Extraordinary selection
From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget
Liability insurance included
Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans
Easy airport pickup
You can skip the rental counter at 20+ airports across Australia
Rental cars in Essendon
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Toyota COROLLA
2023
•5.0
(24)
BMW M2
2025
•4.97
(41)
MG MG3 AUTO
2022
•5.0
(5)
MG MG3 AUTO
2024
•4.97
(47)
Mercedes-Benz A-CLASS
2024
•5.0
(42)
Volkswagen GOLF
2015
•4.96
(29)
Hyundai i30
2024
•4.86
(23)
Volkswagen PASSAT
2017
•5.0
(24)
Tesla MODEL 3
2021
•5.0
(46)
Car hire options in Essendon for travellers
Essendon, a charming suburb of Melbourne, offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban tranquillity. Known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, and vibrant community, Essendon provides an ideal base for exploring Victoria's diverse attractions. Booking a car hire in Essendon allows visitors to seamlessly navigate the area's tree-lined streets, visit nearby shopping districts, and venture out to discover the natural wonders of the surrounding region at their own pace.
Recent reviews
Carma definitely restored my faith in Tullamarine car rental companies. Hannah was super friendly. Pick and drop off was a breeze. Car got 700kms on one tank. No complaints at all. Thanks team!
Absolutely! Here’s a review you could post: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect Cruise Port Car Rental for Exploring Hilo We rented a car during our cruise stop in Hilo, and the entire experience was incredibly easy. The rental location was just a short walk from the cruise port, conveniently located across from the general store, making pickup and drop-off simple and stress-free. The car was clean, reliable, and perfect for exploring the island. We spent the day driving through the lush scenery of the Big Island and visiting the breathtaking Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Having our own vehicle gave us the freedom to stop whenever we wanted for photos, scenic overlooks, and local attractions. If you’re arriving by cruise ship and want to make the most of your time in Hilo, I highly recommend renting a car here. It was one of the highlights of our trip and allowed us to experience so much more of the island than we could have otherwise. We would definitely rent from them again on our next visit! 🌋🚗 A fantastic way to see the Big Island in just one day!
I will break my car rental experience (November, 2025) into 3 parts: Turo, car provider and vehicle. Turo. First time to use this app. Overall, simple and intuitive to use. It is a good option when compared to the traditional car rental companies. It was really nice not having to wait at the service rental counter. Car provider. Once you finish with the Turo process, you finalize all the details with the car owner. Daniel was exceptional to work with. He was timely and thorough with his responses to all my inquiries. Our flight arrived earlier than scheduled. I contacted Daniel and he had the car immediately available for my use. He was honest and trustworthy. At the end of the trip, I identified what I thought was a new chip in the paint. He reported it was present before the rental and not an issue. There is comfort in knowing there was no hidden agenda. Vehicle, Toyota Corolla, 2015. Don't let the age or size of the car deter you. The car was clean, dependable and satisfied all of my needs for 2 people. Hawaii may be dramatic with its natural wonders, but it is stingy with the parking spaces and roads (think road to Hana and Haleakala Volcano). We were happy to be driving this car instead of the SUVs and Jeeps that populated the parking lots and narrow, twisting roads. Overall, I would recommend Turo and HIGHLY recommend Daniel and his Toyota Corolla for your car rental needs in Maui.
Everything about this trip and this car rental was amazing. It was very easy to pick up the car. The car was very clean and have a full tank of gas. I would absolutely rent a car with turtle again.
Great car rental service with wonderful customer service! Me and my wife got a nice camaro ss , we drove around the island with the top down and had an amazing time. The best customer service ever, got some tips to make our trip easier. Definitely will rent a car for next vacation with them.
David was communicative, pickup and drop off was easy with clear instructions, car drove well, overall very satisfied with our experience. Great cost friendly alternative to bigger car rental companies with a lot more flexibility, but come with the right expectations (i.e. don't expect a squeaky clean car)
This trip was amazing because of our car rental. It was super clean and drove really well. Great on gas. The host was also very attentive and nice :) 10/10 recommend.
The car was spotless, well maintained, and drove beautifully. Pick up was quick and easy. The car owner was friendly and also offered, and dropped us off to the airport as we had traveled from Melbourne. The car was exactly what I needed comfortable, fuel efficient, and reliable. Would absolutely rent from here again and highly recommend to anyone looking for a hassle-free car rental experience.
Amazing experience with both the car and the host!The vehicle was clean, well maintained, and exactly as described. Everything worked perfectly, and the car made the trip even more enjoyable. The host was very friendly, responsive, and helpful throughout the whole rental process. Communication was easy, pickup and drop-off were smooth, and overall everything felt professional and stress-free. Highly recommend renting from this host — definitely would book again!
