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Boston is the largest city and capital of Massachusetts, and the cultural and economic center of New England. The Greater Boston metro area is the tenth largest in the US, stretching to Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine, making a Boston rent a car a great way to get around and see all that the area has to offer on your own schedule. Rich in American history dating back to pre-Revolutionary days as a major shipping port and manufacturing center, the city attracts over 16 million visitors a year. Today Boston is home to thriving research, finance, and technology industries, and the largest concentration of universities in the nation. Look for great deals on Boston car rentals and spend your savings visiting popular attractions like the city's many museums, historical sites, Boston Common and Public Garden, go shopping on Newbury Street, or see a Sox game at Fenway Park.

Boston car rentals are available downtown (usually for better rates than those at the airport) from Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo, National, Dollar, Budget, Avis, and Thrifty. Try Enterprise for the best deals, followed by Hertz and Alamo. If you're flying into Boston/Logan International Airport (BOS), rentals are provided via complementary shuttle by Enterprise, Thrifty, Alamo, Dollar, Budget, Avis, Hertz, and National. Try Enterprise for the lowest rates, followed by Dollar and Thrifty.

You must present a valid driver's license and credit card issued in your name at most rental car agencies (although some will take a cash deposit depending on a credit check), along with proof of insurance if you decline the vendor's coverage options. Usually age requirements for a Boston rent a car are 21 for compact and economy cars, 25 for all others, and an additional young driver charge may apply for anyone under 25 (select agencies will rent to qualifying individuals over 18 for an additional fee). Driving downtown can be stressful for many people who are not used to the heavy traffic, scarce parking, and confusing traffic patterns similar to those in New York City. Consider a vehicle with a built in navigation system to avoid getting turned around on one-way streets. If you're coming in from the outskirts of the Boston area, you may prefer to park at an MBTA commuter rail and terminal subway station, and take the inexpensive "T" subway cars to get around.