$90 Car Rental Downtown Portland, ME

These Downtown Portland insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 21, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Portland

Renting a car in Downtown Portland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily visit attractions like the Portland Museum of Art and the historic Wadsworth-Longfellow House, both located within Downtown Portland. For a scenic experience, the Portland Head Light is just 3 miles away, allowing you to enjoy the coastal views without the hassle of public transport. A car also simplifies luggage management, making it easier to travel with family or outdoor gear. You can explore nearby destinations like South Portland, which is only 1 mile away and features Willard Beach, or the Old Port neighborhood, less than 1 mile away, known for its charming streets and waterfront attractions. This convenience is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking a leisurely outdoor experience, as you can easily pack your car with everything you need for a day out. Whether you plan to visit art museums, enjoy the beach, or take in the scenery, having a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Downtown Portland.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Portland

• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, compact cars accommodate up to 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 medium suitcases. Their size makes them perfect for navigating the streets of Downtown Portland, offering excellent fuel efficiency and ease of parking.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, midsize SUVs comfortably fit 5 travelers and have the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases. This option combines space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the area with extra luggage room and a bit more versatility on various terrains.
• Standard SUV: A great option for couples, families, or groups, standard SUVs accommodate up to 5 travelers and hold up to 2 medium suitcases. With a balance of space and comfort, this choice is well-suited for those wanting to travel comfortably around Downtown Portland while having enough room for luggage and other essentials.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Portland

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located 3 miles away from Downtown Portland, Alamo is a popular choice for travelers seeking friendly service. Known for its customer-centric approach, Alamo provides a smooth rental experience. The most booked vehicles with this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it a great option for those needing a comfortable ride for exploring the local attractions.
• Hertz: Just 2 miles from Downtown Portland, Hertz is another excellent choice for car rentals. This supplier is favored for its reliable service and a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs. The most popular cars rented through Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, perfect for families or groups looking to enjoy the sights of Portland and beyond.
• Avis: Also situated 2 miles away from Downtown Portland, Avis is known for its efficient service and a well-maintained fleet. Travelers often select Avis for its Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which provide ample space for luggage and comfort during longer drives. The convenient location makes it an easy option for starting your journey around the charming area.

Where to stay around Downtown Portland

• Downtown Portland: The heart of Portland, Downtown offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment, making it an ideal base for travelers. Within proximity, you can explore the Portland Museum of Art, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences. Enjoy the scenic views at East End Beach or Sand Beach, both great for beach vacations. With numerous restaurants and local wineries nearby, you’ll have plenty of dining options to choose from.
• South Portland: Located only 1 mile from Downtown Portland, South Portland is a family-friendly area featuring shopping centers and educational venues. You can visit Willard Beach for a relaxing beach day or explore the historic Portland Head Light for a touch of culture. This area is also home to various restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy local cuisine and beverages.
• Peaks Island: Situated 3 miles from Downtown Portland, Peaks Island is a picturesque destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The island boasts beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, ideal for relaxation and exploration. Highlights include the Fifth Maine Museum and the iconic Portland Head Light. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while indulging in local dining options available on the island.

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

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 extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's wise to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. Booking early often leads to lower rates and improved availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a great 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 premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports usually incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of 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. Adding car rental insurance is easy when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. February also offers low demand, but prices tend to be average. March follows closely with moderately low prices and low demand, making it another great option. However, July marks the most expensive month due to high demand, with August also experiencing peak rental prices and busy conditions. June sees moderately high prices and average demand, setting the stage for the summer rush.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	33.4°F (0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
December	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average