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Top destinations to rent a car in Colorado

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Denver

Denver

What you need to know for your Colorado car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Colorado

Renting a car in Colorado is a great choice for tourists looking to explore this beautiful state. With a car, you gain the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace, making it easier to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. For adventure seekers, a rental car allows you to access stunning outdoor locations like Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery and recreational activities. In addition, visiting the iconic Garden of the Gods is convenient with a car, enabling you to experience its natural beauty without the hassle of public transportation. Key urban destinations like Denver and Colorado Springs are also easily accessible, where you can explore cultural sites such as Union Station and enjoy attractions like Pikes Peak. If you plan to visit Estes Park, a rental car will allow you to discover Historic Estes Park and Emerald Lake with ease. Overall, having a rental car enhances your flexibility and convenience, making your trip to Colorado more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Colorado

  • Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option provides ample space for passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for those looking to explore Colorado’s beautiful landscapes while enjoying comfort and flexibility during their travels.
  • Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. The Standard SUV offers a balance of space and maneuverability, perfect for navigating Colorado’s varied terrain while still providing enough room for personal belongings.
  • Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families or groups. This option is designed for those who need extra room for both passengers and luggage, making it a practical choice for longer trips or when traveling with more gear.

Where to stay in Colorado

  • Denver: Experience the vibrant metropolis of Denver, where outdoor adventures and entertainment abound. Enjoy attractions like the historic Union Station and the thrilling Elitch Gardens Theme Park. For culture enthusiasts, the Denver Art Museum offers a rich artistic experience. The city is surrounded by national state parks and ski areas, making it an ideal base for year-round exploration. With various nearby restaurants and breweries, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings after a day of adventure.
  • Colorado Springs: Nestled against stunning mountainous scenery, Colorado Springs is perfect for those seeking outdoor thrills and breathtaking views. Visit the iconic Garden of the Gods and take in the natural beauty surrounding Pikes Peak. Adventure seekers can explore the Cave of the Winds for a unique experience. The city's urban parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. With a variety of local dining options, you can refuel after a day of outdoor activity.
  • Breckenridge: Known for its world-class skiing, Breckenridge offers a charming mountain town experience. Explore the lively Main Street filled with shops and eateries, and enjoy the cultural offerings at the Breckenridge Riverwalk Center. For family-friendly fun, ride the BreckConnect Gondola and take in the stunning views. With access to national parks and ski resorts, Breckenridge is a fantastic destination for adventure seekers. The local dining scene includes numerous restaurants and breweries, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Colorado

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental rates and are easier to park 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 vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra 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. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with 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: To rent a car, you must present a valid driver's license.

Best time to rent a car in Colorado

The best value period to rent a car in Colorado is April, when both prices and demand are slightly low. Surrounding months like November also offer good value with low demand and prices. While September and October present average prices and demand, June through August typically see higher prices due to increased demand, with July being the most expensive month. February and March maintain average pricing and demand, but they are not as favorable as April.

Find Colorado Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Colorado car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Colorado, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Colorado offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Colorado car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Colorado to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Colorado airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Colorado rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Colorado airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Colorado?
You can find cheap car rentals in Colorado from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's fullsize suv. Car rentals for exploring Colorado are picked up at the region's main gateway, Denver Airport (DEN). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Breckenridge, where rates start from $10 a day, and Vail, with rates from $13 a day. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Colorado.
What are the best car rentals in Colorado?
Car rentals across Colorado offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, and Vail. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
  • Standard SUV
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Colorado.

What are the best car rental companies in Colorado?
For car rentals across Colorado, providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, and Vail. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Denver Airport (DEN) for exploring Colorado?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Denver Airport (DEN) for exploring Colorado. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. Denver Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs.
Can I rent a car one-way in Colorado?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Colorado — pick up in one city, such as Breckenridge, and drop-off in another, like Steamboat Springs, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Colorado?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Colorado, including in Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs. Sixt, Budget, and Thrifty Car Rental all offer hybrid options from $10 a day. For electric vehicles, Sixt and Enterprise have options from $14 a day. EVs and hybrids keep fuel costs low, and charging is becoming more widely available along major routes. It's wise to plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Colorado?
For luxury car rentals across Colorado, Sixt offers fullsize elite SUVs from $15 a day, while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also provide premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Colorado.
What are the best car rentals in Colorado for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Colorado, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $11 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Budget: mini passenger van from $19 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $29 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Colorado.

What are the best car rentals in Colorado for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Colorado for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs:
  • Compact SUV, from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a higher ride for regional day trips
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, from $15 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Colorado.

What are the best car rentals in Colorado for couples?
The best car rentals in Colorado for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Breckenridge and Steamboat Springs:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $13 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your adventure. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Colorado.

What are the closest airports to Colorado for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Colorado offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Denver Airport (DEN)
  • Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) (serving Vail)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Colorado by rental car?
From Colorado, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Breckenridge hub include:
  • Main Street, Breckenridge, approximately 1 mile away
  • Union Station, Denver, approximately 1 mile away
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort, approximately 2 miles away
Time your trip around events like the Denver Christkindl Market or the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, or add activities such as Extreme Sledding in Breckenridge: Country Boy Mine. With cities like Steamboat Springs also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Colorado.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Colorado?
In Colorado, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Colorado?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Colorado. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Colorado?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Colorado?
Budget car rental in Colorado can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Colorado?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Colorado. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Colorado car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Colorado?
To rent a car in Colorado, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Colorado car rental?
If you need to cancel your Colorado car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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