Athens car rentals from $29/day
This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in Athens with a pick-up date of 6/12 and drop-off date of 6/13. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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Athens car rental information
| Pick-up location | Athens |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Minivan, Pickup truck, Standard, Standard SUV |
| Rental locations | 7 |
| Airport locations | 2 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Avis, Getaround, Hertz |
Cheap car rentals in Athens
| Compact | $33/day |
| Intermediate | $35/day |
| Standard | $31/day |
| Full-size | $39/day |
| Minivan | $49/day |
| Full-size SUV | $43/day |
| Luxury | $35/day |
| Pickup truck | $41/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $29/day |
| Standard SUV | $40/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Athens
- Athens, Georgia, is among the cities that oppose aggressive driving. Once you pick up your car from the cheap car rentals in Athens, be sure to cruise that doesn’t endanger the safety of other motorists and pedestrians. In Georgia, aggressive drivers may be guilty of a misdemeanor that attracts a fine and possible jail time. As you drive, beware of jaywalkers. Athens ranks among the most easy-to-walk-through cities in Georgia. The number of pedestrians may be high in downtown Athens and near UGA University, as these areas have an array of restaurants and shops that attract crowds.
- If looking to engage in carpooling during your time in Athens, Georgia, you will be delighted to know that the city encourages the practice. You can download apps like CarpoolWorld and find passengers willing to share a ride with you. Also, there are local apps developed by UGA University for carpooling purposes. To popularize carpooling, the state of Georgia includes HOV lanes. You may come across them when getting in or out of Athens via the I-85 highway.
- Reserving a vehicle from cheap car rentals in Athens is a great way to explore tourist attractions in Athens and the neighboring cities. You need roughly 10min to cover the 5-mile distance from Athens city center to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. About 40miles away from Athens lies Gainesville, a city renowned for its poultry. You can drive for about 50min and see the iconic Poultry Capital of the World Monument. If you don’t mind spending more time behind the wheel, consider covering the 77 miles from Athens to Atlanta and spend quality time in the Georgia Aquarium. You will drive for about 1h 30min before this destination.
- If you’re looking to enjoy the city of Athens and experience places like the Terrapin Beer Coor Oconee National Forest, having a rental car can make the trip more comfortable and seamless. Nothing beats being able to travel at your own pace, especially in a new city via public transport may be hard to keep up with. Besides, you can venture into rural areas or farther from the city as close as Sandy Creek Park, about 8 miles away, or as far as Tallulah Fall 66 miles away, and Stone Mountain 55 miles away at your own pace.
- If you opt to use the Athens Ben Epps Airport, you won’t find an on-airport car rental facility. However, you can still rent your car of choice from Athens car rentals such as Hertz, Dollar, Avis, and National through KAYAK, and have the car meet you outside the airport. If you’re traveling internationally, you may have to use Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is about 79 miles away from Athens. This airport does house an on-airport Rental Car Facility that you’ll find at the west end of the terminal through the covered walkway. Take the escalator, then board the ALT SkyTrain that will take you to the facility, and you can pick up your car of choice from several Athens car rentals available, including Enterprise and Budget.
- While driving a rental car in Athens, keep in mind that streets along with the UGA University, like South Lumpkin Street, are notorious for jaywalkers. Students may not be very wary of the road, especially at night. Pedestrians have the right-of-way on crosswalks in Georgia, which gives them the confidence to cross the roads without always looking.
- Athens may not be a major city, but don’t underestimate the traffic you may have to contend with. The morning commute spans from 7am to 9am and several loops can especially be congested, as the East Campus Loop from 2pm to 5pm on weekdays due to students. Be watchful for pedestrians and bikers on this loop. Five Points in Downtown Athens is centered on the South Milledge Ave, Milledge Circle, and South Lumpkin Street intersection and traffic can be heavy at around 5pm. The Lexington Highway can be backed up between 3pm and 5pm as well.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Athens for $52 or less
- Book your rental car in Athens at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Off-airport rental car locations in Athens are around 5% more expensive than airport locations on average
- Economy rental cars in Athens are around 67% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Athens
What type of car is recommended for driving in Athens?
Depending on the number of people you’re traveling with or any cargo you’re bringing along, like golf clubs to have fun at the University Golf Course, a van or an SUV can be a good choice when traveling to Athens. However, if you intend to stay within the city, feel free to rent any standard-sized vehicle that’ll suit your taste and budget from car rentals in Athens.
What’s the speed limit in Athens?
The speed limits in Georgia apply in Athens, where you’ll find driving on rural highways and interstate require a 70mph speed limit. While driving on urban freeways, the maximum speed limit sits at 65mph, which also applies to divided roadways. Undivided roadways get 55mph while residential neighborhood speed limits are reduced to 35mph, and unpaved rural roads get 35mph. You’ll find that some residential districts set their own speed limits and may have a maximum of 25mph, so watch out for signs. Speed limits are bound to be even lower around construction zones, schools, and hospitals.
