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Car hire in Philadelphia with Hertz
Philadelphia is a city with history and character at street level, where each neighbourhood tells a different story.
One day you could be wandering historic Old City and the Liberty Bell, and another day you may be exploring University City, the Museum District, or heading out on a longer drive toward the Pennsylvania countryside or the Jersey Shore.
The city’s density and grid pattern make certain local drives feel surprising in timing. What looks short on a map can stretch once you factor in downtown traffic, bridge crossings, and rush‑hour periods.
Hence, getting a car hire in Philadelphia through Hertz is the best decision. It gives you the freedom to shape your own schedule, carry luggage or gear with confidence, and combine city sightseeing with day trips without structuring everything around public transport.
A Hertz car rental in Philadelphia lets you pace your day on your own terms, whether that means a full block of stories and museums or a longer coastal drive.
Pickup locations in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia International Airport
- Philadelphia - Frankford and Cottman HLE
- Philadelphia - Atlantic Aviation (Private Flights Only)
- Philadelphia - Delivery Rentals
- Lambertville - Chris' Auto Body HLE
- Philadelphia - Atlantic Aviation Northeast (Private Flights Only)
- Philadelphia - Amtrak Philadelphia
- Philadelphia - Essington Avenue HLE
- Essington Box Truck Rentals
- Philadelphia - Courtyard Marriott HLE
- Uber Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Box Truck Rentals
- Philadelphia Box Truck Rentals
- Lyft Philadelphia
Benefits from day one.
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- Up to 10% off the base rate on rentals in select countries
Up to 10% discount applies to base rates in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and Benelux. 5% applies for the rest of the world. The discount applies to the base rate quoted (excluding taxes and any other charges). It does not apply to affiliated rates or rates that are already discounted.
- Add your spouse as a second driver without an extra fee
- Earn points redeemable toward free rental days and upgrades
Points are earned on per day time and mileage charges only. Free rental days cover base rate (time and mileage) only. Taxes, optional extras and any other fees are excluded. One-car-class upgrade applies to Compact, Intermediate, Standard & Full-size rentals with a maximum upgrade to a Premium. Additional terms and exclusions apply
- Skip the counter and go straight to your car
You can skip the counter once your membership is activated after your first rental. Available at select locations only.
Benefits from day one.
Join 
for free.
- Make travel feel golden with Hertz Gold+
Ready to get more from every drive? Hertz Gold+ is our free loyalty program that turns everyday car rental into rewards. Get instant perks and seamless pickups.
- Skip the line, choose your ride, and go
Skip the rental counter at selected locations – just head to your car and go. At selected US rental locations, you can also choose from a wider selection of cars, including exclusive vehicles for top-tier members.
- Earn points to redeem for free rental days
Earn free rental days with every booking. The more you rent, the faster you unlock elite status.* *Points are earned & redeemed on the base rental rate only. Taxes, fees, & options are excluded. Additional terms apply.
- Share the drive for free
Add your spouse or partner as an additional driver for free.
Driving guide: Car rental in Philadelphia
Parking Information
- Philadelphia International Airport Parking (PHL) offers extensive on‑site parking with almost 11,000 spaces across its short‑term and garage parking facilities. When you book a car and map out the probable parking spaces, this is one of the most convenient options for airport travellers. The Philadelphia Parking Authority manages these lots with covered parking, self‑park lanes, and 24/7 staffed cashiers.
- Market Street Parking Garage (Center City) offers about 1,500+ spaces for short‑ and long‑stay visitors and is ideal when you want to park once and explore the city on foot. EV charging stations are available in select Center City garages operated by the Philadelphia Parking Authority, so you can top up your vehicle while you explore.
- The Convention Center Parking (11th and Arch St) is a centrally located garage that caters to visitors attending events, shows, and nearby downtown attractions. This garage has about 540 spaces and electric vehicle charging stations on site, so you can plug in while you attend a show or explore the Convention Center District.
