Budapest Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Budapest

Renting a car in Budapest offers travellers the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily access key attractions such as the historic Parliament Building and Buda Castle, each located within the city. Families can enjoy a leisurely day at Margaret Island, an urban park perfect for outdoor experiences, while culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the rich history found throughout the city. The convenience of having a car allows for flexible travel plans, making it easier to manage luggage when visiting multiple sites. You can explore various neighbourhoods like the Budapest City Centre and Inner City Budapest, where you will find iconic landmarks such as St. Stephen's Basilica and Szechenyi Chain Bridge. Additionally, Erzsebetvaros offers cultural experiences with attractions like the Postal Stamp Museum and the Hungarian State Opera House. Whether travelling with family or seeking cultural experiences, a rental car enhances your journey, providing the flexibility to navigate Budapest and its surroundings with ease.

Most popular car rentals in Budapest

• Compact SUV: This popular option accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for up to 3 medium suitcases. The Compact SUV is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families, providing a comfortable ride while allowing you to navigate Budapest and its surroundings with ease.
• Economy: Perfect for up to 5 travellers, the Economy car option offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, and families looking for a budget-friendly vehicle that still provides the flexibility to explore Budapest and its vicinity at your leisure.
• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for 3 large suitcases, the Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. It offers a balance of comfort and space, making it ideal for longer journeys and outings around Budapest.

Top rated car suppliers in Budapest

• Avis: Avis has established itself as a popular choice among travellers in Budapest, with two rental locations available in the area. Known for offering a selection of vehicles tailored to diverse needs, their most booked options include Luxury SUVs and Economy cars. This supplier is praised for its reliable service and well-maintained fleet, providing the flexibility to explore Budapest and its surroundings comfortably.
• Budget: Budget is another top contender in the Budapest car rental market, also featuring two convenient rental locations. With a focus on affordability and efficiency, Budget's most popular vehicles include Compact SUVs and Economy cars. This supplier is well-regarded for its straightforward booking process and competitive pricing, making it an excellent option for those looking to maximise their travel experience without overspending.
• Greenmotion: Greenmotion offers a more niche selection with one rental location in Budapest. Their most booked vehicles are Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, catering to travellers seeking a balance of space and economy. This supplier has garnered attention for its customer-friendly approach and the quality of vehicles, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore Budapest and its vicinity with ease.

Where to stay in Budapest

• Budapest City Centre: The heart of the city, Budapest City Centre offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. Here, you can explore historic sites like the Parliament Building and St. Stephen's Basilica, both rich in history and culture. Enjoy local delicacies at nearby cafes or visit the public market for authentic Hungarian experiences. With shopping areas and wellness options available, this neighbourhood is ideal for those seeking a well-rounded city experience.
• Jozsefvaros: Known for its family-friendly environment, Jozsefvaros is an exciting area featuring entertainment venues such as the Hungarian State Opera House, perfect for a cultural outing. Orczy Park offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts, while the local dining options cater to a variety of tastes. This neighbourhood balances cultural experiences with leisure activities, making it a great base for your Budapest adventure.
• District VI: District VI is a vibrant district that attracts visitors interested in culture and family activities. The House of Terror Museum offers a compelling glimpse into Hungary's history, while the proximity to the Parliament Building and St. Stephen's Basilica allows for easy exploration of these iconic landmarks. With numerous shopping areas and theatre options, this district provides an engaging atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in the city's rich culture.

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

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 summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower prices 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 manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a favourable balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. 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 advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to circumvent 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 Budapest

The best time to rent a car in and around Budapest is March, as it offers the lowest prices and quietest demand. Following that, February and early April also present decent value with lower demand and moderate pricing. As you approach summer, prices rise, particularly in June which tends to be the most expensive month, coinciding with high demand. July remains busy and pricy, while August sees a return to average prices but continues to attract high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	32.9°F (0.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
February	36.1°F (2.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	44.2°F (6.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	53.8°F (12.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.0°F (21.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average
September	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
October	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	35.2°F (1.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average