Old Town San Diego Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Old Town San Diego

Renting a car in Old Town San Diego offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and have the convenience of flexible travel plans while visiting attractions. Old Town San Diego State Park, situated in the area, provides a wonderful opportunity for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Additionally, you can take a short drive to Mission Bay, located 4 km away, or enjoy the beach at Mission Beach, just 5 km from Old Town. Families will appreciate the ease of travel as you can easily pack up for a day at the beach or a picnic in the park. You can also explore nearby areas like the Midway District, only 1 km away, which includes attractions such as the USS Midway Museum. Having a rental car allows for a seamless journey to popular destinations within San Diego, making it an ideal choice for tourists seeking a city-themed experience, outdoor activities, or family fun. Whether you want to visit iconic sites or enjoy local scenery, a rental car helps ensure you won't miss out on any of what this vibrant area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals around Old Town San Diego

• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is a popular choice for those exploring Old Town San Diego. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who require flexibility and comfort during their travels. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, you can easily navigate the area and enjoy your adventure at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV can comfortably seat 5 travellers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it a great choice for those looking to explore Old Town San Diego while ensuring everyone travels comfortably. Enjoy the convenience of a spacious interior while maintaining the ability to navigate the city's streets with ease.
• Fullsize: The fullsize option accommodates 5 travellers and offers impressive luggage capacity, with room for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups seeking to travel together without sacrificing comfort or space. With a fullsize vehicle, you'll have the flexibility to pack everything you need while enjoying the freedom to explore Old Town San Diego and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers around Old Town San Diego

• Alamo Rent A Car: Located 3 km away from Old Town San Diego, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travellers, boasting an overall rating of 8 out of 10. Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, Alamo ensures a seamless rental experience. The most booked cars with this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making them a great option for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Sixt: Also situated 3 km from Old Town San Diego, Sixt is another top car rental supplier known for its exceptional friendly service. Travellers appreciate the ease of renting from Sixt, with a focus on customer satisfaction. Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs are the most popular choices among customers, providing ample space and comfort for your adventures in and around San Diego.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is conveniently located 3 km from Old Town San Diego, making it an accessible option for visitors. With a solid selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, Thrifty caters to the needs of those looking to explore the local attractions with flexibility. Their straightforward rental process ensures a hassle-free experience for all travellers.

Where to stay around Old Town San Diego

• Old Town San Diego: A vibrant area known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Old Town San Diego offers a unique blend of shops, restaurants, and historic sites. It's an excellent base for exploring local attractions and is close to popular destinations like Balboa Park, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Coronado: Located 8 km away from Old Town San Diego, Coronado is a charming city that provides a delightful beach experience along with historic landmarks. Visit Coronado Beach for a relaxing day by the water or explore the USS Midway Museum for a taste of maritime history. The shopping centre and local eateries add to its appeal, especially for families.
• Coronado Island: Situated 6 km from Old Town San Diego, Coronado Island is a picturesque destination perfect for outdoor and beach activities. The island features stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions like the Seaport Village and USS Midway Museum. The nearby wineries and restaurants enhance your stay, making it a great spot for relaxation and adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Old Town San Diego

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Old Town San Diego

The best value period to rent a car in and around Old Town San Diego is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average to slightly high. Following this, March and April offer moderate pricing with high demand. June tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, while July and August see both high prices and high demand. This makes June through August a busier time for car rentals in the area.