Navigating the vast world of car rentals at Denver Airport can be daunting. Over the years, countless travelers have made the same costly mistakes, leading to unnecessary stress and expenses.
But you’re about to sidestep those pitfalls. With insights from top sources, we’ve curated a definitive guide to Denver’s best car rental companies.
By diving into this article, you’ll:
- Uncover the top-rated companies based on customer satisfaction.
- Decode the pricing structures to find the best deals.
- Discover which companies offer the most extensive vehicle range.
So, if you want to make an informed decision and drive away with the best deal, keep reading. The road to a seamless car rental experience starts here.
Advertising links are marked with *. We receive a small commission on sales, nothing changes for you.
Overview: The Best Car Rental Companies in Denver and Important Stats
See our evaluation criteria here.
Place 1: Advantage Rent A Car
Advantage Rent A Car stands tall as Denver Airport’s top-rated car rental company. They’ve proven their commitment to excellence with a remarkable 90 out of 100 score. Their vast fleet of vehicles, combined with impeccable customer service, ensures a seamless rental experience for travelers.
What sets them apart is their balanced approach to pricing and the extensive range of vehicles they offer.
- Details:
- Price: Mid
- Customer Service: High
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Central location at the airport.
- Extensive fleet catering to diverse needs.
- Round-the-clock service.
- Disadvantages:
- Mid-range pricing might not appeal to budget travelers.
- Peak times might have longer waiting periods.
At this prime Denver location, Advantage Rent-A-Car boasts a fleet ranging from compact cars for solo travelers to spacious SUVs perfect for family trips.
A highlight is their range of luxury vehicles, allowing travelers to explore Denver in style. Given Denver’s mountainous terrain and urban attractions, Advantage is especially recommended for those seeking a blend of comfort and luxury.
Whether heading to the Rocky Mountains or exploring downtown Denver, Advantage has a vehicle tailored to your needs.
Place 2: Alamo Rent A Car
Alamo Rent-A-Car, with a commendable score of 85/100, is a favorite among Denver Airport travelers. Their competitive pricing, combined with a diverse fleet, makes them a go-to choice for many.
Alamo’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in its high-quality service and user-friendly rental process.
- Details:
- Price: Cheap
- Customer Service: High
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Affordable pricing structure.
- Efficient and quick rental process.
- Reliable customer support.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited luxury vehicle options.
- It can get crowded during peak travel seasons.
Alamo’s fleet at Denver Airport is diverse, with options ranging from economical compact cars to spacious vans. Their mid-sized vehicles are particularly popular among families and groups.
Given Denver’s vibrant city life and outdoor attractions, Alamo is ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking reliability. Their cars are perfect for city drives and short trips to nearby attractions.
Place 3: Avis Rent A Car
Avis Rent A Car, scoring 80/100, is a premium choice for travelers at Denver Airport. Their reputation for offering top-notch vehicles is well-deserved.
While they lean towards the pricier side, the quality of service and cars they offer justifies the cost.
- Details:
- Price: Expensive
- Customer Service: Medium
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Premium fleet of vehicles.
- Trusted brand with a global presence.
- Convenient airport location.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors.
- Occasional delays during peak hours.
Avis’s Denver Airport fleet is a blend of luxury and practicality. From high-end sedans to rugged SUVs, they cater to various needs. Their luxury vehicles stand out, perfect for business travelers or those looking to make a statement.
Avis is recommended for those who prioritize comfort and luxury over cost, given Denver’s status as a business hub and tourist attraction.
Place 4: Budget Rent A Car
Budget Rent A Car, with a score of 78/100, offers a balanced car rental experience at Denver Airport. True to their name, they provide quality vehicles at budget-friendly prices.
Their medium-level customer service ensures a hassle-free rental process.
- Details:
- Price: Mid
- Customer Service: Medium
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
Advantages:
- Competitive pricing.
- Wide range of vehicles.
- Easy booking process.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited luxury vehicle options.
- Customer service can be improved.
Budget’s fleet at Denver Airport is versatile, catering to solo travelers and large groups. They offer everything from compact cars to larger vans. Their SUVs are particularly popular for trips to the Rockies.
Their vehicles are well-suited for both city drives and mountain adventures.
Place 5: Dollar Rent A Car
Dollar Rent-A-Car, with a score of 75/100, is a popular choice for travelers looking for budget-friendly options at Denver Airport. Their competitive pricing, combined with a straightforward rental process, makes them a go-to for many.
While their fleet might lean towards the smaller side, they ensure that each vehicle is well-maintained and reliable.
- Details:
- Price: Cheap
- Customer Service: Medium
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Affordable pricing.
