Car Rental San Francisco

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Top Car Deals in San Francisco

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
San Francisco, Caraga, PHL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
San Francisco, Caraga, PHL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
San Francisco, Caraga, PHL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
San Francisco, Caraga, PHL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your San Francisco car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Francisco

Renting a car in San Francisco offers an excellent opportunity for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers to experience the city and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to fit your needs. You can visit key attractions such as the modern San Francisco Municipal Hall, the culturally rich Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, and the vibrant Mount Carmel College, all located within the city. Additionally, exploring nearby destinations like Prosperidad, just 10 miles away, or Rosario, only 6 miles from San Francisco, allows you to discover more attractions while enjoying the scenic drives. Talacogon, located 12 miles away, offers the beautiful Libuacan Cold Spring, providing a perfect outdoor experience. The convenience of a car allows you to travel freely between these locations, making it easier to enjoy the stunning scenery and beach-related experiences that the region has to offer. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or seeking solitude, renting a car ensures you have the flexibility to create memorable adventures throughout San Francisco and beyond.

Top rated car suppliers in San Francisco

  • Hertz: Hertz is the most popular car rental supplier in San Francisco, with a convenient rental location in the city. Travelers appreciate the flexibility that renting from Hertz provides, allowing them to explore attractions at their own pace. The most booked vehicle from Hertz is the Economy car, which is ideal for navigating the city and its surroundings. With well-maintained vehicles and a reputation for reliability, Hertz is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their travel experience in San Francisco.

Where to go around San Francisco

  • Prosperidad: Located 10 miles away from San Francisco, Prosperidad is a city rich in culture and modernity. Key points of interest include Mount Carmel College, a suitable spot for those interested in educational tours, and the San Francisco Municipal Hall, ideal for business-related visits. The Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish offers a cultural insight for visitors. The peak seasons for travelers are from May to June and October, making it an optimal time to explore this vibrant city.
  • Rosario: Situated 6 miles from San Francisco, Rosario is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the local river and beach, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Notable attractions include the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish for cultural exploration, Mount Carmel College for educational interests, and the San Francisco Municipal Hall for business purposes. The best times to visit Rosario are in April to May and July, when traveler arrivals are at their peak.
  • Talacogon: Located 12 miles from San Francisco, Talacogon is a city that caters to business travelers. Highlights include the town hall and a modern civic government building, showcasing the city's administrative significance. Libuacan Cold Spring is a great spot for those seeking outdoor scenery. Visitors should plan their trips during the peak seasons of May to June and October for the best experience, as traveler numbers are lower in March, September, and December.

10 tips to save on your San Francisco car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often secures 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 are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. 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, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the best option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just remember to return the car empty in that situation.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Francisco

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Francisco

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in San Francisco. 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 San Francisco

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

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.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
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From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in San Francisco?
You can find cheap car rentals in San Francisco from $18 a day with Dollar Rent A Car's mini 2/4 door. Dollar Rent A Car offers mini 2 or 4 door cars starting from $18 a day and standard passenger van cars starting from $46 a day. Thrifty Car Rental also provides mini 2 or 4 door cars starting from $23 a day and economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $33 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in San Francisco that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Can I rent a car round-trip in San Francisco?
San Francisco is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $18 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 San Francisco and returning to the same spot. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco?
Car rentals in San Francisco offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Mini 2 or 4 door
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Standard passenger van
  • Standard SUV
  • Economy SUV hybrid
Most come with automatic transmission standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for solo travelers are economy, compact, and mini classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Mini 2 or 4 door, starting from $18 a day—fits up to 4 people and up to 2 small suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $33 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, offering good fuel efficiency
  • Compact 4-5 door, starting from $40 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
These options comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for couples?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two. A standard SUV, starting from $52 a day, fits up to 5 people and up to 4 large suitcases, offering a higher ride for day trips around the region. This gives a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are the best car rentals in San Francisco for families?
The best car rentals in San Francisco for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize passenger van, starting from $45 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
  • Standard SUV, starting from $52 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases and a car seat
SUVs and passenger vans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around San Francisco. Thrifty Car Rental is popular with families. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, especially during the December and July peak months. Consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in San Francisco.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in San Francisco?
Yes, car rental companies in San Francisco provide hybrid vehicle options. Dollar Rent A Car offers hybrid vehicles starting from $101 a day, and Thrifty Car Rental also provides hybrid options starting from $101 a day.
What is the best time to book a car in San Francisco?
From October, prices in San Francisco are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $18 a day during this period. December tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. July also sees peak demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. 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 are the best car companies in San Francisco?
Car rentals in San Francisco are available from providers like Dollar Rent A Car, Thrifty Car Rental, and Europcar, offering a variety of vehicles. Dollar Rent A Car has mini 2- or 4-door and standard passenger van options. Thrifty Car Rental offers economy 2- or 4-door and standard SUV vehicles. Europcar rounds out the choices with economy 4-5 door and midsize passenger van vehicles. Choose a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage, or an SUV or passenger van for more space. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in San Francisco.
What are good day trip destinations from San Francisco by rental car?
Exploring the region around San Francisco by rental car offers several excellent day trip opportunities for various interests. You can easily reach these destinations within a few hours' drive:
  • Enchanted River in Hinatuan, approximately 33 miles from San Francisco, is ideal for nature lovers and families, offering scenic beauty about 1 hour from San Francisco.
  • Islas de Bretania, located about 28 miles from San Francisco, is perfect for families and couples seeking island exploration, reachable in about 1 hour.
  • Sian Falls in Bislig, also approximately 33 miles from San Francisco, provides another beautiful natural escape, about 1 hour from the city.
  • For a longer drive and urban exploration, Surigao City Hall in Surigao is approximately 118 miles away, a drive of about 2 to 3 hours, offering a different city experience.
For these day trips, a mini car, starting from $18 a day, is a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers or couples. If you need more space and comfort for families or small groups, especially with luggage or gear, a standard passenger van, starting from $46 a day, is a great option. Always ensure your rental car has a full tank of fuel before heading out, and consider bringing water and snacks for your journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in San Francisco.
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 San Francisco?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in San Francisco. 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 San Francisco?
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 San Francisco?
Budget car rental in San Francisco can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 San Francisco?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in San Francisco. 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 San Francisco car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in San Francisco?
To rent a car in San Francisco, 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 San Francisco car rental?
If you need to cancel your San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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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