Rent a Car in Downtown Tampa – The Most Convenient Way to Explore the City Center
Staying in Downtown Tampa, Channelside, or the Riverwalk area and need wheels?
Getting a Downtown Tampa car rental lets you skip the airport hassle and start driving
the moment you check out of your hotel.
Compare all available vehicles and companies right in the city center at rentcarintampa.com
Best money-saving trick in 2025:
Book your Downtown Tampa car rental online in advance through rentcarintampa.com — prices are often 30–60 % lower than walking up to a hotel or downtown counter, and you’ll actually have cars to choose from.
Book your Downtown Tampa car rental online in advance through rentcarintampa.com — prices are often 30–60 % lower than walking up to a hotel or downtown counter, and you’ll actually have cars to choose from.
Why Rent a Car Directly in Downtown Tampa?
- No need to take Uber/Lyft from TPA airport to your downtown hotel and then back again for a car
- Pickup locations within walking distance or short rideshare from most hotels (Marriott Water Street, JW Marriott, Hilton Downtown, Aloft, etc.)
- Perfect for business travelers, cruise passengers (port is only 10–15 min away), and anyone staying in the urban core
- Easy one-way rentals to Orlando, Miami, or Florida Keys if you’re continuing your trip
Downtown Tampa Vibes You’ll See From Your Rental Car
Top Downtown Tampa Car Rental Locations (2025)
- Channelside District / Sparkman Wharf – Enterprise & Hertz desks
- Tampa Convention Center area – very close to Marriott Water Street & Embassy Suites
- Ashley Drive / Downtown Core – Avis & Budget locations
- Ybor City (10 min drive) – additional National & Alamo branches
- Port Tampa Bay cruise terminal – many companies offer free shuttle or delivery
Where You’ll Go With Your Downtown Rental Car
- Clearwater Beach – 35 min
- St. Pete Beach & Pass-a-Grille – 30–40 min
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – 20 min
- International Plaza & Bay Street shopping – 12 min
- Orlando theme parks – 1 hour 15 min east
Pro Tips for Downtown Tampa Car Rental
- Parking at most downtown hotels is $20–40/night — ask if your rental company offers free or discounted parking packages
- Many downtown locations close earlier than the airport (often 6 PM) — book morning pickup if possible
- Tolls on Selmon Expressway & Veterans Expressway — choose a car with included toll package or bring your own SunPass
- One-way fees to MCO (Orlando airport) or MIA are usually lower when starting downtown
