$62 Car Rental Downtown San Francisco, CA

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 vibrant area at your own pace. For business travelers attending events at the Moscone Convention Center, a rental car simplifies transportation and luggage management. Weekend travelers and family explorers will appreciate the convenience of having a vehicle, making it easier to visit attractions like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, located right in Downtown, or take a short drive to Lombard Street, just 1 mile away.

The rental car also allows you to venture beyond Downtown San Francisco with ease. Popular destinations such as Union Square, only 0.3 miles away, and Fisherman's Wharf, 2 miles from Downtown, are easily accessible. Families will find renting a car particularly beneficial, as it provides ample space for strollers and luggage while keeping everyone together. Enjoy the flexibility to explore not only the city but also outdoor experiences in the Marina District, about 2 miles away, featuring attractions like the Palace of Fine Arts. With a rental car, you can fully enjoy your San Francisco adventure without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in and around Downtown San Francisco

• Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably fitting 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs offer a great balance of spaciousness and maneuverability, making them ideal for navigating the streets of Downtown San Francisco and beyond. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, you can easily explore the city and its attractions at your own pace, all while enjoying the comfort of an SUV.
• Compact: If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, the compact car is an excellent choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and provides space for up to 3 medium suitcases. Compact cars are particularly advantageous for city driving, where tighter streets and limited parking can be challenging. Their smaller size makes them easy to park and maneuver through Downtown San Francisco, allowing for a stress-free travel experience.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is a versatile option, fitting 5 travelers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families or groups traveling together, providing ample space for both passengers and their belongings. With a fullsize vehicle, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring Downtown San Francisco and its surroundings comfortably, ensuring that everyone has enough room for a pleasant ride.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown San Francisco

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental has a convenient location just 0.1 miles away from Downtown San Francisco, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking quick access to their vehicles. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUV and Compact cars, providing options that cater to a variety of travel needs. With a reputation for affordability and efficiency, Thrifty is well-regarded among tourists looking to explore the city at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with three rental locations in and around Downtown San Francisco, offering flexibility and convenience for travelers. The closest location is readily accessible, allowing for easy pick-up and drop-off. Most customers prefer renting Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars from Hertz, which are well-suited for both urban driving and longer excursions. Hertz is known for its reliable service and a diverse fleet, making it a top choice for many visitors.
• Sixt: Sixt provides a rental location in the Downtown San Francisco area, catering to travelers looking for quality and convenience. With a focus on Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, Sixt is a popular option for those who appreciate comfortable and spacious vehicles. Customers frequently highlight the professionalism of the staff and the seamless rental process, contributing to a positive experience for those exploring San Francisco and its surroundings.

Where to go around Downtown San Francisco

• Union Square: Located 0.3 miles away from Downtown San Francisco, Union Square is a vibrant neighborhood ideal for family, city, and business experiences. Popular activities include visiting shopping areas and theaters. Key points of interest nearby are the Moscone Convention Center, perfect for business events; the modern Union Square itself, a central hub for city exploration; and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which offers a deep dive into contemporary culture. The visitor numbers peak in April and June to July, making it an exciting time to explore.
• Fisherman's Wharf: Situated 2 miles from Downtown San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf is a lively area that attracts families and city explorers year-round. Visitors enjoy shopping at the various centers and exploring local attractions. Notable highlights include Pier 39, a bustling jetty with entertaining sea lions; Lombard Street, known for its winding, picturesque views; and Alcatraz Island, which offers outdoor adventures and historical insights. The peak visiting times occur in April and June to July, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
• Marina District: Also 2 miles from Downtown San Francisco, the Marina District is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area features shopping areas and notable landmarks. Key attractions include the stunning Palace of Fine Arts, a cultural site with beautiful architecture; Lombard Street, popular for its scenic charm; and Pier 39, a lively jetty. The most popular visiting months are March to April and July, making it a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your Downtown San Francisco car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV with extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and ensure better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a balanced option in terms of price, 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 be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most advantageous choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember 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 the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provide you with peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long 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 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 January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand remains manageable. April also offers a quieter experience with lower demand, making it a good shoulder month for rentals. As summer approaches, prices and demand rise, particularly in July and August, which are the most expensive months for car rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	Slightly Low	Average
May	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
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	Average	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 High	Average