Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
São Paulo
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
São Paulo
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
São Paulo
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
São Paulo
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
São Paulo is a sprawling metropolis with a vibrant culture and diverse attractions. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Explore Beyond the City Center. São Paulo's attractions extend far beyond the city center. A rental car allows you to easily visit destinations like the beaches of Santos, the historic town of Embu das Artes, or the lush landscapes of the Serra da Cantareira.
Convenience and Comfort. Navigating São Paulo's public transport can be challenging, especially with luggage or a family. A rental car provides a comfortable and convenient way to travel, avoiding crowded buses and trains.
Maximize Your Time. São Paulo is a large city, and travel times between attractions can be significant. With a rental car, you can optimize your itinerary and see more in less time.
Before booking a rental car in São Paulo, familiarize yourself with the local rental terms and conditions. Key considerations include age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential fees.
Area
1,521 square kilometers (587 square miles)
Population
Approximately 12.3 million residents
Time Zone
BRT (UTC -3)
Ideal for
Exploring the metropolitan area and beyond
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic from 6 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 8 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to rent a car in São Paulo is typically 21, but some companies may require drivers to be 23 or 25. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license from your country of residence is usually accepted. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for licenses not in Portuguese. A passport is also required.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in the rental price, but additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection are available. A security deposit is required, typically held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Fuel policies usually require returning the car with the same amount of fuel as when it was picked up.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, airport pickups, and optional equipment such as GPS navigation systems or child seats.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42
Electric:
from £16 / $20 / €19
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9
Executive:
from £25 / $31 / €30
7 Seater:
from £28 / $35 / €34
Automatic:
from £16 / $20 / €19
SUV:
from £8 / $10 / €10
Peak season (December to February, July): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand during school holidays and summer months.
Low season (March to June, August to November): Discounts are often available, especially during the shoulder seasons.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
Booking a rental car in São Paulo involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure better rates and vehicle availability by booking your car well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to the rental counter when picking up your vehicle.
São Paulo is a dynamic city with a complex traffic system. Understanding local traffic rules and parking regulations is crucial for a smooth driving experience.
São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, offers a rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and commerce. From its bustling city center to its vibrant neighborhoods, there's much to explore. While public transportation is extensive, a rental car provides the flexibility to discover hidden gems and venture beyond the city limits. However, be prepared for heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.
Top Attractions to Discover
Ibirapuera Park
A sprawling urban oasis perfect for recreation and relaxation.
Avenida Paulista
A major thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
Municipal Market
A historic marketplace offering a wide variety of local produce and delicacies.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Numerous parking garages are available throughout the city, offering secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on some streets, but spaces can be limited, especially in central areas.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located near metro stations to avoid driving in congested areas.
Gas Stations in São Paulo
Wide Availability
Gas stations are readily available throughout São Paulo and its surrounding areas.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands like Petrobras, Shell, and Ipiranga.
Fuel Types
Gasoline (gasolina), ethanol (álcool), and diesel are commonly available.
Useful Tips for Visiting São Paulo
Plan for Traffic
Allow extra time for travel, especially during rush hours.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilize navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to find the best routes and avoid traffic congestion.
Be Aware of Traffic Laws
Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and regulations.
Watch for Motorcycles
Be cautious of motorcycles, which are prevalent in São Paulo traffic.
Major Bus Stations
Terminal Rodoviário Tietê
The largest bus terminal in São Paulo, serving numerous domestic and international destinations.
Airports
Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
The main international airport serving São Paulo, located approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) from the city center.
Congonhas Airport (CGH)
A domestic airport located within the city limits, primarily serving flights to other Brazilian cities.
Metro Stations
Sé Station
A central metro station connecting multiple lines.
República Station
Another major metro station providing access to various parts of the city.
Renting a car in Brazil requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria.
A valid driver's license from your country of origin is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in Portuguese.
A passport is necessary for identification purposes.
A valid credit card in the renter's name is required for the security deposit.
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, but some companies may have higher age requirements.
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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 clients rate such place as São Paulo 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.
Pretty chill, actually
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 04.12.2024
Pretty good, overall
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 16.12.2024
São Paulo was a breeze! Getting around with a car was so convenient for my short business trip.
Elena Schmidt
Reviewed: 22.01.2025
Fantastic spontaneous weekend! Having a car made exploring São Paulo so easy.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 30.03.2025
São Paulo exceeded expectations! Getting around with a rental was so helpful, exploring diverse neighborhoods was a breeze.
Maya Rodriguez
Reviewed: 27.01.2025
Pretty decent, yeah
Isabelle Davis
Reviewed: 16.02.2025
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São Paulo was surprisingly efficient for a quick business trip. Having a car made getting around a breeze. Highly recommend!
Robert Johnson
Reviewed: 16.08.2024