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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Philadelphia
Philadelphia
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Philadelphia
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Philadelphia
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Philadelphia
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 Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is a city brimming with historical landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Discover the benefits of having your own vehicle and making the most of your visit.
Explore Historic Sites. Philadelphia is rich in history, and many sites are spread out. With a rental car, you can easily visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other significant landmarks without relying on public transportation schedules.
Visit Surrounding Areas. Beyond the city, you can explore the scenic countryside, charming towns, and beautiful landscapes of Pennsylvania. A rental car allows you to take day trips to places like Valley Forge National Historical Park or Longwood Gardens.
Convenience and Flexibility. Whether you're traveling with family, have a lot of luggage, or simply prefer the comfort of your own vehicle, a rental car provides the convenience and flexibility you need to make the most of your trip.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Philadelphia
Before renting a car in Philadelphia, familiarize yourself with the standard terms and conditions. These include age requirements, licensing, insurance, and other essential policies. Understanding these terms will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
142.6 square miles
Population
Approximately 1.6 million residents
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Ideal for
Exploring historic sites and day trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic from 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM
Rating
4.0/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Philadelphia require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required, and international visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP), are available. A security deposit is usually required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies typically require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Philadelphia – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €57 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €68 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
SUV:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
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 Philadelphia?
Booking a car in Philadelphia is straightforward. By comparing prices, choosing the right car, and reviewing rental terms, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Book early, especially during peak seasons, and bring all necessary documents for pick-up.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison site to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's an economy car for city driving or an SUV for longer trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
General Information About Philadelphia
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, combines historical charm with modern amenities. Ideal for sightseeing and day trips, knowing local traffic rules, parking, and fuel access is key, especially when exploring beyond the city center.
As a major city in the United States, Philadelphia offers a rich blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you're visiting for history, culture, or business, there’s something for everyone. While Philadelphia has a public transport network, renting a car is useful for exploring beyond the city center. Driving within Philadelphia requires awareness of traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station locations to ensure a smooth visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Independence Hall & Liberty Bell
Visit the birthplace of American independence and see the iconic symbol of freedom.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Explore world-class art collections and run up the famous 'Rocky Steps'.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Take a tour of this historic prison and learn about its infamous past.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use garages offered by companies like Parkway Corporation for secure, citywide parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available but often costly and time-limited, especially in central areas.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities outside the city center and take public transport in.
Gas Stations in Philadelphia
Major Brands
Look for brands like Wawa, Sunoco, and Lukoil throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Gas Prices
Gas prices can vary, so it’s a good idea to check current rates using apps like GasBuddy.
Refueling
Ensure you know the fuel policy of your rental agreement before returning the vehicle.
Useful Tips for Visiting Philadelphia
Use SEPTA
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides buses, subways, and trolleys for easy city transportation.
Be Aware of Bike Lanes
Stay alert for bike lanes and cyclists, especially in the city center.
Plan for Traffic
Avoid driving during rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM) to avoid heavy congestion.
Check for Events
Be aware of events and festivals that may impact traffic and parking.
Key Transportation Hubs in Philadelphia
Major Bus Stations
Philadelphia Greyhound Bus Terminal
Located in Center City, it serves as a major hub for intercity bus services.
Railway Stations
30th Street Station
Philadelphia's main railway station, serving Amtrak and SEPTA regional rail lines.
Airports
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
Located approximately 7 miles (11 km) from Center City, it is the primary airport serving the region.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Philadelphia?
Renting a car in Philadelphia is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need
If you're from the United States, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
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 Philadelphia 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.
Pretty chill, overall.
David Lee
Reviewed: 16.01.2025
Quick business trip, but Philly charmed me! Getting around with a rental car was super convenient.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 08.02.2025
Solid, pretty chill.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 30.10.2024
Pretty good, actually.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 24.01.2025
Philly weekend: fantastic! Easy to get around.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 14.05.2025
Exploring Philly was effortless; car rental made it perfect!
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 23.09.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 16.03.2025
Busy trip, but renting a car made getting around Philadelphia so much easier. The Reading Terminal Market was a bit overwhelming, honestly, but the city itself was great.
Brian Murphy
Reviewed: 25.04.2025
Philly was amazing! So much easier to explore with a car. Loved it.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 10.04.2025
So glad I returned to Philadelphia after all this time! Having a car was perfect for exploring.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 02.03.2025
Summer in Philly was a blast! Exploring with a car was so convenient.
Isabelle Martinez
Reviewed: 04.12.2024
Loved revisiting Philly after all these years! Having a car made exploring the different neighborhoods so easy. The food scene is amazing, and the history is palpable. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 07.03.2025