$53 Car Rental Charlottesville, VA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charlottesville

Renting a car in Charlottesville allows you to experience this charming county with unmatched freedom and flexibility. Whether you're a wine enthusiast wanting to explore local vineyards, an adventurer seeking outdoor activities, or a history lover eager to visit significant landmarks, having a rental car gives you the ability to travel at your own pace. You can easily visit renowned attractions like the University of Virginia, Monticello, and John Paul Jones Arena, all located within the vibrant neighborhoods of North Downtown, Ivy, and Belmont. With a rental car, managing your luggage is simple, and you can create flexible travel plans to fit your itinerary. For instance, you might spend the morning touring Monticello, then head over to the University of Virginia for a cultural experience, followed by an evening at the John Paul Jones Arena for live entertainment. Additionally, the scenic landscapes surrounding Charlottesville offer numerous outdoor experiences that are best accessed by car, enhancing your journey through this beautiful region. Overall, renting a car in Charlottesville is the ideal way to explore its rich history and stunning scenery, making your trip both enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in Charlottesville

• Fullsize: This car option is ideal for families or groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its spacious interior makes it perfect for those planning to explore the attractions in and around Charlottesville at a comfortable pace, providing ample space for luggage and personal items.
• Midsize SUV: A great choice for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV fits up to 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for adventures in the picturesque surroundings of Charlottesville, allowing you to enjoy outdoor experiences while ensuring comfort during your travels.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers and has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This versatile car option provides a balance of comfort and space, making it an excellent choice for those looking to navigate the scenic landscapes and historical sites in and around Charlottesville with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Charlottesville

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a leading car rental supplier in Charlottesville, offering 4 rental locations within the area. Travelers appreciate Enterprise for its wide selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, which are among the most booked options. With its emphasis on customer service and flexibility, Enterprise provides an excellent choice for those looking to explore Charlottesville and its attractions at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Charlottesville, catering to travelers seeking cost-effective options. The Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are the most popular vehicles among Budget customers. Known for its competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, Budget is a great option for tourists wanting to navigate the area efficiently while managing their luggage and itinerary seamlessly.
• Hertz: Hertz offers 2 rental locations in the Charlottesville area, making it accessible for many travelers. The Midsize SUV and Economy cars are the top choices for those renting through Hertz. With a focus on convenience and a solid selection of vehicles, Hertz is well-regarded by visitors who appreciate the ability to explore Charlottesville and surrounding attractions comfortably.

Where to go in Charlottesville

• North Downtown: A vibrant neighborhood situated around Charlottesville, North Downtown attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in July to August and October. This area is perfect for family, business, and city experiences. Nearby attractions include the historic University of Virginia and Monticello, both offering rich cultural experiences. For entertainment, John Paul Jones Arena serves as a local hub for events and activities. The presence of shopping centers and educational venues adds to the appeal, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking a mix of culture and convenience.
• Ivy: Known for its outdoor and adventure activities, Ivy is a neighborhood that remains popular throughout the year, particularly during peak months from July to August and October. This area is perfect for those looking to engage in skiing and other outdoor pursuits. Key attractions include the historic University of Virginia and John Paul Jones Arena for entertainment. Monticello also lies close by, providing a glimpse into local history. With its scenic landscapes and adventure opportunities, Ivy is a great choice for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
• Belmont: Belmont is characterized by its outdoor and scenic experiences, attracting visitors consistently throughout the year, especially during peak seasons in July to August and October. This neighborhood offers a blend of recreation, education, and shopping facilities. Highlights include Monticello and the University of Virginia, both rich in history and culture. Visitors can also enjoy the local recreational areas that enhance the outdoor experience. Belmont’s picturesque surroundings make it an excellent destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local heritage.

10 tips to save on your Charlottesville car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, 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 reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you increase your chances of securing lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This option is usually the most economical. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers may justify the extra cost.
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 expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Charlottesville

The best value period to rent a car in Charlottesville is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This month is closely followed by January, which also offers a quieter rental experience. As spring approaches, March sees average pricing and demand, making it a decent shoulder period. However, the summer months from June through August bring higher prices and demand, with June being the most expensive time to rent a car. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	34.0°F (1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Charlottesville

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Charlottesville

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

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.

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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