Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Harrisburg
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Harrisburg
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Harrisburg
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Harrisburg
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
Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, offers a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom to explore Harrisburg and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Discover Historical Sites. Harrisburg is home to numerous historical landmarks, such as the Pennsylvania State Capitol and the National Civil War Museum. A rental car allows you to easily visit these sites and delve into the region's rich history.
Explore the Outdoors. With the Susquehanna River running through the city and several parks nearby, Harrisburg offers plenty of outdoor activities. A car gives you the flexibility to reach hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and recreational areas outside the city center.
Convenient Day Trips. Harrisburg is within driving distance of other interesting destinations, including Hershey (the Chocolate Capital of the World) and Lancaster (known for its Amish heritage). A rental car makes these day trips easy and enjoyable.
Before renting a car in Harrisburg, be sure to understand the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth rental experience. Key factors to consider include age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential fees.
Area
Approximately 11.4 square miles
Population
Around 50,000 residents
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Ideal for
Exploring historical sites and nearby attractions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic during weekday mornings and evenings
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Harrisburg require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Renters under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
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 coverage. A security deposit is usually required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others having restrictions. Familiarize yourself with the fuel policy to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options such as GPS navigation, child seats, additional drivers, or one-way rentals. Be aware of these potential costs when booking.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €23 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €58 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €70 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €35 per day
SUV:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Peak season (June to August): Demand increases, with prices rising by 20-30% during the summer months.
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available during the winter months due to lower demand.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
To book a car in Harrisburg, follow these steps to secure the best deal and ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best rental rates from various car rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors such as size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure better rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when collecting your rental vehicle.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's capital, offers a rich history and vibrant culture. Understanding local driving conditions and regulations will enhance your visit, especially if exploring beyond the city center.
Harrisburg is strategically located in South Central Pennsylvania, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. While Harrisburg has some public transportation options, a car rental offers greater flexibility for visiting nearby attractions. Be aware of traffic rules, parking options, and refueling locations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Pennsylvania State Capitol
A stunning architectural masterpiece showcasing the state's history and governance.
National Civil War Museum
An extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Civil War.
City Island
A recreational island in the Susquehanna River offering family-friendly activities.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several garages are available downtown, providing secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but be mindful of time limits.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid downtown traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in Harrisburg
Major Brands Available
Find gas stations from major brands like Shell, Exxon, and Sunoco throughout the city.
Convenient Locations
Many gas stations are located along major roads and highways for easy access.
Plan Ahead
Be aware of station locations, especially if traveling to more rural areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Harrisburg
Use GPS Navigation
Utilize a GPS device or smartphone app to navigate Harrisburg's streets effectively.
Be Aware of Traffic Patterns
Plan your trips to avoid rush hour traffic, especially during weekday mornings and evenings.
Check Local Events
Be aware of any local events or festivals that may impact traffic and parking.
Stay Alert for Pedestrians
Pay attention to pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in downtown areas.
Major Bus Stations
Harrisburg Transportation Center
Located in downtown Harrisburg, serving intercity bus lines such as Greyhound and Trailways.
Railway Stations
Harrisburg Amtrak Station
Provides train service to major cities, including Philadelphia, New York, and Pittsburgh.
Airports
Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
Located approximately 9 miles from downtown Harrisburg, offering domestic flights.
Renting a car in Harrisburg is generally straightforward, provided you meet certain requirements. Make sure you have all necessary documents and information before you arrive to pick up your vehicle.
You'll need a valid driver's license. If your license is not in English, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
A credit or debit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit and rental charges.
You may need to provide proof of insurance. Check with your insurance provider to see if your policy covers rental vehicles.
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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 clients rate such place as Harrisburg 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.
Harrisburg was a delightful surprise! Getting around with a rental car was so easy, and I loved exploring the city's charming streets and the state museum. Definitely recommend a visit!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 21.09.2024
Solid, low-key vibe
Kevin Brown
Reviewed: 17.05.2025
Meh. Food scene weak.
David Lee
Reviewed: 20.07.2025
Renting a car made exploring Harrisburg a breeze. The city itself was interesting, though the State Museum was a bit underwhelming. Overall, a pleasant trip.
Amelia Garcia
Reviewed: 21.11.2024
It was great being back in Harrisburg after all these years! Having a car made exploring so much easier, and I rediscovered some hidden gems. The city felt vibrant and welcoming.
Emily Wilson
Reviewed: 13.02.2025
Quiet, kinda cute.
Jessica Miller
Reviewed: 20.06.2025
Low-key pleasant.
Ashley Davis
Reviewed: 30.09.2024
Efficient business trip! Harrisburg was easy to navigate with my rental, plenty to see.
Christopher Evans
Reviewed: 13.07.2025
Pretty decent, really
Brian Taylor
Reviewed: 28.03.2025
© 2025 RentyCars All Rights Reserved.
Pretty chill, tbh
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 13.03.2025