Car Rental in Philadelphia

Why rent a car in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is the place where the nation of the United States of America was born. It is a historic city, and at the same time modern. There's an endless amount to see and do, and you can always visit other places nearby if you have a rental car. 

Top ways to enter Philadelphia

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is, of course, the best way to reach the city from afar. It is just south of the city. Rental cars can be picked up from all major companies here. 

If you find cheaper or better flights, you can also fly into Baltimore (BWI) or Newark as they are a reasonable drive away. You can find plenty of rental cars at either or can take the train to Philadelphia and then pick one up.

The Northeast Corridor is the region of the US with significant passenger train traffic. Connections from Washington D.C to New York pass through Philadephlia all day long. There are rental locations in and near the 30th Street Station. 

You can also drive to the city from neighboring states and western Pennsylvania (along the Pennsylvania Turnpike). 

City facts

Philly, the City of Brother Love, is the cradle of American history. No tour of the American northeast would be complete without it. There's lots of history to learn about aside from just seeing the Liberty Bell. 

The local specialty to eat is cheesesteak, which is actually a sandwich with meat and melted cheese. Geno's and Pat's are the most famous rivals, sitting across from each other on S 9th Street. 

Top sights and activities

Philadelphia Museum of Art - While running up the steps of it ala Rocky is certainly something to be done, keep going and go inside it to explore word-class art. 

Independence Historic Park - See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Constitution Hall, and other historic buildings and learn all about the birth of the United States. 

Sports - The city is well-known for its sports teams and fans (both good and bad). The city has teams in all of the four major sports leagues - the Eagles in the NFL, the 76ers in the NBA, the Phillies in the MLB, and the Flyers in the NHL.

Toll roads

You'll encounter toll roads in Philly and in the surrounding states. An E-Pass is highly recommended. If you have your own, ask your rental company if you can use it. If you don't, ask them about renting one from them. Many toll roads are all-electronic now, so you can no longer pay at a toll booth. 

Ideas for day trips

Hershey - America's most famous brand of chocolate is made in Hershey, PA. In addition to Chocolate World, there's also Hershey Park, a theme park. 

Gettysburg - The most famous battle of the Civil War was fought near Gettysburg. The battlefield is now a National Historic Military Park. Visit the museum then spend time seeing where it all happened. 

Jersey Shore - If it's summer and you want to hit the beach, it's not that far to drive to the Jersey Shore. Though it has a certain reputation thanks to the MTV show, there are plenty of nice places you can find away from the hustle and bustle to enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. 

Further destinations

New York City - The natural next stop for many is the largest city in the US. It's an experience that should be missed. It has so much to offer, you can return again and again and never get tired of it. 

Washington, D.C - To the south, the next stop for many is the capital of the country. There you can learn even more about its history. All of the museums are free. You can also tour the Capitol Building and the White House. 

Pittsburgh - If you want to stick with Pennsylvania, head to the other side of the state to the City of Bridges. The main city of the steel industry throughout much of the 20th century, it has now reinvented itself as a modern city with two world-class universities and one of the best hospital systems in the country. There's an endless amount to see and do in the city from taking the inclines up the hill to cruising the three rivers. 

Car rental prices in Philadelphia

• Small cars - from $83 per day
• Medium cars - from $50 per day
• Large cars - from $41 per day
• SUVs - from $51 per day
• Premium cars - from $78 per day
• Vans - from $93 per day