Car Rentals in Minneapolis - St. Paul, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Minneapolis - St. Paul

Renting a car in Minneapolis - St. Paul offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a hire car, you can easily navigate between attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe, located in Bloomington, which is perfect for family fun, and the serene Lake Minnetonka, ideal for romantic outings and scenic views. If you have an interest in culture, a visit to Paisley Park in Chanhassen is easily accessible. The convenience of having a vehicle allows for easy luggage management and the ability to travel spontaneously, whether you are visiting for family activities, city exploration, or business engagements. In addition to key attractions, a rental car provides the opportunity to discover the diverse cities within the area, including the cultural offerings of Minneapolis, such as the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Basilica of Saint Mary, or the historical sights in St. Paul, like the Science Museum of Minnesota. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the local scene without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car hires in Minneapolis - St. Paul

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or families, as it comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV is perfect for exploring Minneapolis - St. Paul at your own pace, providing the flexibility and room needed for both passengers and luggage. Its versatility makes it an ideal option for those seeking a balance of comfort and practicality during their trip.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or small groups, the Standard SUV also accommodates 5 travellers but has a slightly reduced luggage capacity, fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those who require a bit more space than a standard car while still being able to manage luggage easily. Renting a Standard SUV allows you to navigate the attractions of Minneapolis - St. Paul with ease and comfort.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is well-suited for larger groups or families, accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes the Fullsize an excellent choice for those who need extra space for luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore the Minneapolis - St. Paul area. With its ample room and comfort, this car type is designed for those who value both convenience and a relaxed travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Minneapolis - St. Paul

• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations within the Minneapolis - St. Paul area, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget offers a solid selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs being the most booked options. Many customers appreciate the ease of rental and the flexibility it provides, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace.
• Avis: With 2 rental locations in Minneapolis - St. Paul, Avis is a popular choice for visitors seeking reliable car hire services. This supplier is particularly well-regarded for its Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are frequently chosen by customers. Avis is known for its straightforward rental process, making it a great option for those looking to manage their travel plans efficiently while enjoying the attractions in the area.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with 3 rental locations in Minneapolis - St. Paul, offering greater accessibility for travellers. Customers often favour its Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which provide a range of options to suit different needs. Hertz is appreciated for its well-maintained vehicles and prompt service, ensuring a smooth rental experience that allows you to focus on your adventures in the vicinity.

Where to stay in Minneapolis - St. Paul

• Minneapolis: Minneapolis is an excellent choice for a stay, offering a vibrant city experience with attractions such as the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Basilica of Saint Mary. The city is also home to Lake Harriet, perfect for outdoor activities and scenic views. With numerous restaurants, wineries, and shopping centres nearby, visitors will find plenty to enjoy whether they are focused on family, business, or city-themed experiences.
• Bloomington: Bloomington is ideal for families and those seeking adventure, hosting attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and Valleyfair Amusement Park. The urban charm of Minnehaha Park provides a lovely spot for outdoor fun. Visitors will appreciate the abundance of shopping options and dining establishments, making it a convenient base for exploring both city and amusement park offerings.
• St. Paul: St. Paul is a vibrant city that offers a mix of family entertainment and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Cathedral of Saint Paul, both reflecting the city's rich heritage. The Minnesota State Fairgrounds is perfect for outdoor activities, especially during the fair season. With a variety of restaurants and wineries in the area, St. Paul provides a well-rounded experience for all visitors.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Minneapolis - St. Paul

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 enjoyment, or a compact 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 in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and more convenient to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of affordability, 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. This can also apply to renters over 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 car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Minneapolis - St. Paul

The best value period for renting a car in Minneapolis - St. Paul is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. Alongside this, October also offers good value with similar pricing. April to June can be decent options as well, though they see increased demand and prices. In contrast, July and August are the most expensive months, as demand peaks during this time, making rentals pricier and harder to secure.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.1°F (-9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	17.1°F (-8.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	64.2°F (17.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	22.1°F (-5.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average