Downtown Memphis Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Memphis

Renting a car in Downtown Memphis offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Beale Street, known for its lively city atmosphere, and the National Civil Rights Museum, which provides rich cultural insights. For those seeking outdoor experiences, Tom Lee Park is conveniently located within Downtown Memphis, perfect for family outings or leisurely strolls. Additionally, the nearby Pinch District and New Pathways, both just 1 km away, feature more attractions including Brown Park, enhancing your exploration options. A rental car simplifies luggage management, allowing you to travel comfortably without the constraints of public transport schedules. This is especially beneficial for families or those planning outdoor adventures, as you can load up your vehicle with everything you need for a day out. Whether you are visiting the bustling metropolis of Memphis or enjoying the local neighbourhoods, having a car at your disposal makes your travel plans more flexible and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Memphis

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups with up to 5 travellers. The midsize SUV comfortably accommodates up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for those with ample luggage. Its spacious interior provides a pleasant travel experience, allowing you to explore Downtown Memphis and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the compact car option can comfortably seat 5 travellers and hold up to 3 medium suitcases. Its size makes it particularly suitable for navigating the urban landscape of Downtown Memphis, where parking may be limited. The compact design also aids in fuel efficiency, ensuring a budget-friendly travel experience.
• Standard: The standard car is a great fit for couples or families, accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it easy to manage luggage while enjoying your time in Downtown Memphis. Its versatility makes it a popular choice among those looking to explore the city and nearby attractions.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Memphis

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located 12 km away from Downtown Memphis, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travellers seeking a reliable vehicle. Known for its excellent service, the most booked cars with Alamo include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, providing ample space for luggage and comfort for your journey. With Alamo, you can enjoy the flexibility to explore Memphis and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Avis: Situated conveniently in Downtown Memphis, Avis is a top choice for those looking for quality vehicles. The most popular rentals from this supplier include Fullsize and Midsize SUVs, perfect for families or groups. Avis is well-regarded for its customer service, allowing you to manage your itinerary effortlessly while enjoying the sights of Memphis.
• Budget: With a rental location just 8 km from Downtown Memphis, Budget offers excellent value for money. It is a great option for cost-conscious travellers, with Midsize and Fullsize vehicles being the most sought-after choices. Budget provides a straightforward rental process, making it easy to pick up your vehicle and begin your Memphis adventure without delay.

Where to stay around Downtown Memphis

• Downtown Memphis: Downtown Memphis is a vibrant area central to the city's culture, making it an excellent choice for families and city-themed explorers. You can easily access popular attractions such as Graceland, Beale Street, and the National Civil Rights Museum. Enjoy the proximity to a variety of restaurants and shopping centres that cater to diverse tastes, ensuring a fulfilling experience during your stay.
• Mud Island: Located 3 km from Downtown Memphis, Mud Island is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area features attractions like Tom Lee Park and the National Civil Rights Museum. With live music concerts and shopping centres nearby, Mud Island offers a delightful mix of urban park experiences and cultural exploration, making it a refreshing retreat while still close to the city's heart.
• Midtown: Situated 4 km away from Downtown Memphis, Midtown is perfect for travellers seeking a balance of family-friendly activities and city charm. This neighbourhood is home to the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art and Overton Park, providing cultural and outdoor pursuits. The shopping centres and historic places in Midtown further enhance your stay, offering a rich blend of experiences just a short distance from downtown attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Memphis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower 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 strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. Renters over 70 may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though the added convenience may justify the 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 help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
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 Downtown Memphis

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown Memphis is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. This quieter month is followed by October and November, which also feature slightly low prices and average demand. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand making rentals pricier. The summer months of June and July maintain average prices and demand, while the spring months of March through May see slightly high prices and high demand.