$42 Car Rental Downtown Portland, OR

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Portland

Renting a car in Downtown Portland offers the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This flexibility is especially appealing for outdoor enthusiasts, food and wine lovers, and families seeking memorable experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. Key attractions like the Oregon Convention Center and the Oregon Health and Science University are conveniently located just 1 mile away, while the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is only 0.8 mile from Downtown. Beyond the city center, neighborhoods such as the Pearl District and Lloyd District, both 1 mile away, are filled with cultural and recreational opportunities. Northeast Portland, located 4 miles from Downtown, also offers attractions like The Grotto. Whether you're on a business trip or a family getaway, having a rental car ensures you can navigate between various destinations seamlessly, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Portland

• Midsize SUV: This versatile vehicle is perfect for those traveling with family or friends, accommodating up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers the ideal blend of comfort and space, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic beauty around Downtown Portland. Its spacious interior allows for easy management of luggage, enhancing your travel experience as you navigate the area's attractions.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car fits up to 5 travelers and provides space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for navigating the bustling streets of Downtown Portland while keeping fuel costs low. Compact cars are especially convenient for those who prefer a nimble vehicle for city driving, making it easy to park and explore the local culinary scene or vibrant culture.
• Fullsize: For larger groups or families needing extra space, the fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travelers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those planning longer trips or weekend getaways, as it provides ample space for both passengers and luggage. The fullsize car strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, allowing for a flexible travel experience as you explore Downtown Portland and beyond.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Portland

• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts over 5 rental locations, with the nearest situated in Downtown Portland. Travelers frequently commend the friendly service provided by the staff. The most booked vehicles from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it a versatile choice for various travel needs. With its reputation for excellent customer service, Enterprise is a reliable option for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Sixt: Sixt operates one rental location within Downtown Portland, offering a focused selection of vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Compact models are the most popular choices among customers. Sixt is known for its efficiency and ease of rental, making it a great choice for travelers seeking convenience and quality during their trip.
• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations, with one conveniently located in Downtown Portland. This supplier is recognized for providing competitive rates and a solid selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Economy cars. Budget's focus on affordability and accessibility makes it a practical choice for many travelers looking to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to go around Downtown Portland

• Pearl District: Located 1.0 mile away from Downtown Portland, the Pearl District is a vibrant neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including exploring the Oregon Convention Center for events, attending shows at Veterans Memorial Coliseum, or discovering the modern Portland State University. This area is ideal for those who appreciate shopping and cultural experiences, making it popular year-round, with peaks in April and from June to July.
• Northeast Portland: Situated 4 miles away from Downtown Portland, Northeast Portland offers a great mix of outdoor activities and city experiences. Highlights include The Grotto, a serene shrine perfect for cultural exploration, and the Wonder Ballroom, an arena entertainment facility for families. Shopping centers and urban parks enhance the neighborhood's appeal. While visitor numbers peak from June to August, Northeast Portland remains inviting throughout the year.
• Lloyd District: Only 1 mile from Downtown Portland, the Lloyd District is an excellent choice for family, business, and entertainment experiences. Key attractions include the Oregon Convention Center, Veterans Memorial Coliseum for entertainment, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities. This area sees increased visitor numbers from March to April and July, making it a lively spot with plenty to explore at any time of year.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Portland car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to find lower rates and a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good 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 premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. 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 additional charges. This is typically the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also work, but ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something goes awry during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is also moderate. January and November follow closely with similar characteristics, offering quieter times and reasonable rates. As the summer approaches, from June to August, prices rise to slightly high with moderately high demand, making this the most expensive period for rentals. July, in particular, stands out as the peak month for both cost and demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average