Bethesda car rentals from $28/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 Bethesda with a pick-up date of 5/9 and drop-off date of 5/10. 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.
Compare hundreds of rental car sites at once for car rental deals in Bethesda, Maryland
Save up to 38%Compare multiple travel sites with one search.
Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees.
Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.
Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.
Bethesda car rental information
| Pick-up location | Bethesda |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Economy, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Minivan, Pickup truck, Premium, Premium SUV, Standard, Standard SUV, Supplier choice |
| Rental locations | 11 |
| Airport locations | 0 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Avis, Budget, Getaround |
Cheap car rentals in Bethesda
| Economy | $33/day |
| Compact | $33/day |
| Intermediate | $31/day |
| Standard | $28/day |
| Full-size | $35/day |
| Minivan | $45/day |
| Full-size SUV | $37/day |
| Premium | $36/day |
| Luxury | $38/day |
| Pickup truck | $32/day |
| Premium SUV | $58/day |
| Supplier choice | $34/day |
| Standard SUV | $35/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $38/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Bethesda
- These are some major local roads you should know before getting cheap Bethesda car rentals. A major local road crucial for getting around is Wisconsin Avenue, which runs north-south through the heart of the town and is home to many shops, restaurants, and businesses. Another important road is Old Georgetown Road, which runs parallel to Wisconsin Avenue and intersects with major east-west roads, including Democracy Boulevard and Montrose Road. Rockville Pike (also known as Route 355) runs through Bethesda and provides access to nearby towns and communities. Other important local roads in Bethesda include Bradley Boulevard, River Road, and Massachusetts Avenue.
- If you are getting electric Bethesda car rentals, there are several free EV charging stations in Bethesda. One example is the charging station located at the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, which provides free charging for up to four hours. Another option is the charging station at the Montgomery County Parking Garage on Old Georgetown Road, which provides free charging for up to three hours. Finally, the charging station located at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center provides free charging for guests of the hotel and for a fee for non-guests. The Montgomery County Parking Garage is the most convenient location since it is centrally located and easily accessible from many parts of town.
- A good way to reach your destination faster is to use the HOV lanes in Bethesda. Bethesda's HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lanes are primarily located on Interstate 270 and the Capital Beltway (Interstate 495). These lanes are designated for vehicles with a certain number of occupants (usually two or three, depending on the time of day and direction of travel) during peak hours. HOV lanes can be used by any vehicle with the required number of occupants during the designated hours. This includes cars, vans, buses, and motorcycles.
- Car rentals in Bethesda promote convenient trips in and outside the city, allowing you to reach attractions in different areas. You can unwind through a show at Glen Echo Park, a visual and performing arts venue about 3 miles from the town's center. Using a rental vehicle from Bethesda car rentals, you can drive approximately 8.7 miles to Arlington and pay homage to fallen heroes. The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, Pentagon Memorial, and John F. Kennedy's gravesite are all within driving distance of one another.
- Bethesda has several airports nearby, including the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and the Washington Dulles International Airport. The airport closest to Bethesda is the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), situated approximately 9.4 miles away. Washington Dulles International (IAD) is about 18.9 miles from central Bethesda, while the Baltimore/Washington Airport (BWI) is around 27.1 miles away. BWI offers car rentals in Bethesda via NextCar, Thrifty, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, and Alamo. You can locate the rental facility on New Ridge Road and Stoney Run Road, accessible via the airport's free shuttle service. This bus operates every 10min, and you can find it on the lower-level terminal. IAD features several companies that present car rentals provisions, including Dollar, Sixt, Thrifty, and Budget. Each company has a free shuttle that transports you from the terminal to the pick-up area. You can reach this shuttle at Curb 2D or Curb 2C from the Baggage Claim Level by exiting down the ramp to Doors 2 and 4. DCA also has a rental car center on Terminal Garage A's first floor, consisting of options from Thrifty, Budget, Dollar, and Hertz. To get here, you can take a short walk by following the signs or utilize the Rental Car Shuttle at Door 4 on the Ticketing Level.
- Multiple streets, such as Wisconsin Avenue and busy highways like Interstate 270, ensure you can conveniently reach your preferred destinations. Additionally, you can modify your rented vehicle by including a GPS to confidently maneuver the interconnected avenues, lanes, streets, drives, and freeways. Be aware of jaywalkers because pedestrians can cross mid-block as long as one of the adjacent intersections lacks traffic signals.
- Bethesda has morning traffic from around 7:30am while the evening jam starts at about 5pm. Interstate 270 can experience heavy congestion during rush hours as it links to Interstate 95. It is a good idea to stay indoors at these times since the jam extends to other major avenues and streets around the town center. The snowy conditions in winter require you to drive extra carefully to maintain control along the slick pathways.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Bethesda for $39 or less
- Book your rental car in Bethesda at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Standard rental cars in Bethesda are around 50% cheaper than other car types, on average
Bethesda car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
FAQs about renting a car in Bethesda
What type of car is recommended for driving in Bethesda?
You do not have to consider ground clearance when renting a car because Bethesda has developed infrastructure. For this reason, your choice of vehicle depends on your requirements. For example, you can rent a van if you are traveling with family or a group of friends.
What’s the speed limit in Bethesda?
The six-lane Interstate 270 has a speed limit ranging between around 55mph and 65mph, while along River Road at Interstate 495, the limit is from about 35mph to 45mph. Roads within business districts have a speed limit of approximately 20mph to 30mph. School zones have around a 15mph limit, and residential areas operate from about 15mph to 25mph.
Where are the best places to park in Bethesda?
The Elm Garage on Bethesda Avenue operates at an hourly rate of about $1.25, permitting continuous stay for up to 24h. Parking at Bethesda Metro Center offers convenient access to the surrounding restaurants, retail stores, and offices, making it suitable for business meetings or leisure tours. It comes with a maximum daily charge of around $12 per day. You can park at Garage 35 on Woodmont Avenue, which charges about $1 per hour with a 24h maximum stay.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Bethesda?
On average a rental car in Bethesda costs $49 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 Bethesda found in the last 2 weeks is $27.
How much is gas price in Bethesda?
The average gas price in Bethesda is $3.89 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $62, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Bethesda?
Standard (Kia Forte or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Bethesda.
Which car rental companies are at Dulles Intl airport (IAD)?
The only car rental company onsite at Dulles Intl airport is Hertz.
Which car rental companies are at Baltimore/Washington airport (BWI)?
The only car rental company onsite at Baltimore/Washington airport is Hertz.
Which car rental companies are at Reagan-National airport (DCA)?
The only car rental company onsite at Reagan-National airport is Hertz.
How can I find car rentals near me in Bethesda?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Bethesda?
A Standard car rental in Bethesda costs $38 per day, on average.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Bethesda?
An Intermediate car rental in Bethesda costs $38 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Bethesda?
A Compact car rental in Bethesda costs $41 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Bethesda?
In Bethesda, cars are most frequently rented at NextCar 5501 Nicholson Lane (4 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Bethesda?
On average a rental car in Bethesda costs $343 per week ($49 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Bethesda?
On average a rental car in Bethesda costs $1,470 per month ($49 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Bethesda?
Most car rental providers in Bethesda offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Bethesda, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Bethesda?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 4 car rental agencies in Bethesda.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Bethesda?
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 Bethesda?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Bethesda so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What road trips can I take from Bethesda?
One popular destination is Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, about 2 hours away from Bethesda. The park is known for its scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. For a coastal getaway, Rehoboth Beach in Delaware is about 2.5 hours away from Bethesda and offers a variety of beaches, restaurants, and shopping options.
What should I know when driving in rural Bethesda?
Firstly, these roads may be narrow and winding, so it's important to drive at a safe speed and be prepared to encounter other road users. Wildlife like deer and other animals may also be present on rural roads. Finally, rural roads may have fewer gas stations and services, so ensuring that your vehicle has enough fuel is important.
Bethesda car rental reviews and directory
Budget
9.0
Wonderful
16 reviewsCleanliness
8.5
Comfort
8.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.4
Value for money
8.8
2 locations in Bethesda
Locations in Bethesda
5151 Pooks Hill Road
+1 301 828 1126
7103 Democracy Boulevard
+1 301 469 4707
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2021
Pros:
Helpful staff, car was ready, not wait time and car was the size promised and clean.Cons:
Nothing10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2019
Pros:
Courtesy, friendship2.0 Poor
Nov 2017
Pros:
Nothing.Cons:
They called me 30 minutes before pick up to tell me they didn't have a car for me and made no effort to fix the situation. They were very unapologetic and didn't even care to offer any useful help.6.8 Okay
Jul 2017
Cons:
Staff at drop-off were far more interested in continuing with what appeared to be a personal conversation with a friend/customer rather than helping those standing next in line.4.0 Mediocre
May 2017
Cons:
They don't pick you up even if close proximity as only one person. They probably many customers to across the street at enterprise. The insurance purchased online is dreamed upon as it's in expensive but has worked some not for others. so cancelled Alliance insurance and purchase one with budget. Would have been easiest to go with enterprise...less frustration and head. I agree with someone else I was quickly ushered out but if given more to understand the important features of the car such as headlights and gas tank would be helpful.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
8.7
Very good
15 reviewsCleanliness
8.0
Comfort
8.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.7
Value for money
8.5
5 locations in Bethesda
Locations in Bethesda
10401 Motor City Dr
+1 301 469 6100
5455 Butler Rd
+1 301 657 0095
6711 Democracy Blvd
+1 301 469 6100
6826 Wisconsin Ave
+1 301 907 7780
6826 Wisconsin Ave
+1 301 907 7780
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very good
Jan 2021
Pros:
Friendly and helpful staff!Cons:
Car rear right tire was very low on tire pressure -- I was alerted to it halfway through the drive8.4 Very good
Oct 2020
Pros:
Counter attendants were nice and pickup and drop off were quick and efficient.Cons:
The car was not as clean as expected. There was splashed coffee on the roof of the car and the driver side visor when pulled down.8.0 Very good
Jul 2020
Pros:
Staff was efficient and friendly; transfers were easy.Cons:
I have no comment on how the experience could have been better, but this was a short, uneventful rental in which the staff did not have to display any extraordinary efforts.8.0 Very good
May 2019
Pros:
The staff was friendly and efficient.8.8 Very good
Apr 2019
Pros:
The customer service provided by John made this rental process seemless.8.8 Very good
Sep 2018
Pros:
Manager in Bethesda assisted me. She was very helpfu6l and efficient. I needed a vehicle to drive up to new york and drop off. Although there was a surcharge for doing that it was very useful to be able to. I will definitely use Enterprise again.Cons:
There was no Ez pass in the car.Avis
8.6
Very good
4 reviewsCleanliness
9.3
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.3
Value for money
8.0
2 locations in Bethesda
Locations in Bethesda
5151 Pooks Hill Road
+1 301 828 1124
7103 Democracy Boulevard
+1 301 469 9698
Filters
Reviews
8.0 Very good
Dec 2023
8.0 Very good
Jun 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2021
Hertz
5.8
Fair
18 reviewsCleanliness
5.5
Comfort
5.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.0
Value for money
5.0
2 locations in Bethesda
Locations in Bethesda
6711 Democracy Blvd
+1 301 530 0247
7335 Wisconsin Avenue
+1 301 215 5912
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
Yes! The staff was friendly and helpfulCons:
The car needed cleaning, especially on the outside9.2 Wonderful
Mar 2020
Pros:
The staff on site weren’t helpful but my experience was salvaged by a wonderful customer service representative.Cons:
They could have answered my initial plea to understand the nature of the situation. Instead I needed to resolve the issue after the fact with customer service.10.0 Wonderful
May 2018
Pros:
The pickup and dropoff procedures were straightforward and uncomplicated. The car performed well throughout the trip.Cons:
The car did not have cruise control, though it was not stipulated in any advertising that it would. And the windshield wipers needed to be replaced.6.0 Okay
Jan 2018
Pros:
ValueCons:
Arrived @ Bethesda only to find it closed. Called 800 operater said transferred pickup to 99H St in D. arrived to find he didnt transfer. Second phone call no record of transfer. Wasterd an hour on phone--no result. onsite staff intervened to get car assigned. Dont think call agent was in US. Charged me another day when i returnrd car.8.0 Very good
Sep 2017
Pros:
Nice to be able to pick up and drop off somewhere else other than the airport.Cons:
Suggestion: for the pick up and drop off locations identify the name of the business attached to the address. For example, my pick up location was in the lobby of a hotel. Instead of just providing the street address, add that it is located in the lobby of x hotel.10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2017
Pros:
Once I found the desk, my experience was hassle-free.Cons:
Hard to find the Hertz desk hidden in a hotel on the corner. Poor signage.Car rental locations in or near Bethesda
When to book a rental car in Bethesda
Airports serving Bethesda
Popular rental types in Bethesda
- Van Rentals in Bethesda
- Luxury Car Rentals in Bethesda
- Pickup Truck Rentals in Bethesda
- SUV Rentals in Bethesda
- Convertible Car Rentals in Bethesda
- Cargo Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 6 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 7 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 8 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 9 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 10 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 12 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
- 15 Passenger Van Rentals in Bethesda
Popular car brands to rent in Bethesda
- Audi car rentals in Bethesda
- BMW car rentals in Bethesda
- Jaguar car rentals in Bethesda
- Jeep car rentals in Bethesda
- Land Rover car rentals in Bethesda
- Lexus car rentals in Bethesda
- Mercedes-Benz car rentals in Bethesda
- Porsche car rentals in Bethesda
- Subaru car rentals in Bethesda
- Tesla car rentals in Bethesda
- Toyota car rentals in Bethesda