$12 Car Rental Denver, CO

These Denver insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 18, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Denver

Renting a car in Denver provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Union Station, Elitch Gardens Theme Park, and the Denver Art Museum, all located within the city. This convenience is especially beneficial for families or those traveling with luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while enjoying the sites.

A car rental also opens up the opportunity to explore nearby destinations like Golden, where you can visit the Mother Cabrini Shrine and Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, or Aurora, home to the Aurora Reservoir and Meadowood Park. The ability to travel without adhering to public transport schedules enhances your adventure experience. Additionally, the roads around Denver are straightforward to navigate, making it easier to reach various attractions and outdoor spots. Whether you seek culture, adventure, or family-friendly activities, having a rental car ensures you can make the most of your trip to Denver and its vicinity.

Most popular car rentals in Denver

• Midsize SUV: This car option is a favorite among travelers in Denver, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area with comfort and space. The midsize SUV provides versatility, making it an excellent choice for those who want to manage both luggage and passengers without compromising on driving experience.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car rental is ideal for those traveling with family or in larger groups, as it comfortably accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is great for those who need extra room for luggage while enjoying the freedom of travel in and around Denver. The fullsize is a reliable choice for longer trips where comfort and capacity are key.
• Standard SUV: If you're looking for a balance between space and manageability, the standard SUV is a great option. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups. This car type offers a comfortable ride while still providing enough room for your essentials, making it an excellent choice for navigating Denver's attractions.

Top rated car suppliers in Denver

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo offers a reliable car rental option with a location in Denver, boasting an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10. Known for its friendly service, Alamo makes it easy for travelers to manage their luggage and adjust their travel plans. Popular choices include the Midsize SUV and Fullsize models, perfect for exploring the scenic surroundings at your own pace.
• Sixt: With three convenient rental locations in Denver, Sixt is recognized for its excellent customer service and offers a variety of vehicles to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a Midsize SUV or a Standard SUV, Sixt has you covered. The welcoming atmosphere and accessible locations make it a top choice for tourists wanting to explore the area comfortably.
• Fox Rental Cars: Fox has a presence in Denver with one rental location, providing a straightforward and efficient car rental experience. Known for its selection of vehicles, Fox specializes in Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs, catering to travelers who appreciate space and comfort while navigating through Denver and its beautiful surroundings.

Where to stay in Denver

• Aurora: Located near Denver, Aurora is ideal for travelers seeking a family-friendly atmosphere and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include the scenic Aurora Reservoir, perfect for outdoor activities and romantic outings. The Blackstone Country Club offers golf enthusiasts a chance to unwind, while Meadowood Park is great for family outings. Visitors can explore local shopping malls and enjoy various dining options, including restaurants and breweries.
• North Washington: This village is a vibrant destination for families and those interested in entertainment and business. Notable attractions include the historic Union Station, which is perfect for culture enthusiasts, and Elitch Gardens Theme Park, offering a fun-filled day for families. The Denver Art Museum is also in proximity, showcasing rich cultural experiences. North Washington features numerous shopping centers and dining options, ensuring a lively stay.
• Downtown Denver: A bustling neighborhood, Downtown Denver caters to families and business travelers alike. Visitors can enjoy the arts at the Buell Theatre and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Union Station stands out as a cultural landmark, providing a glimpse into Denver's history. The area is filled with shopping centers and restaurants, making it a convenient hub for exploration. Downtown Denver is particularly vibrant, with plenty of outdoor activities available during the warmer months.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and specific features you need. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the ideal option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices 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 in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be accessible. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before you book.
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 option is usually the most economical. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often comes with a surcharge, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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. It's easy to add car 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.

Best time to rent a car in and around Denver

The best value period to rent a car in and around Denver is April, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This can be followed by May, which sees slightly low prices but average demand. After this, June through August tend to be the most expensive months, with high demand and elevated prices, particularly in July. During this peak season, securing a rental can become quite challenging due to the increased competition among travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	28.6°F (-1.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	38.5°F (3.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Denver

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Denver

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Denver. We partner with 35 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 Denver

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $12.

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

Denver - Road Trip Ideas

Touch down in Denver for an epic road trip, taking in some of the world’s most impressive natural wonders. The best road trips from Denver are packed with incredible wilderness experiences but wrap up and be prepared for changeable conditions all year. Head north to Yellowstone for a scenic trip through the wilds of Wyoming. Go south for a Denver to Grand Canyon road trip. Salt Lake City lies over the Rocky Mountains, so choose an SUV rental at Denver Airport to handle the rugged terrain along the way. Pick your rental car to match the season and conditions and go wild on your Denver road trip.

Denver to Aspen

Take a car rental from Denver Airport to Aspen adding plenty of scenic stops along the way. The distance is 198 miles (around 4 hours driving time) on the I-70. In warmer months, the dramatic Independence Pass twists beautifully and has incredible views too. Visit Idaho Springs and grab a pizza from famous Beau Jo’s, then stay in Vail for a picturesque all-year resort playground. If you’re not on the Independent Pass route, explore Glenwood Springs, a great stop for the hot springs. Before you arrive in gorgeous Aspen, stop in Snowmass Village for a cute small town resort experience.

Denver to Colorado Springs

Make your Denver to Colorado Springs road trip a mountainous one. The direct drive is just 98 miles, and it takes around an hour and a half. But you could stop in Boulder for the night to get a taste of Rocky Mountain National Park. Visit Golden to step back to the Gold Rush and enjoy a Coors beer straight from the brewery. Drive to Garden of the Gods to see incredible red rock formations and head along Pikes Peak highway for a small fee to reach the mountain summit before dropping into Colorado Springs to end your dramatic road trip.

Denver to Breckenridge

Denver to Breckenridge drive time is around 2 hours on the I-70, covering just over 100 miles—and as a direct route, it’s pretty gorgeous. If conditions allow, take the scenic US 285 over the Hoosier Pass for a real treat. Start your road trip with a stop in Winter’s Park for amazing hiking trails. Take a detour along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway to drive the highest paved road in North America. Keystone is a glamorous resort town to spend time in, and Silverthorne serves up delicious lunches, which set you up perfectly to arrive in Breckenridge for your next adventure.