Downtown Calgary Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Calgary

Renting a car in Downtown Calgary offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those with substantial luggage, as a rental vehicle allows for easy management of belongings while travelling. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Calgary Tower, which provides a modern city experience, and Stephen Avenue, a vibrant street ideal for urban exploration. The TELUS Spark science museum is also easily accessible, making it a great stop for family-oriented activities.

In addition to Downtown Calgary, a rental car enables you to discover nearby areas like Calgary Chinatown and the Beltline, both less than 1 km away. These neighbourhoods feature attractions like the Bow River and additional dining options. With a car, you can also venture further to explore more of Calgary, including popular sites like Calaway Park and 17 Avenue SW. This flexibility in travel plans allows you to fully enjoy the cultural and recreational offerings of Calgary without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Calgary

• Midsize: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers along with 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families. The Midsize car offers a comfortable balance of space and fuel efficiency, allowing you to navigate Downtown Calgary and beyond with ease. Whether you're exploring the city or venturing further afield, this option provides the flexibility you need for your travel plans.
• Standard Pickup: Perfect for adventure travellers, families, and small groups, the Standard Pickup can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type is particularly suited for those who value space and utility, providing ample room for both passengers and luggage. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, the Standard Pickup offers the versatility to tackle a variety of travel needs.
• Compact: The Compact car option is designed for solo travellers, couples, and families, comfortably seating up to 5 people with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. This car type is an excellent choice for those looking for a smaller, more economical vehicle that still provides enough space for luggage. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate the bustling streets of Downtown Calgary while maintaining the convenience you require for your travels.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Calgary

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice for travellers in Downtown Calgary, featuring 1 rental location in the area. Customers often opt for their Midsize SUV and Standard Pickup vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the city and surrounding attractions with ease. With a focus on providing flexibility and convenience, Thrifty is a reliable option for those seeking to explore Calgary at their own pace.
• Avis: Avis also boasts a location in Downtown Calgary, making it easily accessible for visitors. Known for its well-maintained fleet, Avis is particularly favoured for Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, catering to various group sizes and travel needs. The supplier is committed to ensuring a smooth rental experience, allowing you to manage your luggage and itinerary effortlessly while enjoying your stay in Calgary.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car offers another solid option for car rentals in Downtown Calgary, with 1 convenient location. Many travellers appreciate their selection of Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, perfect for both city driving and venturing into the scenic surroundings. Dollar is dedicated to providing excellent service, making it a trustworthy choice for those looking to explore Calgary and beyond.

Where to stay around Downtown Calgary

• Downtown Calgary: As the heart of the city, Downtown Calgary offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to key attractions. Notable sites include the iconic Calgary Tower, providing stunning views of the metropolis. The area is also home to various shopping centres and lively entertainment venues. Food enthusiasts will find a diverse range of restaurants and breweries nearby, making it an excellent base for both family and city-themed experiences.
• Beltline: Located less than 1 km from Downtown Calgary, Beltline is a dynamic neighbourhood that blends sports and adventure. With its proximity to the arena entertainment facility and popular shopping areas, visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere. Key highlights include the Calgary Tower and 17 Avenue SW, both of which provide excellent options for dining and city exploration, making it a suitable choice for families and thrill-seekers alike.
• Calgary Chinatown: Situated less than 1 km from Downtown Calgary, Calgary Chinatown is a culturally rich neighbourhood perfect for family and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore shopping areas and enjoy delicious food at various dining establishments. Attractions such as the Calgary Tower and the scenic Bow River are nearby, offering opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation amidst the vibrant city life.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, 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 strike a good balance between price, 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 can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may 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 assist you in avoiding unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Calgary

The best value time to rent a car in and around Downtown Calgary is December, when demand is at its lowest and prices tend to be cheaper. November also offers slightly lower prices with calm demand. In contrast, August is typically the most expensive month, characterised by high demand and slightly elevated prices, alongside June and July, which see similar trends. September follows with high demand and average pricing, marking a busier period for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	17.6°F (-8.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	37.8°F (3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	40.1°F (4.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	16.2°F (-8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low