$53 Car Rental Canterbury, CT

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Canterbury

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

Top Car Deals in Canterbury

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

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Canterbury
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 9 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Canterbury car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Canterbury

Renting a car in Canterbury, Connecticut, offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit attractions such as the Campagna Preserve, perfect for outdoor adventures, or the Canterbury Green, which is great for family outings. The Prudence Crandall Museum provides a cultural experience, enriching your visit to the city. Additionally, you can venture just a few miles to nearby destinations like Plainfield, only 3 miles away, where you can enjoy the Sugar Brook Field Trial and Wildlife Management Area, or Central Village, 4 miles away, known for Moosup Pond Beach. Wauregan, 5 miles from Canterbury, offers beautiful spots like Quinebaug Lake State Park. Having a car allows you to manage your luggage easily and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it an ideal choice for those seeking city-themed experiences, outdoor fun, or a romantic getaway. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, a rental car enhances your ability to discover the best of Canterbury and its surroundings.

Where to stay around Canterbury

  • Plainfield: Located 3 miles from Canterbury, Plainfield is an inviting city offering a romantic and city-themed experience. Here, travelers can enjoy outdoor activities, music concerts, and nearby golf courses. Key attractions include the Sugar Brook Field Trial and Wildlife Management Area, perfect for eco-friendly family outings, and the Tillinghast Preserve, which provides opportunities for adventure in nature. Food and drink options abound, including local wineries and sweet treat establishments.
  • Norwich: Situated 13 miles away from Canterbury, Norwich is known for its vibrant city atmosphere and outdoor experiences. Visitors can indulge in various activities, from attending music concerts to enjoying a day at the golf course. Notable points of interest include the Norwich Arts Center for cultural experiences and the Mohegan Park and Memorial Rose Garden, ideal for eco-conscious and family-friendly outings. The city also offers a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries.
  • Preston: Approximately 12 miles from Canterbury, Preston offers a blend of romantic, city, and business-themed experiences. Travelers can explore local music concerts and golf courses while enjoying the scenic views at the Mystic Seaport, a maritime museum that speaks to culture enthusiasts. The nearby Naval Submarine Base New London adds a unique civic aspect to the area, while food options include local restaurants and wineries, making it a charming destination for a diverse range of activities.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for warm summer days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  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 in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind if something goes awry during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, look for 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 Canterbury

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Canterbury

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Canterbury. 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 Canterbury

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $53.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$53
 
Our second best deal of the day
$57
 
Our third best deal of the day
$60
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Canterbury?
You can find cheap car rentals in Canterbury from $11 a day with Sixt's midsize suv. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $11 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also provides compact 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Canterbury that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Canterbury.
What are the best luxury car companies in Canterbury?
For luxury car rentals in Canterbury, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Enterprise. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door vehicles starting from $17 a day and fullsize elite SUVs starting from $26 a day. Enterprise also provides premium crossover vehicles starting from $26 a day. Luxury rentals may include premium insurance options and attentive service at pickup, offering enhanced comfort and features for your trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Canterbury.
Can I rent a car one-way in Canterbury?
A one-way car rental in Canterbury is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer one-way rental options, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Canterbury and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the city without needing to return to their starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Canterbury.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Canterbury?
Canterbury is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the area and returning to your starting point. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer wide round-trip availability, making it convenient to plan your itinerary. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Canterbury.
What are the best car rentals in Canterbury?
Car rentals in Canterbury offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
All available vehicles come with automatic transmission. Families and groups often prefer SUVs or minivans for their spacious interiors and luggage capacity, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city driving and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Canterbury.

What are the best car rentals in Canterbury for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Canterbury for solo travelers are compact and economy classes—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, providing a budget-friendly option with excellent fuel efficiency.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering good maneuverability for city streets and easy parking.
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $12 a day, for extra highway comfort and a bit more space. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Canterbury.

What are the best car rentals in Canterbury for couples?
The best car rentals in Canterbury for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, providing a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible, available from providers like Sixt and Avis, for scenic drives around Canterbury. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Canterbury.

What are the best car rentals in Canterbury for families?
The best car rentals in Canterbury for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, suitable for families with car seats.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $20 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage.
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $14 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering comfort for longer family drives.
SUVs and minivans provide ample space for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them comfortable for trips around Canterbury. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the September-October peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Canterbury.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Canterbury?
Canterbury offers electric vehicle options from several providers. Sixt, Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, and Dollar Rent A Car all provide electric vehicles starting from $12 a day. Choosing an electric car can offer a smooth driving experience and may help save on fuel costs during your trip.
What is the best time to book a car in Canterbury?
From January, prices in Canterbury are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. September and October tend to be the busiest months, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Canterbury?
Car rentals in Canterbury are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and midsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and compact SUV vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with compact 2 or 4 door and compact SUV vehicles. Consider a vehicle with all-wheel-drive for enhanced stability on varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Canterbury.
What are good day trip destinations from Canterbury by rental car?
For travelers looking to explore beyond Canterbury, several excellent day trip destinations are easily accessible by rental car, offering diverse experiences for families, couples, and solo adventurers. A midsize SUV or a fullsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from around $11-$14 a day, provides ample space and comfort for these excursions. Consider these popular spots:
  • Eastern Point Beach in Groton, Connecticut—approximately 32 miles from Canterbury, offering a scenic coastal escape perfect for families and couples.
  • Amston Lake in Connecticut—about 23 miles away, ideal for nature lovers seeking a tranquil lakeside experience.
  • Mystic Seaport in Mystic, Connecticut—located approximately 28 miles from Canterbury, this historic maritime village is a fantastic cultural outing for all ages.
  • University of Connecticut in Storrs, Connecticut—just 20 miles away, this destination can be interesting for families with prospective students or those curious about campus life.
These destinations are all less than an hour's drive, making them perfect for a day trip. For comfort and luggage space, especially if you're bringing beach gear or hiking essentials, a midsize SUV or a standard SUV is a great choice, with options like a midsize SUV starting from $11 a day or a standard SUV starting from $21 a day. Remember to fuel up your car rental in Canterbury before heading out to ensure a smooth journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Canterbury.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Canterbury?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Canterbury. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Canterbury?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Canterbury?
Budget car rental in Canterbury can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $53. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Canterbury?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Canterbury. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Canterbury car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Canterbury?
To rent a car in Canterbury, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Canterbury car rental?
If you need to cancel your Canterbury car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Canterbury with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia