$71 Car Rental Downtown Richmond, VA

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Top Car Deals in Downtown Richmond

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What you need to know for your Downtown Richmond car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Richmond

Renting a car in Downtown Richmond offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This popular choice allows you to manage your luggage easily and adjust your travel plans as needed. Whether you're visiting for family fun, business, or to soak in the city's rich culture, a rental car enhances your experience. You can conveniently visit key attractions like Broad Street, which is ideal for city experiences, and the beautiful James River, located less than 1 mile away, perfect for outdoor scenery. Additionally, Shockoe Slip, another neighborhood within Downtown Richmond, offers a vibrant atmosphere to explore. With a rental car, you can also venture into nearby neighborhoods like Richmond, which features the Richmond Raceway and Maymont Park, or explore Central Office, both situated less than 1 mile away. This car rental option is especially beneficial for families looking to travel with ease, business travelers needing to reach meetings promptly, or city enthusiasts wanting to soak in all that Downtown Richmond has to offer without the hassle of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Richmond

  • Fullsize: This car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travelers along with their luggage. With space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize car is an ideal choice for families and groups visiting Downtown Richmond. Its generous size allows for comfortable travel while exploring the area at your own pace.
  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV offers seating for 5 travelers and space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it a great fit for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle provides a blend of comfort and versatility, allowing you to navigate both city streets and wider roads as you discover the attractions in and around Downtown Richmond.
  • Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travelers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is an excellent choice for couples, families, or groups. It provides a comfortable ride while still being manageable in urban environments like Downtown Richmond. This option strikes a balance between space and convenience for your travel needs.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Richmond

  • Enterprise: With 4 rental locations and the nearest situated in Downtown Richmond, Enterprise is a favored choice among travelers. Known for its friendly service and short wait times, this supplier has earned an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Customers appreciate the wide selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Standard options, making it convenient for various travel needs. Renting from Enterprise allows for a smooth and enjoyable experience as you explore the attractions at your own pace.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Located 6 miles away from Downtown Richmond, Alamo Rent A Car is recognized for its friendly service and customer satisfaction. While it has 1 rental location, travelers often highlight the ease of the rental process. The Midsize SUV and Premium SUV are the most booked vehicles, offering comfort and style for your journey. Alamo's commitment to customer service makes it a reliable option for those looking to explore the area with flexibility.
  • Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car has a rental location situated 6 miles from Downtown Richmond, providing a convenient option for tourists. Known for its selection of Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, Dollar makes it easy to find a car that suits your travel needs. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the variety of options available, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you navigate the sights and attractions around Richmond.

Where to stay around Downtown Richmond

  • Shockoe Slip: Located less than 1 mile from Downtown Richmond, Shockoe Slip is a vibrant neighborhood perfect for family, business, and city-themed experiences. This area features a variety of shopping venues and educational options. Nearby attractions include the scenic James River, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, and the bustling Broad Street, which is great for city exploration. Food and drink options abound, with several wineries and breweries to choose from, making it a delightful spot for visitors seeking a blend of leisure and culture.
  • Central Office: Also situated less than 1 mile from Downtown Richmond, Central Office offers a mix of business, entertainment, and city-themed experiences. This neighborhood is home to numerous shopping centers and educational venues. Key attractions include the event conference venue and the popular Broad Street, which invites city adventures. The picturesque James River is nearby for those looking to enjoy the outdoors. With its vibrant atmosphere, Central Office is an excellent choice for travelers wanting to experience the city's dynamic offerings.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it’s wise to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and better availability, particularly during busy seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive 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—might not be available. 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 require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advisable. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Expect to pay a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Richmond

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Richmond is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. March also offers average pricing with low demand, providing another option for budget-conscious renters. However, demand and prices tend to rise in the summer months, particularly in July, which is typically the most expensive month for rentals. June and July see high demand and slightly high prices, making them the busiest times for car rentals.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
April58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
June75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September71.6°F (22.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$71
 
Our second best deal of the day
$77
 
Our third best deal of the day
$79
 
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 Richmond?
You can find cheap car rentals near Downtown Richmond from $12 a day with Thrifty Car Rental's compact 4-5 door cars. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $12 a day and compact SUVs starting from $12 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also provides midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental near Downtown Richmond that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.
What are the best luxury car companies near Downtown Richmond?
For luxury car rentals near Downtown Richmond, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Enterprise. Sixt offers premium and luxury categories, including convertibles and sports cars, for a more upscale driving experience. Enterprise also specializes in luxury vehicles, with options like sports cars and convertibles available. These luxury rentals often come with enhanced comfort and features, making them ideal for special occasions or travelers seeking a premium experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.
Can I rent a car one-way near Downtown Richmond?
A one-way car rental near Downtown Richmond is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $14 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle near Downtown Richmond and drop it off at a different location. This flexibility is ideal for travelers planning to explore beyond the immediate area without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Downtown Richmond?
The area near Downtown Richmond is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $12 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 Richmond and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary to destinations such as:
  • Short Pump Town Center, approximately 16 miles away
  • University of Richmond, approximately 8 miles away
  • Broad Street, approximately 1 mile away
For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Richmond?
Car rentals near Downtown Richmond offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission and air conditioning as standard. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do well with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget for your trip. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $22 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $15 a day—fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Short Pump Town Center, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for couples?
The best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and 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 Richmond area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for families?
The best car rentals near Downtown Richmond for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • 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
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 Richmond area. Thrifty Car Rental is popular with families. 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 Richmond.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Downtown Richmond?
The area near Downtown Richmond has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $12 a day and electric vehicles starting from $13 a day. Enterprise also provides hybrid options starting from $12 a day. Multiple rental companies near Downtown Richmond carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. The area has extensive public charging infrastructure with fast-charging stations along major routes. Electric vehicles save on fuel—charging costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book electric vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car near Downtown Richmond?
From January, prices near Downtown Richmond are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $12 a day during this period. July 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:
  • Short Pump Town Center
  • University of Richmond
  • Broad Street
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour
  • Virginia Beach Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend
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 Richmond?
Driving near Downtown Richmond is generally straightforward, though conditions can shift through the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around July, when routes to spots like Short Pump Town Center get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For wet or slippery stretches, a midsize 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 Richmond?
Car rentals in the Downtown Richmond area 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 compact SUVs that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers standard SUVs and compact SUVs with more space and stability for highways and rougher terrain. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars and compact SUVs. 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 Richmond.
What are good day trip destinations from Downtown Richmond by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from Downtown Richmond include:
  • Short Pump Town Center, approximately 16 miles away
  • University of Richmond, approximately 8 miles away
  • Broad Street, approximately 1 mile away
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour
  • Virginia Beach Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend
These distances are manageable for most car types, whether you prefer a compact for city exploration or an SUV for more comfort on longer drives. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Downtown Richmond.

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 Richmond?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Downtown Richmond. 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 Richmond?
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 Richmond?
Budget car rental in Downtown Richmond can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $71. 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 Richmond?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Downtown Richmond. 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 Richmond car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Downtown Richmond?
To rent a car in Downtown Richmond, 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 Richmond car rental?
If you need to cancel your Downtown Richmond 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 Richmond 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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