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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Traverse City
Traverse City
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Traverse City
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Traverse City
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Traverse City
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Traverse City?
Traverse City, Michigan, is a beautiful destination with numerous attractions spread throughout the region. While some public transportation options are available, renting a car provides the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Explore Scenic Drives. Traverse City is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is best explored by car. A rental allows you to stop at overlooks and beaches at your leisure.
Visit Wineries and Breweries. The Traverse City area is known for its numerous wineries and breweries. Having a car allows you to easily visit multiple locations without relying on taxis or ride-sharing services.
Access Remote Locations. Many of the area's hidden gems, such as secluded hiking trails and lesser-known beaches, are difficult to reach without a car. A rental car opens up these opportunities.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Traverse City
Before booking a rental car in Traverse City, it's important to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Familiarize yourself with age requirements, licensing, insurance, and other key policies.
Area
Approximately 8.66 square miles (22.43 square kilometers)
Population
Approximately 15,600 residents
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (EST)
Ideal for
Exploring wineries, beaches, and scenic drives
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during summer months and around local events
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Traverse City require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance. Additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually required, held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others restricting the number of miles allowed. Fuel policies usually require returning the car with the same amount of fuel as when picked up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or adding an additional driver to the rental agreement.
Car Rental Prices in Traverse City – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22.50
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22.50
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €13.50
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Traverse City?
Booking a car in Traverse City is simple if you follow these steps. Comparing prices and reviewing the rental terms will help ensure a smooth rental experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering size and features.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies before booking.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and ensure availability by booking well in advance.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when collecting your rental.
General Information About Traverse City
Traverse City is known for its cherries, wineries, and beautiful scenery. Understanding local traffic rules and parking regulations can enhance your experience when driving a rental car in the area.
Traverse City, Michigan, is a popular tourist destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and culinary experiences. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding region. Driving within Traverse City is generally easy, but awareness of local traffic laws and parking regulations is important.
Top Attractions to Discover
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and unique dune formations.
Mission Point Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse located on the 45th parallel.
Downtown Traverse City
Features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available in downtown Traverse City.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but it can be limited during peak season.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride options during busy times to avoid downtown congestion.
Gas Stations in Traverse City
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available throughout Traverse City and the surrounding areas.
Major Brands
You'll find major brands like Shell, Marathon, and BP.
Fueling Tips
Refuel before venturing out on long drives to ensure a stress-free experience.
Useful Tips for Visiting Traverse City
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during the summer months and around major events. Plan your travel accordingly.
Explore Local Events
Check the local calendar for festivals and events happening during your visit.
Be Aware of Pedestrians & Cyclists
Traverse City is a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city, so be mindful of others on the road.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to find the best routes and avoid traffic delays.
Key Transportation Hubs in Traverse City
Major Bus Stations
Indian Trails Bus Station
Provides intercity bus services to various destinations.
Airports
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
Serves domestic flights and connects Traverse City to major cities.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Traverse City?
Renting a car in Traverse City requires meeting certain requirements, including having a valid driver's license and providing proof of insurance. Here's what you need:
A valid driver’s license is required for all renters. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Young driver surcharges may apply for renters under 25.
A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Traverse City as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Spontaneous weekend in Traverse City was amazing! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful scenery and charming towns.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 16.04.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 17.10.2024
Low-key, pretty good.
Mia Garcia
Reviewed: 07.09.2024
Heard great things, and they were right! Exploring with a car was perfect.
Avery Brooks
Reviewed: 09.01.2025
Such a fun trip! Met up with friends in Traverse City, and having a car let us easily explore the stunning scenery and charming towns. Highly recommend!
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 23.03.2025
Pretty laid-back, really.
Ethan Harris
Reviewed: 24.07.2025
Wonderful weekend getaway! Having a car was a lifesaver, though the downtown area felt a bit underwhelming.
Oliver Quinn
Reviewed: 15.10.2024
Perfect coastal escape! Having a car made getting around Traverse City so easy. The beaches were stunning, and I felt completely relaxed.
Isabelle Carter
Reviewed: 30.01.2025
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Jake Peterson
Reviewed: 17.11.2024