Car Rental San Diego

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Top Car Deals in San Diego

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark or similar
  • 4 people
Seville, Andalusia, ESP
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus or similar
  • 4 people
Seville, Andalusia, ESP
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla or similar
  • 5 people
Seville, Andalusia, ESP
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass or similar
  • 5 people
Seville, Andalusia, ESP
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your San Diego car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Diego

Renting a car in San Diego offers a unique opportunity to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for cultural explorers, outdoor enthusiasts, and food and wine lovers, making a rental car an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local experiences. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Metropol Parasol, Isla Magica Theme Park, and Alameda de Hércules, all located just 2 miles away from San Diego. Additionally, popular neighborhoods like Macarena, only 0.7 miles away, and Distrito San Pablo-Santa Justa, about 1 mile away, enhance your travel options with more cultural and entertainment experiences. Having a rental car allows you to manage your luggage with ease and craft flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking cultural enrichment, a rental car ensures you can explore at your own pace, making it convenient to enjoy everything San Diego and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals around San Diego

  • Midsize SUV: The most popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV comfortably accommodates up to 5 travelers and 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type is perfect for those needing extra space for luggage and outdoor gear while exploring the attractions around San Diego. With its versatility, you can enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace with family or friends.
  • Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car option fits up to 5 travelers along with 3 medium suitcases. This choice offers a balance of comfort and efficiency, making it easy to navigate through San Diego's vibrant neighborhoods and cultural sites. Compact cars provide flexibility for those looking for an economical yet comfortable travel solution.
  • Economy: A great option for solo travelers, couples, or families, the economy car can fit up to 5 travelers and 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking to experience San Diego while keeping rental costs low. The economy car allows for easy maneuverability in urban settings, ensuring a smooth and economical journey throughout your visit.

Top rated car suppliers around San Diego

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travelers looking for a hassle-free rental experience. Located just 1 mile away from San Diego, it offers a convenient pickup location. Customers frequently book Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, known for their reliability and comfort. Alamo is praised for its friendly staff and well-maintained vehicles, making it a great option for exploring the area at your own pace.
  • Enterprise: Enterprise is highly regarded for its exceptional customer service and flexibility. With a rental location 1 mile from San Diego, it provides easy access for travelers. Popular choices among customers include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which cater to a variety of needs. Known for helpful staff and smooth check-in processes, Enterprise ensures a pleasant rental experience for both families and business travelers.
  • Europcar: Europcar stands out for its quick return process and competitive pricing. Situated 1 mile away from San Diego, it offers convenience for those on the go. Customers often select Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which provide a good balance of space and efficiency. With an emphasis on clean vehicles and efficient drop-offs, Europcar is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a straightforward rental experience.

Where to go around San Diego

  • Macarena: Located 0.7 miles away from San Diego, Macarena is a vibrant district popular for its cultural and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy the Metropol Parasol and the Alameda de Hércules, both ideal for immersing in local culture. Notable local landmarks include the Basilica of the Macarena, making it a rich area for exploration, especially during peak seasons in March to April and September.
  • Distrito San Pablo-Santa Justa: Found 1 mile from San Diego, Distrito San Pablo-Santa Justa is known for its significant architecture and family-friendly atmosphere. Key attractions include the Royal Alcázar of Seville and Metropol Parasol, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The area is lively in May and from September to October, providing a great experience for visitors looking for cultural insights and historical exploration.
  • San Pablo-Santa Justa: Also located 1 mile from San Diego, San Pablo-Santa Justa offers a mix of shopping and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the Royal Alcázar of Seville and enjoy the art at Metropol Parasol. This district sees increased visitor numbers in May and during September to October, making it an ideal time to delve into its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your San Diego car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable too. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Typically, there is a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airport locations, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you have plans for long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Car Rental Information

 
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SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in San Diego?
Budget car rentals started at a day in San Diego, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to pick up some keys and hit the road for less.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Diego car reservation?
If you need to switch your plans around, most prepaid bookings qualify for a total refund. Just let us know more than six hours ahead of the pickup time. Check the policy for any exclusions. Your confirmation will have more details, or head over to our Customer Service Portal for more info.
Where can I go on a road trip from San Diego?
San Diego is full of surprises, but don't restrict yourself to one place. Book a set of wheels and hit the road to see what else awaits in the wider area. Here are a few places to choose from:

  • Make your way to Málaga for a fun-filled sightseeing experience. Roughly 100 miles from San Diego, it's home to many amazing sights, including Málaga Cathedral.
  • Why not see all that's on offer in Córdoba too? Popular sights in this vibrant city include Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba. Córdoba is around 75 miles from San Diego.
  • Get out into the great outdoors and take in the serenity at Mirador de San Nicolas. It's approximately 130 miles from San Diego.

How do I find the best car rental deals in San Diego with Expedia?
It's easy to track down an incredible deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your ride, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off points, and browse offers from all the major providers. Save even more when you bundle your San Diego car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Diego?
If you're aged 21 and over, you can rent a vehicle in San Diego. Keep in mind that rental suppliers will charge young drivers an additional fee, which is meant to cover the higher damage risk involved. Also, young drivers are often restricted from renting luxury or specialty vehicles. Browse the fine print before booking so there are no hassles during pickup.
What do you need to rent a car in San Diego?
The main requirements are your driver's license and a credit card in the same name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may have to provide proof of other coverage if you opt out. We recommend checking with your supplier to avoid any issues.
What side of the road do you drive on in San Diego?
Drivers from the U.S. will feel right at home zooming around San Diego — motorists here drive on the right-hand side.
What is the cheapest car rental in San Diego?
With rates as low as and a day in San Diego within the past seven days, you'll be speeding off with your own amazing deal before you know it. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Diego?
You can rent a vehicle for a month or even longer in San Diego, so go ahead and extend your getaway! Simply enter your trip information into our long-term car rental deals page and find your ideal ride.
Where can I find a San Diego car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do a bit of shopping around. Found a San Diego outlet that does rent to under 25s? Great news! Just keep in mind that a surcharge often applies to drivers aged between 21 and 24. The fine print of each rental car you're considering will have all the information you need.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Diego?
A thorough insurance plan is a smart idea for your upcoming San Diego adventure. That's why we suggest purchasing collision protection while reserving your car rental with Expedia. This covers your vehicle from theft, accident damage and vandalism. Some destinations may require a minimum level of liability insurance. This might be included in your rental cost or your personal auto insurance, so check what you're covered for and if you need it.
Can I drive in San Diego with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in Spain, then you may need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country in order to rent a car. Please also consider that if you do need an IDP, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your current license your passport and other forms of identification as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card used to book the rental matches the name on your driver's license and passport. A few other things to note for international car rentals are:

  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be at least 25 in most places to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it may still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before driving away. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or go off-roading with your rental car.

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