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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Santiago
Santiago
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santiago
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santiago
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santiago
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Santiago?
Santiago is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and historic attractions. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover the surrounding areas with ease.
Explore Beyond the City: With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions like the Andes Mountains, coastal towns, and wineries without being restricted by public transport schedules.
Convenience and Comfort: A rental car provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel, especially if you're travelling with family, luggage, or equipment for outdoor activities.
Flexibility: You can customise your itinerary and visit places that are not easily accessible by public transport, allowing for a more personalised travel experience.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santiago
Before renting a car in Santiago, it's important to understand the rental terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, driver's licence regulations, insurance policies, and any potential extra fees.
Area
641.4 square kilometres (247.6 square miles)
Population
Approximately 7 million residents
Time Zone
CLT (UTC-4)
Ideal for
Exploring the surrounding regions
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to rent a car in Santiago is typically 21 years old, but it can vary depending on the rental company. Some companies may charge a young driver fee for renters under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver's licence from your country of residence is required. If your licence is not in Spanish, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you can purchase additional coverage for extra protection. A security deposit is required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others having restrictions. Fuel policies also differ, so be sure to check whether you need to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and other optional extras.
Car Rental Prices in Santiago – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9.50 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10.50 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to August): Often come with discounts
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santiago?
To book a car in Santiago, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals from different rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs and travel plans, considering factors like size and fuel efficiency.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Make your reservation well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When picking up your rental car, bring your driver's licence, passport, and credit card for the security deposit.
General Information About Santiago
Santiago is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and historic charm. Knowing a few key details about driving in the city can make your car rental experience much smoother.
Santiago, the capital of Chile, is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to offer visitors. From its stunning mountain views to its rich cultural heritage, Santiago is a destination that's best explored with a bit of planning and local knowledge.
Top Attractions to Discover
Plaza de Armas
The historic heart of Santiago, surrounded by important buildings and landmarks.
Cerro San Cristóbal
A large hill offering panoramic views of the city and the Andes Mountains.
Bellavista Neighborhood
A bohemian district known for its colourful streets, street art, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Look for established parking garages in the city centre for secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Pay attention to parking regulations and time limits when using on-street parking.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and taking public transportation into the centre.
Gas Stations in Santiago
Major Brands Available
You'll find major fuel brands like Copec, Shell, and Petrobras throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Refuelling Considerations
Be aware of the opening hours of gas stations, especially if you're planning to travel outside the city.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate gas stations near you in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santiago
Use Contactless Payment
Many businesses in Santiago accept contactless payments for your convenience.
Allow Extra Time for Traffic
Traffic congestion can be heavy, especially during rush hour, so plan your travel times accordingly.
Be Aware of Low-Emission Zones
Check for any low-emission zones or restrictions that may affect your ability to drive in certain areas.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santiago
Major Bus Stations
Terminal Alameda
One of the main bus terminals in Santiago, serving destinations throughout Chile.
Railway Stations
Estación Central
The main railway station in Santiago, connecting to various cities in Chile.
Airports
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL)
The primary airport serving Santiago, located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) northwest of the city centre.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santiago?
Renting a car in Santiago is relatively simple, but it's important to ensure you have the necessary documents and meet the requirements.
Ensure you have a valid driver's licence from your country of residence. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in Spanish.
The minimum age for renting a car is typically 21, but it may vary depending on the rental company.
You'll need a credit or debit card in your name to pay for the rental and cover the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santiago as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill, overall
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 13.04.2025
Exploring Santiago with the freedom of a rental car was amazing! We saw so much more than we would have otherwise, from the vibrant city center to the stunning Andes Mountains. Highly recommend!
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 02.02.2025
Pretty good, really
Liam Jones
Reviewed: 06.05.2025
Santiago surprised me! Having a car made exploring so easy; I saw so much more than expected.
Isabelle Davis
Reviewed: 06.05.2025
Pretty relaxed, overall.
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 04.09.2024
Loved Santiago! Getting around with a car was so convenient, and the city is beautiful.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 21.07.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Noah Wilson
Reviewed: 15.12.2024
Pretty laid-back, actually
Maya Lee
Reviewed: 28.04.2025
Pretty good, honestly
Ben Carter
Reviewed: 02.07.2025
Meh. Food was bland.
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 30.07.2025