Melbourne Central Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Compare rent a car rates in Melbourne Central from popular car rental companies

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings

Explore Melbourne Central with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

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

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Melbourne Central
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 4 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Melbourne Central car rental

Reasons to book a car rental around Melbourne Central

Renting a car around Melbourne Central offers you the freedom to explore the vibrant city and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for tourists. Key attractions are within easy reach; for instance, the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground is a mere 2 km away, while Collins Street, known for its city experiences, is less than 1 km from Melbourne Central. If you're in the mood for a beach day, St Kilda Beach is just 7 km away, providing a perfect escape for sun and sand. Additionally, you can venture beyond Melbourne Central to explore the Melbourne Central Business District, which features Melbourne Park and more attractions, or visit the nearby neighbourhood of Southbank, located 2 km away, known for its scenic promenade. Whether you are travelling with family, friends, or solo, having a rental car allows you to enjoy all these experiences without the limitations of public transport, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable trip around Melbourne.

Most popular car rentals near Melbourne Central

  • Compact: The most popular choice among travellers around Melbourne Central, the Compact car accommodates up to 5 passengers and offers space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for an economical and agile vehicle that makes navigating the city a breeze.
  • Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV provides comfortable seating for 5 travellers and ample room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option combines space and versatility, making it a great pick for those who require a bit more room for their luggage while exploring the attractions around Melbourne Central.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car is an excellent option for families or larger groups, accommodating 5 passengers with the capability to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This choice offers generous space and comfort, allowing for a relaxed journey while providing the flexibility needed for your travel plans around Melbourne Central.

Top rated car suppliers near Melbourne Central

  • Europcar: With 2 rental locations nearby, Europcar is highly regarded for its proximity, with the nearest location less than 1 km from Melbourne Central. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking comfort and space while exploring the attractions around Melbourne at their own pace.
  • Budget: Known for offering great value, Budget has 4 rental locations in close proximity to Melbourne Central, with the nearest being less than 1 km away. This supplier is favoured for Midsize and Fullsize Van rentals, which are perfect for groups or families needing extra room for luggage and comfort during their travels.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental provides 2 locations close to Melbourne Central, with the nearest under 1 km away. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize SUV vehicles, ideal for those wanting to navigate the city and surrounding areas with ease while enjoying a reliable and spacious ride.

Where to stay near Melbourne Central

  • Melbourne Central Business District: Situated in the heart of Melbourne, the Melbourne Central Business District is an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant city experience. With popular venues like shopping malls and entertainment facilities, you'll find plenty to do. Key attractions nearby include the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground and the bustling Collins Street. The area also offers a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient hub for both leisure and business travellers.
  • Southbank: Located a mere 2 km from Melbourne Central, Southbank is a lively suburb that attracts families and business travellers alike. The Southbank Promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground and Collins Street are also within reach. With a range of shopping centres and eateries, including wineries and restaurants, Southbank provides an appealing blend of urban excitement and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Melbourne Central

  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 the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in discovering the ideal option 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive 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 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  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'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 incurring 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 around Melbourne Central

The best value period to rent a car around Melbourne Central is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June follows closely, maintaining those favourable conditions. September also offers slightly low prices amid average demand, making it a great option. In contrast, December tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high demand. January to March generally shows higher prices and demand, making those months busier for car rentals.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
February68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
April59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
July48.9°F (9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
August49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
September53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December64.8°F (18.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

Information on Car Rentals

 
Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
 
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
 
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
AU$377
 
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
 
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
 
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is parking near Melbourne Central?
To find the latest prices for parking at Melbourne Central, check the official website. Travelling on a shoestring? Check to see if there are exclusive offers or even free parking at Melbourne Central for early birds.
Are there electric car charging stations near Melbourne Central?
Recharge yourself, and your vehicle, at one of Expedia's hotels with electric car charging stations. See if there are any of these stays near Melbourne Central and wake up ready to explore the city with a full battery.
Where is Melbourne Central in Melbourne?
To see Melbourne Central, you'll need to travel about 0.97 kilometres to the south of Melbourne's downtown area.
What else is there to do near Melbourne Central?
Once you've taken in the sights close to Melbourne Central, slip into the driver's seat of your hire car and continue exploring. Puffing Billy Steam Train, Dandenong Ranges National Park and Peninsula Hot Springs are a few of the attractions you can easily get to from central Melbourne.
What time does Melbourne Central open and close?
Melbourne Central's official website is a good place to look up opening and closing times. You're also likely to find details about any special events, public holidays and seasonal hours. For more specific visitor information, check if there's a social media page or give them a call.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia