$40 Car Rental Palo Alto, CA

These Palo Alto insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 16, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Palo Alto

Renting a car in Palo Alto offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding areas at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Palo Alto Art Center and Stanford Memorial Church, both located within the city. Additionally, the Baylands Nature Preserve provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors without the constraints of public transportation. For those looking to venture a bit further, Sunnyvale is only 8 miles away, featuring attractions like Historic Murphy Avenue and California's Great America. The nearby neighborhood of Stanford boasts notable sites including Hoover Tower and the Stanford University Arboretum, while East Palo Alto is home to the Santa Clara Convention Center and offers access to the San Francisco Bay. Renting a car makes it convenient for families, business travelers, and culture seekers alike, allowing for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. Whether you are planning a family adventure or a cultural exploration, having a rental car enhances your experience in and around Palo Alto.

Most popular car rentals in Palo Alto

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for travelers in Palo Alto, accommodating up to 5 people with enough space for 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of having a spacious vehicle. With a midsize SUV, you can easily manage your luggage and have room for any additional gear you may need during your trip.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is ideal for larger groups or families, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile choice for those needing extra space for their belongings. Renting a fullsize car allows for comfort while traveling around Palo Alto, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the journey without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: Standard SUVs are another great option for travelers, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is suitable for couples, families, or groups who want a balance of comfort and manageability. The standard SUV offers a good mix of space and flexibility, making it a practical choice for your car rental needs in Palo Alto.

Top rated car suppliers in Palo Alto

• Hertz: With 3 rental locations in the Palo Alto area, Hertz is a top choice for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs. The most booked cars with Hertz are Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, providing great options for both space and efficiency.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Palo Alto, making it a practical option for travelers looking to save on their car rental expenses. Known for offering great value, Budget's most popular rentals include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, perfect for exploring the local area comfortably and affordably.
• Avis: Avis also has 1 rental location in Palo Alto, providing a reliable service for visitors. Their selection includes Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, catering to a variety of travel needs. Avis is recognized for its commitment to customer service, ensuring a smooth rental experience as you navigate the beautiful sights around Palo Alto.

Where to stay around Palo Alto

• Sunnyvale: Located 8 miles from Palo Alto, Sunnyvale offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include the historic Murphy Avenue, ideal for a city vacation, and California's Great America, a popular amusement park. Visitors can also explore the Winchester Mystery House for a taste of local culture. With various dining options including wineries and restaurants, Sunnyvale is a great choice for travelers looking to enjoy both recreation and relaxation.
• Menlo Park: Just 2 miles from Palo Alto, Menlo Park is perfect for those seeking a blend of culture and family activities. Highlights include the urban Bedwell Bayfront Park, which is great for outdoor fun, and the United States Geological Survey library, catering to culture enthusiasts. The area is also home to several wineries and restaurants, providing ample choices for dining. Menlo Park’s proximity to Palo Alto makes it a convenient option for a diverse travel experience.
• Mountain View: Situated 5 miles from Palo Alto, Mountain View is a vibrant destination for family and culture-focused travelers. The Computer History Museum offers intriguing insights into technology, while the lively California's Great America amusement park is a must-visit for outdoor adventures. With various nearby eateries and wineries, Mountain View is ideal for enjoying both cultural and culinary experiences. Its engaging atmosphere makes it a great addition to your travel itinerary.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Palo Alto

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well before your trip. By booking ahead, you are more likely to find lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a nice balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This policy can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is usually an extra fee for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional 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 Palo Alto

The best time to rent a car in and around Palo Alto is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January through March is generally quieter, with March also seeing slightly low prices and low demand. April and May maintain average pricing with slightly low demand. As summer approaches, June through August become the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly high prices, reflecting the peak travel season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	57.4°F (14.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Palo Alto

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Palo Alto into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Palo Alto and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Palo Alto

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Palo Alto. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Palo Alto

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $40.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals