$34 Car Rental Old Town San Diego, CA

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Top Car Deals in Old Town San Diego

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What you need to know for your 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 to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Old Town San Diego State Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Additionally, Mission Bay is only 2 miles away, providing beautiful views and opportunities for beach activities, while Mission Beach is just 3 miles from Old Town, ideal for a fun day in the sun. A rental car also allows you to explore nearby neighborhoods like the Midway District and Midway-Pacific Highway, both less than 1 mile away, where you can find attractions like the USS Midway Museum. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking outdoor and city-themed experiences, as you can easily manage luggage and adjust your travel plans on the go. Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely day at the beach or visit various cultural sites in San Diego, having a rental car makes your trip more enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals around Old Town San Diego

  • Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride and ample space for both passengers and luggage, allowing you to explore Old Town San Diego and its surroundings with ease.
  • Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another great option for 5 travelers, with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a versatile car that balances space and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through the charming streets of Old Town San Diego.
  • Fullsize: Accommodating 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize car is a fantastic option for families and groups. With its spacious interior, the Fullsize allows for comfortable travel while providing enough room for everyone and their belongings, making it perfect for your adventures in and around Old Town San Diego.

Top rated car suppliers around Old Town San Diego

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Located 2 miles away from Old Town San Diego, Alamo Rent A Car is a favored choice among travelers, boasting an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Known for its friendly service and minimal wait times, Alamo makes the car rental experience smooth and pleasant. Travelers often opt for their Midsize SUV and Premium SUV options, making it easy to explore the attractions of Old Town San Diego and beyond at your own pace.
  • Fox Rental Cars: Also situated 2 miles from Old Town San Diego, Fox Rental Cars is popular for its diverse selection of vehicles. Travelers frequently book Midsize and Fullsize cars with Fox, which are ideal for navigating the area comfortably. Their convenient location and reliable service make them a solid choice for visitors looking to explore San Diego's attractions.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: With a rental location just 2 miles away from Old Town San Diego, Thrifty Car Rental is another excellent option for tourists. They offer a variety of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most booked. Known for their efficient service, Thrifty ensures a hassle-free rental experience, allowing you to easily manage your travel plans in and around Old Town San Diego.

Where to stay around Old Town San Diego

  • Old Town San Diego: Stay in the heart of Old Town San Diego to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of California's first settlement. This area offers easy access to various attractions, including historic sites and local dining options. Enjoy family-friendly activities as you explore nearby landmarks and take in the lively atmosphere of this unique neighborhood.
  • Coronado: Located 5 miles away from Old Town San Diego, Coronado is a charming destination known for its stunning beaches and historic places. Visitors can relax at Coronado Beach or explore the USS Midway Museum for a touch of maritime history. This community also features excellent shopping and dining options, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Coronado Island: Just 4 miles from Old Town San Diego, Coronado Island is another picturesque option for your stay. Take advantage of the beautiful beaches and family-friendly activities available here. Highlights include the scenic Coronado Beach and the lively Seaport Village, perfect for adventure and outdoor recreation. Enjoy the local dining scene featuring restaurants and wineries for a delightful culinary experience.

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 selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to help identify the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be 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 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—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 rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

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

The best time to rent a car in and around Old Town San Diego is January and February, when both prices and demand are typically lower. This quieter period offers great value for those looking to explore the area. March through May also provide reasonable rates with average demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month with high demand, as many visitors flock to the city during the summer. June also sees a spike in prices and demand, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$34
 
Our second best deal of the day
$35
 
Our third best deal of the day
$37
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Old Town San Diego?
You can find cheap car rentals near Old Town San Diego from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Budget offers options such as a midsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $10 a day, while Sixt provides a midsize SUV from $11 a day. Thrifty also has a midsize 2 or 4 door car available from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental that fits your budget in the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.
What are the best luxury car companies near Old Town San Diego?
For luxury car rentals near Old Town San Diego, you can find premium options through providers like Sixt and Alamo. Sixt offers vehicles in categories such as standard elite SUV and fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars, with prices starting from $11 a day for a standard elite SUV. Alamo also provides luxury options, including a premium crossover from $28 a day and a luxury elite SUV from $39 a day. These luxury rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience in the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.
Can I rent a car one-way near Old Town San Diego?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Old Town San Diego is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in the Old Town San Diego area and drop it off at a different location. This offers convenience for travelers planning to explore beyond San Diego without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Old Town San Diego?
Yes, the area near Old Town San Diego is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Old Town San Diego and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to visit attractions such as Mission Bay, Disneyland Resort, and Mission Beach. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.
What are the best car rentals near Old Town San Diego?
Car rentals near Old Town San Diego offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard elite SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, and many include air conditioning as standard. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and planned activities in the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.

What are the best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $18 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Mission Bay, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort in the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.

What are the best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for couples?
The best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $10 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a standard convertible, starting from $35 a day, for scenic drives around the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.

What are the best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for families?
The best car rentals near Old Town San Diego for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $21 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around the Old Town San Diego area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the June-August peak months, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Old Town San Diego?
Yes, the area near Old Town San Diego has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Thrifty Car Rental and Budget offer electric vehicles starting from $10 a day, providing an eco-friendly way to explore. Sixt, Enterprise, Thrifty Car Rental, and Budget also provide hybrid options, with prices starting from $30 a day. The San Diego area has extensive public charging infrastructure with fast-charging stations along major routes, making it convenient to power up your electric or hybrid rental. Choosing an EV can help save on fuel costs, as charging often costs less than an equivalent gasoline car. It is advisable to book electric and hybrid vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead, as demand can be high, and plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car near Old Town San Diego?
From January, prices near Old Town San Diego are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $10 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, and the June-August period generally sees higher demand, which can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Mission Bay
  • Mission Beach
  • Petco Park
  • USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
  • San Diego: USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.

What is the weather like for driving near Old Town San Diego?
Driving near Old Town San Diego generally offers pleasant conditions, though traffic and demand tend to build around July, when routes to spots like Mission Bay get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For comfortable driving, a midsize SUV offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes, especially when exploring areas outside the immediate Old Town San Diego vicinity.
What are the best car companies near Old Town San Diego?
Car rentals in the Old Town San Diego area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUV and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers compact SUV and fullsize 2 or 4 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Alamo rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door and compact SUV vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches in the Old Town San Diego area. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.
What are good day trip destinations from Old Town San Diego by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from Old Town San Diego include:
  • Mission Bay, approximately 7 miles away
  • Mission Beach, approximately 8 miles away
  • Petco Park, approximately 1 mile away
  • USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
  • Pacific Airshow
These distances are manageable for most car types, whether you prefer a compact for city driving or an SUV for more spacious comfort. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent or if you wish to adjust your itinerary to attend events like the Pacific Airshow. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Old Town San Diego.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Old Town San Diego?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Old Town San Diego. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Old Town San Diego?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Old Town San Diego?
Budget car rental in Old Town San Diego can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $34. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Old Town San Diego?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Old Town San Diego. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Old Town San Diego car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Old Town San Diego?
To rent a car in Old Town San Diego, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Old Town San Diego car rental?
If you need to cancel your Old Town San Diego car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Old Town San Diego with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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