Information if you want to rent a car in Seattle
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Distance from Seattle city centre |
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| 3 km | ||
| 8 km | ||
| 18 km | ||
Rent a car in Seattle
Where to rent a car in Seattle
There’s a reason why there’s a film called Sleepless in Seattle, there’s so much adventure to be had in this city there’s hardly no time to waste on sleep!
But what’s great about Seattle is the perfect balance it has between urban scenes and the natural environment. The city has plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping, but also offers beautiful natural spaces with trees, waterways and hiking to enjoy.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport will be your first port of call when looking for a rental car when your flight to Seattle lands. All rental companies available at Sea-Tac operate at separate rental car facilities with dedicated shuttle buses to each one. Two pick up areas are located outside baggage claim at the north and south ends of the main terminal.
You can also find some of the big named car rental companies in the city: Hertz, Avis, Alamo, National, Enterprise and Sixt which are around the Pike Place Market and not far from downtown Seattle. But for your peace of mind, use liligo.com to search the best offer available and be confident knowing that you will bag yourself the cheapest deal.
Driving in Seattle: what you have to know
Driving in Seattle may not be your favorite driving experience. The city has landed itself on a few lists, lists that are not favorable when it comes to Seattle’s driving culture.
It’s likely that you will have to drive in the rain, which brings with it a whole load of complications. Especially those drivers who are last minute mergers: these reckless divers become even more of a problem when the weather is bad. Top hint from locals: don’t assume that people will let you over because you have your blinker on – they probably won’t, some even speed up not to let you passed.
Of course the majority of Seattle drivers are safe and conscientious drivers, but just be aware of all types of drivers on the road.
Street parking can be an affordable alternative to parking lots; however the rate differs from neighborhood to neighborhood. Most street parking is paid from 8am until 6pm Monday to Saturday, Sunday being free. After 6pm on weekdays a discounted rate is usually offered.
Road trips from Seattle: what to do, what to see
Olympic National Park
With beautiful sights to be seen and a perfect escape from city life, this national park most definitely should be on your list. Only 2 hours and 30 minute drive from Seattle, these mountains, hot springs, lakes and rainforest are in perfect reach for a driver. Handy tip: keep an eye out for annual ‘free parking days’ that are scattered throughout the year.
Whistler
The 4 hour drive is all worth it when you see the mind-blowing views. The cliffs overlooking Howe sound, the Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief are all perfect photo ops and great if you have a wild sense of adventure. During the spring and summer the ski resort turns into a world premiere spot for mountain biking.
Yakima
If you’re quite the wine connoisseur, or just really like drinking wine, then Washington’s first wine region is still the best place to visit. And if wine isn’t your thing be sure to add Tieton Cider or Bale Breaker Brewing to your tour. Either way your trip to Yakima will be as educational as it is boozy, so it’s best to bring a designated driver along for this trip. Shotgun not me!
