Athens Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Athens, Tennessee, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Athens car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Athens

Renting a car in Athens offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and travel plans, making it an ideal option for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. In Athens, you can visit attractions such as McMinn Field, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities, and the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum, which provides a glimpse into the local culture. For adventure seekers, the Lost Sea Adventure, located 18 km away, presents an exciting cave exploration opportunity.

A car rental also allows you to easily reach nearby destinations like Sweetwater, situated 21 km from Athens, which features the Sweetwater Public Library and Engleman Park. Niota, just 9 km away, offers more outdoor experiences at McMinn Field and the Regional Park. Having your own vehicle ensures that you can enjoy these attractions without the constraints of public transport, allowing for a more personalised and enjoyable trip in and around Athens.

Where to stay around Athens

  • Athens: Athens serves as a charming base for your adventures, offering a blend of outdoor experiences and local attractions. With its proximity to stunning natural landmarks, you can explore nearby caves and lakes. Enjoy recreational areas perfect for family outings, and don’t miss the chance to visit local dining options that showcase the area’s culinary delights.
  • Sweetwater: Located 21 km away from Athens, Sweetwater is ideal for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty. Explore the Lost Sea Adventure cave or relax at Engleman Park, which offers a lovely urban park experience. Sweetwater boasts nearby wineries and restaurants, making it a great spot for food and drink enthusiasts looking to unwind amidst nature.
  • Niota: Just 9 km from Athens, Niota is a picturesque destination for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. With attractions such as the Lost Sea Adventure and local parks like McMinn Field and Regional Park, it’s perfect for family outings. Enjoy the serene landscapes and indulge in the local culinary scene at nearby restaurants and wineries.
  • Athens - Sweetwater: Situated less than 1 km from Athens, this area offers a romantic setting complemented by outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Explore the Lost Sea Adventure cave or spend time at the Regional Park or McMinn Field, both excellent for family outings. Enjoy nearby dining options and sample local wines for a delightful culinary experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Athens

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer escapades, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure more favourable rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old 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 before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is generally the most beneficial option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on lengthy road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Athens?
Unforgettable road trip adventures await in Athens, with daily car rental rates starting from an impressive . That's based on prices found within the past seven days.
What happens if I need to cancel my Athens car reservation?
Our Customer Service Portal has information about cancellations. In the majority of situations, full refunds are provided if a prepaid booking is cancelled at least six hours before picking up the car. Be sure to scan your policy to double-check if there are any exemptions.
What types of cars can I rent in Athens?
Cost-effective, easy to handle and with excellent mileage, it's no coincidence that compact vehicles are the most commonly booked rental in Athens. Drive around this city in one of these and you'll be able to slide into tight parking spaces and easily navigate traffic. A compact is ideal for city breaks or short road trips. But they're not your only choice. Go even smaller with an economy model or stretch out in an intermediate, a full-size or premium — there's a style of vehicle to suit you!
Where can I go on a road trip from Athens?
Once you've ticked off the fabulous places in Athens, there's heaps more to discover in the surrounding region. Collect the keys to a rental car, toss your luggage in the trunk and hit the open road. We've come up with some drives we know you'll enjoy:
  • Asheville is roughly 193 kilometres from Athens. Famous sights like Biltmore Estate deserve a place on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Your next stop? It has to be Atlanta, which is around 193 kilometres away. Centennial Olympic Park is one local hot spot you really shouldn't miss.
  • Make your way to Belle Meade Plantation to discover some local nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just recharge your batteries in the fresh air. From Athens, it's around 225 kilometres away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Athens with Expedia?
Pick up an incredible deal with Expedia. Simply choose your wheels, select your dates and pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from all the popular rental suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Athens car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Athens?
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in Athens is 21. An extra fee for young drivers generally applies, so check before booking and factor in any additional costs. There may also be restrictions on the sorts of vehicles that can be rented by young drivers. For instance, some companies will only rent out small and medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Requirements may vary between outlets, so read the fine print carefully.
What do you need to rent a car in Athens?
You'll need to present your driver's licence and a credit card when you get to the rental counter. Prior to the pickup date, check with your rental provider whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of auto insurance.
What is the cheapest car rental in Athens?
We looked into prices over the last seven days and found that the cheapest daily rate was . The next best price to rent a ride in Athens was a day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Athens?
Whether you have plans to hang around Athens or journey beyond, you can reserve a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip dates and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll help you find fantastic long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find an Athens car rental if I am younger than 25?
This will depend on the rental car companies that operate in Athens. They often have different age policies. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under the age of 25, be aware that additional fees may apply. Do some research into any extra charges before picking up your vehicle.
Can I drive in Athens with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a license from the U.S, then you may need to organise an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before renting a car. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S., note that you'll also need to show your valid driver's license and your passport or other form of ID. Lastly, the credit card you used to rent the car must match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car rental. Other things you should know about rental cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or older in many states in order to rent a car, although in some areas allow drivers as young as 21. We recommend checking state and local regulations, as well as with the rental car company before your trip to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you slide behind the wheel so you can avoid any unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the U.S, it's usually prohibited to cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive onto ferries or traverse off-road areas with your car rental. Please read all the rules and regulations before you book!

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