Decided to rent a car in Washington? Here’s Everything You Need to Know:
Located on the Atlantic coast on the border of Virginia and Maryland, between the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, Washington, D.C. is currently the capital of the United States of America.
The choice of location for the city was made by the first president George Washington, and its foundation was laid on July 16, 1790.
Many believe that the layout of the streets and boulevards in Washington DC is reminiscent of another European capital, namely, Paris. And this is not surprising, because the architect, a Frenchman by origin, Pierre Charles L'Enfant, took part in the development of the master plan for the development of the future capital, although this project was not actually implemented during his lifetime. But nevertheless, this subtle similarity gives Washington a special charm.
The uniqueness of this city in USA is that it does not belong to any state; The District of Columbia is a separate entity, which gives the federal government complete freedom of action.
However, being in capital status, the citizens of Washington, oddly enough, do not have full rights to self-government. In Congress, they are represented only by a non-voting delegate in the House of Representatives and a shadow senator. In the presidential elections, residents of Washington were allowed to participate only starting in 1964, and they received the opportunity to choose the head of the municipality only in 1973.
Washington is also unique in that, unlike most American cities, there is no skyscrapers.
But you can take the glass elevator to the top of Washington Monument at 555 feet and get a panoramic view of everything city.
This county has the most educated population of all residents of the United States. About half of all adults have a bachelor's degree. This is because many of the nation's most ambitious young people come to Washington to seek public service opportunities and political careers.
In addition, Washington also has a diverse population. More than half of the residents in the County are from ethnic and racial minorities, including first-generation immigrants. It also has a significant international community. There are 176 foreign embassies and headquarters of various international organizations in Washington DC, including the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
This is the greatest museum collection in the world, representing not only American history, but the whole world with all its natural beauty, art, history and artifacts.
Suitable for family visits, as well as for those who wants to have a good time. Most of the museum is free to visitors.
Smithsonian Building
Smithsonian Castle is one from the many buildings of the Smithsonian Institution. It is located right in the shopping center, it is interesting to look at its unique architecture and the beautiful garden surrounding the castle.
National Mall- Walking along the National Mall, you can see the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Memorial Lincoln, World War II Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Many books have been written and films made about all these unique sights, and it is simply an unforgettable experience to see these monuments with your own eyes. And if you go a little further, you can visit the White House.
Back to news it's a public farmers' market on Capitol Hill. In addition to groceries, the market also sells pastries, meats, cheeses, art and antiques.
Georgetown is another interesting place.
Many people also know this area for great restaurants and shops on Main Street.
Restaurants in Washington DC
Washington, D.C. is one of the best restaurants in the United States when it comes to dining options. The international community brings its own flavor to the area's cuisine - from Caribbean, Chinese, French, Italian, Mexican, to Turkish, in addition to traditional American dishes, with local and organically grown products increasingly appearing on the menu.
And the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it possible to diversify the cuisine with seafood, the most popular of which is crabs.
By the way, in Washington, along with expensive and chic restaurants with gourmet cuisine, there are many cafes and a moderately priced bistro with affordable delivery.
Many tourists and locals speak positively about local restaurants, focusing on healthy, tasty food and good service.
Of course, walking around Washington DC is very pleasant and interesting, or you can get in your own car or rent a car and go to explore the stunning beauty of the surroundings of the District of Columbia.
By the way, you can find a lot of great car rental offers on extremely favorable terms for customers on Bookingautos.
Parking in Washington
Well, if you are in the city and are the happy owner of your own or rented car, then you face a very relevant question, where to park this very wonderful vehicle. Two of the best parking options in Washington DC are garages and metered street parking.
But you can also find free parking in Washington DC. On Sundays or national holidays, the city offers free on-street parking and, in some areas, free overnight parking any day of the week after 6:30 pm.
Be sure to check all time signs if this happens when parking is prohibited. Most areas require you to clean your car starting at 9:00 am. When it's 9:00 am, you can park up to two hours in each zone. After two hours, you must move your car to another zone. It is not allowed to move the car to another place in the same zone. In this case, you can get a fine!
Another way to find cheap parking in Washington is to book it online. There are several online parking companies that sell discounted spaces if you book in advance.
Ronald Reagan Airport Washington DC is located across the Potomac River in Virginia and is the closest airport to the District of Columbia. It also houses members of the Senate and Legislature returning home to their respective districts.
Washington Dulles International Airport
This is the most important international airport, furthest from downtown Washington. On average, it serves 40 transnational and over 80 domestic routes.
This airport is a bit further away from DC, but this often results in the best airfares. This airport serves over 90 domestic and international routes and welcomes over 25 million people annually.
Good to know
Most Popular Agency
Europcar
Most popular car class
Compact
Average price
33 € / Day
Best price
24 € / Day
Estimated cost for 7 days rental
January
€165
February
€138
March
€140
April
€194
May
€198
June
€226
July
€239
August
€229
September
€188
October
€171
November
€147
December
€220
* Data is calculated based on car bookings for the previous 365 days.
The best month to rent a car in Washington is November. There are fewer tourists and a lot of available cars. You can book a compact class model at a price from €23. This is 31% cheaper than the average during the year.
The best time to rent a car in Washington is November. This month, rental prices are minimal, below the annual average by 34%, and start from €23 for a Compact car.
The highest demand for car rental occurs in summer. The cost increases, on average, by 30-50% and the choice of available cars is significantly reduced. For example, in July, the average price for a popular car model Ford Fusion is €76per day.
We have the largest selection of cars in Washington. What do we offer:
New cars 2024 of the year.
Cars of any class from budget to premium.
A wide range of models: convertibles, sedans, SUVs, minivans.
