Budapest Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Budapest

Renting a car in Budapest offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those with multiple pieces of luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while traveling. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the picturesque Margaret Island, the historic Parliament Building, and the charming Buda Castle, all located within the city. Additionally, the Budapest City Centre and Inner City Budapest offer fascinating neighbourhoods that feature cultural landmarks like St. Stephen's Basilica and the Szechenyi Chain Bridge.

Having a vehicle also makes it convenient to venture beyond the major sights. You can explore Erzsebetvaros, home to the Postal Stamp Museum and the Hungarian State Opera House, without the constraints of public transport schedules. The ease of navigating Budapest's roads means you can create flexible travel plans and enjoy cultural experiences that interest you most. Overall, a rental car enhances your visit, allowing you to fully appreciate the diverse offerings of Budapest and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Budapest

• Compact: The Compact car is a popular choice for many travellers in Budapest, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 3 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families who want a comfortable ride without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Its size makes navigating Budapest’s streets easier, providing the flexibility to explore both the city and its scenic surroundings at your own pace.
• Economy: The Economy car option is another highly booked choice among visitors to Budapest, offering accommodation for 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for an economical option that doesn’t compromise on comfort. The Economy car provides a cost-effective solution for exploring the beautiful sights and attractions in and around Budapest while ensuring you have enough space for your luggage.
• Midsize SUV: For those who require a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is a fantastic option. This vehicle type accommodates 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride, allowing you to easily pack in extra gear or luggage for longer trips. Its versatility makes it well-suited for navigating both urban areas and the picturesque outskirts of Budapest.

Top rated car suppliers in Budapest

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for travellers in Budapest, offering 4 rental locations throughout the city. Known for its reliable service, Sixt provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles, with Compact and Economy cars being the most booked options. The flexibility of renting from Sixt allows you to navigate Budapest and its surroundings at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore.
• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations in Budapest, providing travellers with convenient access to its services. This supplier is especially noted for its Compact SUV and Economy models, catering to various travel needs. Budget is recognized for its competitive rates, making it an attractive choice for those looking to manage their travel expenses while enjoying the freedom of a rental car.
• Carwiz: Carwiz has 1 rental location in Budapest, offering a streamlined option for those seeking to rent a vehicle. Known for its focus on customer satisfaction, Carwiz provides a selection of Compact SUVs and Economy cars, making it a suitable choice for both solo travellers and families. The convenience of renting from Carwiz allows you to experience Budapest and its vicinity with ease.

Where to stay in Budapest

• Budapest City Centre: Located in the heart of Budapest, this vibrant neighborhood is ideal for families and culture enthusiasts. It's close to historic attractions like the Parliament Building and St. Stephen's Basilica. Enjoy the local public market and various shopping areas. The nearby cafes and wineries provide excellent food and drink options, making it a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
• Jozsefvaros: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural highlights, Jozsefvaros offers access to entertainment venues such as the Hungarian State Opera House and the water park. The area features Orczy Park, perfect for outdoor enjoyment. Dining options are plentiful, allowing visitors to savour local cuisine while exploring this culturally rich neighbourhood.
• District VI: A culturally vibrant area, District VI is home to the House of Terror Museum and the iconic Parliament Building. This district is ideal for families and those interested in the arts, with numerous theatres and shopping areas. St. Stephen's Basilica adds to the local charm, providing a stunning backdrop for any visit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for those warm summer days, or an economy car to keep costs down, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re 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 more affordable to rent and easier to navigate 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate with a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an additional charge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the cost.
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 easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Budapest

The best value period to rent a car in and around Budapest is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is low as well. January and February follow closely, typically seeing lower demand, though prices in January tend to be slightly high. For better value, October can also be a good choice, as prices are slightly low and demand is average. However, August stands out as the most expensive month due to high demand and slightly high prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.9°F (0.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
February	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	53.8°F (12.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.0°F (21.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	35.2°F (1.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low