Pick up was easy, car was very tidy, car was well maintained. Best car rental so far 🫡
Great service. Car was perfect. So much easier than dealing with rental cars
I enjoyed using this car for my solo trip to Brisbane and back. Easy to use. Has built in navigation and Bluetooth to connect my phone (for music). Host was easy to deal with. Responded promptly. Price also good.
Absolutely amazing experience renting this Mustang through Turo! The car was clean, well-maintained, and an absolute blast to drive. Everything about the rental process was smooth and easy from start to finish. The owner was incredibly friendly, responsive, and made the whole experience stress-free. You can tell they really care about both the vehicle and their guests. I would definitely rent from them again and highly recommend this Mustang to anyone looking for a fun and reliable ride!
Very happy with my car rental. Vehicle worked great for going around the island. the pickup and drop off process was super easy and smooth and the host very reliable. Would rent again.
Car quality was awesome. Comfortable and spacious and neatly tidy and well taken care of. Car rental was awesome and smooth and easy and comfortable. Thank you so much Zerin! Mahalo. Hope to rent from you again for more trips coming up.
The car did everything we needed it to do. We felt like a local, the car was certainly clean for the price. I would rent again because the price was right and it was great on gas. Like an ant sipping water. Pick up and drop off was easy enough. Took us a few min to find the car then it was very easy to drop off. Mahalo.
The host gave us clear instructions and communicated with us very well for a hassle-free car rental!
Every thing went smoothly fast easy pick up, car was immaculate, & great value , overall great car rental experience
Discover Essendon's hidden gems and attractions
Essendon boasts a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the picturesque Maribyrnong River to browsing local markets and dining at trendy cafes, there's something for everyone. A hired car provides the freedom to explore these attractions and more, allowing guests to create their own unique Melbourne adventure.
Unwind at Queens Park Essendon
Queens Park is a verdant oasis in the heart of Essendon, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. This beautifully landscaped park features manicured gardens, a charming lake, and plenty of shaded areas for picnics. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the walking paths or relax on the grassy lawns. Ample parking is available near the park entrance, making it easily accessible for those with a hired car.
Explore aviation history at RAAF Museum
The RAAF Museum, located just a short drive from Essendon, offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia's aviation history. Visitors can marvel at vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and engaging displays that showcase the Royal Australian Air Force's rich heritage. The museum provides free parking for guests, making it convenient for those travelling by rental car to spend a few hours immersed in this unique attraction.
Shop till you drop at DFO Essendon
Fashion enthusiasts will delight in a visit to DFO Essendon, a premier outlet shopping destination. With over 100 stores offering discounted brand-name goods, it's a shopper's paradise. Having a car hire is particularly advantageous here, as you'll have plenty of space to store your purchases. The centre offers ample free parking, ensuring a stress-free shopping experience for those arriving by car.
Reaching Essendon from major cities and airports
Here's how to get to Essendon:
- By plane: Fly into Melbourne Airport, then drive to Essendon
- By train: Take a train to Essendon Station from Melbourne's CBD
- By car: Drive from Melbourne CBD via CityLink or Tullamarine Freeway
Essential tips for hiring a car in Essendon
When booking a car hire in Essendon, consider these tips: Reserve early on Turo for the best selection, choose a vehicle that suits local driving conditions, and look for extras like GPS navigation or a backup camera for added convenience. If you're planning day trips to the Yarra Valley or along the Great Ocean Road, opt for a comfortable, fuel-efficient car. Remember to familiarise yourself with local parking regulations in Essendon to ensure a smooth driving experience.
Car rental locations near Essendon
Frequently asked questions in Essendon
What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in Essendon, and how do they cater to different travel needs?
Essendon offers several convenient pickup locations for car hire, catering to various travel needs. Essendon Airport is a popular choice, providing easy access for guests arriving by air or those seeking to explore Melbourne and its surroundings. The airport area hosts several hosts on Turo offering a diverse range of vehicles, from small city cars to larger SUVs. For guests staying in Essendon or nearby suburbs, residential areas often feature hosts on Turo with conveniently located hired cars. These locations are ideal for those who prefer a more local experience or are visiting friends and family. Additionally, Essendon Fields business park offers another option for guests, particularly those travelling for work or attending events in the area. With its variety of pickup locations, Essendon ensures that guests can find rental cars suited to their specific travel requirements, whether for business or leisure.
What are some pleasant driving routes near Essendon for a relaxing day trip?
Essendon offers a fantastic starting point for scenic drives in Victoria. Consider heading to the Yarra Valley, where you can meander through picturesque vineyards and charming small towns. The Great Ocean Road, while a bit further, provides breathtaking coastal views and is perfect for a longer day out. For a shorter trip, the Macedon Ranges offer beautiful landscapes and quaint villages. When planning your journey from Essendon, choose a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's a small car for nimble city driving or a larger option for comfort on longer routes. Remember to check your vehicle's fuel gauge before setting off, as petrol stations can be sparse in some rural areas.