The rental price of a car in Washington is determined by its class, season, and rental duration. The standard cost of renting budget cars: Opel Astra and Audi A1 will be €45-€41 per day. If you rented in advance and through our website - pay for the day just around €13. The average daily price for renting a car of a higher class, Ford Fusion, VW Tiguan, Fiat Tipo Estate will be €45. In addition, on Bookingautos.com you can rent minivans, luxury and electric cars. The lower rental price of these cars starts from €91 per day and can reach up to several hundred dollars.
The demand for electric cars is growing not only in the segment of their sales. These cars are just as popular when renting, which is often accompanied by the provision of a free parking space and the possibility of free car charging around the city. To rent an electric car you should set the appropriate filter. Moreover, the rental of Renault Zoe when ordering in Washington will cost quite a modest amount.
Documents required for car rental
Driving license
Credit card
Voucher
Passport
Attention!
A valid international driver's license is required!
10 Key Tips for a Smooth Car Rental Experience
Download Google maps for offline access
All modern smartphones have a GPS function. You can save on the "Navigator" service and roaming charges for the Internet if you download maps in the Google Maps application in advance. Offline maps also support route building and navigation. To download a map - open the area you need by controlling the scale, and enter "ok maps" in the search.
Early Booking Discount
Washington is now in ever-increasing demand, which affects the high demand for car rental. By booking online, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises after you arrive at your destination. Both with the car itself and with its rent.
It is better to book a car at least one and a half months before the trip. As the required date approaches, the number of available offers is reduced, and the cost of the remaining models increases. If plans change and the trip is postponed, then you can cancel the rental without any sanctions 2 days before it starts.
Which car to choose
The compact model is relevant for city trips in Washington. It can be Audi A1 or Opel Astra. Mountain routes require a more powerful four-wheel drive vehicle - Fiat Tipo Estate or similar model. You can order an SUV for just €38 per day;
What you need to pay attention to at the time of receiving a car
Before picking up, you are required to carefully inspect the car and point out to the rental company manager for scratches, damage and defects, such as dirty seat upholstery. You should check the ignition and the fuel level in the tank. You need to know the conditions for returning the car - where exactly, with what amount of fuel to return the car.
The rental agreement must include a telephone number to contact the rental company. It is designed so that customers can get help in emergency situations, such as when a car breaks down or in the event of an accident. A call to the rental company should be done first, even before the arrival of the police.
Insurance recommendations
Rental companies in Washington may offer different insurance options. They differ in price and set of options. Here are the basic types:
Third Party Liability (TPL)/Third Liability Protection (TLP). This is a third party liability protection. If you are the culprit of an accident, the insurance will compensate for the costs of the victims for you.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This is to protect your vehicle from any damage. She works with a franchise. This is the amount that you will have to pay in case of damage in any case. The company will cover anything over the limit. The insurance does not cover theft.
Theft Insurance (TI)/Theft Protection (TP)/Theft Waiver (TW). This is car theft protection. Operates with a franchise.
Super Loss Damage Waiver (SLDW)/Theft Protection+Collision Damage Waiver (TP+CDW). Full protection against theft and damage, even if you are the culprit of the accident.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). This is medical insurance for the driver and passengers.
If you want to save money and choose the cheapest insurance, carefully inspect the car upon receipt. Make sure the machine is not damaged.
Fuel Policy
When you pick up your car, you may be asked to pay for a full tank of fuel right away. This condition will suit you if you plan to travel long distances. For a couple of trips around the city, you don’t need so much fuel, and therefore it doesn’t make sense to overpay. Pay attention to the fuel policy when booking a car. If necessary, use the special filter to select the most convenient option for you.
Unlimited mileage
According to the rental conditions, the mileage can be limited or unlimited. Travel lovers should choose the option without a limit. It will cost more, but in the end it will save. Check the appropriate box to filter offers with unlimited mileage.
Compare prices and conditions from different car rental companies
When choosing a rental car in Washington, you should carefully read all the terms of the rental. This is due to the fact that different companies may differ not only in rental prices, but also in conditions for limiting mileage, the cost of additional services, and the amount of the deposit. To compare rental conditions, it is convenient to use the search and booking system on our website.
How to choose a rental company
It is recommended to rent a car in trusted companies, that is, in those whose services you have already used. You can also focus on the rating of our site, which is displayed next to the name of the company in the search results.
Ceteris paribus, preference should be given to larger companies that have a high level of service and a large selection of cars. The best rental companies in Washington are sixt with an average rating of 9.8 points and budget (rating - 9.7).
Getting a car at a rental office
You should show a voucher and personal documents. A manager draws up a lease agreement. The deposit is blocked on the card.
Before leaving the rental, turn on the ignition, find out the amount of fuel and compare it with what is written in the contract.
Inspect the car carefully. Point out to the manager any paint chips and scuffs. The employee must record the damage. Take a photo yourself: they should show the defect, the number of the car and the employee of the rental company. This will help to avoid problems when returning the car: it will prove that it was not you who torn the upholstery or scratched the fender.
Our main advantages
24/7 support in all popular languages
Change or cancel within 48 hours for free!
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Car rental reviews: Washington
Based on 8255 reviews
Rate 4,8/5
Based on 8255 reviews
Tony
4,8
Without a doubt, I will continue to use Bookingautos on a regular basis. Thank you very much for your assistance!
Michael
4,7
Excellent value for money. The pick-up process was a little confusing, but I would use it again!
Luna
4,5
The search was very simple to use, the price was really low, and there were no problems with the rental car company.
Jody
4,9
Everything proceeded as expected. The complete coverage compensation really worked.
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