$55 Car Rental The Wharf, DC

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What you need to know for your The Wharf car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around The Wharf

Renting a car in The Wharf offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor adventures, as it allows for spontaneous stops and easy access to various attractions. Key destinations like the White House, located 2 miles away, and the National Mall, less than 1 mile from The Wharf, are easily reachable by car. Families can also enjoy visits to the Smithsonian Institution, which is about 2 miles away. Exploring nearby areas is convenient too, with Washington-DC-Washington-Hotels.0-n800144-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels >Downtown Washington D.C. and Arlington just a short drive away. Whether you're visiting city landmarks or enjoying outdoor scenery, having a car makes it easier to experience everything The Wharf and its surrounding neighborhoods have to offer. Say goodbye to the constraints of public transportation and embrace the convenience of a rental car for a more enjoyable trip.

Most popular car rentals around The Wharf

  • Midsize SUV: This option is the top choice for travelers at The Wharf, accommodating up to 5 people along with 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a spacious vehicle that allows for comfortable travel and easy luggage management. The midsize SUV provides a great balance of size and maneuverability, making it ideal for exploring the attractions around The Wharf at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: This car type is another popular option, suitable for 5 travelers and capable of holding 2 medium suitcases. The standard SUV is versatile and spacious, making it a great fit for couples, families, or groups. It combines comfort and practicality, ensuring that you have enough room for your belongings while enjoying a smooth ride as you navigate around The Wharf and beyond.
  • Compact SUV: If you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the compact SUV is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold 3 medium suitcases, providing the perfect blend of space and efficiency. Ideal for those who want a more manageable vehicle while still enjoying comfort, the compact SUV allows for flexible travel plans, making it easy to explore the area surrounding The Wharf.

Top rated car suppliers around The Wharf

  • Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice among travelers, offering a rental location just 2 miles away from The Wharf. Known for its excellent customer service and a diverse fleet, Sixt’s most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options. Renting from Sixt allows you to explore the area comfortably and at your own pace.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: With 2 rental locations, the nearest Thrifty outlet is also located 2 miles away from The Wharf. Travelers favor Thrifty for their competitive pricing and selection of vehicles, which includes Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs. Enjoy the flexibility of having a Thrifty car rental as you navigate the exciting sights around The Wharf.
  • Enterprise: For maximum convenience, Enterprise stands out with 5 rental locations, and the nearest one is less than 1 mile away from The Wharf. Enterprise is well-known for its variety of vehicles, including popular choices like Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to make the most of their visit to the vibrant neighborhood of The Wharf.

Where to stay around The Wharf

  • The Wharf: A vibrant waterfront destination in Washington, The Wharf offers travelers a unique blend of dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences. With its proximity to landmarks like the National Mall and the Smithsonian Institution, you can easily immerse yourself in culture and adventure. Enjoy the local food options, ranging from sweet treats to wineries, making it an ideal spot for all types of visitors.
  • Downtown Washington D.C.: Located 2 miles from The Wharf, Downtown Washington D.C. is a bustling neighborhood perfect for those seeking family-friendly activities and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the historic White House. The area is known for its shopping centers and delicious eateries, ensuring a lively and convenient stay.
  • Arlington: Situated 3 miles from The Wharf, Arlington is a city that caters to families and business travelers alike. This area features urban parks and sports facilities, along with attractions such as the Washington Golf and Country Club. With local dining options that include wineries and sweet treats, Arlington provides a pleasant escape while remaining close to the heart of Washington.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around The Wharf

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, filters on Expedia can help you discover the best fit 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 are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. 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 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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 The Wharf

The best time to rent a car in and around The Wharf is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value option. January also offers similar conditions, providing a quiet rental experience. As spring approaches, April sees average prices and demand, while May begins to see slightly higher prices with average demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and rental prices peaking during this busy season.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$55
 