Key Roads in Philadelphia
- I-95 (Delaware Expressway) One of the most critical routes for getting into and out of Philadelphia, I-95 connects the city to both the Jersey Shore and parts of Delaware. It’s the primary highway for travelers entering the city from the south and heading north toward the outskirts. If you have rented a car for traveling to different cities, this route can be an important one.
- I-676 (Vine Street Expressway) The key route for crossing through the city’s center, connecting the Benjamin Franklin Bridge to the Philadelphia suburbs. It’s also a primary way to get from the airport area to downtown, though it can get congested during peak times, so be sure to plan your travel windows accordingly.
- Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) This highway runs from the western side of Philadelphia and connects with I-95 and I-476. It is commonly used for heading toward areas like University City, the western suburbs, and King of Prussia. The Schuylkill Expressway can get congested during commuter hours, so be prepared for potential slowdowns.
Electric Car Hire
If you're looking for a more eco-friendly way to get around, you can rent electric vehicles that are perfect for Philadelphia's mix of urban exploration and suburban drives. Many trips in the city involve parking and exploring on foot, which works well for electric cars since they can easily recharge during your downtime.
Philadelphia is also increasingly EV-friendly, with more charging stations popping up around key locations, including tourist attractions, garages, and public venues.
Hertz encourages this growing initiative, promising a wide range of electric car rentals that are convenient for exploring Philadelphia without the usual tailpipe emissions.
Charging Points
Philadelphia’s EV charging network continues to expand, making electric driving easier across the city. The area now has over 2,000 public EV charging ports, covering a mix of Level 2 and fast-charging options around airports, central garages, shopping areas, and key districts.
As electric vehicle use grows, Philadelphia is steadily adding more charging points across public and commercial locations. That momentum makes the city a practical choice for booking an electric car for travel today, with even broader coverage expected as infrastructure continues to develop.
Congestion Charges
Philadelphia does not have a citywide congestion charge like some major global cities, but it’s important to consider tolls and traffic patterns, especially when driving your booked Hertz car hire into or out of the city.
Several major routes around Philadelphia, including the bridges and highways connecting to New Jersey and the surrounding areas, carry tolls, particularly the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Walt Whitman Bridge.
If you plan to drive into Manhattan or other parts of New Jersey with a rental car from Hertz, keep in mind that there are tolls on the bridges and tunnels.
Getting from Philadelphia International Airport to Washington D.C.
If you book a rental car, driving from Philadelphia International Airport to Washington, D.C. is a straightforward option. The journey typically takes around two and a half hours, depending on traffic, with most of the route following major interstate highways.
- Start at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and join I-95 S.
- Continue via I-495 S, I-95 S, I-895 S, and the Baltimore–Washington Parkway toward Washington, D.C.
- Take the US-50 W exit from the Baltimore–Washington Parkway into Prince George’s County.
- Continue on New York Avenue NE (US-50 W) and follow local roads to Scott Circle NW in Washington, D.C.
Getting from Philadelphia to the Jersey Shore
You can drive from Philadelphia to the famous Jersey Shore with your car hire through these route:
- Start in Philadelphia and position yourself toward I-76 East (Schuylkill Expressway).
- Follow signs connecting you to the Atlantic City Expressway.
- Continue eastbound on the Atlantic City Expressway toward the shore.
- Use posted exits to reach your chosen destination, such as Atlantic City, Ocean City, or Wildwood.
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A quick guide to Philadelphia
The Rittenhouse Hotel
210 W Rittenhouse Sq, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
A well-established luxury hotel known for its polished service, spacious rooms, and a quieter, residential feel right on Rittenhouse Square. Guests often choose it for the full-service experience, including a spa, indoor pool, and acclaimed on-site dining, which makes it easy to balance busy sightseeing days with a calm, comfortable return in the evening.
The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton
One Logan Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103, United States
A contemporary, design-forward hotel that leans into Philadelphia’s art and culture scene. It’s known for its modern interiors, rooftop lounge views over the Parkway, and public spaces that feel social without being overwhelming. This is a strong option if you want a central base that pairs museum visits with a more energetic, modern hotel atmosphere.
