Bucharest Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bucharest

Renting a car in Bucharest provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as the Palace of the Parliament, University Square, and Piata Romana, all conveniently located within the city. This mode of travel is ideal for those looking for romantic outings, family adventures, or cultural experiences. You can effortlessly navigate to popular destinations like Bucharest City-Centre, where you can explore University Square and Piata Unirii, or venture into Bucharest Old Town for a taste of history at the National History Museum of Romania. Additionally, a drive to nearby Otopeni allows for a visit to Herastrau Park and Arcul de Triumf. Renting a car not only enhances convenience for tourists but also supports a leisurely travel experience, enabling you to create your own itinerary without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Bucharest

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for those exploring Bucharest, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This type of vehicle is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families, providing a perfect blend of comfort and practicality as you navigate the city’s attractions at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: If you’re travelling with family or a small group, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for longer trips or when you need extra luggage space. This car type offers versatility and comfort, ensuring a pleasant driving experience while discovering Bucharest and its surroundings.
• Economy: The Economy car is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travellers. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo trips, couples, or families. This option is perfect for those seeking efficient fuel consumption and ease of parking while enjoying the freedom to explore Bucharest’s attractions on your own terms.

Top rated car suppliers in Bucharest

• Alamo Rent A Car: With one rental location in Bucharest, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility and ease. Known for its competitive offerings, the most booked vehicles with Alamo include Compact SUVs and Economy cars, making it a great option for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings comfortably.
• Avis: Avis boasts two rental locations within Bucharest, allowing for convenient access to their services. They are well-regarded among tourists, with Compact SUVs and Economy cars being the top choices for rentals. This supplier provides a reliable selection of vehicles, perfect for navigating the bustling streets of Bucharest and beyond.
• Enterprise: Enterprise has a rental location in Bucharest, offering a solid selection of vehicles for those on the go. Their most popular rentals include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, appealing to families or groups seeking space and comfort. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise is a trusted option for travellers looking to explore Romania at their own pace.

Where to stay in Bucharest

• Bucharest City-Centre: A vibrant neighborhood perfect for those seeking a city-themed, family, or romantic experience. Within proximity, explore notable attractions like University Square, Piata Romana, and Piata Unirii, all offering a taste of local culture. The area features numerous restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal base for food enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing spa treatments or catch a performance at the nearby theater, enhancing their stay with various entertainment options.
• Sector 1: This district is another excellent choice for city-themed, family, or romantic experiences. Highlights include Herastrau Park, a beautiful urban park, and the historic Arcul de Triumf, which offers cultural insights. The House of the Free Press is also nearby, providing an interesting glimpse into Romania's history. Sector 1 boasts a variety of dining options, from cafes to upscale restaurants, ensuring that guests can enjoy delicious meals after a day of exploration.
• Otopeni: Located close to Bucharest, Otopeni is ideal for families and those looking for a mix of city attractions and relaxation. Key points of interest include a theme park, a waterpark, and the natural history museum, catering to diverse interests. Dining options abound, with various restaurants and cafes available. The city's atmosphere is both engaging and tranquil, making it a wonderful area to unwind after visiting nearby attractions such as Herastrau Park and Arcul de Triumf.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver 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 available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
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 most economical option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable 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, although the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides you with peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy 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 prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bucharest

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bucharest is February, when both prices and demand tend to be low. January and February are generally the quietest months, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Following this, March sees a slight increase in prices and average demand. However, from June through August, prices rise and demand peaks, with August being the most expensive month for rentals. Meanwhile, September and October return to average pricing with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.8°F (-0.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	44.6°F (7.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	77.5°F (25.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	68.5°F (20.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.8°F (8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	36.5°F (2.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average