compact SUV is a practical option for various travel plans.
• Standard SportsCar: If you’re an adventure traveller or prefer a sporty feel, the standard sports car is a great option. Accommodating up to 4 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases, this car type is perfect for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience. It’s a stylish choice for couples or solo travellers who want to enjoy the thrill of the open road while exploring the scenic beauty around Asheville.

Top rated car suppliers in Asheville

• Enterprise: With two rental locations in the Asheville area, Enterprise provides great convenience for travellers. Known for their excellent selection, the most booked vehicles with Enterprise include Midsize and Compact SUVs, perfect for navigating the scenic routes of the region. Their flexible rental policies allow for an enjoyable experience, making it easy to explore Asheville and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Budget: Budget operates one rental location in Asheville, offering amazing value for travellers seeking affordable options. The most popular vehicles from Budget include Midsize and Luxury cars, which are ideal for those wanting a comfortable ride while exploring the city and beyond. With their competitive rates, Budget ensures that you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.
• Hertz: Hertz has one rental location in Asheville, providing convenient access to quality vehicles. Their most booked options are Compact and Premium cars, which are perfect for visitors looking for efficiency and style. Hertz is known for its reliable service, allowing you to easily embark on your adventures in and around Asheville with peace of mind.

Where to stay in Asheville

• Downtown Asheville: This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking an outdoor, family, and culture-themed experience. It is home to attractions such as Pack Square, a modern square ideal for relaxation, and the historic Thomas Wolfe Memorial. The renowned Biltmore Estate, a must-visit historic house, is also nearby. With a variety of breweries and wineries, Downtown Asheville offers plenty of dining options to complement your cultural explorations.
• West Asheville: Known for its outdoor and eco-friendly vibes, West Asheville is a great choice for families. Visitors can enjoy the Asheville Treetops Adventure Park, which offers thrilling zipline experiences, and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Entrance, perfect for nature lovers. The Biltmore Estate is also within reach, further enriching the cultural experience. This neighbourhood is filled with breweries and wineries, making it a delightful spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Historic Montford: This charming neighbourhood attracts those interested in outdoor activities and cultural pursuits. Key highlights include the historic Biltmore Estate and the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Entrance, which is ideal for family outings. The picturesque French Broad River offers serene scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historic Montford features various breweries and wineries, ensuring that visitors have a variety of local flavours to enjoy during their stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Asheville

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well in advance of your trip. Booking early often results in lower prices and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are acceptable as well; just ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's simple to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Asheville

The best time to rent a car in and around Asheville is January, as prices are slightly low and demand is minimal. This trend continues into April, which also offers good value with low demand. For those considering a mid-range option, February and June see average prices and demand. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly higher demand. Following that, September and November arrive with higher demand and prices, making them busier times for rentals.