Car hire in Washington D.C.
On this page you’ll get tips and advice on hiring a car in Washington D.C., and the cheapest rental cars at guaranteed lowest price. If this is your first time renting a car in the U.S., please read our general tips on car hire in the country via the link below.
Car hire at Washington D.C. Airport
There are two major international airports close to Washington D.C.: Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).
Dulles is the one that’s closest to Washington D.C. It’s located in Virginia, about 25 miles west of the central D.C. The other airport, Baltimore/Washington Airport, is slightly further away, more specifically in Baltimore, Maryland.
Renting a car at both airports is very smooth and easy. At Baltimore/Washington, the car rental firms are collected in a rental car centre. Free buses that leave every 10 minutes throughout the day and night take you to the centre. It is therefore very easy to rent a car at the airport. The same thing applies for Dulles Airport, where there are more than ten car rental firms represented.
It’s always best to rent your car online before taking off. This will ensure that the car is available for pick up when you need it.
Car hire is also available in central Washington D.C. Several car rental firms have offices at many different locations in the city.
Driving between Washington D.C. and New York
It takes about 4 hours to drive between Washington D.C. and New York on the I-95 (about 5 hours during rush hour). If you feel like making a stop, Philadelphia is on the way. One-way car hire between Washington D.C. and New York is possible, usually without a one-way fee or at least a low one. Read more about car hire in New York here.
Where to go around Washington D.C.
There are many exciting places to explore in the area around Washington D.C. Whether you are interested in nature or exciting history, there’s something for everyone. Below we’ll mention a few of our favourite places within driving distance from the city.
Annapolis
Annapolis, the cosy capital of Maryland, is a little less than an hour’s drive north of Washington D.C. This is an old city with many interesting historic houses, churches and neighbourhoods. These things, along with the city’s beautiful location, make Annapolis a wonderful place to visit. There are also several well-known parks in the city. The Quiet Waters Park is one of the most popular.
Prince William Forest Park
If you are an outdoorsy type and enjoy breathtaking scenery, a trip to Prince William Forest Park is a must. The drive from D.C. takes about 40 minutes. The Park consists of a very beautiful and lush forest, and there are many nice footpaths and bicycle trails. Camping in the park is also possible. You can also just go for a walk and observe the unique wildlife.
Chesapeake Beach
If you like swimming and sunbathing, Chesapeake Beach is the perfect choice. This picturesque town with its fantastic beach is only a 50 minute drive from Washington D.C. In addition to the popular beach, the town also has a pier and a beautiful beach promenade with many nice shops and restaurants. You can also visit a railway museum with a historic railway.