$78 Car Rental Athens, TN

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Top Car Deals in Athens

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Special

Vehicle determined upon pick-up Compact or Larger
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Vehicle determined  upon pick-up  Compact or Larger

$78

includes taxes & fees
$69 per day
found 3 days ago
Special Vehicle determined upon pick-up Compact or Larger

Compact

Nissan Versa
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Nissan Versa

$79

includes taxes & fees
$70 per day
found 3 days ago
Compact Nissan Versa

Economy

Mitsubishi Mirage
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Mitsubishi Mirage

$79

includes taxes & fees
$70 per day
found 3 days ago
Economy Mitsubishi Mirage

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Toyota Corolla

$81

includes taxes & fees
$72 per day
found 3 days ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Volkswagen Jetta

$85

includes taxes & fees
$75 per day
found 3 days ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Fullsize

Nissan Altima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Nissan Altima

$86

includes taxes & fees
$76 per day
found 3 days ago
Fullsize Nissan Altima

Luxury

Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Cleveland, Tennessee, USA
Audi A4  Genesis G70  BMW 3 series

$96

includes taxes & fees
$85 per day
found 3 days ago
Luxury Audi A4 Genesis G70 BMW 3 series

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Dayton, Tennessee, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$101

includes taxes & fees
$89 per day
found 3 days ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Premium Pickup Regular Cab

Ford F150
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Ford F150

$111

includes taxes & fees
$98 per day
found 3 days ago
Premium Pickup Regular Cab Ford F150

Standard Elite Special

Ford Mustang Mach-E
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Alcoa, Tennessee, USA
Ford Mustang Mach-E

$147

includes taxes & fees
$112 per day
found 5 days ago
Standard Elite Special Ford Mustang Mach-E

Premium Elite SUV

Audi Q5 Genesis GV70 BMW X3
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Audi Q5  Genesis GV70  BMW X3

$134

includes taxes & fees
$118 per day
found 3 days ago
Premium Elite SUV Audi Q5 Genesis GV70 BMW X3

Fullsize Elite Special

Audi A5 Sportback
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
ALCOA, USA
Audi A5 Sportback

$160

includes taxes & fees
$122 per day
found 3 days ago
Fullsize Elite Special Audi A5 Sportback

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Lowest prices found within the past 3 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Athens car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens 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 McMinn Field, an urban park perfect for family and outdoor experiences, or the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum, which offers cultural insights into the area. For those seeking adventure, the Lost Sea Adventure, located 11 miles away, invites you to explore its fascinating cave. The convenience of having a car allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly and adjust your travel plans as needed. Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like Sweetwater, just 13 miles away, or Niota, 6 miles away, both featuring attractions like Engleman Park and more outdoor experiences. Whether you are traveling with family or looking for scenic spots, a rental car enhances your experience by making it easy to access various locations and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Athens and beyond.

Top rated car suppliers in Athens

  • Enterprise: With a rental location in Athens, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers looking for flexibility and convenience. They specialize in Midsize and Premium SUVs, ensuring a comfortable ride for your adventures. Their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a popular option among visitors who want to explore Athens and its surroundings at their own pace.

Where to stay around Athens

  • Athens: Known for its outdoor and scenic experiences, Athens offers a variety of nearby attractions. Popular spots include the beautiful lakes and caves close to the city. Visitors can also enjoy recreational areas and local dining options. The proximity to Athens - Sweetwater adds to the charm, with attractions like the Lost Sea Adventure and McMinn Field readily accessible.
  • Sweetwater: Located 13 miles from Athens, Sweetwater is ideal for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Key attractions include the Lost Sea Adventure cave and Engleman Park, perfect for family outings. Sweetwater also provides various food and drink options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a great destination for relaxation and adventure.
  • Niota: Situated 6 miles from Athens, Niota is a picturesque city that appeals to those who love outdoor activities and scenic views. Highlights include the Lost Sea Adventure and local parks such as McMinn Field and Regional Park, suitable for family and outdoor experiences. Dining options, including restaurants and wineries, enrich the stay for visitors looking to explore the local flavor.
  • Athens - Sweetwater: Less than 1 mile from Athens, this area is perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore attractions such as the Lost Sea Adventure and enjoy the nearby recreational areas. With options for dining and wineries, Athens - Sweetwater offers a delightful blend of activities and relaxation for travelers seeking a scenic escape.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summertime fun, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  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 are more likely to lock in lower rates and have better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver 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 can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  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 additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies 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 in case something 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 rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Athens

The best time to rent a car in and around Athens is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February also offers good value with slightly low prices and average demand. From March to June, rental rates remain average, but demand picks up slightly in July, which is the busiest month. As the year progresses, prices tend to rise, with November being the most expensive month, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March50.4°F (10.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
April58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May67.3°F (19.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
October60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
November49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Athens

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Athens

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $78.

