$64 Car Rental Downtown Knoxville, TN

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What you need to know for your Downtown Knoxville car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Knoxville

Renting a car in Downtown Knoxville provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. Whether you are traveling with family, managing luggage, or seeking cultural experiences, having a rental car makes navigating the city convenient. You can easily visit key attractions such as Market Square, a vibrant hub for cultural experiences, and the family-friendly World's Fair Park, both located within Downtown Knoxville. The Sunsphere Tower offers a modern perspective of the city and is also situated in the area.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby neighborhoods like Old City and Emory Place, both less than 1 mile from Downtown Knoxville, where you can find more attractions and unique experiences. With a car, you can manage your travel plans without the constraints of public transportation, making it easier to enjoy everything Knoxville has to offer. From cultural excursions to business-related visits, renting a car ensures that you have the convenience and comfort to make the most of your trip.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Knoxville

  • Midsize: This option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. The midsize car provides a comfortable balance between space and fuel efficiency, allowing you to explore Downtown Knoxville and its surroundings with ease.
  • Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car can seat up to 5 passengers and carry up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes navigating city streets and finding parking in Downtown Knoxville more manageable, while still providing the flexibility you need for your travel plans.
  • Premium: Tailored for business travelers or couples seeking a more luxurious experience, the premium car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for up to 4 large suitcases. This vehicle offers a more spacious and comfortable ride, making it great for those who appreciate a high-end travel experience while exploring Downtown Knoxville.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Knoxville

  • Enterprise: Enterprise has 2 rental locations, with the nearest located in Downtown Knoxville. It is well-regarded for its friendly service and reliability, ensuring that customers receive the service they expect. The most popular vehicles booked through Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, making it a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and space.
  • Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations, with the nearest being 5 miles away from Downtown Knoxville. Known for its competitive rates, Budget is a popular choice among travelers. The most frequently booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, catering to those who need a reliable vehicle for exploring the area comfortably.
  • Avis: Avis also has 2 rental locations, situated 5 miles from Downtown Knoxville. This supplier is recognized for its solid selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Fullsize Pickup trucks. Avis is a suitable option for travelers looking for flexibility and a variety of vehicle choices while enjoying their time in and around Downtown Knoxville.

Where to stay around Downtown Knoxville

  • Downtown Knoxville: Experience the vibrant heart of Knoxville, where you can explore popular attractions such as Market Square, perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture. Enjoy the scenic views at World's Fair Park, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. For a taste of modern architecture, visit the Sunsphere Tower. Downtown offers a variety of nearby dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient base for your adventure.
  • Powell: Located 8 miles away from Downtown Knoxville, Powell offers a peaceful suburban atmosphere while still providing access to outdoor and family-friendly activities. Explore local landmarks like lakes and event venues, or enjoy recreational areas that cater to various interests. Powell's dining scene features several restaurants and wineries, ensuring you have delightful options for meals after a day of exploring.
  • Seymour: Situated 9 miles away from Downtown Knoxville, Seymour is an excellent choice for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. With proximity to national parks and scenic mountains, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss the Ijams Nature Center for a unique nature experience. Seymour also boasts a selection of restaurants and wineries, allowing you to unwind and savor local flavors after your outdoor excursions.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilizing filters on Expedia will help you find the ideal match 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower prices and better availability, especially 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 rentals offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—may 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 require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable too—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of 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. Adding rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Knoxville

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Knoxville is January, when prices and demand are both slightly low. February follows closely, maintaining low demand and prices. Moving into March and April, demand starts to pick up, but prices remain average. June through July, however, see slightly high prices and high demand, making it the most expensive period for rentals. After that, demand stabilizes, with October and November showing moderately high prices with steady demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.5°F (15.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$64
 
