Downtown San Francisco Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown San Francisco

Renting a car in Downtown San Francisco offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as you can manage your belongings easily while navigating the area. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the historic Ferry Building and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, both conveniently located within Downtown San Francisco. Additionally, Lombard Street, known for its unique winding curves, is just 2 km away, making it easy to include in your itinerary.

A car also allows you to explore nearby popular destinations, such as Union Square, less than 1 km from Downtown, or Fisherman's Wharf, situated 3 km away. This flexibility is ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences or city-themed adventures. By having your own vehicle, you can travel without the constraints of public transport schedules, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to this vibrant metropolis.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown San Francisco

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers with room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a perfect balance of space and comfort, allowing you to navigate both the bustling streets of Downtown San Francisco and the scenic routes beyond with ease.
• Standard SUV: With capacity for 5 travellers and space for up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is well-suited for couples, families, and groups. This option provides a comfortable ride for exploring the city while still offering a good amount of luggage space for your travel needs.
• Fullsize: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with the ability to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize vehicle is perfect for families or groups requiring extra room. Its spacious interior allows for a comfortable travel experience, making it easier to manage your luggage while exploring the attractions of Downtown San Francisco and surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown San Francisco

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental has a location less than 1 km away from Downtown San Francisco, making it a convenient option for travellers. It is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV offerings, which cater well to those looking for comfort and space while exploring the city and its surroundings. Customers appreciate the ease of access and the flexibility that comes with renting from Thrifty, enhancing their overall travel experience.
• Sixt: Sixt operates a rental location in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, providing a prime spot for tourists. Known for its Luxury and Midsize SUV options, Sixt offers an upscale driving experience for those wanting to explore the city in style. The diverse range of vehicles available caters to different preferences and needs, making Sixt a popular choice among discerning travellers looking for quality and convenience.
• Avis: Avis stands out with three rental locations, the nearest being conveniently located in Downtown San Francisco. This extensive presence offers travellers flexibility in choosing their pick-up and drop-off points. Avis is especially well-regarded for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are ideal for groups or families needing extra room. The added convenience of multiple locations ensures that Avis can meet the needs of various travellers effectively.

Where to stay around Downtown San Francisco

• Downtown San Francisco: The heart of the city, Downtown San Francisco offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to shopping areas, restaurants, and educational venues. Notable attractions include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the lively Pier 39, and the expansive Golden Gate Park, perfect for family outings and outdoor activities. Enjoy the diverse culinary scene with nearby food and drink options, including various restaurants and wineries. This area is ideal for those seeking a city-themed experience.
• Sausalito: Located 11 km from Downtown San Francisco, Sausalito is perfect for travellers looking for outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the Marin Headlands national park, this charming city provides ample recreational opportunities. Explore the scenic waterfront and indulge in local restaurants and wineries. Key attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39 are also within reach, making Sausalito a lovely complement to your San Francisco trip.
• Emeryville: Situated 12 km from Downtown San Francisco, Emeryville is an excellent choice for families and culture enthusiasts. This city features a range of activities, from shopping malls to theatres, and is known for its educational venues. Explore historic sites like the Ferry Building and enjoy the lively atmosphere at Jack London Square, designed for city lovers. With numerous restaurants and wineries nearby, Emeryville serves as a delightful base for your San Francisco adventure.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require a spacious SUV, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance 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 categories—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 prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it might be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies predominantly accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unnecessary expenses and offers added peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. It's simple to include car rental insurance when reserving through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown San Francisco

The best value period to rent a car in and around Downtown San Francisco is November, when prices are generally lower and demand remains manageable. September can also be a good choice, as it features slightly low prices despite high demand. Additionally, May offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it another attractive option. In contrast, March tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and low demand, making it a less favourable time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
March	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
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	Slightly Low
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
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	Slightly High