Austria Car Rentals & Cheap Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in Austria

Renting a car in Austria offers the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and have the flexibility to create your own travel itinerary. This is particularly appealing for those looking for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and romantic getaways.

With a car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the historic Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, which is a cultural highlight, or take in the stunning views at Achensee, a beautiful lake perfect for outdoor experiences. The Vienna State Opera also awaits, offering a blend of romance and culture. Beyond the capital, cities like Salzburg and Innsbruck are accessible, featuring remarkable sites such as Mirabell Palace and the Seegrube Cable Car, respectively. Each destination provides a unique glimpse into Austria's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring a rewarding experience for all types of travellers. Overall, renting a car allows you to explore Austria's diverse attractions conveniently and enjoyably, enhancing your travel adventure.

Most popular car rentals in Austria

• Compact: This car type is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 medium suitcases. The compact size makes it perfect for navigating through busy city streets and finding parking with ease, allowing for a stress-free travel experience as you explore Austria at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV offers ample room for 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride while ensuring enough space for luggage, making it well-suited for longer journeys or when travelling with extra gear, enhancing your flexibility during your trip in Austria.
• Economy: The economy car is a fantastic choice for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is particularly advantageous for those looking to save on fuel costs while enjoying the freedom to travel across Austria with manageable luggage, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious travellers.

Where to stay in Austria

• Vienna: As a bustling metropolis, Vienna is an excellent choice for those seeking a city-themed experience. Situated near attractions such as Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna State Opera, and St. Stephen's Cathedral, this area is perfect for culture enthusiasts. The city also offers delightful options for food and drinks, including local wineries and sweet treats. With convenient access to public markets and theatres, Vienna is ideal for family trips, business visits, or romantic escapes.
• Salzburg: Known for its stunning scenery, Salzburg is an enchanting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples alike. Key points of interest include Mirabell Palace, Mozart's Birthplace, and Salzburg Cathedral, all contributing to its rich cultural heritage. The proximity to beautiful lakes and charming town neighbourhoods enhances the picturesque experience. With a variety of restaurants and breweries available nearby, Salzburg is especially delightful during the warmer months when outdoor activities thrive.
• Innsbruck: Nestled amongst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a haven for adventure seekers and outdoor lovers. The region is famous for skiing, with local attractions such as the Seegrube Cable Car and Patscherkofel Mountain Bahn providing thrilling experiences. The historic Hofburg adds a cultural touch to the city. With numerous drinking pubs and restaurants in the vicinity, Innsbruck offers ample opportunities to unwind after a day of exploration, particularly during the winter ski season.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Austria

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to benefit from lower rates and enjoy better 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 busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, 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—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for 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 in Austria

The best value period to rent a car in Austria is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. Following closely are February and March, which also offer reasonable rates and lower demand. However, demand tends to peak in July, making it one of the busiest and more expensive months for rentals. October and November then see prices rise slightly, with November being the most expensive month despite its lower demand.