Our second best deal of the day
$70
 
Our third best deal of the day
$72
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Downtown Knoxville?
You can find cheap car rentals near Downtown Knoxville from $17 a day with Budget's fullsize 2/4 door. Budget, Enterprise, and Thrifty Car Rental offer some of the most affordable options. Enterprise offers special vehicles starting from $19 a day, and Thrifty Car Rental has midsize 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $19 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a cheap car rental near Downtown Knoxville that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.
What are the best luxury car companies near Downtown Knoxville?
For luxury car rentals near Downtown Knoxville, you can find premium options through providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget. Alamo offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $40 a day, while Enterprise has premium pickup regular cab options from $39 a day and premium SUVs from $51 a day. Avis provides standard elite SUVs starting from $36 a day, and Budget offers standard elite SUVs from $32 a day. These luxury car rentals near Downtown Knoxville provide enhanced comfort and features for a more refined travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.
Can I rent a car one-way near Downtown Knoxville?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Downtown Knoxville is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $23 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in the Downtown Knoxville area and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for extended travel plans. Many major car rental providers offer one-way options, making it convenient to explore beyond Knoxville without needing to return to your starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Downtown Knoxville?
Yes, round-trip car rentals near Downtown Knoxville are readily available, with prices starting from $17 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location in the Downtown Knoxville area is often the most cost-effective option, as it typically avoids one-way drop-off fees. This is ideal for exploring popular destinations around Knoxville and returning to your original pickup point. You can easily visit places like:
  • University of Tennessee, Knoxville—just 1 mile away
  • Neyland Stadium, Knoxville—also 1 mile away
  • Norris Lake—about 27 miles away
  • Dollywood—approximately 30 miles away
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park—around 38 miles away
Major car rental providers offer wide round-trip availability, making it convenient for your travel plans. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville?
Car rentals near Downtown Knoxville offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Special
  • Compact SUV
These options provide flexibility for various trips. Economy and compact cars are excellent for solo travelers or couples, offering fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability for city driving. Midsize and fullsize cars provide more space and comfort for longer journeys. SUVs are ideal for families or groups needing extra luggage capacity and a higher driving position, especially for trips to nearby natural attractions. Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth driving experience. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville 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 $23 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $21 a day (available from Budget)—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 the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $27 a day, for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville for couples?
The best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $25 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two.
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $25 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases, offering a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both provide comfortable seating and ample trunk space without being hard to park. For couples seeking a bit more space or comfort for longer drives to destinations like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a standard SUV, starting from $34 a day, offers even more room and stability. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.

What are the best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville for families?
The best car rentals near Downtown Knoxville for families are those with ample room for everyone and their gear.
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $25 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases, suitable for smaller families.
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $30 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering comfortable space for family trips.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $35 a day—seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage.
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $41 a day—seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, providing robust space and comfort.
These vehicles offer the space needed for car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them comfortable for trips around the Downtown Knoxville area. Thrifty Car Rental is a provider that is popular with families. For good availability, especially for family-sized vehicles, it is wise to book 4 or more weeks ahead, particularly during peak months like May, September, and October. Consider adding GPS for easier navigation if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Downtown Knoxville?
Yes, you can find electric and hybrid car rental options near Downtown Knoxville. Avis offers electric vehicles starting from $17 a day and hybrid vehicles also starting from $17 a day. Similarly, Budget provides electric cars from $17 a day and hybrid options from $17 a day. These vehicles offer a more environmentally friendly way to explore the area and can help save on fuel costs. When planning your trip with an electric vehicle, it is helpful to consider the vehicle's range and plan for charging stops, especially for longer journeys.
What is the best time to book a car near Downtown Knoxville?
From January, prices for car rentals near Downtown Knoxville are typically lower, with rentals starting from as little as $17 a day (available from Budget). September tends to be the busiest month, and May and October also see higher demand, when prices can increase due to more travelers. During these periods, demand climbs as visitors head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Neyland Stadium, Knoxville
  • Knoxville After Dark Ghost Tours
  • Knoxville River Cruise Aboard the Volunteer Princess
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24 or more hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop to find a rate that fits your budget.

What is the weather like for driving near Downtown Knoxville?
Driving near Downtown Knoxville offers varied conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around September, when routes to spots like the University of Tennessee, Knoxville can get busier—planning drives for quieter periods can help. For general driving, an economy class vehicle offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes to help with a prepared journey.
What are the best car companies near Downtown Knoxville?
Car rentals in the Downtown Knoxville area are available from reputable providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and Thrifty Car Rental, offering a wide range of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Alamo Rent A Car provides economy 2 or 4 door and midsize SUV options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers special and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Avis rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door and mini passenger van vehicles. When choosing, consider a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for mountain or winter driving, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Downtown Knoxville.
What are good day trip destinations from Downtown Knoxville by rental car?
Good day-trip destinations from the Downtown Knoxville area by rental car offer a variety of experiences.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately 38 miles away, is perfect for nature lovers and best explored with an SUV for comfort on mountain roads.
  • Dollywood, about 30 miles away, offers family-friendly entertainment and is easily accessible with most car types, though a minivan or fullsize SUV provides ample space for a family's gear.
  • Norris Lake, around 27 miles away, is ideal for water activities, and a midsize SUV or fullsize 2 or 4 door car would be comfortable for the drive and any equipment.
  • The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Neyland Stadium, both less than a mile away, are great for sports fans or campus visits, easily reached with an economy or compact car.
  • For a unique local experience, consider the Downtown Knoxville Hidden Tour w/ Ice Cream, Coffee & Tennessee River Gems, which is less than a mile away and can be accessed with most car types.
Always fuel up before heading out, especially for longer drives to the national park, and consider packing snacks and water. 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 Knoxville.

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 Knoxville?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Downtown Knoxville. 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 Knoxville?
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 Knoxville?
Budget car rental in Downtown Knoxville can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $64. 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 Knoxville?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Downtown Knoxville. 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 Knoxville car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Downtown Knoxville?
To rent a car in Downtown Knoxville, 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 Knoxville car rental?
If you need to cancel your Downtown Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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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