Where are the best places to park in Athens?
In Downtown Athens, you’ll find parking meters enforced Monday through Saturday from 8am to 10pm at a rate of about $1.25 per hour. You can only park on the streets for a maximum of 2h although after 6pm you can purchase more time. You’ll also find several parking decks like the college Ave and Washington Street decks that offer free parking for the past half an hour and charge around $1 per hour after that.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Athens?
On average a rental car in Athens costs $62 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Athens found in the last 2 weeks is $37.
How much is gas price in Athens?
The average gas price in Athens is $3.93 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $63, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Athens?
Economy (Ford Fiesta or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Athens.
Which car rental companies are at Hartsfield-Jackson airport (ATL)?
Car rental companies onsite at Hartsfield-Jackson airport include Routes Car & Truck Rentals, Fox, Dollar, Thrifty and Payless.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Hartsfield-Jackson airport (ATL)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Hartsfield-Jackson airport to off-airport locations include Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, Sixt, Alamo, Avis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Ace, Airport Van, and Europcar.
How can I find car rentals near me in Athens?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Athens?
An Economy car rental in Athens costs $31 per day, on average.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Athens?
An Intermediate car rental in Athens costs $32 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Athens?
A Standard car rental in Athens costs $34 per day, on average.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Athens?
On average a rental car in Athens costs $435 per week ($62 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Athens?
On average a rental car in Athens costs $1,863 per month ($62 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Athens?
Most car rental providers in Athens offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Athens, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Athens?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 5 car rental agencies in Athens.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Athens?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Athens?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Athens so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What annual events cause traffic in Athens, Georgia?
Athens hosts events throughout the year, some of which call for road closures that lead to traffic build-ups. As you drive your vehicle from Athens car rentals, be on the lookout for congestion as the Wild Rumpus takes place in October. The Athens Twilight, a cycling event in April, may also feature road closures.
Which toll roads are available in Athens, Georgia?
During your trip to the city of Athens, you may not find any toll roads. However, Georgia charges a toll on some of its interstate highways. If you drive on the express lanes of I-85 when traveling in or out of Athens, you may incur a small amount as you pass through their toll booths.
Athens car rental reviews and directory
Hertz
8.7
Very good
21 reviewsCleanliness
8.5
Comfort
8.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.4
Value for money
7.9
3 locations in Athens
Locations in Athens
1020 Ben Epps Dr.
+1 706 543 5984
339 Atlanta Hwy Suite 1500
+1 678 975 3041
4110 Atlanta Highway
+1 706 353 0411
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
Yes10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2020
Pros:
Staff was friendly. Everything went smoothly with pickup and turn in.2.0 Poor
Jul 2020
Cons:
I was given the run around during pick up!!!!! Didn’t even get to get the vehicle, because of some discriminatory practices it seems!! I will NEVER attempt to use Hertz again!!!!!9.6 Wonderful
Jul 2020
Pros:
Yes,staff was very nice,both at pick up and drop off.Thank you.Cons:
I think maybe the price.Every thing else was good.4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2018
Cons:
My dad works for the company and he told me I wouldn’t need to have the $200 hold on my bank account. But they refused to wave the fee. Iv been renting cars for a while with other companies and not had this issue. I’m an actress, comedian and was going to A set. My fiancé and I only have one vehicle. We where trying to make sure he could do what he needed for his job so I could do what I needed for mine. And I wasn’t willing to have $200 held. Although Iv been in the entertainment business my whole life I stepped away for a little while for my other career (Holistic practitioner, Ayurvedic practitioner, life coach, medical massage). Now back Iv been making a strong name for myself in entertainment. Iv been casted in a major film project as well as commercials, modeling gigs and will even be at performing at an award ceremony next year. Iv never had any car rental company charge my card due to damages or whatever. I even asked if they spoke to my dad who works with Hertz, ( hesworked for hertz for 7 years) and got his card for the security. They wouldnt help. Nor suggest a solution. It was ether let them hold my money For unforeseen incidences or figure something else out. So I cancelled my rental and had to cancelthe insurance I purchased just for that one day. You guys need to figure out a better way to rent out vehicles to people who chose not to have a credit card. Maybe another type of insurance that's $30 to cover those types of cases. Something to help people like me who are trust worthy, no credit card, not wanting a $200 hold that won't fall off for 18 days....... And yes it is held for that long. I know cause IV had to do it before. Have a happy holiday and stay blessed. Lauren PS. I won't ever try to use your rentals again nor will I suggest it to my network of people. I just want to rent from you guys cause my dad works there and wanted to stay in the family. But I won't make that mistake again.2.0 Poor
