Napa Valley Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Napa Valley

Renting a car in Napa Valley offers the freedom to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests. Whether you are seeking outdoor experiences, romantic getaways, or entertainment options, having a car allows you to visit key attractions conveniently. For instance, you can take a scenic drive to the historic Napa Valley Wine Train, located 15 km away, or enjoy a breathtaking hot air balloon ride just 5 km from the valley. Families can spend a day at Yountville Park, located 4 km away, perfect for outdoor activities. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities like Napa, 16 km away, where you can visit attractions such as Sonoma Plaza and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, or head over to Yountville, only 4 km away, to enjoy more local sights. St. Helena, located 14 km from Napa Valley, features artistic venues like The Christopher Hill Gallery. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience, making it easier to discover everything Napa Valley has to offer.

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: Hertz is a popular choice for car rental in Napa Valley, located 16 km away. Many travellers appreciate the selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Fullsize options, which are most frequently booked. Customers often highlight the reliability and comfort of Hertz vehicles, making it an excellent option for exploring the beautiful Napa Valley region at your leisure.
• Enterprise: With a location 18 km from Napa Valley, Enterprise is well-regarded for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. Travellers frequently opt for the Midsize SUV and Luxury Convertible, which offer a stylish way to navigate the stunning wine country. The helpful staff and smooth rental process contribute to a seamless experience for those looking to enjoy all that Napa Valley has to offer.
• Avis: Avis is situated 17 km away from Napa Valley and is known for its variety of vehicle choices, including Compact and Midsize SUVs that are popular among renters. Customers often commend Avis for its efficient service and well-maintained cars. This makes Avis a solid choice for those wanting to explore the picturesque landscapes and wineries of Napa Valley with convenience and ease.

Where to stay around Napa Valley

• Napa: Located 16 km from Napa Valley, Napa offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, romantic settings, and entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy body treatments at resorts, play golf, or explore local landmarks like the historic Napa Valley Wine Train. The area is also known for its excellent wineries and restaurants, making it a great spot for food and drink enthusiasts. Key attractions include Six Flags Discovery Kingdom for family fun and Sonoma Plaza for cultural experiences.
• St. Helena: Situated 14 km from Napa Valley, St. Helena is a charming city ideal for outdoor lovers and those seeking a romantic getaway. With its spas and resorts, visitors can indulge in relaxation after exploring local attractions like The Christopher Hill Gallery and Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, which highlight the area's rich culture. St. Helena is home to numerous wineries and restaurants, providing delightful culinary experiences that complement the stunning scenery.
• Yountville: Only 4 km from Napa Valley, Yountville is a picturesque destination perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic escapes. The city features beautiful parks such as Yountville Park, making it an inviting place for families and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy the famous Napa Valley Wine Train and indulge in local wines and gourmet dining options at nearby restaurants. Yountville's blend of cultural spots and recreational activities ensures an enriching stay for all.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to locate the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain more competitive rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak 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 strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable; just ensure to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 and around Napa Valley is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. March also offers average prices and low demand, making it a nice option. As the year progresses, prices begin to rise, especially from May through August, with August seeing the highest demand and prices. September tends to be the most expensive month for rentals, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	47.3°F (8.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	51.3°F (10.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.9°F (16.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
July	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
October	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
November	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low