Car Rental Southbank

These Southbank insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 30, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southbank

Renting a car in Southbank allows you the freedom to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites like the Southbank Promenade, which is perfect for city experiences, as well as the National Gallery of Victoria, located right in Southbank. For sports enthusiasts, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is just 2 miles away, offering a glimpse into Australia’s rich sporting culture. The convenience of a rental car is especially appealing for families and business travelers, making it easy to manage luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. Additionally, you can venture into nearby neighborhoods like the Melbourne Central Business District, only 1 mile from Southbank, where you can find Melbourne Park and Collins Street. Docklands is also a mile away, featuring popular spots like St Kilda Beach. By renting a car, you can effortlessly navigate these popular destinations, ensuring a comfortable and flexible travel experience while discovering the vibrant culture and attractions around Southbank.

Most popular car rentals in and around Southbank

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travelers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups exploring Southbank. The midsize SUV offers ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable ride while you enjoy the flexibility of your travel plans.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car also accommodates up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. Its size makes it an ideal option for navigating through the bustling streets of Southbank while providing ease of parking and efficient fuel consumption.
• Fullsize: This option is tailored for families or groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with the ability to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. The fullsize car offers extra room and comfort, making it a great choice for those who need a bit more space during their journeys in and around Southbank.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Southbank

• Hertz: Known for its clean vehicles and excellent service, Hertz has 3 rental locations conveniently situated less than 1 mile from Southbank. This supplier is popular among travelers for offering reliable options, with the Midsize SUV and Economy SUV being the most booked choices. Renting from Hertz allows you the flexibility to explore the vibrant attractions of Southbank at your own pace.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 2 rental locations located within less than 1 mile of Southbank, Thrifty Car Rental is recognized for its well-maintained fleet. Travelers often choose Thrifty for their dependable service and quality vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Fullsize SUV being top choices among customers. This supplier makes it easy to manage your luggage and itinerary while exploring the area.
• Avis: Avis stands out with 4 rental locations conveniently located less than 1 mile from Southbank. This supplier is a favorite among travelers and is known for its extensive selection of vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize options are particularly popular for those looking for comfort and space. Renting with Avis provides the freedom to navigate Southbank and its surroundings effortlessly.

Where to stay around Southbank

• Southbank: Known for its vibrant culture and proximity to the Yarra River, Southbank offers a variety of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. It is an excellent base for exploring attractions like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and St Kilda Beach, both just a short distance away. Enjoy the diverse dining options and the scenic views of the city skyline while staying in this bustling area.
• Melbourne Central Business District: Located 1 mile from Southbank, the Melbourne Central Business District is the heart of the city. Here, travelers can find a range of hotels and serviced apartments suitable for business and leisure. The district is home to popular sites such as Collins Street and Melbourne Park, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere and enjoy easy access to shopping and dining.
• Docklands: Situated 1 mile from Southbank, Docklands is a modern suburb with waterfront views and a variety of accommodation options. It's perfect for families and business travelers alike, offering proximity to attractions like the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground and shopping centers. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, and a diverse selection of restaurants and wineries are nearby for dining experiences.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to find lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, 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 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 rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can work 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 may make it worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
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 Southbank

The best value period to rent a car in and around Southbank is May, when prices are lower and demand is moderately low. June and July also offer slightly lower prices with average demand, making them decent options. However, January and February are typically the busiest months with higher demand and average prices. December rounds out the year as the most expensive month, with demand also remaining moderately high during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
March	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
August	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High