Downtown St. John's Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown St. John's

Renting a car in Downtown St. John's offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as George Street, known for its vibrant nightlife, and The Rooms, an art museum located just 1 km away, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. The Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, also 1 km from Downtown, is another cultural gem worth seeing. For those seeking outdoor adventures, having a rental car allows convenient access to scenic destinations like the Cape Spear Lighthouse, enhancing your experience of the beautiful Newfoundland landscape. You can manage your luggage with ease, making it a perfect choice for families or those traveling with extra gear. Additionally, exploring nearby neighborhoods such as Central and the Ecclesiastical District becomes hassle-free, as they feature attractions like The Rooms and Basilica Cathedral within close proximity. Whether you're on a cultural journey or an outdoor expedition, renting a car ensures a more enjoyable and adaptable travel experience in and around Downtown St. John's.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown St. John's

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples and families. Renting a midsize vehicle allows for comfortable travel while providing ample room for your luggage, ensuring you can explore Downtown St. John's and its surroundings without feeling cramped.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for 5 travellers, this compact SUV can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. It strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families. With a compact SUV, you can navigate the streets of Downtown St. John's with ease while enjoying the added benefit of a higher driving position and versatile cargo space.
• Economy: This car type is perfect for accommodating 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. The economy option is particularly beneficial for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly choice. It's a practical solution for those who want to explore Downtown St. John's while keeping rental costs low and enjoying the freedom of driving.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown St. John's

• Enterprise: Enterprise has a rental location situated 3 km away from Downtown St. John's, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for its reliable service, Enterprise offers a well-maintained fleet with popular choices including Compact SUVs and Midsize vehicles. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of the rental process, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace while managing your luggage efficiently.
• Hertz: Located 4 km from Downtown St. John's, Hertz provides a solid car rental option for those looking to explore the region. This supplier is recognized for its selection of Economy and Midsize SUVs, catering to a variety of travel needs. Hertz's commitment to customer satisfaction and straightforward rental procedures make it a favourite among tourists wanting to navigate the attractions around St. John's comfortably.
• Budget: Budget also has a rental location 4 km away from Downtown St. John's, offering competitive pricing and a convenient choice for visitors. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs with all-wheel drive, ideal for tackling Newfoundland and Labrador's diverse terrain. Budget is appreciated for its efficient service, making it a practical option for travellers seeking good value during their stay.

Where to stay around Downtown St. John's

• Downtown St. John's: As the heart of the city, Downtown St. John's offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. It's an ideal base for exploring local attractions such as George Street and The Rooms, both within close proximity. The area provides easy access to the stunning national parks and bays, perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic views.
• Central: Located less than 1 km from Downtown St. John's, Central is a lively neighbourhood that boasts a variety of restaurants and recreational areas. It is home to attractions like the Basilica Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the urban park offers great outdoor experiences. For those looking to enjoy both culture and adventure, Central is a fantastic choice.
• Georgestown: Situated 1 km away from Downtown St. John's, Georgestown is perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway. This charming neighbourhood features local attractions like Quidi Vidi Lake, ideal for outdoor activities and picturesque scenery. With its vibrant arts scene including music concerts and theatre, Georgestown provides a delightful blend of relaxation and cultural experiences.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown St. John's

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible to enjoy the summer sun, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, Expedia's filters can assist you in finding the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars generally come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers 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 unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown St. John's

The best value period to rent a car in Downtown St. John's is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. March through May also offer average prices and demand, making them decent options for rentals. However, from June through August, prices tend to be moderately high with high demand, particularly in July, which is usually the most expensive month for car rentals.