$13 Car Rental Pasadena, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Pasadena

Renting a car in Pasadena provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the historic Rose Bowl Stadium and the Norton Simon Museum, both ideal for culture and sports experiences. You can also admire the Colorado Street Bridge, a beautiful historic landmark that enhances your cultural exploration.

In addition to Pasadena, a rental car allows you to easily venture into nearby destinations like Los Angeles, where you can find popular spots such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Santa Monica Beach. South Pasadena, only 2 miles away, features the same Rose Bowl Stadium and attractions like The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Don't forget to explore Old Pasadena, known for its historic district and charm. Whether you are traveling with family, carrying luggage, or seeking cultural experiences, having a rental car makes your trip to Pasadena more convenient and enjoyable. You can manage your itinerary without the constraints of public transport and make the most of your visit to this vibrant area.

Most popular car rentals in Pasadena

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The spacious interior provides comfort for both short and long trips, and the extra luggage capacity is perfect for those looking to explore Pasadena and its surrounding areas without worrying about storage space.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car accommodates up to 5 travelers and has room for 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for navigating the city, as it is easier to park in tight spaces while still offering enough comfort and space for your journey in and around Pasadena.
• Fullsize: Accommodating 5 travelers with the flexibility of fitting either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize option is a fantastic choice for families or groups. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, this vehicle type offers a comfortable ride while allowing you to manage your belongings efficiently as you explore Pasadena and its attractions.

Top rated car suppliers in Pasadena

• Sixt: Sixt has 1 rental location in Pasadena and boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Travelers appreciate the friendly service and the cleanliness of the vehicles, which are well-maintained. The most popular rentals from Sixt include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it an excellent choice for those looking for quality vehicles and a pleasant rental experience.
• Budget: With 2 rental locations in Pasadena, Budget is known for its friendly service and minimal wait times, ensuring a smooth rental process. Customers find that the service meets their expectations, which adds to the convenience of renting a car. The Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are the most booked options with Budget, offering a good balance of space and comfort for travelers.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location in Pasadena and is recognized for its reliable service. Many travelers opt for Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles from Hertz, which cater to a variety of needs. This supplier is a solid choice for those who value straightforward rental experiences and a selection of dependable vehicles.

Where to stay around Pasadena

• Pasadena: Known for its cultural richness, Pasadena offers a variety of accommodations, from upscale hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. With attractions like the Rose Bowl Stadium and The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, you can immerse yourself in history and nature. The vibrant dining scene features restaurants and wineries that cater to different tastes, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
• Sierra Madre: Located 5 miles from Pasadena, Sierra Madre is ideal for those seeking a quaint atmosphere with outdoor experiences. Stay near historic sites like the Richardson House and enjoy the local shopping centers. This charming city also provides access to various wineries and restaurants, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. The serene environment makes it a wonderful spot for families and business travelers alike.
• Tujunga: Situated 11 miles from Pasadena, Tujunga is a family-friendly destination that combines outdoor activities with entertainment. Visitors can explore attractions such as Universal Studios Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The area boasts numerous dining options, including restaurants and wineries that enhance the local flavor. Tujunga's recreational areas offer a blend of excitement and relaxation, making it a suitable choice for those looking to balance fun and leisure.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Pasadena

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra capacity, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to identify the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most convenient option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to 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 convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily 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. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Pasadena

The best time to rent a car in and around Pasadena is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. March and April see a rise in prices and demand, making them some of the more expensive months. May through August typically have average prices, but July is the busiest period of the year. After that, September and October return to slightly low demand, while November and December remain moderately priced with higher demand.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Pasadena

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Pasadena

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $13.

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