Center City Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Center City

Renting a car in Center City, Philadelphia, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create an itinerary that suits your travel plans. This is particularly beneficial for families or those looking to enjoy city-themed and outdoor experiences. You can visit key attractions such as Rittenhouse Square, located within Center City, or take a short drive to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, just 3 km away, for a dose of culture. Additionally, the historic Liberty Bell Center is conveniently situated within Center City. A rental car also allows you to explore nearby neighborhoods like Market East and Midtown Village, both less than 1 km away, where you can find additional cultural sites and city experiences. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking an outdoor adventure, having a car makes it easy to enjoy everything Philadelphia has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in and around Center City

• Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an excellent choice for couples or families looking for comfort and practicality while exploring Center City. The midsize option strikes a balance between space and maneuverability, making it suitable for navigating city streets.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the compact car accommodates up to 5 travellers with room for 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and navigate through the bustling streets of Center City, ensuring a stress-free rental experience while maintaining flexibility in travel plans.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the fullsize car can hold up to 5 travellers and offers the flexibility of accommodating either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is particularly beneficial for those needing extra luggage space without sacrificing comfort, making it a popular choice for travellers in and around Center City.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Center City

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in the heart of Center City, Budget provides convenient access for travellers looking to explore the area. Known for its affordability, Budget offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most popular choices. This supplier is a great option for those seeking flexibility and value during their stay in Philadelphia.
• Sixt: Sixt operates 1 rental location within Center City, making it a convenient choice for tourists. With a focus on quality and service, Sixt's most booked vehicles include Standard SUVs and Midsize SUVs, perfect for navigating both city streets and nearby attractions. Sixt is renowned for its customer-friendly approach, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Hertz: Located just 2 km from Center City, Hertz offers another excellent option for car rentals. With 1 rental location nearby, travellers can access a variety of vehicles, including Midsize and Fullsize cars. Hertz is well-regarded for its reliable service, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore Philadelphia and its surroundings with ease.

Where to stay around Center City

• Center City: As the heart of Philadelphia, Center City is ideal for those seeking a vibrant urban experience. It offers easy access to a variety of attractions including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, perfect for culture enthusiasts, and Rittenhouse Square, a lovely neighbourhood for leisure. This area is bustling with shopping, dining, and nightlife options, making it a great base for your explorations.
• Camden: Located 4 km from Center City, Camden is known for its cultural and entertainment offerings. Highlights include the Battleship New Jersey, a maritime museum that provides an engaging historical insight. The Rutgers - Camden Center for the Arts is also nearby, offering a rich cultural experience. Camden features a range of restaurants and wineries, making it a charming spot for family outings.
• Gloucester City: Approximately 7 km from Center City, Gloucester City is perfect for those looking for outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. With attractions like the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall, this area is steeped in history. Visitors can also enjoy local dining options and explore the scenic surroundings, making it a pleasant place to stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Center City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect 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 obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size cars 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. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge; however, this added convenience may be worth 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 peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: To rent a car, you must present a valid driver's license.

Best time to rent a car in and around Center City

The best value period to rent a car in and around Center City is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This is followed closely by February, which also offers slightly low prices and moderate demand. April tends to see slightly higher prices with average demand, while the late summer months, like August, maintain average pricing and demand levels. However, October can be the most expensive month, accompanied by moderately high demand, making it a less ideal time for budget-conscious renters.