Athens Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens, Georgia, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key attractions like Sanford Stadium, a hub for sports culture, and the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, perfect for outdoor and romantic experiences. The University of Georgia Conference Center also offers various business-related opportunities in the area.

Having a car makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations such as Downtown Athens, which includes attractions like the Georgia Museum of Art, or take a short drive to Watkinsville, located 11 km away, where you can enjoy the Georgia Nature Center. Winterville, just 9 km from Athens, also features several interesting sites. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking a cultural getaway, a rental car allows you to create flexible travel plans and fully experience the charm of Athens and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Athens

• Economy: This car type accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families. The Economy option is a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and efficient way to navigate Athens, providing excellent fuel efficiency and ease of parking while allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option comfortably fits 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, which is perfect for couples or families on the go. This choice offers a balance of space and comfort without being too cumbersome, making it a sought-after option for those who appreciate a bit more room for passengers and luggage while travelling around Athens.
• Compact SUV AWD: Accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases, the Compact SUV AWD is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for versatility. This vehicle type combines the benefits of an all-wheel-drive system for better handling with the comfort and space needed for a pleasant journey, allowing you to explore the scenic routes around Athens with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Athens

• Enterprise: With one rental location in Athens, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for excellent customer service, this supplier offers a diverse range of vehicles, with the Economy and Compact SUV AWD models being the most popular among renters. Enjoy the freedom to explore Athens and its surroundings at your own pace, making your trip memorable and easy.
• Hertz: Another reputable option in Athens, Hertz also operates one rental location in the area. Renowned for its reliable service, Hertz primarily offers Midsize vehicles, making it a great choice for those requiring a bit more space without compromising on comfort. With Hertz, you can confidently travel to various attractions in and around Athens, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Avis: Avis stands out with one rental location in Athens, providing a solid selection of vehicles for your travel needs. The Compact and Standard models are the most frequently booked, appealing to those who appreciate practicality and comfort. Renting from Avis allows you to manage your luggage easily while exploring the rich culture and heritage of Athens, Georgia.

Where to stay in and around Athens

• Downtown Athens: Located at the heart of Athens, Downtown Athens offers a vibrant culture-themed experience. This area is rich in activities and venues including theaters and an entertainment facility. Key landmarks such as the historic Sanford Stadium, University Of Georgia Conference Center, and Georgia Museum of Art are all easily accessible. With nearby options for food and drinks including wineries, this neighborhood is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the local scene.
• Watkinsville: Just 11 km from Athens, Watkinsville is a charming city ideal for those seeking outdoor and romantic experiences. The scenic surroundings feature beautiful lakes and recreational areas. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Georgia Nature Center and State Botanical Garden of Georgia, perfect for family outings or romantic strolls. With an array of local wineries and distilleries, Watkinsville invites travellers to indulge in its picturesque landscape and vibrant outdoor activities.
• Cobbham Historic District: This historic neighbourhood in Athens is known for its rich culture and outdoor appeal. Cobbham Historic District provides access to educational venues and recreational areas, alongside the historic Sanford Stadium and University Of Georgia Conference Center. The Georgia Museum of Art adds a cultural touch to your stay. With plenty of nearby wineries for tasting, this area is a delightful choice for those interested in a romantic getaway or cultural exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in better rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and 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 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable; just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case anything goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Athens

The best time to rent a car in and around Athens is January, when both prices and demand are low, offering great value. February and March also maintain low prices and demand, making them good options for budget-conscious travellers. As the year progresses, April through June sees a rise in demand and average pricing, with June being particularly busy and moderately high in cost. December stands out as the most expensive month, paired with average demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	47.3°F (8.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
July	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	73.2°F (22.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High