$57 Car Rental Petaluma, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Petaluma

Renting a car in Petaluma offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like the Petaluma Arts Center, Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue, and The Petaluma Historical Library & Museum, all located within the city. If you wish to venture further, a rental car makes it convenient to reach nearby destinations such as Santa Rosa, just 15 miles away, where you can explore the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and Charles M. Schulz Museum. Sonoma, located 11 miles from Petaluma, is home to Sonoma Plaza and the Napa Valley Wine Train, while Rohnert Park, 9 miles away, features the Spreckels Performing Arts Center. A rental car is particularly beneficial for families or those traveling with luggage, allowing for easy transportation of gear and ensuring everyone stays together. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, having your own vehicle simplifies travel plans and enhances your visit to the scenic areas around Petaluma.

Most popular car rentals in Petaluma

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It's an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Petaluma at their own pace. The midsize car offers a balance of comfort and space, making it perfect for those who want flexibility in their travel plans while managing luggage easily.
• Luxury: If you're seeking a premium experience, the luxury car option is a fantastic choice. It accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 4 large suitcases. This option is ideal for business travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate comfort and style during their journeys around Petaluma. With a luxury vehicle, you can enjoy a sophisticated ride while exploring the region.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is perfect for families or groups, accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra luggage capacity while enjoying their travels. With the fullsize car, you have the room to comfortably navigate the attractions and scenic drives around Petaluma.

Top rated car suppliers in Petaluma

• Hertz: With one rental location in Petaluma, Hertz is a popular choice among travelers seeking flexibility during their visit. They offer a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy options being the most booked. Renting from Hertz allows you to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed.
• Enterprise: Known for its commitment to customer service, Enterprise also has one rental location in Petaluma. Travelers frequently choose Midsize and Fullsize vehicles from this supplier, providing a comfortable ride for your adventures. Whether you're heading out for a day trip or managing your luggage, Enterprise offers a dependable option for your car rental needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental, with one location in the Petaluma area, is a great option for those looking for Fullsize Pickup and Midsize vehicles. This supplier offers a practical solution for travelers who want to explore the region while enjoying the convenience of a rental car. With Thrifty, you'll find the right vehicle to suit your travel plans, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Where to stay around Petaluma

• Santa Rosa: Located 15 miles from Petaluma, Santa Rosa offers a delightful experience for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romantic scenery. Visitors can explore attractions like the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, perfect for family outings, and the Charles M. Schulz Museum for a cultural experience. Nature lovers will appreciate the Petrified Forest. Santa Rosa is also known for its wine scene, featuring several nearby wineries and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for food and drink lovers.
• Sonoma: Approximately 11 miles from Petaluma, Sonoma is a vibrant city ideal for family adventures and cultural explorations. The Sonoma Plaza serves as a central piazza where visitors can enjoy local shops and eateries. For those interested in motorsports, the Sonoma Raceway is a must-visit. Wine enthusiasts will find numerous wineries in the area, complementing the charming atmosphere of this city with urban parks and scenic areas.
• Rohnert Park: Just 9 miles from Petaluma, Rohnert Park is a city that blends outdoor experiences with cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy events at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center or explore the Sonoma County Fairgrounds for family-friendly activities. This area features various resorts, restaurants, and wineries, making it a great choice for a romantic getaway or a leisurely stay. The local beaches and parks add to the city's appeal for outdoor lovers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain 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 navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily charges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most favorable option. Other companies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable too—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a simple process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Petaluma

The best time to rent a car in and around Petaluma is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, offering great value. February also provides a good opportunity, as prices remain slightly low while demand moves to average levels. Mid-range months like April and May show average prices with slightly lower demand. However, June through August see higher prices and demand peaks, making these the most expensive months for car rentals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Petaluma

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Petaluma

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $57.

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