Car Rentals in Philadelphia, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Philadelphia

Renting a car in Philadelphia grants you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as it allows for easy management of your belongings. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Rittenhouse Square, both located in the vibrant Centre City neighbourhood. You can also venture to nearby destinations like Sesame Place in Bensalem, which is ideal for family experiences, or the historical Valley Forge National Historic Park in King of Prussia.

The convenience of having your own vehicle means you can create your own itinerary without the constraints of public transport schedules. Whether you’re looking for city-themed experiences or outdoor adventures in areas like Neshaminy State Park, a car hire makes it possible to enjoy a variety of attractions comfortably. Exploring Philadelphia's diverse destinations becomes seamless, allowing you to make the most of your visit to this bustling metropolis.

Most popular car hires in Philadelphia

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior allows for comfortable travel while providing the flexibility to explore Philadelphia and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV also accommodates 5 travellers, with capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, ensuring you can navigate both urban and suburban areas of Philadelphia with ease.
• Fullsize: With room for 5 travellers and storage for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is perfect for families and groups needing extra luggage space. This option offers comfort and convenience, allowing you to travel around Philadelphia without worrying about luggage constraints.

Top rated car suppliers in Philadelphia

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice among travellers in Philadelphia, boasting over 5 rental locations throughout the area. Customers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, appreciating the range of choices available. Avis is recognised for its reliability and ease of booking, making it a great option for those looking to explore Philadelphia and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Hertz: With 4 rental locations in Philadelphia, Hertz provides an excellent selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which are among the most booked options. Travellers value Hertz for its convenient locations and efficient service, allowing for a smooth car hire experience. This makes Hertz a solid choice for both short trips and longer explorations in the city.
• Sixt: Sixt has 2 rental locations in Philadelphia and is known for its well-maintained fleet. The most popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles, which cater to various travel needs. Sixt's commitment to customer satisfaction and quality vehicles ensures a pleasant car hire experience, ideal for discovering the attractions of Philadelphia and beyond.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

• Center City: A vibrant neighbourhood in Philadelphia, Center City is ideal for families and those seeking a city-themed experience. It offers convenient access to shopping areas, arts centres, and urban parks. Notable attractions include the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Liberty Bell Center, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. The popular Rittenhouse Square is also nearby, providing a lovely outdoor space. Numerous dining options, from restaurants to wineries, are available, making it a great area for food lovers.
• North Philadelphia: Known for its rich cultural offerings, North Philadelphia attracts families and culture enthusiasts alike. The area features historic sites such as the Eastern State Penitentiary and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Visitors can also explore modern educational institutions and theatres. Restaurants and wineries are plentiful, catering to diverse tastes. This neighbourhood is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while being close to significant landmarks.
• King of Prussia: A bustling city close to Philadelphia, King of Prussia is an excellent choice for family, business, or city-themed stays. The area is home to one of the largest shopping centres in the country, alongside educational institutions and event venues. Key attractions include the Valley Forge National Historic Park, ideal for outdoor adventures. With a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, this city provides a well-rounded experience for visitors.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Philadelphia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help prevent unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Philadelphia

The best time to rent a car in and around Philadelphia is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This period offers the best value for those seeking to save on rental costs. March and April also provide reasonable options, as prices and demand remain at average levels. However, from June through August, prices tend to increase, with July being the most expensive month due to higher demand. This peak season can make finding a rental more challenging.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	76.3°F (24.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average