Our second best deal of the day
$57
 
Our third best deal of the day
$60
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near The Wharf?
You can find cheap car rentals near The Wharf from $12 a day with Thrifty Car Rental's compact 4-5 door cars. Sixt offers midsize SUVs starting from $12 a day and compact SUVs also starting from $12 a day. Dollar Rent A Car provides midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a car rental near The Wharf that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in The Wharf.
What are the best luxury car companies near The Wharf?
For luxury car rentals near The Wharf, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Enterprise. Sixt offers categories such as premium, luxury, and premium elite, including car types like convertibles and sports cars. Enterprise also provides luxury, fullsize elite, and standard elite categories, with options like sports cars and convertibles. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more refined travel experience in the The Wharf area. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in The Wharf.
Can I rent a car one-way near The Wharf?
A one-way car rental near The Wharf is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $14 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for a one-way car rental starting near The Wharf, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in the area and drop it off at a different location, which is convenient for exploring beyond Washington. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in The Wharf.
Can I rent a car round-trip near The Wharf?
The area near The Wharf is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $12 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near The Wharf, such as:
  • National Mall, 2 miles away
  • White House, 1 mile away
  • Nationals Park, 3 miles away
Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your local excursions and return your vehicle conveniently. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in The Wharf.

What are the best car rentals near The Wharf?
Car rentals near The Wharf offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission as standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions in the The Wharf area often prefer SUVs or minivans for space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in The Wharf.

What are the best car rentals near The Wharf for solo travelers?
Compact classes are often a good choice for solo travelers near The Wharf—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Compact SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a comfortable ride with good visibility for city and regional drives.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $15 a day—also fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, providing a nimble option for navigating urban streets and finding parking.
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like the National Mall, consider sizing up to a midsize SUV for extra highway comfort and space. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in The Wharf.

What are the best car rentals near The Wharf for couples?
The best car rentals near The Wharf for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $14 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering a comfortable ride for two with ample trunk space for luggage.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, providing a higher ride and good visibility for day trips around the region.
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives in The Wharf area, which typically fits up to 2 large suitcases. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in The Wharf.

What are the best car rentals near The Wharf for families?
The best car rentals near The Wharf for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, offering a comfortable option for families with car seats.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $20 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and ample luggage.
SUVs and minivans are popular with families and have plenty of room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around The Wharf area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the March and June peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV car rentals in The Wharf.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near The Wharf?
The area near The Wharf has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers hybrid vehicles starting from $12 a day and electric vehicles starting from $13 a day. Enterprise also provides hybrid and electric options, with hybrid cars starting from $12 a day. Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental similarly offer hybrid vehicles from $12 a day and electric options from $13 a day. Multiple rental companies near The Wharf carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. These vehicles can help save on fuel costs, and the area has public charging infrastructure. Plan charging stops for longer trips to maximize your travel efficiency.
What is the best time to book a car near The Wharf?
From February, prices near The Wharf are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $12 a day during this period. March and June tend to be the busiest months, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • National Mall
  • White House
  • Nationals Park
  • DC Monuments by Night: 10+ Landmarks | Open-Top Upgrade Available
  • National Cherry Blossom Festival
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.

What is the weather like for driving near The Wharf?
Driving near The Wharf generally offers varied conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around March and June, when routes to popular spots get busiest—planning your drives for quieter periods can enhance your experience. For varied road conditions, a midsize SUV offers reliable grip and traction, providing comfort and stability. Always check the local weather forecast before embarking on longer trips and ensure your vehicle is prepared for the conditions.
What are the best car companies near The Wharf?
Car rentals in The Wharf area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and compact SUVs that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers standard SUVs and compact SUVs, providing more space and stability for highways and regional exploration. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars and compact SUVs. Choose a vehicle based on your planned routes and activities, with compact options ideal for city maneuvering and SUVs offering comfort for longer drives. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in The Wharf.
What are good day trip destinations from The Wharf by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from The Wharf include:
  • National Mall, approximately 2 miles away—perfect for exploring historical monuments and museums.
  • White House, approximately 1 mile away—an iconic landmark for a quick visit.
  • Tysons Corner Center, approximately 13 miles away—ideal for shopping and dining.
  • DC Monuments by Night: 10+ Landmarks | Open-Top Upgrade Available—a great way to see the city's illuminated sights.
  • National Cherry Blossom Festival—a beautiful event to experience if visiting in March or April.
These distances are manageable for most car types, though a compact car is excellent for city driving, and an SUV offers comfort for longer drives to places like Tysons Corner. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in The Wharf.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in The Wharf?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in The Wharf. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in The Wharf?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in The Wharf?
Budget car rental in The Wharf can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $55. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in The Wharf?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in The Wharf. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your The Wharf car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in The Wharf?
To rent a car in The Wharf, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my The Wharf car rental?
If you need to cancel your The Wharf car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in The Wharf with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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