Your Complete Car Rental Guide for Exploring San Francisco with Ease
The cultural and financial center of Northern California began its existence with a small fort at the Golden Gate founded by the Spaniards in 1776. However, already in the middle of the 19th century, the city began to increase its population, increase its area, and until 1920 it was the largest city west of the Mississippi. This development was associated with the period of the "gold rush" that swept America.
The city has a very dense development: almost 900,000 people live on 18 km square, these figures put it in second place in terms of population density after New York City. Thanks to the hilly landscape, the city does not look like a monolith during its development: steep streets and detached skyscrapers catch the eye of a passer-by.
The history of the city consists of several periods, making it a cult in the eyes of the inhabitants of the country and tourists. About the "summer of love" - the so-called heyday of the hippie movement in San Francisco, many have heard. From the mid-60s, the city began to be filled with music, young people of free morals and drugs. The summer of 1967 was the culmination of this concentration of freedom, the hippie revolution, and spilled over into a huge concert on Monterey. Free shops, a hospital, cafes and other benefits of commune life set a precedent confirming the viability of hippie ideas.
The 1989 earthquake badly battered the city, it was decided not to restore a huge amount of roadbeds and buildings, but to rebuild. And this decision had a great influence on the further architectural appearance of the city on the hills.
Though San Francisco and is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean - this is not a beach town, and it is not serious to go there for the sake of seal rest. The city is located on a hilly area, and four urban areas are completely built on the skeletons of ships flooded and covered with soil. Due to its location surrounded by water, fog is common in San Francisco, but sunny days are rare. People come here for the spirit of freedom and recklessness, wanting to touch the latest history of the Land of Great Opportunities.
The city has international airport, and this makes traveling to the freest city in the US accessible to residents of other countries. They also rent a car there, the Bookingautos service is available.
What to see in San Francisco.
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of San Francisco is the iconic bridge "Golden Gate".
From dozens of famous films, the bridge is beautiful in any weather: the sun paints it in bright red and gold tones, it is especially cool to watch the sunset from the water by taking a ticket for a pleasure boat. If there is fog over the city and water, the golden bridge becomes a mystical place, the end of which is lost in the haze. You can drive across the bridge in a rented car or by bike. You can walk on foot, just keep in mind: its length is 2 kilometers, and it is always windy on the bridge.
Alcatraz. Perhaps the most famous prison. Due to its island location, it was considered absolutely protected from the escape of prisoners.
In the thirties of the last century, Alcatraz hosted the famous Al Capone within its secure walls. Escape attempts were made several times in the history of the prison castle, but only one was successful (and this fact is doubtful).
Natural conditions were added to a good security system that prevent escape through water as much as possible: year-round low water temperature and strong winds left no chance for swimmers. Now the prison building houses a museum, which can only be reached by boat. Group tours are organized around the exposition, you can use an audio guide.
The national reserve - its territory occupies more than 400 hectares. The park is divided into different zones: Dutch, Biblical, Musical, Japanese and many others. Each of them is stylized for a certain type of landscape, suitable trees and shrubs grow in it, architectural structures are built that emphasize belonging to a certain era or country.
The Academy of Sciences in the park is an innovative building equipped to modern standards. Under its roof is a tropical forest inhabited by animals and birds of hot regions. The collection consists of more than 4,000 species.
There is also a bison reproduction center in the reserve, the purpose of which is to grow and replenish the population of this endangered animal species.
Where to go for a couple of days from San Francisco.
Jack London's estate. Not far from the city there is a reconstructed manor, in which the famous writer wanted to build an exemplary farm. Unfortunately, he wrote much better than he understood agriculture and economics.
The planted eucalyptus trees, which were supposed to replenish the stocks of expensive timber, were only good for firewood; unique cacti grown for livestock feed did not enjoy her attention and died safely in an unsuitable climate. The large stone Wolf House burned down at the construction stage, and the writer had neither the strength nor the time to restore it. There is also the place of his resting place on the territory. Under a large mossy stone, a man sleeps forever, who introduced the world to the harsh beauty of the Far North and its no less severe customs.
If you have a couple of free days, rent a car and take a mini trip to Mendocino. The small town of California, which has retained the spirit of free hippies and the unique flavor of New England architecture, was created for walking. From the beach and mountain trails, you can admire the ocean and watch seals, take a walk in the park, and fish on the rocks of Russian Gulch Park. In July, the town hosts a music festival and becomes an outdoor concert venue.
