$39 Car Rental Downtown Washington D.C., DC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

Renting a car in Downtown Washington D.C. offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or travelers with a lot of luggage, as having a vehicle allows for easy luggage management and comfortable travel. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions like the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the historic White House, both located less than a mile away. The National Mall, a beautiful national park ideal for outdoor adventures, is also less than a mile from Downtown.

In addition to exploring Downtown, having a car makes it simple to venture to nearby destinations such as Arlington, which is just 2 miles away and offers attractions like the Washington Golf and Country Club. You can also easily access the Penn Quarter neighborhood, which is less than a mile from Downtown. Whether you're looking to experience culture, adventure, or family-friendly activities, renting a car ensures that you can make the most of your trip to Washington D.C. without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

• Standard: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can handle 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples or families. The Standard car offers ample space for your luggage, allowing you to explore Downtown Washington D.C. and its surroundings comfortably and with ease.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, this car type also accommodates up to 5 travelers and fits 3 medium suitcases. The Compact option is perfect for navigating the bustling streets of Downtown Washington D.C. while keeping your travel plans flexible and your fuel costs manageable.
• Midsize SUV: This versatile car type is designed to accommodate 5 travelers and 3 large suitcases, making it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV provides extra room and comfort for your journey, allowing you to explore Downtown Washington D.C. and beyond without feeling cramped.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

• Thrifty Car Rental: With 2 rental locations within 2 miles of Downtown Washington D.C., Thrifty Car Rental provides travelers with convenient access to vehicles. Known for their popular Midsize SUV and Compact SUV options, Thrifty is a great choice for those looking to explore the city and surrounding areas with comfort and style.
• Dollar Rent A Car: With 4 rental locations less than 1 mile away from Downtown Washington D.C., Dollar Rent A Car is an excellent option for travelers seeking convenience. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Standard cars, making it easy to find the perfect ride for your journey through the capital.
• Hertz: Hertz boasts 4 rental locations, with one situated right in the Downtown Washington D.C. area. This supplier is popular for offering Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, ensuring you have ample space and comfort as you navigate the city and beyond. Renting from Hertz offers a seamless experience for your travel needs.

Where to stay around Downtown Washington D.C.

• Downtown Washington D.C.: As the heart of the metropolis, Downtown Washington D.C. offers easy access to iconic landmarks like the White House and the National Mall, perfect for culture and outdoor enthusiasts. With a variety of shopping centers and malls nearby, it’s an ideal base for families and city-themed travelers. Enjoy the local urban parks and vibrant food scene, which includes options for sweet treats and wine.
• Arlington: Located 2 miles away, Arlington is a family-friendly city that features attractions such as the Washington Golf and Country Club and the National Mall. Visitors will find shopping centers and educational venues, making it a great spot for both leisure and business-themed trips. The area’s proximity to Downtown D.C. allows for easy exploration of historic places and local wineries.
• Northwest: Situated 3 miles from Downtown, Northwest is a neighborhood that caters to families and culture enthusiasts. Highlights include the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, providing rich cultural experiences. With urban parks and shopping centers, Northwest also offers nearby options for wine and brewery enthusiasts, making it a well-rounded destination.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, 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 can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and better availability, particularly 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 fees, and specific vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always confirm the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at the airport, but the added convenience can often make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively 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 of unforeseen events during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Washington D.C.

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Washington D.C. is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This can extend to January and April, which also see lower demand levels. March and May offer average pricing, but demand can pick up during these months. From June through August, prices rise to slightly high levels, coinciding with increased demand, making July the most expensive month for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average