Car Rentals in Downtown Calgary, CAN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Downtown Calgary

Renting a car in Downtown Calgary provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently visit key attractions like the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue, both located in Downtown Calgary. If you're travelling with family or have luggage, a car makes managing your belongings easier and allows for a comfortable journey.

Additionally, the convenience of a rental car enables you to explore nearby destinations such as Calgary Chinatown and the Beltline, both less than 1 km away from Downtown Calgary. Whether your interests lie in cultural experiences at TELUS Spark or enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere, having a car allows you to tailor your travel plans to suit your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families and business travellers seeking a seamless experience. With various attractions and neighbourhoods within easy reach, hiring a car ensures you can maximise your time in Calgary while enjoying the flexibility to travel on your own terms.

Most popular car hires in and around Downtown Calgary

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for those travelling with family, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for up to 3 large suitcases. A Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride and plenty of space for luggage, making it an excellent choice for exploring the attractions in and around Downtown Calgary at your own pace.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, a Compact car can also accommodate 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for navigating the city’s streets and finding parking easily, providing flexibility for your travel plans while being economical on fuel.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is a versatile choice for families or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides ample space and comfort, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore Downtown Calgary and beyond with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Calgary

• Hertz: With a rental location conveniently situated in Downtown Calgary, Hertz is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for offering Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, Hertz ensures you have the right car to explore the city and its surroundings comfortably. Enjoy the ease of managing your luggage and adjusting your itinerary as you embark on your adventures.
• Avis: Another excellent option in Downtown Calgary, Avis also boasts a single rental location. They are particularly popular for Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to travellers who appreciate a spacious and comfortable ride. Avis makes it easy to navigate the vibrant area and beyond, allowing you to discover attractions at your own pace.
• Sixt: Sixt offers a reliable car hire option with their location in Downtown Calgary. They specialise in Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, perfect for those looking for a balance of space and manoeuvrability. With Sixt, you can explore the city's highlights and venture into the stunning Alberta wilderness, all while enjoying the convenience of a rented vehicle.

Where to stay around Downtown Calgary

• Downtown Calgary: As the vibrant heart of Calgary, Downtown offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Key attractions include the iconic Calgary Tower, perfect for city-themed holiday seekers, and the lively 17 Avenue SW, renowned for its bustling atmosphere. With easy access to nearby food and drink venues, Downtown Calgary is an ideal base for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the city's dynamic culture.
• Beltline: Located less than 1 km from Downtown Calgary, Beltline is a lively neighbourhood that caters to sports enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Calgary Tower and the shopping areas along Stephen Avenue. Beltline is also home to a variety of dining options, providing a great experience for those seeking adventure and leisure within close proximity to the city centre.
• Calgary Chinatown: Just a stone's throw from Downtown Calgary, Calgary Chinatown offers a unique blend of family-friendly and city-themed experiences. The historic area boasts attractions such as the Calgary Tower and the scenic Bow River, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With a selection of shopping areas and dining options, Calgary Chinatown is a vibrant destination for travellers looking to explore cultural diversity and enjoy the local cuisine.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Downtown Calgary

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced solution between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, 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 extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively 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 any unexpected incidents occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Calgary

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Calgary is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. Following this, March offers similar value with low demand. From April to June, prices and demand remain at average levels, making them decent choices as well. However, July sees high demand and average prices, while August is typically the most expensive month, marked by moderately high prices and continued high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	17.6°F (-8.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	37.8°F (3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
July	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	40.1°F (4.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
November	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	16.2°F (-8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low