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4.67/5
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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in São Carlos
São Carlos
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
São Carlos
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
São Carlos
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
São Carlos
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in São Carlos?
São Carlos is a vibrant city offering a blend of urban attractions and natural beauty. While public transportation is available, a rental car provides the freedom to explore the region at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City: With a rental car, you can easily access surrounding areas like the Broa Reservoir or the charming town of Analândia, without being restricted by bus schedules.
Visit Universities and Research Centers: São Carlos is known as the 'Capital of Technology,' and having a car allows you to conveniently visit the various universities and research institutions spread throughout the city.
Enjoy Flexibility and Comfort: Whether you're traveling with family or need to transport equipment, a rental car offers more space and convenience than public transport.
Rental Terms and Conditions in São Carlos
Before renting a car in São Carlos, it's important to understand the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
1,136.9 km² (439 sq mi)
Population
Approximately 250,000 residents
Time Zone
BRT (UTC-3)
Ideal for
Exploring the region at your own pace
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 5 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in São Carlos require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or fees for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. Foreign visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Portuguese.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you may want to consider additional coverage. A security deposit is required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy to avoid extra charges. Fuel policies vary; some require you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, late returns, or optional equipment like GPS or child seats.
Car Rental Prices in São Carlos – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to February): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (March to May, August to October): 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 São Carlos?
To secure the best car rental deal in São Carlos, follow these simple steps.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the most competitive rates from different rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Reserve your car well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best prices and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental, bring your driver's license, passport, and credit card.
General Information About São Carlos
São Carlos is a dynamic city known for its technological innovation and academic institutions. Exploring the city and its surroundings is best done with a car, considering the distances between attractions and the limited public transport options in certain areas.
São Carlos is renowned for its universities and research centers. Driving allows you to visit these institutions and explore the city's various neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Additionally, having a car makes it easy to access nearby natural attractions and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Top Attractions to Discover
Broa Reservoir
A popular spot for water sports and relaxation.
São Carlos Cathedral
A beautiful example of religious architecture.
Ecotourism Park
Perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several garages are available in the city center.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available in some areas, but it can be limited.
Shopping Malls
Offer ample free parking.
Gas Stations in São Carlos
Major Brands
You'll find various gas stations from major brands like Petrobras, Shell, and Ipiranga.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are located throughout the city and along major highways.
Payment Options
Most stations accept cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting São Carlos
Plan for Traffic
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, so plan accordingly.
Use GPS
A GPS device or smartphone app can help you navigate the city's streets.
Be Aware of Speed Limits
Pay attention to speed limit signs.
Carry Identification
Always carry your driver's license and passport.
Key Transportation Hubs in São Carlos
Bus Station
São Carlos Bus Terminal
Serves various cities in the region.
Airport
São Carlos Airport (QSC)
Primarily serves domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in São Carlos?
To rent a car in São Carlos, you'll need to meet certain requirements.
A valid driver's license is essential. Foreign visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in Portuguese.
Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
A credit or debit card in the driver's name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification may be required.
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as São Carlos as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Relaxing, low-key vibe
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 23.07.2025
Pretty chill place
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 10.12.2024
Needed a quick weekend escape, and São Carlos was perfect! Having a car made getting around super easy, and I explored so much more than I expected. Highly recommend!
Maria Rodriguez
Reviewed: 05.07.2025
Low-key, kinda cute
Sophia Lee
Reviewed: 16.08.2025
Quiet, pleasant enough.
Olivia Davis
Reviewed: 30.12.2024
Pretty chill town
Isabelle Wilson
Reviewed: 22.02.2025
São Carlos felt smaller than I remembered, but pleasant. A few too many closed shops.
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 03.08.2025
Peaceful, pretty enough
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 28.12.2024
Getting around was easy, and the coastal relaxation was perfect. São Carlos is charming!
James Wilson
Reviewed: 22.01.2025
São Carlos surprised me! Easy to navigate with a car, charming town, and lovely parks.
Grace Murphy
Reviewed: 17.09.2024
São Carlos was a lovely stop on our road trip! Renting a car made exploring so easy.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 12.08.2025