We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Traverse City. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Rental in Traverse City in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Traverse City and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Traverse City and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Traverse City so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


location image

Why rent a car in Traverse City?

Renting a car in Traverse City, Michigan, offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the region's diverse attractions, from the bustling downtown area to the serene landscapes of the surrounding peninsulas. With your own vehicle, you can easily access renowned wineries, picturesque state parks, and charming neighboring towns at your own pace.

Public transportation options in Traverse City are limited, making a rental car the most convenient mode of transportation for visitors. Whether you're planning to attend the National Cherry Festival, tour the local vineyards, or embark on scenic drives along the Lake Michigan shoreline, having a car ensures a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

Car rental tips for Traverse City

  • Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport hosts several car rental agencies conveniently located within the terminal, allowing for a seamless transition from your flight to the road. It's advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
  • While Traverse City's downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, many of the region's attractions, such as the wineries on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, are best accessed by car. Having a rental vehicle provides the flexibility to explore these destinations at your own pace.
  • Be prepared for varying driving conditions, especially if visiting during winter months. Snow and ice can make roads slippery, so ensure your rental car is equipped with appropriate tires, and consider opting for a vehicle with all-wheel drive for added safety.
  • Familiarize yourself with local parking regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have time-limited parking or require permits, so always check signage when parking your rental car.

FAQs about renting a car in Traverse City

What is the recommended car type/category?

A mid-sized sedan or compact SUV is ideal for navigating Traverse City's urban areas and the surrounding countryside. These vehicles offer a comfortable ride and sufficient space for passengers and any gear you might need for outdoor activities.

What are the parking options?

Downtown Traverse City offers metered street parking and several public parking lots and garages. During peak tourist seasons, parking can be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early or consider parking slightly outside the downtown area and walking in.

What's the speed limit?

In Michigan, the maximum speed limit on highways is typically 70 mph (113 km/h), while on rural roads, it's 55 mph (89 km/h). Within city limits, the speed limit is generally 25 mph (40 km/h). Always adhere to posted speed limits and be cautious of changing conditions, especially during winter months when roads can be icy.

Popular attractions

  • Front Street: A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly district in downtown Traverse City, Front Street is lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and a variety of dining options, making it the cultural and commercial heart of the city.
  • The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: Once a historic asylum, this architectural gem has been transformed into a lively hub featuring shops, eateries, and galleries, all set amidst beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and expansive wooded grounds.
  • Dennos Museum Center: Located on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College, the Dennos Museum Center showcases an impressive collection of Inuit art, as well as rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary works, offering a rich cultural experience.
  • Traverse City State Park: This 75-acre park features a beautiful beach along East Grand Traverse Bay, providing opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and camping, all within close proximity to the city's amenities.
  • Boardman River Nature Center: Serving as the gateway to the Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve, the center offers interactive exhibits and access to trails that wind through diverse ecosystems along the Boardman River.

More places to visit

  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Approximately 25 miles west of Traverse City, this national lakeshore boasts towering sand dunes, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Leelanau State Park: Located at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, this park offers a historic lighthouse, hiking trails, and camping facilities, all set against the backdrop of Lake Michigan's stunning shoreline.
  • Leland's Historic Fishtown: A short drive from Traverse City, Fishtown is a preserved fishing village featuring weathered shanties, docks, and smokehouses, now home to unique shops and eateries, offering a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Rental Brands in Traverse City

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

National Car Rental

View more

Alamo Car Rental

View more

SIXT Car Rental

View more

Enterprise Car Rental

View more

Budget Car Rental

View more

Hertz Car Rental

View more

Europcar Car Rental

View more

Keddy Car Rental

View more

Thrifty Car Rental

View more

AVIS Car Rental

View more

Firefly Car Rental

View more

: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

Car image for small and economy car category

Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

Car image for hybrid and electric car category

Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

Car image for prestige car category

Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

Car image for stationwagon and minibus car category


Traverse City: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


*Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.