Austria Car Hire

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Top destinations to hire a car in Austria

A historic castle on a hill, surrounded by lush greenery and a mountain range in the background.
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Salzburg

Salzburg

What you need to know for your Austria car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in Austria

Renting a car in Austria provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful country at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures, romantic experiences, or simply the chance to take in stunning scenery. Key attractions such as Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, known for its cultural significance, and the picturesque Achensee lake, perfect for romantic outings, are all within reach. You can also visit the Vienna State Opera for a taste of the local entertainment scene. Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore popular destinations like Salzburg, home to Mirabell Palace and Mozart's Birthplace, or Innsbruck, where you can experience the Seegrube Cable Car and stunning mountain views. The ability to travel between these cities and attractions without the constraints of public transport enhances your overall experience in Austria, allowing you to fully appreciate its rich history and breathtaking landscapes.

Most popular car hires in Austria

  • Compact: Compact cars are a popular choice for those looking to navigate Austria's charming cities and picturesque countryside. Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases, these vehicles are ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Their fuel efficiency and ease of parking make them well-suited for urban environments, allowing you to explore at your own pace while managing your luggage conveniently.
  • Economy: Economy cars are another highly booked option in Austria, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Similar to compact cars, they can fit up to 5 travellers but accommodate up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes them a great choice for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to enjoy the freedom of road travel without the burden of high rental costs. Their small size helps in navigating narrow streets and finding parking with ease.
  • Midsize SUV: For those who require a bit more space, the midsize SUV is an excellent option. These vehicles accommodate up to 5 travellers and provide ample room for up to 3 large suitcases, making them ideal for families, couples, or small groups with plenty of gear. The added height of an SUV also offers a more commanding view of the road, enhancing your driving experience as you explore Austria’s stunning landscapes.

Where to stay in Austria

  • Vienna: As a bustling metropolis, Vienna offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment. Explore notable attractions such as Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna State Opera, and St. Stephen's Cathedral, all within proximity to city squares and theatres. With plenty of public markets and nearby wineries, Vienna is ideal for families and business travellers alike. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, perfect for experiencing the city's rich heritage and culinary delights.
  • Salzburg: Known for its stunning scenery, Salzburg is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics. The Mirabell Palace, Mozart's Birthplace, and Salzburg Cathedral are key cultural highlights. The city’s charming neighbourhoods and nearby lakes provide picturesque views, making it a wonderful destination for a leisurely visit. For the best experience, consider visiting in the summer when the weather is warm and conducive to exploring the beautiful landscapes.
  • Innsbruck: Nestled among breathtaking mountains, Innsbruck is a haven for adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. You'll find ski resorts and fields as well as attractions like Seegrube Cable Car and Patscherkofel Mountain Bahn, ideal for family outings. The vibrant local pubs and restaurants offer a taste of authentic Austrian cuisine. The winter season is particularly popular for skiing, while summer months invite hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore the area’s stunning scenery.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Austria

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  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 charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which are acceptable too. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge associated with collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  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 you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Austria

The best value period to rent a car in Austria is May, when prices are typically lower and demand is moderately low. March and April also offer slight savings with average demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand levels, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters. June through August maintain these elevated prices, while demand remains steady during this peak season.

Renting a car in Austria will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that Austria has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

With Expedia, booking you Austria car hire is easy. Each hire car in Austria option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in Austria with confidence through Expedia.

At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of Austria car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in Austria with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every Austria hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

It has never been easier to find a rental car in Austria. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in Austria today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in Austria with Expedia.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Austria car reservation?
Subject to your hire agreement, you may be eligible for a refund. Many hires allow for a complete refund if you cancel a minimum of six hours ahead of collecting the car. Like to know more? If you can't find the answer in your booking details, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Austria?
Powerful SUVs, nifty minis, luxury rides... Hop behind the wheel of whatever you prefer! Economy is the leading rental car category in Austria. Small, with superb fuel-efficiency and a cinch to park, these wheels make driving around busy city streets enjoyable. The best part? Your budget will love them. That means you'll have more cash to spend on other things, like exploring as much of this exciting destination as you can.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Austria with Expedia?
Expedia makes it a cinch to compare costs, offers and providers, and to check customer ratings. Combine your Austria car hire with hotel or flight bookings to make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Austria?
Rental car rules in Austria require drivers to be 18 and older. Are you a younger driver? Some restrictions and surcharges may apply. Hire providers impose what is known as a young driver surcharge, which is an additional fee to the cost of the rental car. Restrictions usually apply to the categories of cars young motorists can hire as well. Age limits may differ between outlets, so check before you book.
What do you need to rent a car in Austria?
While booking conditions can differ between car rental outlets in Austria, the two things you'll need are a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out the company's auto insurance. However, proof of alternative coverage may be necessary.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Austria?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a rental car mid-holiday. Head over to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and secure a set of wheels to call your own for however long you want.
Where can I find an Austria hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do some research. Found an Austria supplier that does rent to drivers under 25? That's great! Just be aware that extra fees often apply to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're interested in will have all the details you need.
Why should I rent an Austria car with Expedia?
Expedia is the place to go to book your next ride. With multiple suppliers in Austria to select from, we search high and low to get you amazing deals. Save with our exclusive offers and member prices, and earn rewards each time you book. Save more when you bundle your bookings into an Austria holiday package. Hire cars, hotels, flights, tours — Expedia has everything you need in one place. Plus, when you sign up for our One Key™ rewards programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, activities, flights and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation