Virginia Car Rental Deals Discover the East Coast with Flexibility

Introduction: Welcome to Virginia, nicknamed the “Old Dominion” and renowned for its colonial heritage, Blue Ridge Mountain scenery, and sunny Atlantic shores. Renting a car in Virginia is the key to unlocking every corner of this diverse state from the cobblestone streets of historic Williamsburg to the winding Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, and all the charming small towns and beaches in between. This page is your all-in-one guide to finding the best car rental in Virginia. We’ve combined AirportVanRental’s unbeatable deals with insider local tips so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. Whether you’re planning to drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, heading to a family vacation at Virginia Beach, or flying into Dulles and need a car to explore beyond Washington, D.C., we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle quickly, easily, and affordably. Get ready to explore Virginia on your own schedule with extra savings and zero stress.

Why Rent a Car in Virginia?
Virginia may not be the largest state, but its attractions are widespread and varied. Having your own set of wheels gives you total freedom to discover every region at your own pace. Here’s why savvy travelers choose a rental car in Virginia:

• See More Beyond the Cities: Public transit exists in parts of Northern Virginia (especially around Washington, D.C.) and some cities like Richmond, but many of Virginia’s best spots lie off the bus and train routes. Think Shenandoah National Park’s overlooks, the Outer Banks just beyond the southern border, quaint Shenandoah Valley towns, or Colonial Williamsburg. With a car, you can venture beyond the limited corridors of Amtrak and metro lines to explore lighthouses on the Chesapeake Bay, hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or visit wineries in the countryside all on your own schedule.
• Iconic Scenic Drives: Virginia is home to some of America’s most iconic drives. Cruise along Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park or hop on the famous Blue Ridge Parkway heading south toward the Great Smoky Mountains both routes offer stunning mountain vistas especially in autumn. Drive the Colonial Parkway to connect Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown for a journey through early American history under canopies of oak trees. These experiences are best enjoyed by car, where you can stop for a farm fresh cider, snap photos at scenic overlooks, or detour to a roadside antique shop whenever inspiration strikes.
• Freedom & Flexibility: No train schedules or guided tour timetables to worry about you’re in charge. Want to detour to a hidden waterfall, spend extra time at a Civil War battlefield, or skip the crowded tour bus at Mount Vernon? With a rental car, you set the itinerary. This is especially handy if you’re visiting multiple colleges (Virginia has UVA, Virginia Tech, William & Mary, etc. spread out) or mixing business with leisure travel. In one trip you can cover coastal villages, mountain trails, and everything in between something impractical without a car.
• Seasonal Comfort: Virginia experiences four distinct seasons, and a car lets you adapt. In summer, load up the car with beach gear and drive to Virginia Beach or the cool Allegheny Mountains without sweating in a crowded bus. In fall, chase colorful foliage through rural backroads and stop at pumpkin patches at your leisure. In winter, having a car means you can reach ski resorts (like Wintergreen or Massanutten) or holiday family gatherings while avoiding long waits in the cold for limited public transit. Plus, you can securely store coats, boots, and gifts in the trunk as you explore. A climate-controlled car ride is a relief during humid summers and occasional snowy days alike.
• Time Savings: Virginia’s intercity public transit is limited there’s no statewide rail network like some regions. With a car, you can accomplish in one day what might take several by bus or train. For example, a day trip from Washington, D.C. (just over the Potomac in Northern Virginia) could include a morning hike at Great Falls Park, lunch in Old Town Alexandria, and an evening winery tour in Loudoun County. Try doing that on public transportation it’s nearly impossible. If you plan to roam beyond one downtown area, a rental car will save you valuable time and maximize your trip.

Our Virginia Car Rental Benefits (USPs)
Why book your Virginia ride with AirportVanRental? We specialize in rental vehicles and partner with all major brands in the region to deliver an easy, affordable experience. Here are some of the benefits and guarantees we offer for Virginia car rentals:

• Huge Statewide Selection: From economy cars perfect for navigating Richmond’s city streets, to 8-passenger vans for that Outer Banks family reunion we’ve got it all. Thanks to our network of multiple suppliers, you’ll find thousands of vehicles available across Virginia. Need a fuel-efficient hybrid for a long drive to the Blue Ridge? A luxury sedan for a business trip in Tysons Corner? No problem. Browse and choose the exact type of car that fits your plans.
• Best Rate Guarantee: We continuously scan rates from all over Virginia to ensure you get the lowest price. Because we aggregate deals from so many providers, you’ll see special offers here that you won’t find on single-brand sites. If there’s a weekend sale at Dulles Airport or a long-term discount at a neighborhood branch in Norfolk, we highlight it so you never miss a bargain. Found a better rate elsewhere? Let us know we’ll match it. Saving you money is our mission.
• No Pre-Payment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change, especially when weather or business schedules are involved. Most of our Virginia rentals do NOT require upfront payment reserve now and pay at pick-up. Cancel anytime up to 48 hours before pick-up with zero fees. This flexibility means you can book early to grab a great deal and adjust later if needed, without stress. (We think flexibility is a must why should you be locked in if your itinerary shifts?)
• Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay. Virginia car rentals can include taxes and surcharges (state rental tax, airport fees at places like IAD or ORF, etc.), but we display all mandatory charges upfront. No last-minute surprises at the counter. Planning to use the Dulles Toll Road or other tollways? We explain those charges too. We hate hidden fees as much as you do, so we’ve made pricing clear and honest for peace of mind.
• Unlimited Mileage on Nearly All Rentals: Worried about mileage caps? Relax unlimited miles are standard on virtually all our Virginia bookings. Whether you’re driving 30 miles or 300 miles, you won’t pay extra for distance. Want to do a round-trip from Northern Virginia to the Outer Banks and back, or drive into neighboring states? Go for it no mileage fees. (If a rare exception applies, we’ll flag it clearly before you book.)
• Trusted Partners & Support: We partner with reputable national brands (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and more) as well as reliable local agencies to bring you a wide selection and great service. Our customer support team is here for you 24/7 in case you hit any snags during your rental. Not sure about Virginia’s toll systems or need to extend your rental? We’re just a call or click away. With AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car you have a travel partner and OTA expert in your corner, providing local driving insights (see below) and prompt assistance whenever needed.
• One-Way Rentals Made Easy: Need to pick up in Virginia and drop off elsewhere (say, drive from Arlington to New York City)? Many of our partners allow one-way trips. Just select a different return location in our search. We’ll highlight any one-way fee up front so you know the cost. It’s perfect for travelers planning an epic East Coast road trip ending in another state, or college students doing a one-way move. We make cross-country adventures possible without the headache.

Top Virginia Car Rental Deals(no payment required now reserve and pay at pick-up)

• Economy Car from $28/day.Example: Nissan Versa or similar. A small, budget-friendly ride ideal for solo travelers or couples sticking to cities and highways. Easy to park on Richmond’s streets or Old Town Alexandria’s colonial roads, and excellent fuel economy for day trips (think Richmond to Charlottesville or Norfolk). High competition at airports like Dulles often keeps economy prices low, especially in off-peak months.
• Midsize SUV from $45/day.Example: Toyota RAV4 or Ford Escape. A versatile choice for families or groups up to 5. Plenty of cargo space for luggage or sports gear perfect for a ski trip to Massanutten or a weekend hiking in Shenandoah. With comfortable interiors and available AWD, SUVs are a smart pick year-round (summer beach runs or navigating mountain roads after a winter dusting).
• Minivan from $55/day.Example: Chrysler Pacifica or Toyota Sienna. Seats 7-8 passengers comfortably. Ideal for family vacations or group travel whether you’re touring Virginia’s historic triangle (Williamsburg-Jamestown-Yorktown) or heading to a Hokies game at Virginia Tech with friends. Slide-open doors and ample cargo space make airport pick-ups and hauling kids’ gear a breeze. Split the cost among a larger group for an ultra-economical per-person rate.
• 12-Passenger Van from $80/day.Example: Ford Transit Passenger Van or similar. Got a big crew? This is perfect for sports teams, church groups, or an extended family reunion trip. Keep everyone together (and save on renting multiple cars). Despite its size, a 12-passenger van is straightforward to drive on Virginia’s highways. Enjoy unbeatable per-person cost for travel great for group tours of DC’s monuments or a multi-family vacation at Virginia Beach.

(Note: “From” rates exclude taxes and fees. Approximately 10-15% in total taxes/surcharges may apply in Virginia e.g., a state rental tax around 10% and, at airports, concession fees ~11%. Our quotes show all these included before you book. Prices can vary with season: expect higher rates during summer beach season, fall foliage weekends, or major events like college graduations. Book early for peak periods to lock in a better price. Also, weekends might be cheaper per day than mid-week on some rentals due to specials. Always search with your exact dates for the most accurate pricing.)

Driving in Virginia: What to Know
Driving in Virginia is generally a pleasure you can experience everything from modern interstates near Washington, D.C. to peaceful country byways through horse farm country. To help you stay safe and stress-free on the road, here are key Virginia driving tips, rules, and local quirks to be aware of:

• Traffic & Rush Hours: Northern Virginia (the D.C. suburbs) is infamous for heavy traffic. Weekday rush hours on highways like I-95, I-66, and I-495 (Capital Beltway) typically peak 6:30–9:30 AM and 3:30–7:00 PM. Expect stop-and-go conditions, especially heading into D.C. in the morning and out in the evening. Elsewhere in Virginia, traffic is lighter but cities like Richmond and Norfolk still see congestion during commutes (around 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM). On summer weekends, beach traffic is a factor Friday afternoons on I-64 east toward Virginia Beach or I-95 south toward North Carolina can crawl as folks head on vacation. Tip: if possible, plan long drives during off-peak times, and use a GPS app with live traffic (like Waze or Google Maps) to find alternate routes around bottlenecks. Virginia has many scenic backroads; sometimes a slightly longer country route is faster than a jammed interstate.
• City Driving & Parking: Virginia’s cities offer a mix of driving environments. In downtown Richmond or Alexandria’s Old Town, you’ll find one-way streets and occasional tight turns in historic districts, so drive attentively and be ready for sudden stops at pedestrian crossings. Parking in urban areas can be competitive: meters in Arlington, Alexandria, Richmond, etc., often run $1.50–$2 per hour (and enforce limits, so read signs). In Northern Virginia near D.C., many neighborhoods require residential parking permits. Always check street signs before leaving your car curbside. Parking garages are plentiful in areas like Arlington (often $10–$20 per day) and Virginia Beach oceanfront ($7–$15/day in summer). In smaller towns and at attractions, parking is usually easier or free e.g., Colonial Williamsburg has visitor lots, and trailheads in Shenandoah have parking but they fill on peak weekends. Pro Tip: If you’re staying in Washington, D.C. but have a Virginia rental car, consider using a hotel with parking or a park-and-ride at a Metro station, because downtown D.C. parking can run $25–$40 a day and street parking is very limited.
• Tolls & Express Lanes: Virginia uses a mix of cashless electronic tolls and traditional tolls. In Northern Virginia, all-electronic tolling is common. The Dulles Toll Road (Route 267) from Dulles Airport toward D.C. is cashless you’ll need E-ZPass or you’ll be billed by plate (rental companies offer toll programs to cover this, or they’ll charge an admin fee if you go through without a transponder). The parallel Dulles Greenway (Route 267 past the airport into Loudoun County) is also tolled. I-66 inside the Beltway and the I-495/I-95 Express Lanes use dynamic electronic tolls for solo drivers (free for HOV-2+ with E-ZPass Flex). Elsewhere, Hampton Roads area has a few tolls (e.g., the Downtown Tunnel between Norfolk and Portsmouth is electronic toll only; Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel costs $14–$18 cash/card depending on season/time). We recommend using an E-ZPass transponder if you have one, or opting into your rental car’s toll program if you’ll be hitting these roads frequently it’ll save money and hassle. If not, don’t worry: you can still drive toll roads, just expect the rental company to charge the toll plus a small fee via license plate billing. Plan your route: sometimes you can choose a non-toll alternative (for example, US-50 instead of the Dulles Toll Road), but those may be slower or more congested. In general, Virginia’s tolls are well-marked and manageable; just know your payment method in advance.
• “HOV” and Carpool Rules: The D.C. region highways have special lanes and rules. I-66 and the I-95/I-495 express lanes require either a toll or a minimum number of passengers (High-Occupancy Vehicle lanes) during rush hours. For instance, weekdays on I-66 inside the Beltway are HOV-2 or toll for solo drivers during peak times. If you have a rental and more than one person, you may use HOV lanes free where allowed (look for signs like “HOV-2+”). If driving alone, avoid entering HOV lanes during restricted times to dodge hefty fines (unless you’re using it as a paid express lane with an E-ZPass). Always read the electronic signs they’ll indicate HOV hours and any toll rates.
• Rules of the Road: In Virginia (as in all U.S.), drive on the right-hand side and overtake on the left. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants. Right turns on red are allowed after a full stop unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red.” (Be cautious: in some busy intersections, particularly in Northern Virginia near D.C., signs prohibit it for safety.) Left turn on red from a one-way street onto another one-way is allowed in Virginia after stopping, but such situations are uncommon. Speed limits: generally 70 mph on rural interstates, 55–65 mph on urban freeways and non-interstate highways, and 25–35 mph on city streets (for example, many residential/business areas default to 25 mph unless posted otherwise). Virginia State Police do enforce speed limits, and fines can be steep (over 80 mph can even be considered reckless driving in VA), so keep an eye on signs. The state also has a hands-free driving law it’s illegal to hold a phone while driving. Use Bluetooth or pull over to use your device; police actively ticket texting or handheld use (fines start around $125 for first offense). Always come to a complete stop at stop signs and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks it’s strictly enforced in town centers and near schools.
• Headlights & Wipers: Virginia is a “wipers on, lights on” state. By law, whenever your windshield wipers are in use due to rain, snow, or fog, your headlights must be on. Many newer cars have automatic headlights just ensure they’re actually illuminating in bad weather, especially in daytime rain. Also use headlights 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise (common US rule). Basically, if visibility is low or it’s night, switch on those lights. Not only is it the law, it helps other drivers see you sooner, improving safety.
• Winter Driving: Virginia winters are moderate compared to New England, but we do get occasional snow and ice (especially in the mountains and northern regions). Main highways and city streets are usually well-treated and plowed promptly after storms. However, if you’re visiting in December–February, be prepared for possible winter conditions: slow down on snow, leave extra stopping distance, and avoid sudden braking or turns on icy roads. Rental cars in Virginia come with all-season tires which handle light snow, but they are not full snow tires. Tire chains are generally not needed (and actually not legal on Virginia roads except during snow emergencies), since major routes are cleared quickly. In the rare event of a significant snowstorm or ice storm, authorities may advise staying off the roads for a bit always check the weather forecast. If you’re uncomfortable driving in snow, consider waiting until roads are plowed, or use our roadside assistance if you encounter any trouble. The good news: between storms, winter days in Virginia can be sunny and clear, and you might enjoy beautiful views of snow-dusted Blue Ridge peaks from a safe, plowed roadway. Just allow extra time and drive patiently in winter weather.
• Pedestrians & Cyclists: Virginia drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks this is strictly enforced in many towns. In busy areas like Arlington, Alexandria, Charlottesville, or near university campuses, expect lots of foot traffic. Stop for people in crosswalks, even if there are no traffic lights. Many crosswalks have yield signs or flashing beacons; always give way to walkers fines for failing to yield can exceed $100. Also be mindful of cyclists: cities like Richmond and Fairfax have growing bike lane networks, and country roads may have cyclists especially in warmer months. State law requires giving at least 3 feet of space when passing a bicycle. On narrow scenic byways, you might encounter bikes and even horseback riders slow down and pass very cautiously. A friendly wave or use of hazard lights to alert drivers behind you can promote safety. Sharing the road is part of Virginia’s driving culture, especially in scenic and rural areas where people bike or ride horses. Stay alert, and everyone will safely enjoy the road.
• Fuel & Gas Stations: Fuel in Virginia is regular unleaded gasoline (petrol) for virtually all rental cars. Gas prices here tend to be around or slightly below the U.S. average (often ranging ~$3–$4 per gallon, though that fluctuates with global oil prices and season). One perk: Virginia’s gas tax is relatively low, so fuel is usually cheaper here than up north in D.C. or Pennsylvania making those long drives a bit easier on the wallet. You’ll find gas stations readily along all major highways (look for service plazas on I-95 and I-64, etc.) and in towns. Payment is usually self-service at the pump by credit/debit card. Pumping your own gas is the norm (unlike in a couple of states like New Jersey). Pro Tip: Before returning your rental, fill up the tank to avoid high refueling fees. In Northern Virginia, there are gas stations just a few miles from Dulles Airport (along Route 28 and near Sterling) which are convenient for a top-off; near Reagan National (DCA), look around Crystal City or along US-1 in Arlington for a station. Save your receipt in case the rental agent asks for proof of refueling. If you expect to drive a lot, some companies offer a pre-paid fuel option, but it only makes sense if you’ll use almost the entire tank. Generally, fueling it yourself will be the most cost-effective approach.
• Driving Etiquette & Laws: Virginia drivers are a mix in rural areas you’ll find folks are often patient and polite, while in Northern Virginia/DC traffic, drivers can be a bit aggressive (the influence of big-city commuting). Stay calm and signal well in advance. It’s illegal (and unsafe) to tailgate; Virginia has laws against following too closely and “failure to yield” that police do enforce. Also, move over or slow down when passing an emergency vehicle or tow truck stopped on the roadside it’s state law to give them space. When on multi-lane highways, keep right except to pass; the left lane is generally for faster traffic, and on some stretches, you can actually be ticketed for going too slowly in the left lane. Lastly, no open container of alcohol in the vehicle (even passengers) that’s against the law everywhere in the U.S. Driving under the influence is of course illegal; Virginia’s legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. In summary, drive sober, follow the rules, and you’ll find Virginia a very driver-friendly state.

By following these tips and exercising common sense, you’ll find that driving in Virginia is manageable and highly rewarding. Pack a map or use your GPS, enjoy the ride, and get ready to discover why Virginia is ideal for road trips!

Popular Road Trips from Virginia (hit the road and explore beyond state lines!)

One of the greatest perks of renting a car in Virginia is the ability to embark on fantastic road trips. From coastal beaches to mountain peaks, Virginia is perfectly positioned for diverse driving adventures. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as a starting point and customize as you like):

• Coastal Escape Virginia to the Outer Banks, NC (Route: Richmond ➔ Virginia Beach ➔ Outer Banks (Kitty Hawk & Nags Head), ~230 miles total)
  
  

Highlights: Start in Virginia’s capital, Richmond. From there, drive east on I-64 about 100 miles to Virginia Beach the state’s most popular beach town. In Virginia Beach, take a stroll down the famous Oceanfront Boardwalk or visit First Landing State Park, where the Jamestown colonists first landed in 1607. After enjoying Virginia’s coastline, continue south via the Chesapeake Expressway (VA-168) into North Carolina, heading for the Outer Banks barrier islands. You’ll cross into the Outer Banks near Kitty Hawk, where the Wright Brothers made aviation history (stop by the Wright Brothers National Memorial for a quick visit). Then cruise down NC-12 to Nags Head and Cape Hatteras National Seashore expect undeveloped dunes, wild beach vistas, and perhaps spot wild horses if you venture to Corolla up north. It’s about 80–100 miles from Virginia Beach to central OBX depending how far you go. Along the way, you can enjoy fresh seafood at local crab shacks, climb the Bodie Island or Cape Hatteras lighthouses for panoramic views, and dip your toes in the Atlantic. The Outer Banks are famous for their laid-back beach towns (Duck, Avon, Hatteras) and photogenic sunsets over the sound. If you have extra time, consider taking a ferry to Ocracoke Island for an even more secluded feel. After soaking up sun and surf, you can head back to Virginia or continue your coastal drive further south towards Wilmington, NC if adventure calls.

Pro Tip: Summer traffic to the Outer Banks from Virginia can be heavy on weekends rentals on OBX often have Saturday turnover, so Route 168/158 can back up on Saturday mornings. To beat the rush, try leaving Richmond very early or in the evening. Also, note that the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (connecting Norfolk/Virginia Beach to Virginia’s Eastern Shore) is not on this direct route, but it’s a worthwhile detour if you want a unique drive through and under the bay (with a stop at the scenic overlook in the middle). Lastly, bring some cash or EZ-Pass for the Chesapeake Expressway toll (about $3–$8) on the way to OBX, and watch your speed on NC-12 the roads are narrow and patrolled to keep the beaches safe.

• Mountain Adventure Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains (Blue Ridge Parkway Route) (Route: Waynesboro, VA ➔ Blue Ridge Parkway ➔ Asheville, NC ➔ Great Smoky Mountains NP (Gatlinburg, TN), ~500 miles one-way)
  
  

Highlights: If you’re up for an epic multi-day journey, head west to the mountains. Begin in central Virginia at Waynesboro, where you can hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway (near Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive exit). From Waynesboro (Mile 0 of the Parkway) all the way to the North Carolina border, you’ll drive about 250 miles of one of America’s most scenic roads. The Blue Ridge Parkway winds along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains expect endless views, quaint pull-offs, and visitor centers with Appalachian history exhibits. Take your time: stop at Natural Bridge (at US-11, an astounding 215-foot tall rock arch once owned by Thomas Jefferson), and Mabry Mill (Milepost 176, a famous old grist mill great photo op). As you cross into North Carolina, consider spending a night in Asheville, NC, a vibrant mountain city known for its arts scene and the Biltmore Estate. From Asheville, continue west on I-40 then south on US-441 into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. The distance from Asheville to Gatlinburg, TN (on the park’s edge) is ~130 miles. In the Smokies, drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road, walk a portion of the Appalachian Trail at Clingmans Dome (the highest point in Tennessee), and watch for black bears and elk that roam the area. The mountain views and misty “smoky” haze at sunrise or sunset are unforgettable. This road trip showcases the best of Appalachia you’ll traverse from Virginia’s gentle hills to the dramatic Smokies, passing through mountain culture and breathtaking nature.

