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Finding a rental car in Louisville is simple with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of brands across Kentucky with no booking fees. Pick up your ride at Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) or downtown Louisville and head straight to the Bourbon Trail, Churchill Downs and other Kentucky road-trip destinations on your own schedule.
Louisville offers several rental locations to suit different travel needs:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) |
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| Downtown Louisville |
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On average, car rentals in Louisville cost around $75 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $43 per day.
Skip the airport fees: Picking up downtown is usually about 15-18 % cheaper than at SDF. Even with a $20-30 rideshare from the terminal you can come out ahead, especially on longer rentals.
Flex your dates around Derby Week: Prices skyrocket late April–early May. Shifting your trip by even a few days or starting after the Kentucky Derby can cut the rate in half. January–February is the bargain window.
Hunt weekend promos: Louisville sees less business travel on Saturdays and Sundays, so many suppliers drop rates. A Friday-to-Monday rental often beats a Monday-to-Thursday of the same length.
Compare weekly vs daily pricing: For 5+ day trips the weekly rate is often cheaper than paying day-by-day. Run both options in the search box before you click book.
Dodge toll add-ons: Crossing into Indiana on I-65 or I-265 triggers electronic toll + rental admin fees. Stick to the free Clark Memorial (2nd Street) Bridge if your plans allow and keep that cash for bourbon.
Fill up smart: Choose "full-to-full" and top off a few miles from the return point. Stations away from freeway exits are noticeably cheaper in Louisville.
Downtown Parking:
Local Driving Rules:
Toll Information:
Rent a car to easily:
Bourbon Trail – Bardstown distilleries
Lexington – horse farms, Keeneland Race Course
Mammoth Cave National Park – cave system, visitor center
Red River Gorge – sandstone arches, trailheads
Cincinnati – riverfront, museums
Nashville – downtown entertainment district
What documents do I need to rent a car in Louisville?
You need a valid driver's license from your home country. If your license isn't in English, you should also have an International Driving Permit. Most major rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old and have a credit card in your name. They will charge you extra if you are under 25.
Are there any toll roads in Louisville?
Yes, the Ohio River bridges that connect Louisville to Indiana (I-65 and I-265) have all-electronic tolls. If you drive over these bridges, the rental company pays the toll. The company then bills you for the toll and adds an extra service fee, which is usually $3.95 to $4.95 for each day you use the toll road. You can also use the toll-free Clark Memorial Bridge instead.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Louisville and the surrounding region?
A compact or midsize car works well for driving in the city and taking a few highway trips. If you visit in the winter or plan to explore rural areas, you might want an SUV because it can handle rougher roads better. For families or groups of four to five people and their luggage, a midsize SUV or minivan will be more comfortable on longer drives.
How much does parking typically cost in downtown Louisville?
You can expect to pay about $1.50 to $2.00 per hour at street parking meters on weekdays during business hours. Public parking garages downtown usually charge $8 to $15 for a full day of parking. If you use your hotel's valet service downtown, it can cost $20 to $30 per night.
What is the best time to visit Louisville by car?
The best driving weather is in the spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). You should try to avoid Derby Week, from late April to early May, because car rental prices and traffic get much worse. Winter sometimes brings snow or ice, but the weather is usually mild compared to northern states.
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