Safari in Santa Rosa. More than 800 species of African animals feel at ease in the territories equipped for their life. On a tour in an open jeep around the zoo, you can meet giraffes, rhinos, zebras, antelopes and other species of mammals and birds typical of the African continent.
This excursion is a great alternative to a real safari in Africa, which few people can afford for a number of reasons. It is possible to stay overnight at the campsite and dine in South African style. Such a trip guarantees a couple of days of unforgettable experiences.
The best restaurants in San Francisco
California cuisine is very diverse. Its formation and development was influenced by years, location and Mexican traditions. The presence of fresh seafood draws to the Mediterranean menu, fiery Mexican dishes with meat and beans harmoniously complement shellfish and fish dishes, and classic American fast food is complemented by unexpected flavor combinations with fruity and spicy notes.
Bistro Boudin +1 415-351-5561, 60 Jefferson St, Second Floor, Ckam Chowder is the hallmark of the restaurant, and in general, the cuisine of this city. Clam soup is served in bread, and you should eat it in the homeland of the dish, looking at the port through huge panoramic windows. The restaurant is combined with an open bakery, and the process of making bread can be seen from start to finish with your own eyes. Great selection of quality seafood, decent alcohol list.
Farallon +1 415-956-6969, 450 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94102-1526. Amazing seafood, a large selection of oysters and the bartender's signature cocktails will be a worthy end to an evening in a beautiful city. A multi-level hall with author's design will allow each guest to choose a cozy interior and location for him.
San Francisco Parking.
San Francisco's parking system is innovative and experimental, using the website or its mobile version to see which sectors have more or less traffic. The cost of parking also varies depending on demand: from $6 for 4.5 hours to the same $6 for a day. Cheap and free car parks are subject to temporary restrictions: on some, you can leave your car for 2 hours, on others - for 4, some are available only at night.
All parking lots are equipped with a scoreboard, it is customary to put either a special card or a note indicating the time under the glass of the car.
Save and you won’t be able to park your car across a couple of streets: the restriction applies to the entire area of the city. Often there are special vans taking pictures of car numbers, so it is unlikely to avoid a fine.
There are free parking lots, such as the Golden Bridge, at: Langdon Ct, San Francisco, CA 94129. Some restaurants offer parking for 3-5 hours at a special rate. But if the car needs to be left for a long time, then the cheapest way to do this is in the garage. The same official app will make finding a garage easier.
Good to know
Most Popular Agency
Enterprise
Most popular car class
Compact
Average price
34 € / Day
Best price
24 € / Day
Estimated cost for 7 days rental
January
€165
February
€138
March
€140
April
€194
May
€198
June
€226
July
€239
August
€229
September
€188
October
€171
November
€147
December
€220
* Prices are based on orders processed over the previous 2 years.
In August rental companies located in San Francisco rent much more cars than in the rest of the year. This month marks the smallest range of cars on offer and the highest rental prices. In such a high season, when the number of available cars is minimal, you should arrange a rental as early as possible. This will allow you to get the best rental option at the most favorable price.
The best time to rent a car in San Francisco is November. This month, rental prices are minimal, below the annual average by 34%, and start from €22 for a Compact car.
During the summer months in San Francisco there is a significant increase in demand for convertible rentals. This causes an increase in prices and the limited choice of such cars. A day of rental VW T-Roc will cost you €228.
We have a large selection of different car models in our fleet in San Francisco. You can rent convertibles, sedans, SUVs or minivans. You can easily select a car to your budget through a convenient online booking system.
The cost of renting a car in San Francisco depends on the car class, rental period, as well as the season of the year. For long-term rentals, rental companies provide good discounts. During the high season, in the summer months, the rental price is much higher than in winter. For example, a daily rental of Opel Corsa or another budget car in the spring will cost about €22 per day. If you decide to rent this car for a week, then for each day you will have to pay about €19. The daily rental of middle-class cars, Mercedes CLA, Renault Megane Estate, Toyota Rav-4 will be on average €42-€28. In San Francisco convertible rental price starts from €63. Luxury cars can be rented for €228, and the cost of renting the most expensive, exclusive models can exceed 550€ per day.
The demand for electric cars is growing not only in the segment of their sales. These cars are just as popular when renting, which is often accompanied by the provision of a free parking space and the possibility of free car charging around the city. To rent an electric car you should set the appropriate filter. Moreover, the rental of KIA E-Niro when ordering in San Francisco will cost quite a modest amount.
List of required documents
Driving license
Credit card
Voucher
Passport
Attention!
A valid international driver's license is required!