Sep 2018
Pros:
The make and model of the carCons:
The car smelled like a joke and wasn't cleaned out properly. There were old rental agreements in the gloveboxBudget
8.4
Very good
22 reviewsCleanliness
8.3
Comfort
8.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.6
Value for money
8.6
One location in Athens
Locations in Athens
1870 West Broad Street
+1 706 353 0600
Filters
Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
Feb 2021
Cons:
The car was in the worst condition of any rental car I’ve ever had. It was dented, scratched, and dirty. I’m sure this didn’t have anything to do with Kayak, but perhaps Budget. The lot where I picked up it was very disorganized as well. I will not use Budget again unless they are the absolute only option.10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2020
Pros:
staff was great. car worked out great too. much more efficient than my normal car.7.6 Good
Dec 2019
Pros:
Drop off staff was excellent!Cons:
Upon arriving to pick up my vehicle, there were none available and I was told that it was possible I wouldn’t get a car which could have resulted in a disaster for my trip. Luckily enough cars were returned on time for me to get mine.6.8 Okay
Dec 2018
Pros:
The car drove and was appointed well.Cons:
It reeked horribly of smoke.6.0 Okay
Dec 2016
Cons:
In both locations you were poorly staffed, one person to be exact. We were constantly interrupted by that person having to answer the phone while trying to wait on me. It made picking up and dropping off a real chore! I felt sorry for both employees as it was clearly not THEIR fault.10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2015
Pros:
Great customer service at the Budget Rental in Athens, GA!Enterprise Rent-A-Car
7.5
Good
23 reviewsCleanliness
7.3
Comfort
7.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.6
Value for money
6.6
4 locations in Athens
Locations in Athens
3100 Atlanta Hwy
+1 706 552 0448
3370 Astondale Rd
+1 706 769 0255
368 Oak Street
+1 706 546 8067
4760 Atlanta Highway
+1 706 543 0771
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2021
Pros:
Very friendly and helped make out pickup and drop off simple and easy! We also had to extend by one day and that process was effortless. One phone call was all that was required!Cons:
Not a thing.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2021
Pros:
Staff excellentCons:
Cost3.2 Poor
Jul 2020
Cons:
They rented me a car that was dirty and the front sensor was defective I kept getting malfunction warnings and the cruise wouldn’t work Called to check on exchanging and after several phone calls they finally found me another car in another city Added two hours to my already long trip but in the end they did exchange cars for me10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2019
Pros:
Great staff. Fine car. Great way to goCons:
N/A7.2 Good
Oct 2018
Pros:
Nice salespeopleCons:
One location has weird hours and was closed when I went to pick up outgoing car. No options to upgrade. Other location said come 15 min before close. Couldn’t guarantee car even tho other location was closed and no cars on lot anyway.2.0 Poor
Aug 2017
Cons:
Despite the fact i had a reservation & a confirmation number, they did NOT have a car for me. I was left with no rental at all, and enterprise did not help me find another vehicle. When I called corporate enterprise, the rep told me they oversell their cars ( much the same way the airline oversell seats). I barely even got a "sorry" for my inconvenience. Not professional or reliable.Avis
6.1
Okay
23 reviewsCleanliness
5.9
Comfort
5.9
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.1
Value for money
5.7
One location in Athens
Locations in Athens
1870 West Broad Street
+1 706 543 3904
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2018
Pros:
The agent expedited my drop-off and was friendly. He got me out so quickly I forgot to take my grandson’s car seat out of the car! The agent was super helpful, got the car seat for my daughter and had it ready for her to pick up. He recognized that this car seat was not an Avis standard car seat and had planned to remove it before the car was returned to Atlanta. We appreciated his care for the customer!Cons:
Nothing bad. Great experience!10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2017
Pros:
The man that runs the Athens, GA Avis is absolutely amazing.2.0 Poor
Mar 2017
Cons:
Couldn't get the car because didn't have a credit card. Just stupid of the company.10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2016
Pros:
Easy drop-off and pick-up. A much better deal than the shuttle option I used on the incoming fllight.2.0 Poor
Oct 2016
Pros:
See aboveCons:
See above5.2 Fair
Sep 2016
Pros:
Car got good mileage.Cons:
Car had mechanical issues. Gear transitions were slow. Had to flood the engine frequently to change gear uphill.Easirent
4.6
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Athens
Locations in Athens
Filters
No reviews available
Car rental locations in or near Athens
Good to know
Most popular agency | Enterprise Rent-A-Car |
|---|---|
Most popular car type | Economy |
Average price | $62/day |
Good deal | $52/day |
When to book a rental car in Athens
Airports serving Athens
Popular rental types in Athens
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