Ottawa Car Rental

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Top Car Deals in Ottawa

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Ottawa, Illinois, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Ottawa, Illinois, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Ottawa, Illinois, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Ottawa, Illinois, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Ottawa car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ottawa

Renting a car in Ottawa offers the freedom and flexibility to explore both the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for those travelling with families or luggage, as it allows for easy management of your belongings while you enjoy sightseeing. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Buffalo Rock State Park, Washington Square Park, and the historic Appellate Court, all located within Ottawa.

Additionally, a rental car makes it simple to discover nearby cities. For example, Utica is just 14 km away, where you can explore the LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum and both Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Peru, located 24 km from Ottawa, is home to Hegeler Carus Mansion and the Illinois & Michigan Canal, while Oglesby, 19 km away, also offers Matthiessen State Park and Hegeler Carus Mansion. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, or cultural experiences, having a car enhances your travel experience in and around Ottawa.

Where to stay around Ottawa

  • Utica: Located 14 km away from Ottawa, Utica is ideal for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. You can explore natural attractions such as Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park, both perfect for scenic hikes and family experiences. The local dining scene offers options from restaurants to wineries, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration. Visit the LaSalle County Historical Society & Museum for a cultural experience.
  • Peru: Situated 24 km from Ottawa, Peru is another excellent choice for families seeking adventure and outdoor activities. Matthiessen State Park is a highlight for its beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities. Additionally, the historic Hegeler Carus Mansion provides a glimpse into the area's culture. Peru also offers a variety of restaurants and wineries, ensuring pleasant dining experiences after a day of adventure.
  • Oglesby: Only 19 km from Ottawa, Oglesby is known for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventure activities. With attractions like Starved Rock State Park and Matthiessen State Park nearby, it is perfect for those who love nature. Oglesby features a range of dining options, including wineries and pubs, allowing you to relax and enjoy local flavours after your outdoor excursions.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to 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're likely to access lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—like SUVs or luxury 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 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 often the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure to return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides additional peace of mind if unexpected events arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Ottawa?
The lowest daily rate for a rental car in Ottawa within the past seven days was . With the flexibility of having your own ride, you can easily cruise to whichever sights are calling your name.
Can I rent a car from Peru, IL (VYS-Illinois Valley Regional)?
Hightail it out of Peru, IL (VYS-Illinois Valley Regional) and rent a car from Enterprise. This car rental outlet is a short commute from the terminal.
What happens if I need to cancel my Ottawa car reservation?
Read through the policy to be certain, but almost all prepaid reservations are eligible for a full refund if you let us know a minimum of six hours prior to collecting the car. There are some exclusions though. Your itinerary will have more info, or just hop onto our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from Ottawa?
There are so many things to do in Ottawa, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Book a set of wheels and you can discover the greater area at your own speed. Add these fantastic drives to your travel plan:
  • Madison is 193 kilometres from Ottawa. Top-rated attractions like Camp Randall Stadium deserve to be high on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Why not check out all that's on offer in Chicago too? Major sights to see here include Wrigley Field. Chicago is 121 kilometres from Ottawa.
  • Get out into the great outdoors and inhale the fresh air at Gardens of the Fox Cities. It's about 338 kilometres from Ottawa.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Ottawa with Expedia?
It's easy to find the best deal with Expedia. Simply choose your wheels, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from big-name providers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Ottawa car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, the requirement is 21 years and over. Most outlets will charge extra fees for young drivers, which can vary based on the rental location. Rental policies for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as specialty cars, and require comprehensive insurance. Remember to read the fine print carefully before choosing your wheels.
What do you need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Any rental company you select will ask for these two things — a valid driver's licence and credit card. If you'd like to opt out of the supplier's insurance plan, proof of other coverage will also likely be needed. Read through your policy so you know what to bring when it's time to pick up your ride.
What is the cheapest car rental in Ottawa?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a rental car in Ottawa was . The next best deal was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Ottawa?
Yes, which means you won't need to rebook a rental vehicle mid-vacation. Head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and secure a set of wheels that's all yours for however long you need.
Where can I find an Ottawa car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to investigate the age policy of the Ottawa rental providers you're interested in. If you're under the age of 25, some companies will charge extra fees. It's better to know about this before arriving at the desk so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Each rental car company has its own policies for younger drivers, so be sure to do your research.

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