San Francisco Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Francisco

Renting a car in San Francisco offers the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. You can easily manage your luggage, allowing for flexible travel plans that suit your needs. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking outdoor adventures, having a rental car makes visiting key attractions convenient. For example, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a historic landmark, is accessible from various points in the city. You can also visit Pier 39, a bustling jetty known for its vibrant atmosphere, or enjoy a day at Golden Gate Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. Beyond the city, a rental car allows for easy trips to nearby destinations like South San Francisco, where you can explore parks and local attractions, or Fisherman's Wharf, which features popular sites such as Alcatraz Island and Lombard Street. Union Square, another neighbourhood filled with shopping and dining options, is also within reach. Overall, renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the diverse experiences San Francisco has to offer, making your trip more enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in San Francisco

• Standard SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. It's an ideal choice for couples, families, or groups who want a comfortable ride while exploring San Francisco and its surroundings. With the versatility of an SUV, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Perfect for those needing extra space, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travellers with room for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent option for families or larger groups looking to travel together. Enjoy the convenience of having ample luggage space while navigating the attractions of San Francisco.
• Midsize SUV: This car type is designed for 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it a suitable choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV provides a balance of comfort and capacity, allowing you to handle your belongings with ease while enjoying your journey around San Francisco.

Top rated car suppliers in San Francisco

• Sixt: Sixt operates 4 rental locations throughout San Francisco, providing travellers with friendly service, clean vehicles, and minimal wait times. With an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10, Sixt is a popular choice among visitors. The most booked vehicles from this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it an excellent option for those seeking comfort and space on their adventures.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car also features 4 rental locations in San Francisco and boasts a customer satisfaction rating of 7.6 out of 10. Known for their friendly service and short wait times, Alamo is a reliable choice for tourists. Popular vehicle options include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, providing flexibility for various travel needs and group sizes.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With over 5 rental locations in the San Francisco area, Thrifty Car Rental is a convenient option for travellers. While specific ratings are not provided, the supplier is known for its diverse vehicle selection. Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs are among the most booked options, catering to those looking for a blend of affordability and comfort during their stay.

Where to stay in San Francisco

• Union Square: Union Square is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and city-themed experiences. With attractions like the iconic Union Square, Pier 39, and Lombard Street nearby, visitors can explore shopping areas, theaters, and a variety of restaurants and wineries. This area is particularly lively and well-suited for a city holiday.
• Downtown San Francisco: Downtown San Francisco offers a mix of family, city, and outdoor experiences. Key highlights include the historic Ferry Building, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and Lombard Street. The neighbourhood is a hub for shopping and education, with numerous urban parks and entertainment options available. This area is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the cultural aspects of the city.
• South San Francisco: South San Francisco is an inviting city ideal for family and outdoor activities. Highlights include San Bruno Point Park, the San Francisco Baking Institute, and the expansive Golden Gate Park. The area has a blend of shopping and entertainment venues, making it a great choice for visitors seeking a mix of urban and natural attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Francisco

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your journey. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may incur higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium 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 rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
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 might justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s simple 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 incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around San Francisco

The best time to rent a car in and around San Francisco is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers excellent value for travellers. March through May also present average pricing and demand, making them decent choices as well. However, the busiest and most expensive months are June through August, when prices and demand peak, particularly in August. Following this, September and October see average prices with slightly higher demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.8°F (13.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	56.1°F (13.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average