Downtown Los Angeles Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Los Angeles

Renting a car in Downtown Los Angeles offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites like L.A. Live, a family-friendly precinct, or the historic Los Angeles City Hall, both located within Downtown. The Broad art museum is also a cultural gem that you can access conveniently by car.

A car rental is particularly beneficial for families, allowing for easy management of luggage and gear while ensuring everyone stays together during your travels. You can venture beyond Downtown to popular destinations like Universal Studios Hollywood, Santa Monica Beach, and Six Flags Magic Mountain in nearby Los Angeles. Additionally, neighborhoods like Skid Row and the Toy District, both less than 1 km away, feature attractions like Hollywood Walk of Fame and more, making your exploration seamless. With a rental car, you can navigate the city comfortably, making your trip to Downtown Los Angeles truly enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Los Angeles

• Midsize: A popular choice for couples and families, the midsize car accommodates up to 5 travellers with room for 3 large suitcases. This option offers a balance of comfort and space, making it perfect for navigating the bustling streets of Downtown Los Angeles while providing enough luggage capacity for your adventures.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the fullsize car fits up to 5 travellers and can manage either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type ensures that everyone travels comfortably, with ample space for luggage, perfect for a smooth journey around the vibrant attractions of Downtown Los Angeles.
• Compact: The compact car is a smart option for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This choice is especially advantageous for navigating city traffic and finding parking in Downtown Los Angeles, offering convenience and efficiency for your trip.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Los Angeles

• Midway Car Rental: With 2 rental locations, Midway Car Rental offers convenience for travellers in Downtown Los Angeles. The nearest location makes it easy to pick up your vehicle and start exploring. Popular choices with this supplier include Midsize and Fullsize cars, providing great options for a comfortable ride while you navigate the city.
• Sixt: Sixt has 1 rental location in Downtown Los Angeles, ensuring a straightforward pick-up process. Known for their stylish offerings, Sixt’s most booked vehicles include Luxury SUVs and Midsize SUVs, perfect for those looking to travel in comfort and style while enjoying the sights of the area.
• Hertz: Hertz boasts 4 rental locations, with the nearest situated conveniently in Downtown Los Angeles. This extensive presence allows for flexible pick-up and drop-off options. Midsize SUVs and Economy cars are among the most popular rentals, making it easy to find a vehicle that fits your travel needs and budget.

Where to stay around Downtown Los Angeles

• Downtown Los Angeles: The heart of the city, Downtown Los Angeles offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment. Here, you'll find popular venues such as L.A. Live, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. The area is also close to iconic landmarks, including the historic Los Angeles City Hall, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's rich history and modern attractions.
• Hollywood: Located 10 km away, Hollywood is a must-visit for those interested in culture and entertainment. This iconic neighbourhood features the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous Hollywood Boulevard, offering a unique city holiday experience. With attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood nearby, it caters to families and entertainment seekers alike.
• Skid Row: Situated less than 1 km from Downtown Los Angeles, Skid Row is an area that combines business and entertainment themes. It hosts a variety of venues, including theaters and sports facilities. Noteworthy attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and L.A. Live are within close proximity, making it a convenient location for those looking to explore the local scene.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Los Angeles

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, make use of Expedia's filters to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to find lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an extra charge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s simple to include car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Downtown Los Angeles

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Los Angeles is February, as prices are slightly low and demand remains average. January is also an excellent choice, offering similar benefits. Following that, May and June provide moderate pricing with slightly low to average demand. In contrast, March is the most expensive month, characterized by high demand and elevated prices. April continues to see slightly high prices, but with average demand.