Shanghai Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Shanghai

Renting a car in Shanghai provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit top attractions such as Shanghai Disneyland©, perfect for family experiences, or The Bund, ideal for romantic outings and family fun. People's Square offers a modern city experience, all conveniently accessible with your vehicle. Traveling around the city also allows you to discover popular neighborhoods like Downtown Shanghai, where you can explore The Bund, People's Square, and Yu Garden, or Pudong, featuring Shanghai Disneyland© and the iconic Shanghai Tower. For those staying in Jing'an, the Jing'an Temple and Shanghai Centre are just a drive away. Renting a car simplifies luggage management and allows for flexible travel plans, making it an excellent choice for families or business travellers who need to navigate the city efficiently. With a rental car, you can easily explore the sights, manage your belongings, and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs while experiencing the best of Shanghai and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Shanghai

• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle type provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it ideal for your travel needs in and around Shanghai. Enjoy the convenience of flexibility in your travel plans while comfortably exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Compact: The compact car option is perfect for 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families who value convenience and efficiency. Compact cars are easier to manoeuvre in urban settings, allowing for hassle-free parking and navigation through the bustling streets of Shanghai while still ensuring you have enough space for your belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Shanghai

• Hertz: Hertz stands out as the most popular car rental supplier in Shanghai, with four conveniently located rental points around the city. Travellers appreciate the diverse fleet, especially the Midsize SUVs and Compacts, which are frequently booked. With the flexibility to explore Shanghai at your own pace, Hertz provides a reliable option for those looking to manage their itinerary and luggage effectively.

Where to stay in Shanghai

• Pudong: Located in the eastern part of Shanghai, Pudong is ideal for families and business travellers alike. The area is known for its impressive skyline, featuring landmarks like the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower. Visitors can enjoy shopping at various malls and dining options nearby. Key attractions include the exciting Shanghai Disneyland©, perfect for family outings, and cultural experiences at the local historic places and esplanades.
• Downtown Shanghai: This vibrant neighbourhood is at the heart of the city, offering a mix of modern and historic attractions. Downtown Shanghai is home to The Bund, a scenic esplanade perfect for leisurely strolls, and People's Square, a lively area ideal for city exploration. The charming Yu Garden provides a beautiful escape amidst the urban landscape. With plenty of dining and shopping venues, Downtown Shanghai is a great choice for families and business travellers.
• Puxi: Situated on the western side of the Huangpu River, Puxi combines historic charm with modern conveniences. It features the Former French Concession, a lovely area for outdoor exploration, and West Nanjing Road, a bustling street known for shopping. Zhongshan Park offers green spaces for family-friendly activities. With diverse dining options and cafes nearby, Puxi is perfect for those seeking a blend of culture, relaxation, and city life.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best options 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be accessible. 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 rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel policies, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car with an empty tank in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an extra fee for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a vehicle.