$34 Car Rental Portland, ME

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Portland

Renting a car in Portland, Maine, provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Portland Museum of Art, East End Beach, and the Eastern Promenade, all located within the area. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families and travelers with luggage, allowing for easy management of your belongings while you explore.

Additionally, a rental car makes it simple to venture to nearby destinations like South Portland, just 2 miles away, where you can enjoy Willard Beach and the iconic Portland Head Light. The neighborhoods of Downtown Portland and Old Port also offer various attractions, including the Wadsworth-Longfellow House and more opportunities to experience the local culture and scenery. Having your own vehicle means you can create flexible travel plans that cater to your interests, whether you seek outdoor adventures or family-friendly experiences. Overall, renting a car enhances your journey, making it easier to discover all that Portland and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Portland

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in Portland, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families who want to explore the area comfortably while managing their luggage with ease. Its balanced size makes it versatile for both city driving and longer trips to nearby attractions.
• Standard Van: Perfect for larger groups, the Standard Van can accommodate up to 8 travelers and offers room for up to 6 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for large families or groups traveling together. The extra space ensures everyone can travel comfortably and enjoy the flexibility of exploring Portland and its surroundings without the hassle of multiple vehicles.
• Compact: The Compact car is a great option for those traveling solo or in pairs, as it accommodates 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples and small families looking for a practical and efficient way to navigate Portland. Its smaller size allows for easier parking and maneuverability in the city, making it a convenient choice for urban exploration.

Top rated car suppliers in Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travelers in Portland, offering 1 rental location known for its friendly service. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo provides a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs. The most booked cars with Alamo are the Midsize SUV and Compact, making it a great option for those looking for comfort and convenience while exploring the area.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Portland and is well-regarded for providing amazing value. This supplier is an excellent choice for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. The most popular vehicles rented from Budget include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, perfect for travelers needing extra space or comfort during their adventures around Portland.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car boasts 2 rental locations in Portland, offering travelers flexibility and convenience. Known for a solid selection of vehicles, Dollar's most booked options include Midsize and Fullsize cars, which are ideal for families or groups looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Portland and beyond. With multiple locations, renting a car with Dollar is straightforward and efficient.

Where to stay in and around Portland

• South Portland: Located 2 miles from Portland, South Portland is ideal for travelers seeking a family-friendly, city-themed, or business-themed experience. Enjoy attractions like Willard Beach for a relaxing beach day, and delve into culture at the Portland Head Light and the Portland Museum of Art. With shopping centers and a variety of dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, South Portland offers a well-rounded stay, especially suited for families and those interested in education and leisure activities.
• Downtown Portland: This vibrant neighborhood around Portland is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to explore scenic views. Key attractions include the Portland Museum of Art and the historic Wadsworth-Longfellow House. Visitors can enjoy arena entertainment and shopping at nearby centers. With a range of restaurants and wineries, Downtown Portland combines culture and convenience, making it a great choice for those who appreciate urban charm and diverse experiences.
• Old Port: Known for its picturesque outdoor settings, Old Port attracts families and scenic explorers alike. Key points of interest include the Portland Head Light and East End Beach, both ideal for those wanting to enjoy coastal beauty. The area also hosts theaters and music concerts, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. With numerous restaurants and breweries nearby, Old Port provides a lively experience, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy waterfront activities.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to locate the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices 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 rates and have access to a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park 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 certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Similarly, renters over 70 may also face restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle 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 make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of any unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Portland

The best time to rent a car in and around Portland is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. February and March also offer great value, as they maintain similar low demand and prices. As spring approaches, April and May see average prices and demand, making them decent options as well. However, July is typically the most expensive month with high demand, while August continues this trend of elevated prices and busy rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Portland

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Portland

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $34.

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