Downtown Portland Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Portland

Renting a car in Downtown Portland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, business travellers, or anyone looking to experience the city more thoroughly. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and plan your itinerary without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Key attractions like Tom McCall Waterfront Park, located right in Downtown Portland, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, just 1 km away, are easily accessible. The Portland Japanese Garden, situated 2 km from Downtown, is another must-visit site. Additionally, you can venture into nearby neighborhoods such as the Pearl District and Goose Hollow, both within 2 km, which feature unique sights like the Life Size Elephant Statue. Having a rental car allows you to visit these destinations conveniently, whether for a family outing or a cultural experience. Overall, renting a car enhances your exploration of Downtown Portland and its vibrant surroundings, making your trip more enjoyable and tailored to your needs.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Portland

• Midsize: The most popular choice for travellers in Downtown Portland, the Midsize car accommodates up to 5 passengers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for couples and families looking to explore the area comfortably while managing their luggage with ease. With its balanced size, a Midsize car provides the perfect blend of space and manoeuvrability, making it suitable for both city driving and longer trips.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Compact SUV comfortably fits 5 passengers and can handle up to 3 medium suitcases. Its versatility is a major draw for those wanting a vehicle that can traverse both urban streets and more rugged terrains. With a higher driving position, a Compact SUV offers better visibility and a sense of security, making it a popular option for those exploring Downtown Portland and surrounding areas.
• Standard: The Standard car option is a great fit for couples and families, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. Known for its roomy interior, this type of vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and practicality. Whether you’re navigating through the bustling streets of Downtown Portland or embarking on a longer journey, the Standard car provides a dependable and spacious choice for your travel needs.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Portland

• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out as the most popular car rental supplier in Downtown Portland, boasting 5 rental locations. Travellers appreciate the convenience of having a nearby location, allowing for easy pickups and returns. The most frequently booked vehicles with Enterprise are Midsize and Compact cars, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort and efficiency. Customers often highlight the excellent service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Sixt: Sixt offers a unique rental experience with its single location in Downtown Portland. Known for its range of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, Sixt caters to those looking for spacious options for their journey. The supplier is recognized for its modern fleet and competitive pricing, making it a solid choice for both leisure and business travellers. The convenience of being situated in the heart of Downtown Portland further enhances its appeal.
• Hertz: Hertz provides a reliable car rental service with one convenient location in Downtown Portland. This supplier is particularly popular for its Compact SUVs and Midsize vehicles, appealing to those who desire a balance of comfort and manoeuvrability. Hertz is known for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet, ensuring that customers have a smooth rental experience. Its strategic location makes it easy for travellers to explore the vibrant attractions of Downtown Portland.

Where to stay around Downtown Portland

• Downtown Portland: This vibrant metropolis offers a rich blend of family-friendly activities and urban experiences. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, explore the cultural exhibits at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, or relax in the serene Portland Japanese Garden. The area is also home to an array of restaurants, wineries, and shopping options, making it an ideal base for your stay.
• Northeast Portland: Located 7 km from Downtown, this neighbourhood is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions include The Grotto, an inspiring shrine, and the urban oasis of Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Northeast Portland features various shopping centres and restaurants, as well as the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, making it a well-rounded destination for travellers seeking both culture and recreation.
• Pearl District: Just 2 km from Downtown, the Pearl District is a stylish neighbourhood known for its blend of family activities and business amenities. Highlights include the Life Size Elephant Statue, an iconic cultural monument, and proximity to Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the Portland Japanese Garden. This area boasts a variety of restaurants and shopping venues, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant urban atmosphere.

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

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 economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to locate the ideal vehicle 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 vehicle well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most favourable option. Other policies might include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You'll often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify 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 avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to circumvent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for exploring the city. April and May also provide good opportunities, as they maintain slightly low prices with steady demand. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. June through August can also be busy, with high demand often leading to higher rental rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average