Car Rentals in Downtown Pittsburgh, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Downtown Pittsburgh

Renting a car in Downtown Pittsburgh provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those with luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while travelling. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the Benedum Center, which offers cultural experiences, or enjoy the scenic beauty of Point State Park, perfect for outdoor adventures. Additionally, PNC Park, located less than 1 km away, is ideal for family outings and city-themed activities.

The convenience of a rental car extends beyond Downtown Pittsburgh itself. You can easily explore the wider Pittsburgh metropolis, which features destinations like Kennywood and Sri Venkateswara Temple. Neighbourhoods such as North Shore, also 1 km away, boast attractions like the Carnegie Science Center and National Aviary. The Cultural District, located less than 1 km from Downtown, offers further opportunities to experience the Andy Warhol Museum and more. Overall, a rental car allows you to make the most of your time in and around Downtown Pittsburgh, accommodating various interests and travel needs.

Most popular car hires around Downtown Pittsburgh

• Midsize: The Midsize option is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5 people. This vehicle comfortably accommodates up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families who need space for luggage and enjoy the freedom to explore Downtown Pittsburgh and its surroundings at a leisurely pace.
• Fullsize: If you're travelling with a larger group or family, the Fullsize car is an excellent option. It can also accommodate up to 5 travellers and offers the capacity for either up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it a great choice for group outings and ensures everyone can travel comfortably while discovering the attractions of Downtown Pittsburgh.
• Economy: The Economy car type is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families. It accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those who prefer a compact vehicle for navigating the city while maintaining the ability to manage their luggage easily. Renting an Economy car allows for a cost-effective and convenient way to explore Downtown Pittsburgh.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Pittsburgh

• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location 4 km away from Downtown Pittsburgh, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for their reliable service, Avis offers a selection of popular vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs being the most booked options. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their bookings and the flexibility that comes with renting from Avis, allowing for a seamless travel experience in and around the area.
• Hertz: With 3 rental locations, the nearest being less than 1 km away from Downtown Pittsburgh, Hertz is an excellent option for those seeking proximity and convenience. This supplier is popular among travellers, particularly for their Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs. Hertz is recognised for its efficient service and a well-maintained fleet, making it a top choice for exploring Downtown Pittsburgh and its surroundings at your own pace.

Where to stay around Downtown Pittsburgh

• North Shore: Located 1 km from Downtown Pittsburgh, North Shore is an excellent neighbourhood for family and city-themed experiences. It boasts attractions such as the scenic PNC Park, ideal for outdoor activities, and the Carnegie Science Center, which caters to culture enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a vibrant area to explore.
• South Side Flats: Also situated 1 km away from Downtown Pittsburgh, South Side Flats offers a blend of family, city, and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include the urban PNC Park and the Andy Warhol Museum for art lovers. The neighbourhood features numerous shopping centres and nearby food and drink venues, such as wineries and distilleries, ensuring visitors have plenty to enjoy during their stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal 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. Booking in advance often results in lower rates and greater 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 cars 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 available. Renters over 70 years of age may also face similar restrictions. 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 usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often 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 companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
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 Pittsburgh

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Pittsburgh is March, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. This period offers great value, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers. April and May also present a similar situation with slightly higher demand but still moderate prices. However, June tends to be the most expensive month, with increased demand as the summer season kicks in. July and August maintain average prices and demand, before October sees a spike in both.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.6°F (-1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
May	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
June	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	73.9°F (23.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
November	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	35.2°F (1.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average