Car Rentals in East Melbourne, AUS

Reasons to book a car hire in and around East Melbourne

Renting a car in East Melbourne offers a convenient way to explore this vibrant suburb and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground, located right in East Melbourne, or head to Collins Street, just 2 km away, for a taste of the city's lively atmosphere. If you fancy some time by the sea, St Kilda Beach is only 6 km from East Melbourne, providing an ideal spot for relaxation. The flexibility of having a car allows you to manage your luggage effortlessly and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it particularly appealing for families, business travellers, and those seeking a city-themed experience. Moreover, with key destinations like Melbourne Central Business District, only 2 km away, and Southbank, a short 3 km drive, a rental car enhances your ability to navigate the metropolitan area comfortably. Whether you are visiting for leisure or work, renting a car ensures you can maximise your time and enjoy everything East Melbourne and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car hires around East Melbourne

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travellers in East Melbourne, accommodating up to 5 passengers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent option for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area without compromising on comfort or luggage capacity. With its versatility, a Midsize SUV allows for a smooth and enjoyable journey as you navigate the attractions around East Melbourne.
• Compact: The Compact car type is ideal for those travelling solo or in pairs, as it comfortably seats up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for couples or families who prefer a smaller vehicle while still enjoying the freedom of exploring East Melbourne at their own pace. Its size makes it easy to manoeuvre through city streets, providing a practical solution for your car hire needs.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is well-suited for larger families or groups, accommodating up to 5 passengers while providing space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it a great choice for those who need extra room for luggage or equipment. With a Fullsize vehicle, you can enjoy the comfort and space required for longer journeys while fully experiencing the sights and attractions around East Melbourne.

Top rated car suppliers around East Melbourne

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for car hire in East Melbourne, with a rental location situated only 2 km away. This supplier is particularly known for its reliable Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which are frequently booked by travellers. Hertz is appreciated for its well-maintained vehicles, offering a comfortable and flexible driving experience to explore the attractions in and around East Melbourne at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget is another top option for car hire in East Melbourne, boasting two rental locations within a convenient 2 km radius. This supplier is favoured for its affordability and range of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most popular choices among customers. Budget is well-regarded for its straightforward booking process, making it an excellent option for travellers looking to manage their luggage easily and adjust their itineraries as needed.

Where to stay around East Melbourne

• East Melbourne: A charming area known for its historic buildings and proximity to major attractions, East Melbourne offers a blend of culture and leisure. Visitors can easily explore the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground, which is not far from the area. With a variety of local restaurants and wineries nearby, it's a great spot for those looking to indulge in local cuisine while enjoying a city holiday experience.
• Melbourne Central Business District: Located 2 km from East Melbourne, the Central Business District is a bustling hub for city-themed, family, and business experiences. Here, you will find shopping malls, vibrant streets, and the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground. With numerous dining options, including restaurants and wineries, it’s an ideal place to stay for those wishing to immerse themselves in the city’s lively atmosphere.
• Southbank: Situated 3 km from East Melbourne, Southbank is a vibrant suburb perfect for city-themed and family experiences. This area features the scenic Southbank Promenade, along with easy access to the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Collins Street. A wide selection of restaurants and wineries can be found here, making it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy dining while soaking up the urban vibe.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around East Melbourne

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy 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 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 categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the preferred option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals 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 East Melbourne

The best value period to rent a car in and around East Melbourne is June, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. May also offers slightly lower prices with average demand, making it a good choice. The months of March and October see higher prices and moderately high demand, with March being particularly busy and expensive. Prices in April remain average, while November continues with steady demand and pricing.