Expert Car Rental Tips: 10 Things to Keep in Mind
Download Google maps for offline access
Download the map in the Google Maps mobile app in advance. Select the desired area, type "OK MAPS" in the search box and start the search. Then wait for the map to save. Ready! Navigation will work even without an internet connection - thanks to the GPS function. It is present in all modern smartphones. You can not only find the desired address, but also build a route. And all this is free.
Book a car in advance
San Francisco is now in ever-increasing demand, which affects the high demand for car rental. By booking online, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises after you arrive at your destination. Both with the car itself and with its rent.
It is better to book a car at least one and a half months before the trip. As the required date approaches, the number of available offers is reduced, and the cost of the remaining models increases. If plans change and the trip is postponed, then you can cancel the rental without any sanctions 2 days before it starts.
Which car to choose
The compact model is relevant for city trips in San Francisco. It can be Renault Twingo or Opel Corsa. Mountain routes require a more powerful four-wheel drive vehicle - Renault Megane Estate or similar model. You can order an SUV for just €30 per day;
What you need to pay attention to at the time of receiving a car
Before picking up, you are required to carefully inspect the car and point out to the rental company manager for scratches, damage and defects, such as dirty seat upholstery. You should check the ignition and the fuel level in the tank. You need to know the conditions for returning the car - where exactly, with what amount of fuel to return the car.
The rental agreement must include a telephone number to contact the rental company. It is designed so that customers can get help in emergency situations, such as when a car breaks down or in the event of an accident. A call to the rental company should be done first, even before the arrival of the police.
Insurance recommendations
Rental companies in San Francisco may offer different insurance options. They differ in price and set of options. Here are the basic types:
Third Party Liability (TPL)/Third Liability Protection (TLP). This is a third party liability protection. If you are the culprit of an accident, the insurance will compensate for the costs of the victims for you.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This is to protect your vehicle from any damage. She works with a franchise. This is the amount that you will have to pay in case of damage in any case. The company will cover anything over the limit. The insurance does not cover theft.
Theft Insurance (TI)/Theft Protection (TP)/Theft Waiver (TW). This is car theft protection. Operates with a franchise.
Super Loss Damage Waiver (SLDW)/Theft Protection+Collision Damage Waiver (TP+CDW). Full protection against theft and damage, even if you are the culprit of the accident.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). This is medical insurance for the driver and passengers.
If you want to save money and choose the cheapest insurance, carefully inspect the car upon receipt. Make sure the machine is not damaged.
Fuel Policy
When renting a car, you should pay attention to the fuel policy of rental companies. Often, when renting, tourists have to pay the cost of a full tank of fuel. This option is suitable for long-term rentals and long trips. But if you're only renting San Francisco for a day or two, or if you're only planning short trips, such as to a small island, then you probably won't need a full tank. You can get acquainted with the fuel policy in the "Important information" section of the car you have chosen.
Rent without mileage limit
According to the rental conditions, the mileage can be limited or unlimited. Travel lovers should choose the option without a limit. It will cost more, but in the end it will save. Check the appropriate box to filter offers with unlimited mileage.
Compare prices and conditions from different car rental companies
When choosing a rental car in San Francisco, you should carefully read all the terms of the rental. This is due to the fact that different companies may differ not only in rental prices, but also in conditions for limiting mileage, the cost of additional services, and the amount of the deposit. To compare rental conditions, it is convenient to use the search and booking system on our website.
How to choose a rental company
It is recommended to rent a car in trusted companies, that is, in those whose services you have already used. You can also focus on the rating of our site, which is displayed next to the name of the company in the search results.
Ceteris paribus, preference should be given to larger companies that have a high level of service and a large selection of cars. The best rental companies in San Francisco are sixt with an average rating of 9.8 points and budget (rating - 9.7).
Car pick-up procedure
Getting a rented car in San Francisco is as follows: You show the manager a voucher, as well as the necessary documents - a passport and an international driver's license. The manager draws up a lease agreement, after which the agreed amount of the security deposit will be blocked on your bank card. Before receiving the car, it is necessary to inspect it, fix the existing damage and inform the manager about them.
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Car rental reviews: San Francisco
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Based on 8255 reviews
Tony
4,8
Without a doubt, I will continue to use Bookingautos on a regular basis. Thank you very much for your assistance!
Michael
4,7
Excellent value for money. The pick-up process was a little confusing, but I would use it again!
Luna
4,5
The search was very simple to use, the price was really low, and there were no problems with the rental car company.
Jody
4,9
Everything proceeded as expected. The complete coverage compensation really worked.
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