Pro Tip: The Blue Ridge Parkway speed limit is a leisurely 45 mph (and slower in some twists), so don’t rush budget at least two days to truly enjoy stops. Portions of the Parkway can close in winter due to snow, and in summer be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms (just pull off if visibility drops). Fuel up before hopping on the Parkway; gas is not available directly on it (towns like Roanoke or Galax, VA are good fuel stops). In Great Smoky Mountains NP, traffic can be heavy near Gatlinburg and popular trails consider visiting mid-week or early morning to avoid crowds. And remember, crossing state lines is no problem with your rental unlimited mileage means this long journey won’t incur extra fees beyond fuel and fun!

• Capital & Historical Corridor Virginia to Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia (Route: Richmond ➔ Washington, D.C. ➔ Philadelphia, PA, ~320 miles total)
  
  

Highlights: Virginia’s strategic location makes it easy to combine state history with a broader East Coast city tour. Start in Richmond, steeped in Civil War history and once the Capital of the Confederacy you can visit the American Civil War Museum or stroll along Monument Avenue. Then drive roughly 110 miles north on I-95 to Washington, D.C. (which sits right between Virginia and Maryland). In D.C., park your car and explore the National Mall: the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian museums are must-sees (and all free!). Don’t miss a drive by the U.S. Capitol and White House they’re easily accessible by car on weekends or evenings when traffic is lighter. After getting your fill of the nation’s capital, continue north on I-95 about 140 miles to Philadelphia. Along the way, you’ll pass through Baltimore (famous for its Inner Harbor a potential stop for lunch or an aquarium visit). In Philadelphia, dive into America’s revolutionary history: see the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was signed), and grab an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Old City and along the Schuylkill River by the Art Museum (run up the “Rocky steps”!). This road trip connects Virginia’s present capital (Richmond) with the national capital (D.C.) and the nation’s first capital (Philly) a journey through government and history. It’s a mix of urban exploring and highway cruising through three states plus D.C. Since the distances aren’t huge, you can feasibly do this in a long weekend, though each city merits its own day or two if possible.

Pro Tip: Hitting multiple big cities means dealing with traffic and parking try to time your drives to avoid rush hour in each metro (e.g., leave Richmond after 9 AM to arrive D.C. midday, and depart D.C. late morning after rush hour to reach Philly by afternoon). In D.C. and Philly, park at your hotel or use day garages both cities have reasonably priced garages on weekends (D.C. around $15/day, Philly $20–$25/day). Once parked, use public transit or rideshares to see dense downtown sights to give yourself (and your car) a break. Also, if you prefer a scenic detour, consider taking US-301 from Richmond toward Annapolis, MD to avoid some I-95 congestion (you’ll cross the photogenic Potomac River via the Nice-Middleton Bridge and pass through Maryland’s countryside). This route adds a bit of time but can be more pleasant than the busy interstate. Lastly, if you plan to return to Virginia afterward, consider a loop: from Philly, swing west through Gettysburg, PA then south down Skyline Drive, blending city and mountain scenery on your way home.

