Napa Valley Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Napa Valley

Renting a car in Napa Valley provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the historic Napa Valley Wine Train, located 15 km away, or enjoy a scenic balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons, just 5 km from the valley. Families will appreciate the convenience of visiting Yountville Park, an urban oasis only 4 km away, where outdoor experiences await. Additionally, having your own vehicle allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Napa, 16 km away, where you can find the Sonoma Plaza and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, or Yountville, just 4 km away, known for its charming parks and the wine train. For art enthusiasts, St. Helena, 14 km from Napa Valley, features galleries and historical sites. Overall, renting a car enhances your experience by making it easier to manage luggage, plan spontaneous excursions, and enjoy romantic outings or entertainment-themed adventures without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals around Napa Valley

• Midsize SUV: The most popular choice among travellers, the midsize SUV accommodates 5 travellers comfortably and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Napa Valley with ample room for luggage and personal items, ensuring a comfortable ride as you navigate the beautiful landscapes.
• Fullsize: Another highly booked option, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families and groups who need extra space for their luggage. With its roomy interior, the fullsize car allows for a relaxed travel experience while enjoying the scenic routes of Napa Valley.
• Compact: The compact car is a popular selection for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. It accommodates 5 travellers and provides room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is best suited for those who appreciate efficiency and ease of driving while still having enough space for their essentials. Compact cars are an excellent way to navigate the charming streets of Napa Valley with agility.

Top rated car suppliers around Napa Valley

• Hertz: Located 16 km away from Napa Valley, Hertz is a popular choice among travellers seeking reliable car rentals. Known for its diverse fleet, the most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, offering comfort and space for your Napa Valley adventures. With an emphasis on customer satisfaction and ease of access, Hertz provides a convenient option for exploring the breathtaking scenery and attractions of the region.
• Enterprise: With a rental location situated 18 km from Napa Valley, Enterprise is a fantastic option for those wanting a premium driving experience. The most sought-after vehicles from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Luxury Convertibles, perfect for cruising through the picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. Their commitment to customer service ensures a smooth rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip to Napa Valley.
• Avis: Avis offers car rentals from a location 17 km away from Napa Valley, making it a convenient choice for tourists. The supplier's fleet features popular options like Compact and Midsize SUVs, catering to various travel needs. With Avis, you can expect a seamless rental experience that aligns with your plans for exploring the charming wineries and stunning landscapes of Napa Valley at your leisure.

Where to stay around Napa Valley

• Napa: Located 16 km from Napa Valley, Napa is ideal for outdoor and romantic experiences. Enjoy activities like body treatments and golf, along with various food and drink options including wineries and restaurants. Key attractions include the historic Napa Valley Wine Train, which offers a cultural holiday experience, and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom for family entertainment.
• St. Helena: Situated 14 km from Napa Valley, St. Helena is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Engage in spa treatments and enjoy the scenic local lake and beaches. The area features excellent dining options with nearby wineries. Don't miss visiting The Christopher Hill Gallery and Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park for a cultural experience.
• Yountville: Only 4 km from Napa Valley, Yountville is a charming destination for outdoor and romantic activities. The city offers body treatments, golf, and a delightful array of wineries and restaurants. Explore Yountville Park for family-friendly outdoor fun, and take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique cultural experience.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Napa Valley

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance typically ensures lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may face higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable; however, ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Napa Valley

The best time to rent a car in Napa Valley is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. March offers average prices with still low demand, while April sees a slight increase in demand and pricing. June through August are typically the busiest months, with August being the most expensive due to high demand. September also maintains moderately high prices with average demand, making it one of the costlier times for rentals.