$91 Car Rental Ithaca, NY

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ithaca

Renting a car in Ithaca offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts, college visitors, and road trippers. With a rental car, you can easily access key attractions such as Cornell University, Buttermilk Falls State Park, and the Cornell Botanic Gardens, all located within Ithaca. The convenience of managing your luggage and having flexible travel plans enhances your experience, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty and romantic spots in the area. Venture beyond Ithaca to Lansing, just 11 miles away, where you can explore Taughannock Falls State Park and Dutch Harvest Farm. You can also take the time to discover the neighborhoods of Downtown Ithaca and Fall Creek, both offering unique experiences and attractions. Whether you are seeking adventure, family outings, or a romantic getaway, a rental car makes it easy to navigate and enjoy everything Ithaca and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Ithaca

• Midsize SUV: The most popular choice among travelers in Ithaca, the midsize SUV comfortably fits 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the scenic beauty of the area. With ample space for luggage and passengers, it offers both comfort and versatility, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and road trips.
• Economy: A favored option for those traveling solo, as well as couples and families, the economy car fits 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want the freedom to explore Ithaca and its surroundings. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through city streets and find parking, allowing you to enjoy your trip with ease.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is a great fit for families or groups needing extra space, accommodating 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides additional comfort and legroom, making it a suitable choice for longer journeys. If you're planning to travel with a larger group or need extra luggage space, the fullsize car is well-equipped to meet your needs during your time in Ithaca.

Top rated car suppliers in Ithaca

• Enterprise: With a rental location in the Ithaca area, Enterprise is well-regarded for its friendly service and minimal wait times. Travelers often choose this supplier for the convenience it offers, especially when managing luggage. The most popular choices among customers are the Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, making it a great option for those looking for flexibility and comfort during their stay.
• Budget: Budget provides a reliable car rental option with a location in Ithaca. Known for its value, this supplier offers Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars that cater to various traveler needs. With Budget, you can expect affordable rates and an efficient rental experience, perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Ithaca at your leisure.
• Avis: Avis has a rental location in the Ithaca area and is popular among travelers for its quality service. Customers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which are perfect for both short trips and longer journeys. With Avis, you can enjoy a seamless rental process while exploring the scenic attractions in and around Ithaca.

Where to go in and around Ithaca

• Lansing: Located 11 miles away from Ithaca, Lansing offers a blend of outdoor and romantic experiences. Popular activities include visiting the scenic Taughannock Falls State Park, perfect for adventure seekers. The area also features Cornell University, a modern college suitable for educational trips. For those interested in shopping, the local shopping centre provides a variety of options. Travelers tend to visit Lansing more from June to August, so consider this timing for a vibrant experience.
• Downtown Ithaca: Situated around the heart of Ithaca, Downtown Ithaca is ideal for city and family experiences. The area boasts Cornell University, enriching your educational pursuits, while Buttermilk Falls State Park offers stunning outdoor scenery. For family-friendly activities, the Sciencenter provides engaging exhibits. Peak visitor numbers occur in July to August and October, making it a lively time to explore the shops and attractions in this bustling neighborhood.
• Fall Creek: Nestled around Ithaca, Fall Creek is known for its outdoor and romantic atmosphere. The area is home to the picturesque Buttermilk Falls State Park, where outdoor adventures await. Cornell University adds a cultural touch, making it suitable for educational visits. With moderate seasonal traveler numbers peaking in July to August and October, Fall Creek is a great choice for those looking to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.

10 tips to save on your Ithaca car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best match 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. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the cost.
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 expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Ithaca

The best value period to rent a car in and around Ithaca is February, when both prices and demand are lower than usual. March and April also offer reasonable rates with average demand, making them good shoulder months. However, July stands out as the most expensive month due to higher demand and prices, while June and August follow closely behind with similar trends. Overall, the summer months can get quite busy and pricey for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.2°F (-4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
February	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Ithaca

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Ithaca

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Ithaca. 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 Ithaca

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $91.

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