Car Rental Downtown Shanghai

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Shanghai

Renting a car in Downtown Shanghai offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace. This neighborhood is an excellent choice for business travelers, families, and cultural explorers. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key attractions like The Bund, a picturesque esplanade perfect for family outings and romantic strolls, and People's Square, a modern hub ideal for city experiences. The beautiful Yu Garden also awaits your visit, providing a serene escape within the city.

Additionally, a rental car allows for convenient excursions to nearby neighborhoods. Huangpu is just 1 mile away, where you can further enjoy The Bund and People's Square. Lujiazui, located only 0.1 mile away, features iconic landmarks such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. For those looking to venture a bit further, Changning is 5 miles away, offering attractions like Zhongshan Park and Jing'an Temple. With a car, you can navigate these destinations effortlessly, making your trip to Downtown Shanghai both convenient and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Shanghai

• Compact: The compact car is a popular choice for travelers visiting Downtown Shanghai, fitting up to 5 passengers along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a manageable vehicle that provides the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. Its size makes it easy to navigate the busy streets of Shanghai while ensuring that luggage is handled conveniently.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families and groups, the fullsize car accommodates up to 5 travelers with the ability to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle type offers ample space, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and flexibility during their stay in Downtown Shanghai. Enjoy the convenience of having plenty of room for both passengers and belongings as you travel through the city.
• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a versatile option that fits 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups who desire a bit more space and comfort. With its higher seating position and spacious interior, driving a midsize SUV in and around Downtown Shanghai allows for an enjoyable driving experience while accommodating your luggage and enhancing your exploration of the area.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Shanghai

• Hertz: With over 5 rental locations, Hertz is a popular choice for travelers looking to explore Downtown Shanghai. Located within 3 miles of the neighborhood, it provides flexibility in managing your itinerary. The most booked vehicles from Hertz are Compact and Fullsize options, perfect for navigating the city comfortably and efficiently.

Where to go around Downtown Shanghai

• Huangpu: Located 1 mile away from Downtown Shanghai, Huangpu is a vibrant district attracting travelers for family, city, and business experiences. Visitors can enjoy popular activities such as shopping in various centers and malls. Notable local landmarks include historic sites and modern towers. Key points of interest include The Bund, an esplanade perfect for family and romantic outings; People's Square, a modern square ideal for city exploration; and Yu Garden, a tranquil private garden. The best visiting times are from March to April and July.
• Lujiazui: Situated 0.1 mile from Downtown Shanghai, Lujiazui is a bustling neighborhood known for its family-friendly and outdoor activities. This area features numerous shopping centers and malls. Significant attractions include The Bund, which offers stunning views; the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, a must-see modern tower; and the Shanghai Tower, a skyscraper that is a highlight of the skyline. Visitor numbers peak in March to April and September, making these months an exciting time to explore.
• Changning: Located 5 miles from Downtown Shanghai, Changning is a district favored for family, city, and business trips. This area hosts various shopping venues and centers. Key highlights include Zhongshan Park, an urban park suitable for outdoor and family activities; Jing'an Temple, a cultural site rich in history; and the Shanghai Centre, a modern tower. The peak visiting season occurs from April to May and July, making it an ideal time to experience the local attractions.

10 tips to save on your Downtown Shanghai car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
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're likely to secure better rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or additional daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the convenience may justify the additional cost.
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 offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Downtown Shanghai

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Shanghai is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. February also offers average prices with low demand, making it a good option. March sees a rise in demand and prices, while April keeps things steady with average levels. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. October follows closely, showing high demand and slightly high prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.3°F (5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
February	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
June	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
July	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	82.8°F (28.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
September	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
November	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	45.9°F (7.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average