$67 Car Rental Union Square, CA

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Top Car Deals in Union Square

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What you need to know for your Union Square car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Union Square

Renting a car in Union Square offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal option for families, business travelers, or anyone seeking a city-themed experience. Key attractions are conveniently accessible, such as Union Square itself, which is perfect for city experiences, and is located right within the neighborhood. You can also visit Pier 39, just 2 miles away, and Lombard Street, located 1 mile from Union Square.

A rental car also allows for easy exploration of popular destinations nearby, including Downtown San Francisco, less than 1 mile away, where you can find the Ferry Building and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Fisherman's Wharf, another must-visit neighborhood only 1 mile from Union Square, is home to Pier 39 and Alcatraz Island. With so many attractions within reach, having a rental car ensures that you can fully enjoy your visit to Union Square and its surroundings without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in and around Union Square

  • Midsize SUV: This car option is perfect for accommodating 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who need extra space for both passengers and luggage. Its spacious interior allows for comfortable travel while providing the freedom to explore attractions in and around Union Square at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: With the ability to seat 5 travelers and hold up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is a versatile choice for couples, families, and groups. This option offers a good balance of space and comfort, making it suitable for those looking to enjoy their time in Union Square while having enough room for their belongings.
  • Compact: If you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, the Compact car is a great option. It accommodates 5 travelers and can fit up to 3 medium suitcases. The Compact car is particularly advantageous for navigating the busy streets of Union Square and finding parking with ease, all while maintaining flexibility in your travel plans.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Union Square

  • Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental has a presence in the Union Square area with one rental location, making it a convenient option for travelers. Customers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Compacts when booking with Thrifty, highlighting the flexibility and comfort these vehicles provide for exploring San Francisco and its surrounding attractions. With an emphasis on affordability and reliability, Thrifty is an excellent choice for tourists seeking to navigate the city at their own pace.
  • Hertz: Hertz operates two rental locations, with the nearest situated in Union Square, offering easy access for travelers. Known for its selection, Hertz's most popular bookings include Midsize and Economy vehicles, catering to various travel needs and preferences. With a reputation for quality service and a diverse fleet, Hertz provides a dependable option for those looking to rent a vehicle in the heart of San Francisco.
  • Budget: Budget stands out with three rental locations in and around Union Square, ensuring that travelers can find convenient options for their car rental needs. The Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles are the most frequently booked choices, offering spaciousness and comfort for groups or families. Budget is recognized for its competitive pricing and accessibility, making it a solid choice for visitors looking to explore San Francisco and beyond without the hassle.

Where to stay around Union Square

  • Union Square: The heart of San Francisco, Union Square is ideal for travelers seeking a vibrant city experience. This bustling area is surrounded by a shopping mall center and various shopping areas. Nearby landmarks include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the popular Pier 39, both within close proximity. Enjoy the urban park atmosphere or explore the diverse dining options available, including numerous restaurants and wineries.
  • Sausalito: Situated 6 miles from Union Square, Sausalito offers a scenic escape with stunning waterfront views. This charming city is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Notable attractions include the Marin Headlands and the famous Golden Gate Bridge, both offering picturesque scenery. Sausalito is also home to delightful restaurants and wineries, making it a great choice for food and drink lovers.
  • Emeryville: Located 7 miles from Union Square, Emeryville is an excellent option for families and culture enthusiasts. It features a range of activities, including educational venues and theaters. Key points of interest nearby include the historic Ferry Building and the lively Pier 39. With its various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, Emeryville provides a well-rounded experience for travelers looking to explore the surrounding areas.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Union Square

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal 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. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of 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 available. Similarly, renters over 70 years old may face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agencies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This option is usually the most economical. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many 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 of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Union Square

The best time to rent a car in and around Union Square is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers excellent value for travelers. March to May also provides moderate pricing and average demand, making it a solid shoulder season. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand that can elevate rental rates. June through August see consistently higher prices, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April55.8°F (13.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June62.1°F (16.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.2°F (17.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.9°F (18.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November56.1°F (13.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$67
 
Our second best deal of the day
$69
 
Our third best deal of the day
$73
 
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 near Union Square?
You can find cheap car rentals near Union Square from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental offer midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $11 a day and compact SUVs starting from $11 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental near Union Square that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Union Square.
What are the best luxury car companies near Union Square?
For luxury car rentals near Union Square, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt. They offer luxury vehicles and fullsize elite options. Enterprise also specializes in luxury brands at competitive rates, with luxury elite and premium elite categories available. Luxury rentals may include premium insurance options and attentive service at pickup. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Union Square.
Can I rent a car one-way near Union Square?
A one-way car rental near Union Square is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for a one-way car rental starting near Union Square. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Union Square.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Union Square?
The area near Union Square is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $10 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 Union Square (such as Oracle Park, Golden Gate Park, and Chase Center) and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Union Square.
What are the best car rentals near Union Square?
Car rentals near Union Square offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
Most come with automatic transmission. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Union Square.

What are the best car rentals near Union Square for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Union Square for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $18 a day—fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives to spots like Oracle Park, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Union Square.

What are the best car rentals near Union Square for couples?
The best car rentals near Union Square for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a standard convertible—fits up to 4 people and 2 large suitcases—for scenic drives around the Union Square area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Union Square.

What are the best car rentals near Union Square for families?
The best car rentals near Union Square for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $12 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $17 a day—seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around the Union Square area. Thrifty Car Rental is popular with families. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the July-September peak, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Union Square.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Union Square?
The area near Union Square has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options: Sixt offers hybrid vehicles from $10 a day, and Enterprise provides electric options from $11 a day. Multiple rental companies near Union Square carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. The area has extensive public charging infrastructure with fast-charging stations along major routes. EVs save on fuel—charging costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book EVs 4-6 weeks ahead as demand is high. Plan charging stops for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car near Union Square?
From February, prices near Union Square are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Oracle Park
  • Golden Gate Park
  • Chase Center
  • Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus
  • Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
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 is the weather like for driving near Union Square?
Driving near Union Square offers varied conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around July, when routes to popular spots get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For varied road conditions, a midsize car offers reliable grip and traction. Check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies near Union Square?
Car rentals in the Union Square area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize 2 or 4 door and standard 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and compact SUVs with more space and stability for highways and varied terrain. Dollar Rent A Car rounds out the choices with special and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for mountain or winter driving, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Union Square.
What are good day trip destinations from Union Square by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from Union Square include:
  • Monterey Bay, approximately 87 miles away
  • Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
  • Outside Lands Festival
  • Christmas in the Park - Downtown Park Experience
These distances are manageable for most car types. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Union Square.

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 Union Square?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Union Square. 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 Union Square?
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 Union Square?
Budget car rental in Union Square can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $67. 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 Union Square?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Union Square. 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 Union Square car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Union Square?
To rent a car in Union Square, 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 Union Square car rental?
If you need to cancel your Union Square 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 Union Square 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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