Quick-Reference Info Box: Virginia Car Rental at a Glance

• Popular Car Types: Economy & Compact cars (great for city travel and fuel economy), Midsize & Standard SUVs (for families and mountain trips), Minivans & Passenger Vans (for groups or lots of gear), Luxury sedans & Convertibles (fun in scenic areas or for business class comfort). All types are available in Virginia choose what fits your trip, whether navigating tight colonial streets or cruising open highways.
• Typical Rental Rates: Economy cars from ~$25-30/day in off-peak seasons. Mid-size sedans ~$40/day. SUVs around $50/day. Vans and luxury vehicles can be $70+. Rates rise in summer (beach season) and fall (leaf-peeping in the mountains). Book 4–6 weeks ahead for best prices, especially for holidays and weekends.
• Major Pick-Up Hubs: Washington Dulles (IAD) & Reagan National (DCA) Airports largest fleets and extended hours; Richmond (RIC) and Norfolk (ORF) Airports for central/coastal VA; Downtown locations in cities like Richmond, Virginia Beach, Alexandria, Charlottesville. If flying into D.C. or NC, those airports also serve Virginia travelers.
• Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road. Overtake on the left on multi-lane roads. (Keep right except to pass on highways slower traffic should stay in right lanes.)
• Speed Limits: 70 mph on most rural interstates (like parts of I-81, I-64, I-95 outside cities). 55–65 mph on urban interstates and major highways. 45-55 mph on many state highways and rural roads. 25–35 mph in cities, towns, and residential areas (e.g., default 25 in many urban zones). Always follow posted signs; Virginia police enforce limits strictly, especially in work zones and school zones.
• Fuel: Regular unleaded gasoline for nearly all rentals. Premium gas only needed if indicated on fuel cap (rare for rental fleet). Gas ~$3.50/gal currently (varies). Virginia is self-service pump your own. Pay by card at pump or cash inside. 1 gallon = 3.785 liters.
• Tolls: Electronic tolling common (especially Northern VA). Notable toll roads: Dulles Toll Road/Greenway (NoVa), I-95/I-495 Express Lanes, Downtown/Midtown Tunnels (Norfolk). No cash on many—use E-ZPass or rental’s toll program. (CBBT and some bridges still take cash/card.) Plan for tolls if driving around D.C. or to the Eastern Shore.
• Traffic & Rush Hour: Heavy congestion in Northern Virginia/D.C. weekdays 6–9 AM and 4–7 PM (I-95, I-66, I-495 “Beltway” routinely slow). Hampton Roads (Norfolk/Virginia Beach) has bridge-tunnel traffic at rush hour and beach traffic summer weekends. Other parts of VA generally moderate traffic. Use GPS traffic alerts and give extra time around cities.
• Parking:Cities: Meters ~$2/hour (free on Sundays in some areas). Garages in D.C./Arlington $15–$25/day, Richmond/Norfolk $10–$20/day. Suburbs/Towns: Plenty of free parking lots and street parking (watch for permit-only areas in some neighborhoods). At beaches: VA Beach oceanfront $7–$10 daily in summer lots; arrive early for spots. At attractions: usually free parking (Monticello, Mount Vernon, theme parks) or a small fee. Read signs to avoid tickets e.g., street sweeping nights in some towns or time limits.
• Rental Requirements: Valid driver’s license (foreign licenses accepted; carry passport and IDP if license not in English). Minimum age 21 (surcharge under 25). Major credit card in renter’s name required at airport locations; some neighborhood locations accept debit with conditions. Have proof of insurance if declining coverage (optional but good practice).
• Best Time to Rent/Visit:Fall (Sep–Oct): beautiful foliage drives, pleasant temps popular on weekends (book early). Summer: great for beaches and Blue Ridge hikes highest demand (reserve well in advance). Spring (Apr–May): mild weather, gardens in bloom a sweet spot for lower crowds outside of spring break and Cherry Blossom week. Winter (Dec–Feb): cold but moderate snow lowest rates and quieter roads (except around holidays). Plan around major events (e.g., DC Cherry Blossom Festival late Mar/early Apr, Virginia Beach summer festivals) when rentals may be scarcer.
• Navigation: GPS or smartphone maps strongly recommended, especially in the D.C./Northern VA area with its complex road network. Cellular coverage is excellent in most of Virginia, except some remote stretches of mountains or rural farmlands where it can be spotty. It’s wise to download offline maps if you’ll drive Skyline Drive/Blue Ridge (signal can drop in valleys). Road signage is clear on interstates and primary routes. Keep a paper map or atlas as backup for scenic backroads.
• Emergency Info: Dial 911 for any emergency (police, fire, medical). Virginia State Police can also be reached by dialing #77 on a cell phone for non-emergencies or roadside help on highways. Most rentals include roadside assistance; keep the emergency number provided in your glovebox in case of a flat tire or issue. Rest areas are frequent on interstates take breaks if driving long stretches (Virginia welcomes visitors with clean rest stops roughly every 25-50 miles on major highways). Always pull fully off the road if you experience car trouble, turn on hazard lights, and stay inside the vehicle if on a busy highway while you await help.