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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$78
Our second best deal of the day
$79
Our third best deal of the day
$81
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Athens?
You can find cheap car rentals in Athens from $17 a day with Budget's fullsize 2/4 door cars. Budget offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day. Enterprise has special cars starting from $19 a day, and Thrifty provides midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Athens that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Athens.
What are the best luxury car companies in Athens?
For luxury car rentals in Athens, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise. Alamo Rent A Car offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $40 a day and fullsize SUV options starting from $41 a day. Enterprise also provides premium pickup regular cab vehicles starting from $39 a day and premium SUV options starting from $51 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience in Athens. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Athens.
Can I rent a car one-way in Athens?
A one-way car rental in Athens is available, offering flexibility for travelers who wish to pick up their vehicle in Athens and drop it off at a different location. One-way rentals start from $23 a day. This option is convenient for planning road trips that don't loop back to your starting point. You can compare one-way car rental deals on Expedia to find a suitable option for your travel plans. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Athens.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Athens?
Athens is well suited to round-trip rentals, which are often the most cost-effective choice, with prices starting from $17 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location in Athens generally helps avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it an economical option for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. Many providers on Expedia offer reliable round-trip availability, allowing you to easily plan your itinerary and return the vehicle to your initial pickup point. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Athens.
What are the best car rentals in Athens?
Car rentals in Athens offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Special
  • Compact SUV
Most come with automatic transmission standard. Families visiting Athens prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do well with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and your planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Athens.
What are the best car rentals in Athens for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Athens for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $19 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $21 a day—fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. These options offer great value and ease of navigation for exploring Athens. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Athens.
What are the best car rentals in Athens for couples?
The best car rentals in Athens for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $25 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $25 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. These options are ideal for exploring Athens and its surroundings comfortably. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Athens.
What are the best car rentals in Athens for families?
The best car rentals in Athens for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $24 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $28 a day—seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
  • Fullsize SUV, starting from $41 a day—seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, offering ample space and comfort
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Athens. Thrifty Car Rental is popular with families. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the June-July peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Athens.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Athens?
Yes, Athens has electric and hybrid vehicle options available from several providers. Avis offers electric vehicles starting from $17 a day and hybrid vehicles also starting from $17 a day. Similarly, Budget provides electric vehicles starting from $17 a day and hybrid options also starting from $17 a day. These eco-friendly choices can be a great way to explore Athens while potentially saving on fuel costs. When planning longer trips, consider the vehicle's range and plan your route accordingly.
What is the best time to book a car in Athens?
January is typically the lowest month for car rental prices in Athens, with rentals starting from as little as $23 a day for an economy 2 or 4 door car. Prices can increase during the peak months of June and July due to higher demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. 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 in Athens?
Driving in Athens experiences seasonal changes throughout the year. July tends to be the busiest month for travel, which can mean more traffic on the roads. For general driving conditions, an economy 2 or 4 door car, starting from $23 a day, offers reliable handling for city and highway travel. Always check the local weather forecast before embarking on longer trips, and ensure your vehicle is prepared for the conditions you might encounter.
What are the best car companies in Athens?
Car rentals in Athens are available from providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Avis, offering a range of vehicles to suit various travel needs. Alamo Rent A Car has economy 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $23 a day, which are easy to maneuver and fuel-efficient for city streets, and midsize SUVs, starting from $25 a day, for more space. Enterprise offers special vehicles starting from $19 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $26 a day. Avis rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $23 a day and mini passenger vans starting from $23 a day, providing options for larger groups or those needing extra luggage capacity. Choosing a compact class is ideal for easy parking and better mileage, while an SUV or van offers more comfort and space for longer trips. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Athens.
What are good day trip destinations from Athens by rental car?
Athens offers several excellent day trip destinations easily accessible by rental car, catering to various interests. For nature lovers and families, consider a trip to:
  • Watts Bar Lake, just 23 miles away, perfect for water activities and relaxation.
  • Ruby Falls, located 62 miles from Athens, where you can explore a stunning underground waterfall.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, about 76 miles away, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
For unique experiences, the Jack Daniel's Distillery Day Trip is a popular option for adults, and the Day Trip to Fall Creek Falls Waterfalls and Hiking Adventure provides another opportunity to explore natural beauty. When planning your car rental in Athens for these excursions, a midsize SUV or standard SUV is an excellent choice for families or groups, providing ample space for passengers and luggage, especially for trips to the mountains like Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For those seeking a cheap car rental in Athens for shorter, less demanding drives, an economy or compact car starting from $23 a day can be a good value option. Always ensure your car rental for families in Athens has enough room and comfort for the journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Athens.
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 Athens?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Athens. 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 Athens?
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 Athens?
Budget car rental in Athens can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $78. 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 Athens?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Athens. 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 Athens car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Athens?
To rent a car in Athens, 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 Athens car rental?
If you need to cancel your Athens 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 Athens 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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