How can visitors navigate peak hour traffic in Melbourne when driving from Essendon?
Navigating Melbourne's peak hour traffic from Essendon requires some savvy planning. Consider using the CityLink tollway for quicker access to the CBD, but be prepared for potential congestion. Alternatively, explore back routes through suburbs like Moonee Ponds or Brunswick for a more scenic drive. If possible, plan your trips outside of the busiest hours, typically 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays. Melbourne's hook turns can be tricky for visitors, so familiarise yourself with this unique traffic rule before driving in the city centre. Having a reliable hired car from Essendon can make your journey more comfortable, especially if you opt for one with good fuel efficiency for city driving.
Which car types are recommended for exploring Victoria's diverse landscapes from Essendon?
For exploring Victoria's diverse landscapes from Essendon, consider a versatile vehicle that can handle various terrains. A small SUV or crossover offers a good balance of comfort for city driving and capability for rural roads. If you're planning to venture into the High Country or along unsealed tracks, a 4WD might be more suitable. For coastal drives or city exploration, a compact car could be ideal, offering good fuel economy and easy parking. When choosing your car hire in Essendon, think about the specific areas you'll be visiting – from Melbourne's urban streets to the winding roads of the Dandenong Ranges. Remember to check your car's features before setting off on any long journeys from Essendon.
Where can guests find convenient parking facilities in Essendon and surrounding areas?
Essendon and its surrounding areas offer various parking options to suit different needs. In Essendon itself, you'll find ample street parking, often with time limits during business hours. The Essendon Fields precinct provides both short-term and all-day parking facilities, ideal if you're visiting local businesses or catching a flight from Essendon Airport. For longer stays, consider using secure car parks in nearby shopping centres like Moonee Ponds Central. When venturing into Melbourne, look for off-street parking stations, which can be more cost-effective for extended periods. Remember to always check parking signs carefully, as regulations can vary between areas. Having a compact hired car from Essendon can make finding suitable parking spots in busier areas much easier.
What should drivers know about gas station availability and fuel options around Essendon?
Drivers in Essendon will find a good network of petrol stations, with several options along major roads like Mount Alexander Road and Pascoe Vale Road. Most stations offer a range of fuel types, including regular unleaded, premium unleaded, and diesel. Some locations also provide LPG. It's worth noting that prices can vary significantly between stations, so using fuel comparison apps can help find the best deals. When planning trips outside of Essendon, especially to rural areas, it's wise to top up your tank before leaving the city. Some remote areas may have limited fuel options or higher prices. Always check your car's fuel requirements and stick to the recommended type for optimal performance and efficiency during your travels from Essendon.
Are there any challenging driving situations to be aware of in Melbourne's busy areas?
Melbourne's busy areas present unique driving challenges that visitors should be prepared for. The city's famous hook turns can be confusing for newcomers, so familiarise yourself with this manoeuvre before tackling the CBD. Tram lines are another Melbourne-specific feature; always give way to trams and be cautious when crossing tracks. Busy intersections in areas like Richmond or South Yarra can be tricky to navigate during peak hours. Narrow laneways in the city centre require extra caution, especially in a larger vehicle. When driving from Essendon to these areas, consider opting for a smaller, more manoeuvrable car hire to make city navigation easier. Always stay alert for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in bustling shopping districts and around universities.
What are some key tips for planning a road trip from Essendon to regional Victoria?
When planning a road trip from Essendon to regional Victoria, preparation is key. First, choose a car hire that suits your journey – perhaps a comfortable sedan for long highway drives or an SUV for exploring rugged terrain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before departing Essendon. Plan your route in advance, considering scenic detours and rest stops. Regional Victoria offers diverse landscapes, from the Grampians to the Murray River, so research points of interest along your chosen path. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a physical map as backup. Be aware that mobile coverage can be patchy in some rural areas. Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting off, especially during bushfire season. Remember, driving in regional areas may require more attention to fuel planning than in Melbourne.
How can guests prepare for various weather conditions when driving in Victoria?
Preparing for Victoria's varied weather conditions is crucial for safe and enjoyable driving. When leaving Essendon, always check the latest forecasts for your destination. In summer, be ready for high temperatures by ensuring your rental car's air conditioning is working properly. During winter, particularly if heading to alpine regions, consider a vehicle with good heating and, if possible, all-wheel drive. Regardless of the season, it's wise to have sunglasses and a jacket in your car. For rainy conditions, which can occur year-round in Melbourne and surrounds, ensure your windscreen wipers are in good condition. If driving in foggy areas like the Dandenong Ranges, familiarise yourself with your vehicle's fog lights before departing Essendon. Always adjust your driving to suit the conditions, reducing speed when necessary.
* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan. Review the Guest Product Disclosure Statement for more information.