Twin Cities Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Twin Cities

Renting a car in the Twin Cities provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or anyone looking to experience the city and its surroundings with ease. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, located just 2 km away, or the beautiful Minnehaha Park, which is 7 km from Twin Cities. The Science Museum of Minnesota, only 6 km away, is another great stop for families looking to enjoy cultural experiences together.

Driving also allows you to venture beyond the immediate area to popular destinations in Minneapolis and St. Paul, which are 8 km and 6 km away, respectively. Minneapolis features the Minneapolis Institute of Art and Lake Harriet, while St. Paul is home to the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Science Museum. Having a rental car makes it convenient to manage luggage and travel plans, ensuring that your trip to the Twin Cities is both enjoyable and flexible.

Most popular car rentals around Twin Cities

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice among travellers in Twin Cities, accommodating 5 passengers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. A midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a versatile vehicle that offers both comfort and practicality. With its spacious interior, it allows you to easily manage your luggage and enjoy the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.
• Fullsize: The fullsize vehicle option is another top choice for those renting in Twin Cities, comfortably seating 5 travellers and allowing for the transport of up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for families or larger groups seeking extra room for passengers and gear. Its spaciousness makes it a reliable option for longer journeys where comfort and flexibility are key.
• Compact: If you're travelling solo or with a partner, the compact car option is a great fit. It accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases, making it a practical choice for couples and small families. Compact cars are easy to manoeuvre and park, ideal for navigating the urban landscape of Twin Cities while still providing enough room for your essentials. This option balances efficiency and comfort for your rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers around Twin Cities

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations, Enterprise is a highly convenient option for travellers in Twin Cities, with the nearest location only 2 km away. Known for its diverse range of vehicles, the most popular choices among customers include Luxury and Fullsize cars. This supplier is a fantastic choice for those looking for comfort and style during their trip.
• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in the Twin Cities area, with the nearest being 6 km away. This supplier is ideal for those seeking value, offering popular vehicles such as Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs. Budget is well-regarded for its competitive pricing, making it an excellent option for cost-conscious travellers looking to explore the region.
• Avis: Avis features 3 rental locations around Twin Cities, with the closest one situated 6 km from the city. This supplier is known for its reliable service and offers a selection of vehicles that includes Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. Avis provides a great balance of comfort and convenience, making it a solid choice for your car rental needs.

Where to stay around Twin Cities

• Minneapolis: Located 8 km from Twin Cities, Minneapolis offers a vibrant city experience suitable for families and business travellers. Key attractions include the Minneapolis Institute of Art, perfect for a cultural holiday, and the scenic Lake Harriet, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy various dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, all within proximity to major shopping centres and entertainment venues.
• St. Paul: Situated 6 km from Twin Cities, St. Paul is known for its lively atmosphere, making it a great choice for family and entertainment-themed visits. Must-see destinations include the Science Museum of Minnesota and the stunning Cathedral of Saint Paul, both enriching for culture seekers. The city also features a variety of restaurants and wineries, alongside popular shopping mall centres and concert venues.
• Roseville: Just 6 km away from Twin Cities, Roseville is a family-friendly city that combines urban conveniences with local charm. Visitors can explore the Minnesota State Fairgrounds and the urban oasis of Minnehaha Park, perfect for outdoor activities. The city’s proximity to event venues and shopping centres, as well as its excellent dining and winery options, make it a convenient base for exploring the Twin Cities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Twin Cities

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit 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 early, you’re more likely to access lower rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—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 rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most beneficial option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in those circumstances.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Renting a car from airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the expense.
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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 Twin Cities

The best value period to rent a car in the Twin Cities is February, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. January and April also offer moderately low prices with average demand. Moving into the summer months, June sees higher prices and increased demand, making it one of the most expensive times to rent a vehicle. July continues this trend with high demand, while August remains busy with average pricing, indicating a peak in rental activity.