- Convenient airport location.
- Efficient booking process.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited variety in the fleet.
- Peak times might have longer waiting periods.
Dollar Rent, A Car fleet at Denver Airport primarily consists of compact and economy vehicles, making it ideal for solo travelers or couples. Their cars are perfect for city drives and short excursions around Denver.
For those seeking a reliable and cost-effective rental car for short trips in the busy city and surrounding areas, Dollar Rent-A-Car comes highly recommended.
Place 6: E-Z Rent-A-Car
E-Z Rent-A-Car, securing a score of 73/100, offers a hassle-free car rental experience at Denver Airport. Their name reflects their ethos: making car rentals easy and affordable for travelers. They cater to a broad spectrum of travelers with a medium-sized fleet and competitive pricing.
- Details:
- Price: Cheap
- Customer Service: Medium
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Budget-friendly options.
- Quick and easy rental process.
- Reliable customer support.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited luxury vehicle options.
- It can get crowded during peak seasons.
E-Z Rent-A-Car’s fleet at Denver Airport offers a mix of compact, mid-sized, and some larger vehicles. Their mid-sized cars are particularly popular among small families and groups.
Travelers seeking an affordable yet comfortable vehicle for exploring Denver’s city attractions and mountainous adventures will find E-Z Rent-A-Car ideal.
Place 7: Enterprise Rent A Car
Enterprise Rent A Car, with a score of 70/100, is a well-established name in the car rental industry. A large fleet of vehicles and top-tier customer service marks their presence at Denver Airport.
Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal customer base.
- Details:
- Price: Mid
- Customer Service: High
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Wide variety of vehicles.
- Exceptional customer service.
- Trusted brand reputation.
- Disadvantages:
- Mid-range pricing might not appeal to all.
- High demand during peak travel times.
Enterprise’s fleet at Denver Airport is diverse, ranging from compact cars to luxury SUVs. Their range of SUVs, perfect for mountain trips, is a standout.
Given Denver’s proximity to the Rockies and its urban attractions, Enterprise is especially recommended for travelers seeking a versatile vehicle.
Enterprise has got you covered whether you’re heading to a business meeting downtown or a weekend getaway in the mountains.
Place 8: Fox Rent A Car
Fox Rent A Car, with a score of 68/100, is a budget-friendly option for travelers at Denver Airport. Their primary appeal lies in their competitive pricing, making them a favorite among budget-conscious travelers. While their fleet might be smaller, they ensure each vehicle is in good condition and ready for the road.
- Details:
- Price: Very Cheap
- Customer Service: Low
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Highly affordable rates.
- Convenient airport location.
- Suitable for short trips.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited fleet variety.
- Customer service can be improved.
Fox Rent-A Car’s fleet at Denver Airport primarily consists of compact and economy vehicles. These are ideal for city drives and short excursions in and around Denver.
Given the city’s bustling urban environment and nearby attractions, Fox Rent-A-Car is especially recommended for solo travelers or couples looking for a cost-effective vehicle for short durations.
Place 9: Hertz Rent A Car
Hertz Rent A Car, securing a score of 65/100, is a globally recognized brand in the car rental industry. Their presence at Denver Airport is marked by a vast fleet of vehicles catering to various preferences.
While they might be pricier, the variety and quality of their cars make up for it.
- Details:
- Price: Expensive
- Customer Service: High
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Extensive fleet of vehicles.
- Premium service and vehicle quality.
- Trusted global brand.
- Disadvantages:
- Higher pricing compared to competitors.
- Increased demand during peak seasons.
Hertz’s fleet at Denver Airport is one of the most diverse, ranging from compact cars to luxury SUVs and sedans. Their luxury vehicles, in particular, stand out, offering travelers a premium experience.
Hertz is a top choice for those seeking comfort, luxury, and variety of vehicles in Denver’s business and tourist hub.
Place 10: National Rent A Car
National Rent-A-Car, with a score of 63/100, is another premium choice for travelers at Denver Airport. Their commitment to offering top-tier vehicles and excellent customer service has earned them a loyal clientele.
Their large fleet ensures that travelers have a variety of options to choose from.
- Details:
- Price: Expensive
- Customer Service: High
- Accessibility: 24/7
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Denver International Airport, 8500 Peña Blvd, Denver, CO 80249
- Advantages:
- Wide variety of premium vehicles.
- Exceptional customer service.
- Convenient booking and return process.
- Disadvantages:
- Excellent pricing might not appeal to all.
- It can get busy during peak travel times.
National’s fleet at Denver Airport is diverse, offering everything from mid-size cars to luxury SUVs. Their range of SUVs, perfect for mountain trips, is particularly notable.
