Uruguay Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Uruguay

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Montevideo

Montevideo

What you need to know for your Uruguay car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Uruguay

Renting a car in Uruguay offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the country's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit popular destinations such as Montevideo, where you can experience the historic Centenario Stadium and enjoy the scenic Rambla. Just a short drive away, Punta del Este features beautiful Mansa Beach, perfect for relaxation and water activities. Additionally, Colonia del Sacramento, known for its charming streets and the Colonia del Sacramento Plaza de Armas, is accessible by car, allowing you to soak in the rich history of the region.

The convenience of managing your luggage and creating flexible travel plans makes car rental particularly appealing, especially for those seeking beach, outdoor, and adventure experiences. Whether you are traveling with family or friends, having a rental car ensures comfort and ease as you navigate between attractions. With well-maintained roads connecting these key sites, exploring Uruguay becomes an enjoyable and straightforward journey, enabling you to experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes the country has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Uruguay

  • Economy: The Economy car option is a popular choice that accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal fit for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to explore Uruguay comfortably and efficiently. Its compact size also allows for easier maneuverability in urban areas, making it perfect for those who want to navigate city streets with ease.
  • Compact: Similar to the Economy option, the Compact car also accommodates 5 travelers but offers additional space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for those who may need a bit more luggage capability without compromising on fuel efficiency. Whether you're a solo adventurer or traveling with family, the Compact car provides a balance of comfort and practicality while allowing you to enjoy your journey through Uruguay.
  • Fullsize Van: The Fullsize Van is an excellent choice for larger groups, accommodating up to 10 travelers with room for 6 large suitcases. This option is perfect for large families or groups traveling together, offering ample space for everyone and their belongings. If you're planning to travel with a crowd and want to ensure everyone has enough room, the Fullsize Van makes group travel in Uruguay both comfortable and convenient.

Where to stay in Uruguay

  • Montevideo: Montevideo offers a vibrant urban experience perfect for city lovers and families. Popular attractions include the historic Centenario Stadium, suitable for sports culture enthusiasts, and the beautiful Carrasco Beach for a relaxing day by the shore. Parque Rodó is a charming neighborhood ideal for exploring local culture. The area is filled with shopping centers and public markets, along with diverse dining options including wineries and restaurants. Montevideo is especially appealing year-round, providing various activities for both romantic getaways and family vacations.
  • Punta del Este: Known for its stunning beaches, Punta del Este is a prime destination for romantic escapes and beach lovers. The famous Mansa Beach and Brava Beach offer picturesque coastlines and vibrant atmospheres. Visitors can explore the local shopping areas and indulge in exquisite dining experiences at nearby restaurants and wineries. La Barra Beach adds to the charm of this coastal city, making it a perfect spot for a beach vacation. Punta del Este is particularly lively during the summer season, attracting visitors looking for sun and fun.
  • Colonia del Sacramento: Colonia del Sacramento is a charming city that combines historical appeal with outdoor adventures, ideal for families and culture seekers. Key highlights include the picturesque Ferrando Beach and the historic Colonia del Sacramento Plaza de Armas, a lovely square perfect for leisurely strolls. The marina and dock port showcase the city's maritime heritage, while local shops and cafes invite you to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. This destination is delightful to visit any time of year, especially for those looking to explore outdoor experiences.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Uruguay

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to 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 wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in congested 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 surcharges, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are acceptable as well—just ensure 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 might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Uruguay

The best value period to rent a car in Uruguay is July, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. September also offers a good option, as prices remain slightly low with average demand. March, April, May, and June see average pricing and demand, making them reasonable choices as well. However, January and February are usually the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly high prices, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Find Uruguay Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Uruguay car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Uruguay, 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 Uruguay offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Uruguay 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 Uruguay 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 Uruguay 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 Uruguay rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Uruguay?
Smaller classes like economy and compact cars often offer some of the most affordable car rentals in Uruguay, which are easy to park and efficient for getting around. You'll find these options readily available in major cities such as Punta del Este and Montevideo. Nationwide suppliers like Europcar, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis offer these budget-friendly vehicles. Rates can vary by city, specific pickup location, and the time of year, so it's always a good idea to compare different cities and dates on Expedia to find great value for your trip.
What are the best car rentals in Uruguay?
Car rentals across Uruguay come in a full range of vehicle types from providers like Europcar, Alamo Rent A Car, and Sixt, broadly available in major cities such as Punta del Este, Montevideo, and Colonia del Sacramento. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Economy 2-3 door
  • Midsize pickup extended cab
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or covering longer distances between regions.

What are the best car rental companies in Uruguay?
For car rentals across Uruguay, well-rated providers like Europcar, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles with wide availability in major cities such as Punta del Este, Montevideo, and Colonia del Sacramento. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car one-way in Uruguay?
Yes - one-way car rentals are a great way to see Uruguay. Pick up in a city like Punta del Este and drop off in another, such as Montevideo, which is ideal for a cross-country road trip. Providers like Europcar and Alamo Rent A Car offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee usually applies and can be higher over longer distances, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Uruguay?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Uruguay, including in major cities like Punta del Este and Montevideo. Companies such as Europcar and Sixt offer electric options. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer drives between cities.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Uruguay?
For luxury car rentals across Uruguay, providers like Europcar, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise offer premium categories - high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for touring the country in style. You'll find them in major cities such as Punta del Este and Montevideo. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare before you book.
What are the best car rentals in Uruguay for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Uruguay, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across major cities from Punta del Este to Montevideo:
  • Europcar: standard passenger van - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Sixt: fullsize SUV - seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips between regions. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods.

Which airports in Uruguay can I pick up a rental car?
Uruguay has several international airports with car rental pick-up, so you can start close to wherever you land:
  • Mvdmvd Montevideo Airport (MVD)
  • Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport (PDP)
Choose the airport nearest your starting city, and compare rental rates at each on Expedia.

What are the best road trips in Uruguay by rental car?
With a rental car, Uruguay opens up for multi-stop road trips between its major cities and regions:
  • Montevideo to Punta del Este, exploring the coast and beaches like Brava Beach
  • Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento, for a historic journey
  • Punta del Este to Jose Ignacio, to visit places like Parque Faro Jose Ignacio and Jose Ignacio Lighthouse
A one-way rental works well for point-to-point routes so you don't have to double back. Compare pickup cities and one-way options on Expedia to plan your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Uruguay?
In Uruguay, 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 country'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 Uruguay?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Uruguay. 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 Uruguay?
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 Uruguay?
Budget car rental in Uruguay 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 Uruguay?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Uruguay. 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 Uruguay car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Uruguay?
To rent a car in Uruguay, 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 Uruguay car rental?
If you need to cancel your Uruguay 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
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