Car Rentals in Athens, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Athens

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Athens, Alabama, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Athens, Alabama, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Athens, Alabama, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Athens, Alabama, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Athens car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens, Alabama, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like Big Spring Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences, or Elk River Lodge State Park, which offers a variety of scenic activities. For those seeking a romantic getaway, Wheeler Lake is located just 17 km away and is ideal for enjoying beautiful scenery and beach activities.

A car hire also simplifies visits to nearby destinations such as Huntsville, where you can explore the US Space and Rocket Center and Huntsville Botanical Garden. Additionally, Tanner, located only 8 km from Athens, features both Wheeler Lake and Big Spring Park. Having a rental car ensures that you can manage your luggage easily and maintain flexible travel plans, making it suitable for families and couples alike. With convenient access to these attractions, a rental car enhances your overall experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in Athens and the surrounding areas.

Where to stay around Athens

  • Athens: Athens offers a charming small-town atmosphere with access to Huntsville's vibrant attractions. Visitors can enjoy nearby landmarks such as the stunning Monte Sano State Park, ideal for outdoor adventures and scenic views. With various dining options in Athens, including local restaurants, it is a great base for exploring both the tranquil town and the bustling metropolis of Huntsville.
  • Huntsville: As a metropolitan hub, Huntsville provides a wealth of activities and attractions, making it a prime location for tourists. The US Space and Rocket Center is a must-visit for those interested in space exploration, while the Huntsville Botanical Garden offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. With ample dining options, including wineries and distilleries, Huntsville is perfect for a romantic getaway or family holiday.
  • Ardmore: Located 25 km from Athens, Ardmore features picturesque parks and recreational areas, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Big Spring Park is a lovely urban park where visitors can unwind amidst nature. Ardmore boasts various dining establishments, including local restaurants and wineries, providing a delightful culinary experience after a day of exploration.
  • Trinity: Trinity, situated 24 km from Athens, is known for its natural beauty and romantic settings. The serene Wheeler Lake is perfect for those seeking scenic views and outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy Wilson Morgan Park, which features water features for relaxation. Trinity's charming atmosphere and nearby dining options make it a wonderful spot for a tranquil getaway.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, employ the filters on Expedia to locate 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy 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 certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure the car is returned empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Generally, there is a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help prevent unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Athens?
Cheap hire cars started at a day in Athens, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to grab some keys and zip off for less.
Can I hire a car from Huntsville Intl. Airport (HSV)?
Huntsville Intl. Airport (HSV) has plenty of choice just a short commute away. Take your pick of vehicles from Enterprise, Dollar, Alamo, Hertz or Thrifty Car Hire.
What happens if I need to cancel my Athens car reservation?
If you have to make changes to your itinerary, most prepaid bookings qualify for a full refund. Just notify us more than six hours prior to pick-up. Have a thorough look over your rental policy for any exceptions. Your confirmation will have more details, or simply click through to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
What types of cars can I rent in Athens?
Get behind the wheel of a compact vehicle in Athens and you'll be in excellent company. The most sought-after hired car type, these rides are cost-effective, good on fuel and a cinch to park. With a compact vehicle, you'll easily manoeuvre around bustling city streets. Of course, you can always think big. Browse our range of larger hire categories including intermediate, standard and full-size. However you want to roll, we'll have your perfect ride.
Where can I go on a road trip from Athens?
Athens is full of fun adventures, but don't restrict yourself to only one place. Grab a set of wheels and take to the road to discover what else awaits in the wider area. Here are some great options:
  • Make tracks to Nashville for a fun-filled sightseeing experience. Around 95 miles from Athens, it's home to lots of great attractions like Grand Ole Opry.
  • Your next stop? Make it Birmingham, which is around 90 miles away. Sloss Furnaces is one local hot spot you won't want to miss.
  • Make your way to Chewacla State Park to reconnect with nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just relax and unwind. From Athens, it's 180 miles away.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Athens with Expedia?
Finding an amazing deal on your Athens rental car is easy with Expedia. Choose your preferred car type, add in a few more details and compare prices across leading brands. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll unlock terrific discounts when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Athens?
In Athens, the rule is 21 and over. Most companies will charge extra fees for young drivers, which can vary based on the rental location. Hire policies for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as luxury cars, and require comprehensive insurance. Remember to read the fine print before booking your ride.
What do you need to hire a car in Athens?
Any rental company you choose will require two things — a valid driver's license and credit card. If you'd like to opt out of the provider's insurance plan, proof of other coverage may also be needed. Check your policy so you know what to bring when it's time to collect your car.
What is the cheapest car rental in Athens?
and were the two lowest daily prices picked up by hire car customers in Athens within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Athens?
You can. Expedia partners with reputable providers that offer long-term hires for a wide range of cars. Check out our long-term car rental deals and discover every turn of Athens — or far beyond!
Where can I find an Athens hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between hire suppliers, so you'll have to do a bit of homework. Found an Athens supplier that does rent to drivers under 25? Terrific news! Just take note that extra charges often apply to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The fine print of each hire car you're interested in should have all the details you need.
Can I drive in Athens with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license from the United States, then you might need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before hiring a car. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S, note that you'll also need to show your current valid driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card used to hire the vehicle must also match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Other things you should know about hired a car in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in many states in order to hire a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking state and local regulations, as well as the car hire website before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you leave the lot so you can avoid unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the United States, it's usually prohibited to cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, use car ferries or traverse rough terrain with your hired car. Please read the regulations before booking!
Why should I rent an Athens car with Expedia?
With years of experience finding the best deals for explorers around the globe, Expedia is a great place to rent your vehicle. We've got multiple suppliers in Athens to select from, offering everything from small economy rides to roomy, full-size rides. Why not combine your car with your flights and hotel and save more? From our holiday packages to our member prices and exclusive offers, Expedia will help you get behind the wheel for less. Plus, when you join our One Key™ rewards programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and use it on eligible flights, activities, hotels and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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