National is a great choice for travelers who want a high-quality vehicle for both city driving and mountain adventures, given Denver’s proximity to the Rockies and urban attractions.
Renting a Car in Denver: A Regional Guide
Denver, the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offers a unique car rental experience.
See here: Car Rentals Near You in the USA
Whether planning a road trip through Colorado’s diverse landscapes or exploring the Mile High City, renting a car is essential.
Here’s what you need to know about renting a car in Denver:
What Makes Renting in Denver Special?
- Gateway to the Rockies: Denver International Airport (DEN) is a major hub for those exploring the Rocky Mountain region. The airport has many car rental companies, making it convenient for travelers.
- Diverse Scenery: Colorado boasts urban areas, flat plains, and mountainous terrains. Renting a car allows you to experience this diversity at your own pace.
- Limited Public Transport: While Denver is walkable, many attractions, especially those outside the city, like Boulder or Rocky Mountain National Park, are not easily accessible via public transportation.
What to Look For:
- Location: Most car rental agencies are located at Denver International Airport. Shuttles from the Jeppesen terminal at Level 5 will take you to the rental car companies.
- Type of Car: A compact car or sedan will suffice if you’re staying in the city. However, consider renting a four-wheel drive for mountainous adventures, especially in winter.
- Insurance: Always inquire about insurance coverage. Understand the terms and conditions to ensure you’re adequately covered.
- Hidden Fees: Some platforms, like DiscoverCars, pride themselves on having no hidden fees. Always double-check the final price before confirming your rental.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Last-minute Rentals: Book your car ahead of your trip to save money and ensure availability.
- Ignoring Weather Forecasts: Denver’s weather can be unpredictable. If you’re heading to the mountains, the weather can change rapidly. Always check the forecast and be prepared.
- Not Inspecting the Car: Before leaving the rental office, inspect the car for any damage to avoid being held liable later.
- Parking: While Denver has many parking meters, there are also free spots. Look around before settling for a paid spot.
Tips for Driving in Denver:
- One-way Streets: Many streets in downtown Denver are one-way. Familiarize yourself with the layout to avoid confusion.
- Rush Hour: Denver’s traffic peaks from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Avoid interstates like I-25 and I-70 during these times.
- Weather Preparedness: Denver can experience sun, rain, and snow all in one day. If you drive to the mountains, be prepared for sudden weather changes.
- Speed Limits: Adhere to posted speed limits. City roads typically have 25-30 mph limits, while interstates can go up to 75-80 mph.
In conclusion, renting a car in Denver allows you to explore the city and its beauty at your own pace. Whether venturing into the Rockies or exploring Denver’s vibrant neighborhoods, a rental car ensures a seamless experience.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best season to rent a car in Denver for a mountain trip?
Denver is known for its four distinct seasons, each offering a unique driving experience. Summer (June to August) is ideal for mountain trips as the roads are clear, and most trails are accessible.
However, if you’re seeking a winter wonderland experience, consider late fall to early spring, but ensure you’re comfortable driving in snow and have a suitable vehicle, like a four-wheel drive. Remember, the Rockies’ beauty is year-round, but road conditions vary.
Should I be aware of any specific driving laws in Denver?
Yes, Denver has specific driving laws, especially concerning winter conditions. For instance, the Traction Law requires vehicles to have snow tires, mud/snow (M+S) tires, or a four-wheel/all-wheel drive when conditions get snowy or icy.
The Passenger Vehicle Chain Law also mandates chains for all vehicles unless they’re four-wheel/all-wheel drive with snow tires. Always stay updated with local regulations, especially during winter months.
How does altitude affect driving in Denver and its surroundings?
Denver’s high altitude can have effects on both drivers and vehicles. The reduced oxygen can lead to altitude sickness in some individuals, causing dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. It’s essential to stay hydrated and take breaks if you feel unwell.
For vehicles, thin air can reduce engine performance and efficiency. Ensure your car is in good condition, and consider renting a vehicle designed for high-altitude performance.
Are there eco-friendly car rental options in Denver?
Absolutely! With Denver’s focus on sustainability and its proximity to nature, many car rental companies offer hybrid or electric vehicles (EVs). Renting an eco-friendly car reduces your carbon footprint and can save on fuel costs, especially with Denver’s numerous EV charging stations.
When booking, inquire about green vehicle options to contribute to the city’s environmental efforts.
Sebastian is the numbers nerd from Rentalero. He loves to compare and check car rental companies. What costs when, where which rental car? Sebastian knows!
Advertising links are marked with *. We receive a small commission on sales, nothing changes for you.