Car Rental Athens, WV

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens, West Virginia, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit nearby attractions like Gardner Center Park, just 5 miles away, perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences. Long Branch Lake, located 4 miles from Athens, offers beautiful scenery and a romantic setting for relaxation, while the Bluestone River, also 5 miles away, is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures.

A rental car makes it easy to venture to surrounding cities, such as Princeton, which is 9 miles away and features several parks and walking trails. Pipestem, just 5 miles from Athens, boasts both Long Branch Lake and the scenic Bluestone River, providing additional opportunities for exploration. Lerona, only 2 miles away, offers access to Bluestone Lake and Brush Creek Falls. Whether you are traveling with family, carrying luggage, or looking for outdoor sports, a rental car ensures you can manage your itinerary with ease and enjoy all that Athens and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay around Athens

• Princeton: Located 9 miles away from Athens, Princeton offers a vibrant outdoor and adventure experience. Visitors can explore attractions such as Gardner Center Park for a family-friendly outing and Princeton City Park Walking Trails for scenic walks. Don't miss Lake Shawnee, known for its romantic scenery and beach opportunities. The city also features dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, making it a great spot for a refreshing stay.
• Pipestem: Just 5 miles from Athens, Pipestem is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Key highlights include Long Branch Lake and Bluestone Lake, both ideal for romantic outings and outdoor activities. The Bluestone River also offers picturesque views. Pipestem is home to various dining options, including wineries and restaurants, enhancing your stay with local flavors.
• Ghent: Situated 11 miles from Athens, Ghent is known for its ski and sports activities, making it an exciting destination for thrill-seekers. Explore the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine for a glimpse into history, or enjoy the beautiful Bluestone Lake for a relaxing day by the water. Ghent also features bars and wineries nearby, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

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 types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilizing Expedia's filters will help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices 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 rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to park 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 fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting 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