$79 Car Rental Petersburg, IL

These Petersburg insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 2, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Petersburg

Renting a car in and around Petersburg, Illinois, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting key sites such as the Illinois State Fairgrounds, located 16 miles away, and Lincoln's Tomb, just 17 miles from Petersburg. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Panther Creek State Fish and Wildlife Area, 13 miles away, provides excellent opportunities for adventure and scenic experiences. Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to visit nearby cities like Tallula and Athens, both 7 miles away, where you can find attractions like Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking outdoor adventures, having a rental car enhances your experience by allowing you to create flexible travel plans. You can easily explore everything from cultural landmarks to family-friendly sites, making your trip in and around Petersburg a memorable one.

Where to stay around Petersburg

• Tallula: Located 7 miles from Petersburg, Tallula offers a blend of outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Illinois State Fairgrounds, which is perfect for outdoor vacations, and Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, a historic place ideal for cultural exploration. The town also features a shopping center and dog park for leisure, along with nearby wineries for dining options. Tallula’s urban park and museum make it a great spot for families seeking a city-themed getaway.
• Athens: Situated 7 miles from Petersburg, Athens is a vibrant destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts attractions like the Illinois State Fairgrounds and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, making it suitable for culture vacations. Families can enjoy entertainment options such as a water park and theme park, ensuring fun for all ages. The charming event conference venue also adds to the community's allure, making Athens a well-rounded choice for a memorable stay.
• Greenview: Just 8 miles away from Petersburg, Greenview is an excellent destination for outdoor activities and family adventures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local golf courses and parks, with highlights including the Illinois State Fairgrounds and Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site for cultural experiences. The nearby lake provides a serene backdrop for relaxation, while local restaurants offer delicious dining choices. Greenview's combination of education and leisure makes it an appealing option for travelers seeking both excitement and tranquility.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and have greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, 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 luxury models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable—just remember to 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 added convenience may justify the 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 provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Petersburg

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Petersburg

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $79.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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