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Car rental Charleston
At a glance
Locations: Find all Hertz car rental locations in Charleston, SC – including at Charleston International Airport.
Fleet: Browse the full range of car rentals available in Charleston and find the right one for your trip.
Things to do: Discover the best things to do in Charleston and how a rental car gets you there, like Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.
FAQs: Everything you need to know about rental cars in Charleston, from one-way options to long term rental and FAQs.
Renting a car at Charleston
Travel through beautiful Charleston, SC, with a Hertz car rental. From the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to Middleton Place and Charleston Waterfront Park – The Holy City, or Chucktown as it’s also known, has lots of fascinating things to see.
Car rentals simplify getting around in Charleston. You can pick one up from Charleston International Airport – a 20-minute drive away from downtown via the I-26 East.
Choose between a wide selection of fantastic vehicles. Convertibles are great for enjoying the Palmetto State’s most sun-soaked weather, while you can easily fit the whole family into an SUV for riverside, forest and city adventures.
Reserve Charleston car rental with Hertz to visit all of this city’s attractions and highlights.
Charleston rental locations
Charleston rental car options
Popular vehicles to rent in Charleston
Things to do in Charleston
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
3550 Ashley River Road, Charleston, SC 29414
Dating as far back as the late 1600s, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens in South Carolina provides the setting for an authentic Charleston experience in lush surroundings. It’s located right next to Charleston International Airport, sandwiched between the US-61 and Ashley River. There’s also on-site parking for your Charleston car rental. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown, with a romantic setting ideal for couples’ getaways.
Lewis Barbecue
464 North Nassau Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Lewis Barbecue is a diner serving hearty American fare over at Nomo, just off North Central and a little further up from Eric Cornelius Singleton II Park. There is a dedicated parking lot that belongs to the restaurant and street parking nearby. There’s a classic American diner vibe here, with a simple décor and flavor-infused menu. Scrumptious menu items include sandwiches such as chopped beef brisket and sliced turkey breast. Sides include tangy coleslaw, creamy potato salad, and collard greens, to name a few. A highly recommended place to visit if you’re feeling hungry in Charleston.
Francis Marion Hotel
387 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Be close to the action in central downtown at the luxurious Francis Marion Hotel, welcoming visitors since 1924. It’s a blend of grand architecture, eye-catching skyline vistas, and supreme comfort. There are 235 room options, which include traditional queen, traditional two doubles, deluxe king, and deluxe two doubles, and the slightly enhanced option of the Francis Marion Suite. The on-site Swamp Fox restaurant is great if you want to eat at your hotel, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service. Parking is available in the City of Charleston parking garage across from the hotel, with a valet option.
Long term car rental
Book a long term car rental in Charleston if you’re going to stay here for longer than just a few days. You might be working here on a temporary contract, or perhaps you’re in between vehicles and need something to drive. That is where a long term rental car can come in handy, so you’re not left without something to drive.
One-way car rental
Book a one-way car rental from Charleston, SC. These are handy if you’re planning a one-way journey; you can pick up your ride in Chucktown and leave it at another Hertz location, saving you from bringing it back, letting you continue your journey.
Business rental
If you’re visiting Charleston with work, you might want to consider a business rental. These are great for helping you get to those important meetings, giving you a set of wheels to get around. Plus, you get your own space to carry your luggage and work items around with ease.
Popular road trips from Charleston
Charleston to Folly Beach
11.3 miles & 23 minutes
Drive across James Island, passing marshes and tidal creeks before crossing the Folly River Bridge. At Folly Beach, relax on wide sandy shores, walk the iconic Folly Beach Pier, surf the Atlantic, or visit Morris Island Lighthouse.
Charleston to Edisto Beach
50.3 miles & one hour and 12 minutes
Head through Johns Island and Wadmalaw Island, passing oak-lined roads, marshes and Lowcountry scenery. At Edisto Beach, enjoy peaceful sands, hike maritime forest trails such as the Bache Monument Trail, or search for shells and shark teeth.
Charleston to Savannah
108 miles & 2 hours
Travel southwest on the I-95, passing the ACE Basin wetlands and crossing into Georgia. In Savannah, stroll through Forsyth Park, explore the city's historic squares, visit River Street, and tour beautifully preserved antebellum homes.
FAQs when renting a car in Charleston
Do you need a rental car in Charleston, SC?
A rental car in Charleston, SC, can make life much easier as you don’t have to rely on public transport, expensive taxi rides or car shares. You can set your own schedule and stick to it without needing to share public spaces with strangers.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Charleston, SC?
The cost to rent a car in Charleston depends on a few factors like:
- Vehicle
- Dates booked
- Rental length
- Optional extras
Start a reservation to get an idea of prices for your individual booking.
What is the best car to rent in Charleston, SC?
The best car to rent in Charleston is entirely subjective and down to your personal preferences and needs. The Hertz collection consists of SUVs, trucks, economy cars and more – pick a ride to suit your liking today.
Is it easy to drive in Charleston, SC?
It’s usually easy to drive in Charleston as the roads are generally well-maintained, with the outer central areas being straightforward to navigate. However, be aware that Charleston features narrow streets and parking can be limited, with heavy traffic congestion in peak rush hours, so plan accordingly.
Is parking difficult in Charleston, SC?
Parking can be limited during busy periods in Charleston. It’s best to research a few different parking spots so that there are alternative options in case your first choices are full. That way, you’re likely to increase your chances of finding a spot to park your Charleston rental car.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Charleston, SC?
The documents you need to rent a car in Charleston, SC, are:
- Valid driver’s license.
- Payment card
- Passport (if an overseas citizen).
For more information, check out the Hertz support hub.
