Downtown Portland Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Portland

Renting a car in Downtown Portland offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, and those seeking a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans tailored to your needs. Many key attractions are within easy reach, such as Tom McCall Waterfront Park, which is located in Downtown Portland, or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, just 1 km away. The serene Portland Japanese Garden is also a short drive, situated 2 km from Downtown.

Additionally, having a car allows you to visit nearby neighbourhoods like the Pearl District and Goose Hollow, both within a few kilometres, offering unique experiences and sights. Whether you are planning to enjoy family outings, cultural visits, or business engagements, a rental car ensures that you can navigate the city and its attractions with convenience, making it an ideal choice for your trip to Downtown Portland.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown Portland

• Midsize SUV: This car option is highly popular for those travelling in groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. A midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility as they explore Downtown Portland and its surroundings. With a balance of size and efficiency, it provides the perfect solution for those needing space without sacrificing manoeuvrability in city traffic.
• Compact SUV: Perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families, this compact SUV comfortably seats 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it an excellent choice for navigating the bustling streets of Downtown Portland while still providing ample room for luggage. This option blends convenience with practicality, making it a smart choice for those wanting to explore at their own pace.
• Standard: The standard car option is a reliable choice for couples and families alike, accommodating 5 travellers with capacity for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type offers a comfortable ride and sufficient space for all your travel necessities, making it an appealing option for those who appreciate a straightforward, hassle-free driving experience in and around Downtown Portland.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Portland

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in and around Downtown Portland, Budget is a convenient option for travellers seeking flexibility. This supplier is particularly popular for their Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, allowing you to comfortably explore the area's attractions. With Budget, you can manage your luggage easily and adjust your plans as needed, making it a great choice for those wanting value and convenience.
• Hertz: Located in Downtown Portland, Hertz provides a reliable car rental experience with a focus on quality. Their most booked vehicles include Midsize SUV AWD and Premium options, perfect for both comfort and performance during your trip. With Hertz, you can enjoy a smooth driving experience while discovering all that Portland has to offer.
• Sixt: Sixt has a rental location in Downtown Portland, making it accessible for visitors. Known for their Fullsize vehicles, Sixt offers ample space and comfort for your travels. Their location in the heart of the city ensures that you can easily pick up your rental and start your adventure without delay, allowing you to delve into the vibrant culture and scenery of the area.

Where to stay around Downtown Portland

• Downtown Portland: As the heart of Portland, Downtown offers a vibrant atmosphere with access to numerous attractions. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Tom McCall Waterfront Park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area also hosts the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, which is ideal for cultural experiences. With a range of dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, Downtown Portland is a prime location for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's dynamic culture.
• Northeast Portland: Located 7 km away from Downtown, Northeast Portland is a family-friendly neighbourhood offering a variety of activities. Key attractions include The Grotto, a serene shrine, and the urban oasis of Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The area is also home to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, making it suitable for cultural exploration. With an assortment of restaurants and wineries nearby, Northeast Portland provides a delightful mix of outdoor and city-themed experiences.
• Pearl District: Situated 2 km from Downtown Portland, the Pearl District is a trendy neighbourhood known for its blend of family, business, and city experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic Life Size Elephant Statue, a cultural monument, or relax in Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The district is well-regarded for its shopping centres and dining options, including fine wineries. Its proximity to the Portland Japanese Garden enhances the area's appeal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to access lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate 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 refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle 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 make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily 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 something unforeseen occur 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, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Portland

The best value period for renting a car in and around Downtown Portland is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. Following this, August and September also offer moderately low prices with average demand. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with demand increasing to average levels. April and May also see high demand and average pricing, making those months busier for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
April	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
August	70.3°F (21.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average