$45 Car Rental Downtown Birmingham, AL

These Downtown Birmingham insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 1, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Birmingham

Renting a car in Downtown Birmingham offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly convenient for families or travelers with luggage, as managing your belongings is much easier with a vehicle. You can visit key attractions such as the Birmingham Museum of Art and the McWane Science Center, both located in Downtown Birmingham, or take a short drive to Sloss Furnaces, which is just 1 mile away. A rental car also allows you to venture into nearby areas like Homewood, 2 miles from Downtown, where you can explore the Alabama Men's Hall of Fame and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Additionally, Five Points South is less than 1 mile away and features attractions like the Vulcan Statue. Whether you are seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, or business-related visits, having a rental car enhances your travel experience by providing easy access to various destinations without the constraints of public transportation. With a car, your travel plans can remain flexible, allowing you to make the most of your time in Birmingham.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Birmingham

• Fullsize: The fullsize car is a popular choice for families and groups, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers ample space, making it ideal for those who need to manage luggage while exploring Downtown Birmingham and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Economy: If you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, the economy car is a fantastic option. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is perfect for those looking to save on fuel costs while enjoying the freedom of exploring Downtown Birmingham, all while keeping your travel plans flexible.
• Midsize SUV: For travelers seeking a blend of space and comfort, the midsize SUV is an excellent option. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a versatile vehicle that offers both roominess and the ability to navigate Downtown Birmingham comfortably.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Birmingham

• Hertz: With two rental locations conveniently situated in Downtown Birmingham, Hertz is a popular choice among travelers looking for flexibility and a diverse fleet. Most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, perfect for navigating both the city and surrounding areas. Hertz is known for its reliable service, ensuring that you can easily manage your luggage and explore at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Enterprise also boasts two locations in Downtown Birmingham, making it easy for travelers to access their services. The most popular rentals are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, offering ample space for passengers and luggage alike. With a focus on customer satisfaction and convenience, Enterprise is a great option for those wanting to tailor their travel experience in and around Birmingham.
• Budget: Budget provides a single rental location in Downtown Birmingham, catering to travelers seeking affordability without compromising on quality. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget’s most frequently rented cars include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options. This supplier is ideal for those who want to maximize their travel budget while enjoying the freedom of having their own vehicle.

Where to stay around Downtown Birmingham

• Downtown Birmingham: As the heart of Birmingham, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to various attractions such as the Barber Motorsports Park, Sloss Furnaces, and the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. This area is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and business opportunities. Enjoy a variety of local dining options, including breweries and wineries, all within close proximity.
• Homewood: Located 2 miles away from Downtown Birmingham, Homewood is a charming neighborhood perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With attractions like the Alabama Men's Hall of Fame and Birmingham Botanical Gardens nearby, visitors can enjoy educational and cultural experiences. The area also features various shopping centers and local food and drink options, including breweries and wineries, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed stay.
• Five Points South: Less than 1 mile from Downtown Birmingham, Five Points South offers a lively community atmosphere with attractions like the Vulcan Statue and Protective Stadium. This neighborhood is ideal for those looking for outdoor and family-themed activities. With a range of restaurants and local wineries nearby, it provides ample opportunities to explore the culinary scene while being close to the educational facilities and sports venues that define the area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Birmingham

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to secure lower rates and have a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good balance of affordability, 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. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be convenient as long as 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 justify the additional 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 protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional costs.
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 Downtown Birmingham

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Birmingham is January and February, when both prices and demand tend to be slightly low. This period offers the best value for travelers. The spring months, particularly April and May, see average prices with slightly high demand, making them decent shoulder periods. However, March stands out as the most expensive month, with high prices and demand. Following this, July typically experiences the highest demand and prices for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average