Atlanta Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Atlanta

Renting a car in Atlanta offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, and those interested in city-themed experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs.

Key attractions like Six Flags Over Georgia, Centennial Olympic Park, and the World of Coca-Cola are conveniently accessible with your own vehicle. For example, you can drive to Downtown Atlanta to visit the park and museum, or head to Marietta to enjoy the Marietta Square and East Cobb Baseball. Furthermore, exploring Alpharetta is simple with a rental car, allowing you to visit Wills Park and Roswell Mill without relying on public transport.

Having a rental car also makes it easier to plan day trips and visit multiple attractions in a single day, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant metropolis. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Atlanta by offering convenience and ease of movement.

Most popular car rentals in Atlanta

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice for renters in Atlanta, accommodating up to 5 travellers with sufficient space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility while exploring the area. The extra room allows for easy luggage management, making it perfect for those travelling with more gear.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is another highly booked choice, capable of seating 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it especially suitable for families or groups who require more space for both passengers and luggage. Its generous interior ensures a comfortable ride, allowing everyone to enjoy their journey around Atlanta.
• Compact SUV: The compact SUV is an excellent choice for various travellers, accommodating up to 5 people and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly popular among solo travellers, couples, and families who seek a balance between space and manoeuvrability. The compact size makes it easier to navigate the streets of Atlanta while still providing sufficient room for your belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Atlanta

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for its efficient service and friendly staff. With a single rental location in Atlanta, it ensures a short wait time and service that meets expectations. Travellers often opt for the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV models, enjoying a reliable and comfortable driving experience. Alamo boasts an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With over 40 rental locations throughout Atlanta, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and extensive selection of vehicles. Travellers frequently choose the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV from this supplier. The flexibility in rental options and the helpful staff contribute to a positive overall experience, making it a trusted choice for many. Enterprise is well-regarded by customers seeking a seamless rental process.
• Hertz: Hertz operates more than 15 rental locations in Atlanta, providing a variety of choices for travellers. Known for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize offerings, Hertz is praised for its well-maintained vehicles and efficient service. Customers appreciate the convenience of multiple locations, allowing for easy pickup and return. With a strong presence in the area, Hertz is a reliable option for those looking to explore Atlanta and its surroundings comfortably.

Where to stay in Atlanta

• Downtown Atlanta: A vibrant hub for family and business experiences, Downtown Atlanta is ideal for those interested in city-themed activities. With attractions like Centennial Olympic Park and the World of Coca-Cola nearby, visitors can enjoy a blend of culture and outdoor leisure. The area also offers a variety of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Popular entertainment venues and shopping centres further enhance the appeal of this bustling neighbourhood.
• Marietta: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Marietta is a charming city that offers a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Key points of interest include Marietta Square and Six Flags Over Georgia, perfect for a fun-filled day. The area has numerous shopping centres and eateries, including wineries, making it a convenient choice for visitors. Marietta's blend of historic charm and modern attractions provides a unique experience for travellers.
• Alpharetta: A family-oriented city, Alpharetta is renowned for its shopping areas and theatres, catering to those seeking a city-themed getaway. Visitors can explore Wills Park and Webb Bridge Park for outdoor enjoyment, while Roswell Mill adds a touch of history to the experience. With a selection of restaurants and wineries nearby, Alpharetta is an excellent choice for those looking to blend relaxation and adventure during their stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, employ the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option 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 likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are fine as well; 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 might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can prevent unnecessary expenses and provide you with peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Atlanta

The best value period for renting a car in and around Atlanta is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. March can also be a decent choice, though demand tends to increase during that month. Conversely, April is the most expensive time for rentals, marked by high prices and high demand. Following April, May sees slightly high prices with average demand, making it another busy period for car rentals.