$51 Car Rental Charlottesville, VA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charlottesville

Renting a car in Charlottesville provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. This popular choice is ideal for those looking to visit key attractions like Monticello, a historic house that offers cultural experiences, and Carter Mountain Orchard, a charming farm perfect for leisurely outings. With your own vehicle, you can easily navigate to the Rotunda, another significant cultural monument in the area.

A rental car also allows you to conveniently explore neighborhoods such as North Downtown, which features Historic Court Square and the Albemarle County Court House, or Belmont, where you can enjoy the scenery of Monticello and Carter Mountain Orchard. The UVA neighborhood offers additional cultural sites like The Fralin Museum of Art. Having a car makes it easier to manage luggage and adapt your travel plans, whether you are traveling solo, with family, or friends. This flexibility means you can take your time to enjoy the outdoor adventures and scenic beauty that surround Charlottesville, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Charlottesville

• Economy: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 2 medium suitcases. The Economy car is an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for a budget-friendly option. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through Charlottesville while providing the flexibility to explore attractions at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the Fullsize car accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is great for those who require extra luggage capacity without sacrificing comfort. Renting a Fullsize car allows you to enjoy a spacious ride while exploring the local area.
• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. This vehicle offers a balance of comfort and space, making it suitable for those who want a more elevated driving experience while enjoying the scenic views around Charlottesville.

Top rated car suppliers in Charlottesville

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a top choice in Charlottesville, known for its clean vehicles and friendly service. With a single rental location in the area, travelers appreciate the short wait times for pickup and return. The most booked cars include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, making Alamo a reliable and comfortable option for those looking to explore the region at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With four rental locations in Charlottesville, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service. Travelers consistently praise the helpful staff and the smooth check-in process. The most popular rentals from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to a variety of needs. This supplier is ideal for families and business travelers seeking flexibility during their trip.
• Hertz: Hertz operates two rental locations in Charlottesville and is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles and convenient service. Most travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which are perfect for navigating the area. Hertz's reputation for friendly service and efficient operations makes it a solid choice for tourists looking to enjoy the attractions around Charlottesville.

Where to stay in Charlottesville

• North Downtown: North Downtown is an ideal neighborhood for travelers seeking a family, business, or city-themed experience. It offers proximity to a shopping mall center and a range of educational venues. Notable local landmarks include the historic college university and national parks. Key attractions such as Historic Court Square, Monticello, and the Albemarle County Court House are easily accessible, providing rich cultural insights. Additionally, North Downtown boasts nearby options for food and drinks, featuring local wineries and breweries, making it a vibrant spot to stay.
• The Meadows: For families and outdoor enthusiasts, The Meadows presents a wonderful cultural experience with its recreational areas and historical sites. Visitors can enjoy nearby attractions like Monticello, Carter Mountain Orchard, and the Rotunda. This neighborhood is perfect for those looking to explore historic places while also indulging in local cuisine at nearby wineries and breweries. The Meadows is especially appealing during the warmer months when outdoor activities and farm visits are at their peak.
• Hydraulic: Hydraulic offers a culture-themed and entertainment-oriented atmosphere, suited for travelers who enjoy education and outdoor activities. Local attractions include the historic college university, stadium, and scenic lake. Visitors can explore Monticello, Carter Mountain Orchard, and the Rotunda, which are all within reach. Hydraulic is also home to various wineries, providing ample opportunities for tastings and relaxing evenings. This neighborhood is a great choice for those who appreciate both cultural experiences and outdoor fun.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly 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 fees, and certain types of vehicles—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 restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling arrangements, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may face extra fees for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience could 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Charlottesville

The best value period to rent a car in and around Charlottesville is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also offers quieter conditions with slightly low demand, making it a good option as well. Moving into the spring, March and April maintain average pricing and demand. However, June through August see higher rental prices and demand, making them the busiest months for car rentals in the area. Meanwhile, September and October show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	34.0°F (1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	57.7°F (14.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Charlottesville

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Charlottesville

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $51.

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