$29 Car Rental Old Town San Diego, CA

These Old Town San Diego insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 28, 2026.

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average