$57 Car Rental Downtown Durham, NC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Durham

Renting a car in Downtown Durham offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for business travelers, weekend adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With a rental vehicle, you can explore key attractions at your own pace, such as Duke University, located only 2 miles away, and the vibrant Durham Performing Arts Center right in the heart of Downtown. If you're eager to delve deeper into the region, the Research Triangle Park is a mere 6 miles away, enriching your city experience. Families and culture seekers alike will appreciate the convenience of having a car for easy luggage management and spontaneous travel plans. Beyond Downtown, you can conveniently visit Chapel Hill, approximately 10 miles away, home to the University of North Carolina and the beautiful North Carolina Botanical Garden, or head to Morrisville, 13 miles away, featuring the North Carolina State University and Fairgrounds. Even nearby Hayes, just 3 miles away, offers additional attractions like the Durham Performing Arts Center. A rental car ensures you can seamlessly transition between these diverse destinations while creating memorable experiences tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Durham

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice for travelers in Downtown Durham, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area comfortably. With its spacious interior and flexibility, a midsize SUV allows you to manage luggage easily while enjoying the freedom to discover local attractions at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Ideal for larger groups or families, the fullsize car fits up to 5 travelers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is frequently booked by those who need extra space for both passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for business travelers and weekend getaways in Downtown Durham. The fullsize car provides ample room for everyone, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore the city.
• Compact: For those traveling solo or as a couple, the compact car is a practical and economical choice. Accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 medium suitcases, this vehicle is perfect for navigating the urban landscape of Downtown Durham. Its smaller size makes it easy to park and maneuver through city streets, while still allowing families to enjoy the convenience of a rental car during their visit.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Durham

• Budget: Located 2 miles away from Downtown Durham, Budget is a reliable choice for travelers seeking flexibility and value. With a focus on affordability, the most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, making it easy to find the right fit for your journey. Enjoy the convenience of managing your itinerary while exploring the area at your own pace.
• Avis: Also situated 2 miles from Downtown Durham, Avis provides a great selection of vehicles with an emphasis on quality service. Popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, ensuring you have the comfort and space needed for your travels. Renting from Avis allows you to navigate the attractions of Durham and beyond with ease.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations and the nearest just 2 miles away from Downtown Durham, Enterprise offers excellent accessibility for car rentals. Their fleet features popular options such as Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, making it easy to find a vehicle that suits your travel needs. Enjoy the freedom to explore Durham's vibrant neighborhoods and attractions at your leisure.

Where to go around Downtown Durham

• Hayes: Located only 3 miles from Downtown Durham, Hayes offers a blend of city and outdoor experiences. Travelers can explore the prestigious Duke University, perfect for those interested in educational visits. Additionally, the nearby Research Triangle Park provides a vibrant town atmosphere, and the Durham Performing Arts Center is a cultural gem for arts enthusiasts. Peak visitor numbers often occur in April, July, and October, so consider planning your stay during these months for a more lively experience.
• Chapel Hill: Situated 10 miles from Downtown Durham, Chapel Hill is a vibrant city known for its cultural and business experiences. Key attractions include the University of North Carolina, which features beautiful campus grounds, and Franklin Street, famous for its shopping and dining options. The North Carolina Botanical Garden is also nearby, making it ideal for family outings and romantic strolls. Peak travel seasons are in March to April and September, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors.
• Morrisville: Located 13 miles from Downtown Durham, Morrisville is a family-friendly city that combines urban and recreational experiences. The area is highlighted by the North Carolina State University, which offers educational insights, and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, perfect for outdoor family events. Research Triangle Park is another notable area, providing a glimpse into the local business landscape. The best times to visit are in April, July, and September, when visitor numbers are at their highest.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Durham car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your travel dates. Booking in advance often leads to more favorable rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental price and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies 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 if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Durham

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Durham is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. March through May also offer average prices and demand, providing a nice shoulder period. However, June stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high demand and rental rates. Following June, July sees high demand again, while prices remain average throughout the month.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average