Car Rental Athens, WV

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens, West Virginia, allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key spots like Gardner Center Park, located 5 miles away, perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences. Long Branch Lake, just 4 miles from Athens, offers beautiful scenery and romantic settings, while the Bluestone River, also 5 miles away, invites outdoor adventures and picturesque views.

A rental car also opens up opportunities to explore nearby cities such as Princeton, 9 miles away, which features additional parks and trails, or Pipestem, only 5 miles from Athens, known for its natural beauty. Lerona, just 2 miles away, showcases attractions like Bluestone Lake and Brush Creek Falls. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking adventure, having a car makes it easy to manage luggage and allows for a flexible travel itinerary. This convenience ensures you make the most of your trip to Athens and its beautiful surroundings.

Where to stay around Athens

• Pipestem: Located 5 miles from Athens, Pipestem is a great choice for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Highlights include Long Branch Lake and Bluestone Lake, both ideal for outdoor activities and romantic getaways. The area is also known for its recreational areas and skiing opportunities, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers. Enjoy local dining options, including wineries and restaurants that cater to various tastes.
• Princeton: Situated 9 miles away from Athens, Princeton offers a mix of urban parks and natural attractions. Key points of interest include Gardner Center Park, perfect for family outings, and Lake Shawnee, which provides beautiful scenery for a relaxing day. Princeton is also home to ski fields and walking trails, ensuring that adventure seekers have plenty to explore. Enjoy a variety of nearby food and drink options, including restaurants and wineries.
• Ghent: Located 11 miles from Athens, Ghent is an excellent destination for those interested in skiing and outdoor sports. The area features the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, offering a glimpse into local history, and Bluestone Lake, perfect for scenic outings. Ghent is known for its recreational areas and has options for dining and drinks, including local wineries and bars. The surrounding landscapes make it a suitable spot for adventure enthusiasts.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, Expedia's filters can help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver and park 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively 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 simple to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Athens

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Athens into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Athens and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Athens

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Athens. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Athens

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals