We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Wilmington (N. Carolina). Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Rental in Wilmington (N. Carolina) 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 Wilmington (N. Carolina) 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 Wilmington (N. Carolina) and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Wilmington (N. Carolina) so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Wilmington (N. Carolina)?

Renting a car in Wilmington, North Carolina, offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful coastal landscapes at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily access both popular attractions and hidden gems that may be less accessible via public transportation.

Beyond the city limits, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and the historic town of Southport. This freedom ensures you can fully experience the diverse offerings of the Cape Fear region, from serene beaches to charming small towns.

Car rental tips for Wilmington (N. Carolina)

  • Wilmington International Airport (ILM) hosts several car rental agencies conveniently located near the baggage claim area, allowing for a seamless transition from flight to vehicle upon arrival.
  • Traffic in downtown Wilmington can become congested during peak hours, particularly around the Historic River District. Plan your travel times accordingly to avoid delays.
  • If you intend to visit nearby beaches such as Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach, be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early or visiting on weekdays can help secure a spot.
  • Be mindful of toll roads when planning trips to surrounding areas. While most routes are toll-free, some bridges and highways may require payment, so it's advisable to carry some cash or check if your rental vehicle includes an electronic toll collection device.

FAQs about renting a car in Wilmington (N. Carolina)

What is the recommended car type/category?

A mid-sized sedan or SUV is recommended for navigating Wilmington's city streets and nearby coastal areas comfortably. If you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path locations or travel with family, an SUV may provide additional space and versatility.

What are the parking options?

Downtown Wilmington offers a mix of metered street parking and public parking garages. Metered parking is typically enforced from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, Monday through Saturday. Parking garages provide longer-term options and are conveniently located near major attractions.

What's the speed limit?

In Wilmington, the speed limit is generally 35 mph (56 km/h) on city streets, 55 mph (89 km/h) on state highways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on interstates. Always observe posted signs, as limits can vary in certain areas.

Popular attractions

  • USS North Carolina Battleship: A World War II battleship turned museum, offering an immersive experience into naval history with self-guided tours through its decks and exhibits.
  • Airlie Gardens: A 67-acre public garden featuring walking paths, seasonal blooms, a butterfly house, and the historic Airlie Oak, providing a tranquil escape into nature.
  • Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts: A historic theater dating back to 1858, hosting a variety of performances including plays, concerts, and film screenings in a beautifully preserved setting.
  • Cape Fear Museum of History and Science: The oldest history museum in North Carolina, showcasing exhibits on the region's cultural and natural history, including a Michael Jordan display and a giant ground sloth skeleton.
  • Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens: A colonial-era house museum built in 1770, offering guided tours of its period-furnished rooms and lush gardens, providing insights into 18th-century life.

More places to visit

  • Wrightsville Beach: A popular coastal destination known for its surf-friendly waves, vibrant dining scene, and scenic beauty, just a short drive from Wilmington.
  • Carolina Beach: A charming beach town featuring a nostalgic boardwalk, family-friendly attractions, and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a day trip.
  • Fort Fisher State Historic Site: The site of a significant Civil War battle, offering historical exhibits and access to nearby beaches and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Rental Brands in Wilmington (N. Carolina)

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

10 / 10

Alamo Car Rental

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6.06 / 10

Budget Car Rental

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National Car Rental

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SIXT Car Rental

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Enterprise Car Rental

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Hertz Car Rental

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Europcar Car Rental

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Keddy Car Rental

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Thrifty Car Rental

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AVIS Car Rental

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Firefly Car Rental

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: 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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Wilmington (N. Carolina): 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.