$80 Car Rental Downtown Detroit, MI

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Top Car Deals in Downtown Detroit

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What you need to know for your Downtown Detroit car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Detroit

Renting a car in and around Downtown Detroit is a great choice for travelers looking to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you gain the freedom and flexibility to visit key attractions such as the GM Renaissance Center and Hart Plaza, both located within Downtown Detroit. Additionally, you can easily reach the Motown Museum, which is just 3 miles away, making it convenient for culture enthusiasts. A rental car is particularly appealing for families, as it allows for easy luggage management and keeps everyone together while exploring the city.

Moreover, with a vehicle, you can venture into nearby neighborhoods like Greektown Historic District and Lafayette Park, both less than 1 mile from Downtown Detroit, which feature additional attractions. This is especially beneficial for those seeking romantic outings or family-related experiences. Navigating Detroit's roads is straightforward, ensuring that you can make the most of your time in the city. Whether you are visiting for sightseeing or a special occasion, renting a car enhances your travel experience by allowing you to create flexible travel plans and explore at your leisure.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Detroit

  • Fullsize Van: Ideal for large families or groups, the Fullsize Van accommodates up to 10 travelers and offers space for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is perfect for those needing ample room for passengers and luggage while exploring Downtown Detroit and its surrounding areas, providing comfort and convenience for group travel.
  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for 3 large suitcases. With its spacious interior and versatile design, this vehicle offers a great balance between comfort and practicality, making it perfect for navigating the urban landscape of Downtown Detroit.
  • Premium Pickup: Designed for adventure travelers and families, the Premium Pickup also accommodates 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is well-suited for those looking to combine comfort with the capability to handle a variety of terrains, making it a fantastic choice for exploring both the city and the surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Detroit

  • Enterprise: Enterprise has established itself as a top choice for car rentals in Downtown Detroit, with three conveniently located rental sites within 2 miles of the neighborhood. Travelers frequently opt for their Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are well-suited for both city driving and longer excursions. Known for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options, Enterprise makes the car rental experience smooth and enjoyable for visitors.
  • Budget: Budget provides reliable car rental services with a location situated 9 miles from Downtown Detroit. This supplier is popular among travelers looking for affordability without compromising on quality. Their Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are among the most booked options, offering a great balance of space and efficiency for your adventures in and around the city. Budget is an excellent option for those seeking economical choices for their travels.
  • Avis: Avis also offers a solid car rental option with a location 9 miles away from Downtown Detroit. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Avis features Midsize SUV and Standard SUV as popular choices among renters. Their reputation for providing quality service and dependable vehicles makes them a trusted supplier for travelers looking to explore the area comfortably and conveniently.

Where to stay around Downtown Detroit

  • Downtown Detroit: The heart of the city, Downtown Detroit is ideal for travelers seeking a vibrant urban experience. With attractions such as the GM Renaissance Center, a prominent skyscraper, and the Henry Ford Museum, this area caters to family, romantic, and city-themed adventures. Enjoy shopping at local centers and explore nearby restaurants and bars for a taste of Detroit's culinary scene.
  • Greektown Historic District: Located less than 1 mile from Downtown, Greektown Historic District offers a blend of city charm and romantic ambiance. With access to entertainment venues, including theaters and arenas, this neighborhood is perfect for both leisure and business visitors. Key highlights include Hart Plaza and the Motown Museum, along with numerous dining options that enhance the local experience.
  • Dearborn: Situated 7 miles away from Downtown Detroit, Dearborn is an excellent destination for those interested in cultural experiences. It features notable attractions like the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, making it suitable for family-themed vacations. Additionally, the area boasts shopping malls and various dining experiences, providing a delightful contrast to the bustling city life of Detroit.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Detroit

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, use the filters on Expedia to discover the best options for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to book your car well in advance of your trip. By reserving early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver 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 the age of 70. Always verify 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 generally the most favorable option. Other rentals might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may be worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid any 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 Downtown Detroit

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Detroit is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. April is another good option, as prices remain slightly low while demand picks up a bit. March and September offer average prices and demand, making them decent choices as well. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand rising. June through August also see heightened demand and higher rental costs.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$80
 
Our second best deal of the day
$81
 
Our third best deal of the day
$83
 
From the airport to your hotel
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From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Downtown Detroit?
You can find cheap car rentals near Downtown Detroit from $17 a day with Dollar Rent A Car's midsize suv. Dollar Rent A Car offers compact SUVs starting from $17 a day, and Budget provides special vehicles starting from $18 a day. Avis also offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day. Comparing suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental near Downtown Detroit that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.
What are the best luxury car companies near Downtown Detroit?
For luxury car rentals near Downtown Detroit, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car. Enterprise offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $33 a day and premium pickup regular cab options starting from $35 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also specializes in luxury options, with luxury 2 or 4 door cars starting from $36 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for your travels in the Downtown Detroit area. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.
Can I rent a car one-way near Downtown Detroit?
A one-way car rental near Downtown Detroit is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $17 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in the Downtown Detroit area and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the immediate city. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Downtown Detroit?
The area near Downtown Detroit is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $17 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 areas near Downtown Detroit and returning to the same spot. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to visit attractions such as:
  • Ford Field
  • Little Caesars Arena
  • Comerica Park
For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Detroit?
Car rentals near Downtown Detroit offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Special
  • Midsize SUV
  • Premium crossover
Most come with automatic transmission, and both automatic and all-wheel drive options are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space, while couples and solo travelers often find economy or compact cars suitable. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget for your trip in the Downtown Detroit area. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Compact SUV, starting from $17 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering good maneuverability on city streets
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $23 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, providing a budget-friendly option for city exploration
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Ford Field, consider sizing up to a midsize SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for couples?
The best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $22 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $21 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, with 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 for scenic drives around the Downtown Detroit area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for families?
The best car rentals near Downtown Detroit for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $30 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, suitable for smaller families
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $36 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around the Downtown Detroit area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Downtown Detroit?
The area near Downtown Detroit has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, Dollar Rent A Car, and Budget all offer hybrid vehicles starting from $17 a day. Additionally, Avis provides electric vehicles starting from $17 a day, and Budget offers electric options starting from $25 a day. Multiple rental companies near Downtown Detroit carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. The area has public charging infrastructure, and electric vehicles can help save on fuel costs. Booking electric or hybrid vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable as demand can be high, and planning charging stops is recommended for longer journeys.
What is the best time to book a car near Downtown Detroit?
From January, prices near Downtown Detroit are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $17 a day during this period. September tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Ford Field
  • Little Caesars Arena
  • Comerica Park
  • Woodward Dream Cruise
  • Detroit Jazz Festival
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.

What is the weather like for driving near Downtown Detroit?
Driving conditions near Downtown Detroit shift through the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around September, when routes to spots like Ford Field get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For wet or slippery stretches, a midsize SUV class offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies near Downtown Detroit?
Car rentals in the Downtown Detroit area are available from providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has compact SUV options starting from $21 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $22 a day that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $26 a day and compact SUVs starting from $27 a day with more space and stability for highways. Avis rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $22 a day. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied conditions, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Downtown Detroit.
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 Downtown Detroit?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Downtown Detroit. 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 Downtown Detroit?
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 Downtown Detroit?
Budget car rental in Downtown Detroit can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $80. 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 Downtown Detroit?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Downtown Detroit. 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 Downtown Detroit car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Downtown Detroit?
To rent a car in Downtown Detroit, 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 Downtown Detroit car rental?
If you need to cancel your Downtown Detroit 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 Downtown Detroit 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.

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