$74 Car Rental Dubuque, IA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Dubuque

Renting a car in Dubuque offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those traveling with family or outdoor enthusiasts, as it allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Crystal Lake Cave, Eagle Point Park, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, all of which provide excellent outdoor and family experiences.

Moreover, a car makes it simple to explore nearby destinations like East Dubuque, located only 2 miles away, where you can find additional attractions such as the Port of Dubuque Marina. Downtown Dubuque is also easily accessible, featuring cultural spots like the Dubuque Art Center and the Grand Opera House. If you venture to Key West in the area, you can enjoy the same attractions as in Dubuque. Overall, having a rental car enhances your ability to make the most of your trip, allowing you to discover all that Dubuque and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Dubuque

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is a popular choice for families and groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with the ability to manage up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides ample space and comfort, making it ideal for those looking to explore Dubuque and its surroundings without feeling cramped. Enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace while having enough room for your luggage.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is another highly booked option, perfect for families, couples, or small groups. With space for 5 travelers and room for up to 3 large suitcases, this vehicle combines comfort and versatility. It allows you to navigate both urban settings and more rugged terrain around Dubuque, providing a well-rounded travel experience. Enjoy the extra height and visibility that an SUV offers while you explore the area.
• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, or families who prefer a smaller vehicle. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for those who want to travel light. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver through Dubuque’s streets, providing convenience for parking and navigating tight spaces while still offering a comfortable ride.

Top rated car suppliers in Dubuque

• Enterprise: Enterprise has a rental location in the Dubuque area and is known for its friendly service and reliable pricing. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, it has become a popular choice among travelers. Most customers favor renting a Midsize SUV or Fullsize vehicle, allowing you to navigate the stunning landscapes of Dubuque comfortably.
• Budget: Budget, with its rental location in Dubuque, is an excellent option for those seeking value without compromising on quality. This supplier is frequently chosen for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, making it easy to accommodate your travel needs, whether you're exploring the city or venturing into the surrounding areas.
• Hertz: Hertz operates a rental location in Dubuque and is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles. Travelers often prefer Midsize and Fullsize cars for their spaciousness and comfort. With Hertz, you can expect a smooth rental experience, ensuring you have the freedom to explore Dubuque and its attractions at your leisure.

Where to stay in and around Dubuque

• Downtown Dubuque: This vibrant neighborhood offers a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a city-themed and outdoor experience. Downtown Dubuque is home to attractions like the Dubuque Art Center, Grand Opera House, and Carnegie-Stout Public Library. Visitors can explore local museums and enjoy nearby restaurants and breweries, making it a lively area to stay for culture and entertainment enthusiasts.
• East Dubuque: Located 2 miles away from Dubuque, East Dubuque is ideal for travelers looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Key highlights in the area include the stunning Crystal Lake Cave and the picturesque Eagle Point Park. With its proximity to a national state park and a marina, East Dubuque is a great choice for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while still being close to the city.
• Key West: This charming village in the Dubuque area caters to families and culture enthusiasts. Key West features attractions like Crystal Lake Cave and Eagle Point Park, providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can also enjoy local museums and historic buildings. With nearby distilleries and restaurants, this neighborhood offers a delightful blend of culture and leisure activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Dubuque

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical 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 prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental rates and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might 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 rentals adhere to a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra 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 help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs 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, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Dubuque

The best time to rent a car in and around Dubuque is September, as it offers the best value with lower prices and average demand. You may also find good options in April and November, when prices are slightly low and demand remains manageable. In contrast, June through August see higher prices and increased demand, making them the most expensive months for rentals. July and August also follow this trend, typically resulting in busier rental periods.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	19.2°F (-7.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
March	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Dubuque

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Dubuque into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Dubuque and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Dubuque

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Dubuque. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Dubuque

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $74.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals