Denver, the capital city of Colorado, is a vibrant and growing city that attracts many visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip to Denver, you may be wondering if you should rent a car. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a car in Denver, as well as some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car In Denver?
Yes, you should rent a car in Denver. If you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car can be a great option. This is especially true if you want to visit some of the more remote areas of Denver or take day trips to nearby attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park or the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater.
However, if you’re planning on staying in the downtown area and only visiting the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Denver has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and light rail.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Denver depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Denver
There are several benefits to renting a car in Denver. First and foremost, it provides more flexibility in your schedule. You won’t be tied to public transportation schedules or have to worry about finding a ride to more remote areas of the city.
Renting a car also allows you to explore areas outside of Denver, such as the scenic drives in the nearby Rocky Mountains or the charming towns of Boulder or Golden. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Denver provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Denver
While there are benefits to renting a car in Denver, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Denver has some of the highest car rental rates in the country, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Denver is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the city, especially in the downtown area.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Denver can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in the downtown area.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Denver Airport?
Yes. While you can certainly rent a car downtown, renting at the airport can be more convenient and cost-effective.
Most major car rental companies have a presence at Denver International Airport (DEN), and you can often find better deals and a wider selection of vehicles. Additionally, the airport is located about 25 miles east of downtown Denver, and renting a car can save you time and money compared to taking a taxi or rideshare service.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Denver International Airport can be more convenient and cost-effective than renting downtown.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Denver
If you’re looking to rent a car in Denver on a budget, there are a few ways to save money. First, book your rental car in advance to get the best rates. Additionally, consider renting from a non-airport location or a smaller, local rental car company.
Another way to save money is to choose a smaller car, as they typically have lower rental rates and better gas mileage. Finally, be sure to check for any discounts or promo codes offered by the rental car company or through your credit card.
Bottom line: To save money when renting a car in Denver, book in advance, consider non-airport or local rental companies, choose a smaller car, and look for discounts or promo codes.
Rent A Car In Denver
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Denver:
- Alamo: starts at $73 per day
- Avis: starts at $75 per day
- Budget: starts at $70 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $66 per day
- Hertz: starts at $85 per day
- National: starts at $87 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $53 per day
Gas prices in Denver are lower than in Seattle, with an average of $3.91 per gallon. You can expect to spend around $58 for a full tank of gas in a standard car that holds 15 gallons.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Denver can be expensive, with rates starting at around $53 per day, but gas prices are slightly lower than in Seattle. Consider renting from a non-airport location or a smaller, local rental car company to save money.
Tips For Renting A Car In Denver
Before renting a car in Denver, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Consider your itinerary and decide if a rental car is necessary.
- Book in advance to secure the best rates.
- Research the rental car company and read reviews to ensure quality and customer service.
- Check the rental car agreement for any restrictions or additional fees.
- Familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and driving conditions.
- Be aware of parking restrictions and fees in the downtown area.
Bottom line: To have a successful rental car experience in Denver, consider your itinerary, book in advance, research the rental car company, check the agreement, know the local traffic laws and parking restrictions, and plan accordingly.
Tips For Driving In Denver
If you’re planning on driving in Denver, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be aware of rush hour traffic: Denver experiences heavy traffic during rush hour, so plan your route accordingly and expect delays.
- Take note of the speed limits: Speed limits in Denver can vary from 25 mph in residential areas to 65 mph on highways. Be sure to pay attention to the signs and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Watch for cyclists: Denver has a large cycling community, so be aware of bike lanes and share the road when necessary.
- Be prepared for weather conditions: Denver can experience snow and ice in the winter months, so make sure your rental car is equipped with appropriate tires and that you’re familiar with driving in snowy conditions.
- Avoid distracted driving: Just like in any city, distracted driving is a major concern in Denver. Put away your phone and other distractions while driving to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Bottom Line: if you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car in Denver is recommended. However, be aware of the potential challenges such as traffic congestion, parking difficulties, and high rental costs. Follow the driving tips provided to make your driving experience in Denver safe and enjoyable.
Wrapping Up
Whether or not you should rent a car in Denver depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore areas outside of Denver, such as the nearby Rocky Mountains, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage. However, renting a car in Denver can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in the downtown area. If you do decide to rent a car in Denver, renting at the airport can be more convenient and cost-effective than renting downtown, and there are ways to save money by booking in advance or choosing a non-airport or local rental car company. Ultimately, consider your travel plans and budget to decide if renting a car in Denver is the right choice for you.