The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia
10 Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA 19102, United States
Set inside a landmark neoclassical building, this hotel is known for its grand interiors and traditional luxury approach. Guests often book it for its attentive service, refined rooms, and direct access to the Avenue of the Arts corridor, making it especially appealing for theatergoers, convention visitors, and travelers who want a classic, premium stay in the heart of the city.
Zahav (Society Hill)
237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Zahav is one of the top spots for Mediterranean and Israeli cuisine in the city, known for its creative menu and warm ambiance. It’s perfect for a meal during your exploration of the city’s historic districts. Make sure to try their famous hummus and wood-grilled meats.
Reading Terminal Market (Center City)
1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
A must-visit spot for food lovers, Reading Terminal Market is home to an amazing variety of food vendors offering everything from Amish specialties to fresh seafood and Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies. It’s ideal for a casual meal on the go while exploring Philadelphia’s downtown. You can travel down to this place with your rented car and submerge yourself in the bustling market.
Vedge (Center City)
1221 Locust St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Vedge is one of Philadelphia’s top vegetarian restaurants, offering inventive plant-based dishes that appeal to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s the perfect spot for a healthy yet indulgent meal after a day of sightseeing.
Independence Hall
520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
A major part of American history, Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the birth of the nation. Expect to spend at least an hour here to fully take in the historical significance and the beauty of the building.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Home to an incredible collection of artwork, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Duchamp, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the city’s cultural treasures. Don’t miss the chance to run up the famous "Rocky Steps" outside the museum and take in the panoramic view of the city.
Eastern State Penitentiary
2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
For a unique historical experience, drive your booked car rental to visit Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison that housed notorious criminals like Al Capone. The prison is now a museum, offering audio tours that guide you through its eerie halls and explain the history of prison reform in America.
FAQs
Do you need to book in advance for a Hertz car rental in Philadelphia?
Booking a car in Philadelphia is definitely a good idea. Philly can get packed, especially during peak times, and booking a car rental ahead means you'll have a better chance of snagging the exact car you want. Whether you're visiting for a weekend, a holiday, or during busy travel seasons, securing your ride early just makes sense.
Do you need a driving permit to get a car rental in Philadelphia?
You'll need a valid driver's license to rent and hit the road in Philadelphia. If your license isn't in English, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original license is a smart move and may be required. Always keep your license with you while driving.
Can you pick up a car rental in Philadelphia and return it somewhere else?
Absolutely. One-way rentals are usually available, so you can grab your car in Philly and drop it off in another city if that suits your plans better. There might be a one-way fee, and you'll see it clearly during car booking before you confirm anything.
When's the best time to book a car rental in Philadelphia?
The sooner you hire a car rental in Philadelphia, the better, especially if you're coming during big events or busy weekends. Booking early typically gives you more options, better prices, and way less stress when you arrive.
Are there restrictions on where you can drive a car rental from Philadelphia?
Generally, you can cruise around Pennsylvania and into other U.S. states without issues. If you're thinking about anything out of the ordinary, like heading across the border or into restricted zones, just check the rental terms while booking your car so you know what's permitted.
Will you get charged for a late return in Philadelphia?
Returning a booked car rental late can rack up extra fees. Your confirmation will show your exact return time, so if plans shift, updating your reservation ASAP is your best bet.
What's the minimum age to get a car hire in Philadelphia?
You'll typically need to be at least 21. If you're under 25, expect a Young Renter fee, and some vehicle types might be off-limits. You'll see all the details during the Hertz car booking process.
Can you set up a one-way rental from Philadelphia?
Yes. Just pick a different drop-off location when you're booking car hire to arrange a one-way rental. You might be able to sort it out at pickup too, but booking ahead usually gives you more flexibility and options. Any extra fees will pop up before you confirm.
What insurance options does Hertz offer in Philadelphia?
Your rental comes with the standard coverage required for the area, and you can usually tack on optional protection at checkout if you want extra coverage. Options and prices vary by location, so you'll see what's available when you book.
Does Hertz provide child seats in Philadelphia?
Yes, child seats are available as an add-on. If you're traveling during busy periods, it's smart to request the seat you need when booking, since they can run out.
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