Southbank Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southbank

Renting a car in Southbank offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its surroundings at your own pace. This suburb provides convenient access to key attractions, including the Southbank Promenade, which is perfect for city experiences, and the National Gallery of Victoria, an excellent spot for culture enthusiasts. For sports fans, the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground is only 3 km away, making it easy to catch a game or enjoy a tour.

A rental car is especially beneficial for families, allowing for easy luggage management and comfortable travel with children. Business travellers will also appreciate the convenience of visiting the nearby Melbourne Central Business District, located just 2 km from Southbank, where they can explore Melbourne Park and Collins Street. Additionally, the Docklands area, also 2 km away, offers further attractions like St Kilda Beach. With a car, you can effortlessly navigate between these popular destinations and enjoy a hassle-free experience while creating your own itinerary.

Most popular car rentals in and around Southbank

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a top choice for travellers in Southbank, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for versatility and comfort. With ample room for luggage, it allows you to explore the attractions in and around Southbank without the stress of cramped space. Whether you're planning a day out or a longer journey, the midsize SUV offers the flexibility you need.
• Compact: The compact car option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is particularly suited for those who appreciate a smaller, more fuel-efficient car that is easy to navigate through Southbank's streets. If you’re looking for a balance between space and economy, the compact car provides a great solution for enjoying your travels while managing luggage with ease.
• Fullsize: For those needing extra space, the fullsize car type is a fantastic option, accommodating 5 travellers along with 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups wanting to travel comfortably in and around Southbank. With a fullsize vehicle, you can enjoy the journey without worrying about luggage constraints, making it perfect for longer trips or those carrying extra gear.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Southbank

• Budget: With 4 rental locations, Budget is a popular choice for many travellers in Southbank, located within 1 km of the neighbourhood. This supplier is renowned for offering great value and flexibility, making it ideal for exploring the local attractions. The most booked vehicles with Budget are the Midsize and Fullsize Van, perfect for those travelling with family or larger groups.
• Europcar: Europcar has 3 conveniently located rental spots within the Southbank area, making it easy for you to pick up your vehicle. This supplier is highly regarded for its well-maintained fleet and excellent customer service. The Midsize SUV and Compact cars are the most popular choices among travellers, providing a comfortable and spacious ride for your adventures around Melbourne.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental operates 2 locations, with the nearest being less than 1 km from Southbank. This supplier is favoured for its competitive pricing and diverse vehicle options. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize SUV are the top choices, allowing you to traverse both urban landscapes and scenic routes with ease. Thrifty is a reliable option for those seeking a hassle-free car rental experience.

Where to stay around Southbank

• Southbank: Southbank is a vibrant area in Melbourne known for its cultural attractions and proximity to the Yarra River. Visitors can enjoy a range of restaurants and bars, making it a popular choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere. The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground is nearby, providing a historic sports experience, while the beach and various shopping centres offer additional leisure options.
• Melbourne Central Business District: Located 2 km from Southbank, the Melbourne Central Business District is bustling with activity, featuring numerous shopping centres and dining options. This area is ideal for those looking for a city-themed experience, with attractions like Melbourne Park and Collins Street within easy reach. It’s a great base for business travellers and families alike, especially during events taking place in the city.
• Docklands: Docklands, situated 2 km away from Southbank, is a modern suburb that blends waterfront views with urban living. This area offers a variety of shopping and entertainment venues, making it suitable for families and business visitors. With attractions like St Kilda Beach and the Melbourne Cricket Ground close by, Docklands provides a mix of leisure and sporting activities for those looking to explore Melbourne.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying the type of vehicle and its features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economical car for budget reasons, utilise the filters on Expedia to help identify the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to benefit from lower rates and 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 offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily charges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and offers additional peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when making a booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Southbank

The best value period to rent a car in and around Southbank is May, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. June follows closely with similar characteristics, making it another good option. From July to September, prices are average, and demand tends to be moderate. However, December is the most expensive month for rentals, with demand rising as people travel for the holidays. January and March also see higher prices and demand, making them busier times for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
July	48.9°F (9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	64.8°F (18.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High