Car Rentals in Downtown Memphis, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Downtown Memphis

Renting a car in Downtown Memphis offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This popular choice for tourists allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, making it ideal for family outings, outdoor adventures, or city-themed experiences. Key attractions are conveniently accessible by car, including Beale Street, renowned for its vibrant city atmosphere, and the National Civil Rights Museum, which provides rich cultural insights. For those seeking outdoor enjoyment, Tom Lee Park is perfect for family-friendly activities. Beyond Downtown Memphis, a rental car enables you to discover nearby areas such as New Pathways, located 1 km away, where you can also enjoy Brown Park, or Uptown, just 2 km away, featuring attractions like Sun Studio. With a rental car, navigating between these popular destinations becomes effortless, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the diverse experiences Memphis has to offer.

Most popular car hires in and around Downtown Memphis

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle type is ideal for accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 3 large suitcases. It's a great choice for families, couples, or small groups who need extra space for both passengers and luggage. The spacious interiors of midsize SUVs provide comfort during your travels, allowing you to explore Downtown Memphis and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Compact: Perfect for up to 5 travellers and 3 medium suitcases, the compact car is an excellent option for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a smaller vehicle. Its size makes it easy to navigate the streets of Downtown Memphis, while still offering enough room for your essentials. Compact cars strike a balance between convenience and fuel efficiency, making them a practical choice for urban exploration.
• Standard: Also accommodating 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, standard cars are well-suited for couples and families. They provide ample space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable experience as you travel around Downtown Memphis. A standard vehicle offers a good mix of size and comfort, making it a reliable choice for your car hire needs.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Memphis

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers looking for a reliable car hire experience. With a location 12 km away from Downtown Memphis, Alamo is known for its quick pickup and friendly staff. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are the Midsize SUV and Standard Pickup, which cater well to those needing space for luggage and comfort. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the vehicles and the hassle-free return process, making Alamo a solid option for your adventures in and around Memphis.
• Avis: Avis offers convenience with its rental location situated in Downtown Memphis, making it easily accessible for tourists. Known for its well-maintained fleet, the most popular vehicles rented from Avis are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV. Customers often highlight the efficient service and friendly staff, ensuring a smooth rental experience. Avis is a great choice for those wanting immediate access to a vehicle for exploring the local attractions at their own pace.

Where to stay around Downtown Memphis

• Downtown Memphis: The heart of Memphis, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere brimming with cultural experiences. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Beale Street, perfect for a city-themed holiday, and the National Civil Rights Museum, which provides profound insights into history. With arena entertainment facilities and shopping centres nearby, you'll find plenty of options for dining and leisure. Downtown is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic culture.
• New Pathways: Located a mere 1 km from Downtown Memphis, New Pathways is a neighbourhood that caters to family and outdoor enthusiasts. This area boasts easy access to attractions like Brown Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy proximity to the National Civil Rights Museum and lively Beale Street. With various restaurants and wineries nearby, New Pathways offers a charming retreat while still being close to the urban excitement.
• Midtown: Situated 4 km from Downtown Memphis, Midtown is a neighbourhood that blends city and family experiences. With attractions like the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and Overton Park, this area is rich in culture and outdoor spaces. Midtown also features shopping centres and historic sites, making it a versatile choice for travellers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local scene while being a short distance from the bustling heart of downtown.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and have better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 operate on 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 favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an extra charge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most 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 in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car hire insurance while booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Memphis

The best value period for renting a car in and around Downtown Memphis is August, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. This month offers a nice balance for budget-conscious travellers. Mid-range value months like February and March also have low demand, making them suitable options if you're looking for a quieter experience. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, making it less ideal for those seeking better deals.