Car rental in Budapest

Car rental in Budapest – should you do it, where to do it, how much it costs, and more.

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How to rent a car

Renting a car

When you book your holiday or business trip, it’s always a big question whether it’s worth renting a car or not. While there can be many factors contributing to the decision – how much it would be used, how many people will use it, how expensive it is, etc. – we’d like to make it a bit easier for you. We have gathered some useful information on what options you have and what to look out for when renting a car in Budapest.

Where to rent a car

Renting a car with ease

It’s always best to scroll through your possibilities online before you travel, even better if you can book your car beforehand, you may end up saving a lot. The price of a rental car can be influenced by several things: how long you’re renting it for, are there any weekends included in the time period, do you pick up your car during opening hours, how many people will drive it, how old they are, what extras you need, and many more. Of course when you urgently need a car, booking one from home may not be an option, but finding out your preferences beforehand could go a long way.

Top tip: When you browse prices and options on the website, be sure to check if all extras have been added to the daily price of the car so you can calculate with the exact costs.

Where to rent a car

Car rental sign at the airport

The most places where you can rent a car in Budapest are at the airport, but renting a car there can be more expensive than in the city office of the same company. It’s best to check both prices, you may be able to save some money by taking public transport to the city center or using any other Budapest airport transfer service and renting your car there.

If you are okay with the prices at the airport, most car rental companies can be found between terminals 2A and 2B. Some of them are located behind the Ibis Styles hotel right outside the airport – this is also the place where you can pick up your car.

Top tip: When picking up your car, have a thorough inspection and inform the dealership of any tiny scratches you may have found. This way you can avoid possibly having to pay for them in the future.

How long to rent a car for

We know, it may seem fairly obvious that you should rent a car for as long as you need it, but it’s not necessarily that simple. Sometimes renting for a whole week comes out cheaper than 5-6 days, so this is definitely something worth checking out.

What car to pick

Manual gearboxes are popular in Europe

While there are many options to choose from, it’s not worth picking a much bigger and fancier car than you actually need. It’s important to note that in Budapest, and in Europe as well, cars with manual transmission are more popular, so you should pay extra attention to go for the automatic option if that’s what you prefer.

Top tip: in Hungary and in the neighboring countries you have to purchase virtual stickers to use the highways (they used to be physical, hence the name). It’s always worth asking if there are any highway stickers already available for the car you’d like to rent, so you could save more money.

What to pay with

Some car rental places prefer cash, some accept credit or debit cards, but some only take embossed bank cards, so make sure to check which options you have before renting a car.

What extras to get

Insurance is highly recommended when renting a car

This largely depends on personal preference, however there’s one that is highly recommended – insurance. You’re sitting in an unknown car, driving in a foreign country, so covering all bases just in case could be a smart move. This is especially true in case you rent a larger vehicle, like a van.

Top tip: You usually receive your car with a full tank, and they will ask you if you are going to bring it back with an empty one. Since that’s no easy feat to calculate exactly, you’ll be better off if you agree to bring it back with a full tank.

Top 10 car rental companies in Budapest

  • 1.  Avis Car Rental
    It’s one of the most globally recognized brands, and with their services they ensure a stress-free car renting experience.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 2.  Sixt
    One of the first and most influential car rental companies in the world.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 3.  Zipcar
    Apply online with a valid driver’s license, get approved quickly and book your first trip immediately.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 4.  Car Rental 8
    Easy and secure car renting experience.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 5.  Rentalcars.com
    The biggest online car rental platform in more than 160 countries.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 6.  Airport Rental Cars
    Low prices with free cancellation on most bookings.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 7.  Car Rentals
    A trusted Expedia brand where users can book a car in 3 easy steps.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 8.  Hertz
    An award-winning company providing easy travel for their customers for over 90 years.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 9.  Budget Rental Car
    They deliver great value and friendly service.
    Fore more information, visit their website.
  • 10.   Travelocity
    A great platform for car rentals, hotels and even flights, with price matching.Fore more information, visit their website.
How can I rent a car in Budapest?
You can check your many options online, there are several companies that offer car rental services. You can rent cars online, via apps and in person as well.
Where can I rent a car in Budapest?
Most car rental companies have their office at the airport, but larger companies have offices downtown Budapest.
How to pay for car rental in Budapest?
Having an embossed bank card on you is the safest way to go. Some car rental companies only accept cash, though, so it’s useful to check everything online beforehand.
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