$24 Car Rental Santa Maria

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Maria

Renting a car in Santa Maria offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, business travelers, and those seeking cultural experiences, as it allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the Edmundo Cardoso Memorial House, Historical and Cultural Museum of the Franciscan Sisters, and Mallet Museum and Memorial, all within a short drive in the area of Santa Maria.

Exploring popular destinations like Santa Maria Centro, Camobi, and Nossa Senhora das Dores becomes more convenient with your own vehicle. Santa Maria Centro is home to several cultural sites, including the Parish Cathedral Religious Arts Museum, while Camobi features the Federal University of Santa Maria. Whether you are a countryside explorer or a food and wine lover, having a rental car makes it easy to discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Santa Maria without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Maria

• Standard: This car option comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for couples and families looking to explore the scenic countryside and cultural attractions of Santa Maria. With its spaciousness, the Standard car offers a balanced experience of comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice for those who want to travel at their own pace.
• Mini Van: Perfect for larger groups, this vehicle can fit up to 8 travelers and handle up to 6 large suitcases. The Mini Van is especially suited for families or groups wanting to enjoy a shared experience while exploring Santa Maria's various attractions. Its ample space ensures that everyone can travel together comfortably, making it a top choice for those planning to enjoy the sights as a unit.
• Midsize: Accommodating 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize car is another excellent option for couples or families visiting Santa Maria. It strikes a good balance between space and manageability, making it easy to navigate city roads while providing enough room for luggage. This car type is well-suited for those who desire flexibility in their travel plans without compromising on comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Maria

• Localiza: Localiza is the top choice for car rentals in Santa Maria, boasting 2 rental locations throughout the city. Travelers appreciate the flexibility and convenience this supplier offers, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. The most booked vehicles with Localiza include Standard and Mini Van options, making it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary as needed.

Where to go in Santa Maria

• Santa Maria Centro: This neighborhood is perfect for travelers seeking a historical experience. Popular attractions include the Edmundo Cardoso Memorial House, a notable historic site, and the Historical and Cultural Museum of the Franciscan Sisters, which offers insights into local culture. The Parish Cathedral Religious Arts Museum is also a must-visit for those interested in religious art. Visitors tend to peak in January, July, and September, so plan accordingly if you want to experience the local vibrancy during these months.
• Camobi: As a charming village in the Santa Maria area, Camobi is home to several key points of interest. The Edmundo Cardoso Memorial House is also found here, adding to the cultural richness of the area. The Federal University of Santa Maria provides an educational atmosphere, while the Santa Maria Court of Justice showcases local governance. Peak visitor numbers occur in February, April, and July, making these months ideal for those wanting to enjoy a lively local scene.
• Nossa Senhora das Dores: Known for its shopping venues, this neighborhood offers a different flavor of Santa Maria life. Notable attractions include the Santa Maria Court of Justice and the Gama d'Eca Teaching Museum, ideal for cultural enthusiasts. The Edmundo Cardoso Memorial House can also be visited here. The peak season for visitors is in October and from December to January, providing a bustling experience during these months for those looking to explore the local offerings.

10 tips to save on your Santa Maria car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well in advance of your trip. Booking early increases your chances of obtaining lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel policies, which are also acceptable; just ensure that you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often comes with an additional fee, but the convenience it offers may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind during your travels. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 Santa Maria

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Maria

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $24.

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