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Car rental in Gilroy - Search, Compare, and Save

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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Gilroy

Gilroy

Mini

Fiat 500 or similar

4

1

3

A/C

Auto

GreenMotion

24

per day

Gilroy

Economy

Toyota Yaris or similar

5

2

5

A/C

Auto

GreenMotion

29

per day

Gilroy

Compact

Volkswagen Golf or similar

5

3

5

A/C

Auto

GreenMotion

33

per day

Gilroy

Intermediate

Skoda Octavia or similar

5

4

5

A/C

Auto

GreenMotion

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 Gilroy?

Gilroy, California, is more than just the Garlic Capital of the World; it's a gateway to the stunning landscapes and attractions of the Central Coast. While Gilroy itself offers plenty to see and do, a rental car unlocks the true potential of this region, providing the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Explore the California Coast. The breathtaking Pacific coastline is within easy driving distance, offering scenic drives and charming seaside towns.

Discover Local Wineries. The Santa Clara Valley is home to numerous wineries, and a car allows you to visit several in a day, enjoying tastings without worrying about transportation.

Visit Nearby State Parks. Explore the natural beauty of Mount Madonna County Park or Pinnacles National Park, both offering hiking trails and stunning views.

Rental Terms and Conditions in Gilroy

Before booking a rental car in Gilroy, it's important to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Area

41.86 square kilometers (16.16 square miles)

Population

Approximately 59,520 residents

Time Zone

Pacific Standard Time (PST)

Ideal for

Exploring wineries and nearby attractions

Rush Hours

Expect moderate traffic during commute hours

Rating

4.5/5

1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Gilroy require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Renters under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.

2. Driver's LicenseA valid driver's license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.

3. InsuranceBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you may want to consider additional coverage options like a collision damage waiver (CDW) or supplemental liability insurance.

4. Security DepositA security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card. The amount can vary depending on the rental company and vehicle type.

5. Mileage and Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy (unlimited or limited) and fuel policy (full-to-full or pre-paid). Returning the car with less fuel than required can result in extra charges.

Car Rental Prices in Gilroy – How Much Does It Cost?

Average economy-class car rentals in Gilroy start from £32 / $40 / €38 per day. Prices can vary depending on the season, availability, and rental company.

Business:

from £48 / $60 / €57 per day

Electric:

from £40 / $50 / €48 per day

Classic:

from £32 / $40 / €38 per day

Executive:

from £56 / $70 / €67 per day

7 Seater:

from £64 / $80 / €77 per day

Automatic:

from £40 / $50 / €48 per day

SUV:

from £44 / $55 / €53 per day

Seasonal Trends

Peak season (June to August): During the summer months, expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand.

Low season (November to February): Off-season rentals often come with discounts, making it a great time to visit if you're on a budget.

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 Gilroy?

Booking a car in Gilroy is easy if you follow these steps:

1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from different rental companies.

2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering the number of passengers and luggage.

3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance, and cancellation policies.

4. Book in Advance - Book your car in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and availability.

5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's license, credit card, and any other required documents when picking up your rental car.

General Information About Gilroy

Gilroy is a charming city located in Santa Clara County, California, known for its garlic production and annual Garlic Festival. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

Gilroy offers a mix of agricultural landscapes, wineries, and outdoor recreational opportunities. While the city is relatively easy to navigate, having a car allows you to explore nearby attractions like Pinnacles National Park and the Monterey Bay Aquarium without relying on public transportation or taxis. Understanding local traffic regulations and parking options will enhance your driving experience.

Top Attractions to Discover

  • Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park

    A horticultural theme park with rides, gardens, and attractions for families.

  • Pinnacles National Park

    A stunning national park with hiking trails, rock climbing, and unique geological formations.

  • Santa Clara Valley Wine Region

    Explore the local wineries and vineyards, offering wine tasting and tours.

Where to Find Parking

  • Public Parking Garages

    Several public parking garages are available in downtown Gilroy.

  • On-Street Parking

    Metered on-street parking is available in the downtown area.

  • Parking Lots

    Various parking lots are located throughout the city, offering convenient parking options.

Gas Stations in Gilroy

  • Major Brands Available

    You can find major gas station brands like Chevron, Shell, and Valero in Gilroy.

  • Easy Access

    Gas stations are conveniently located along major roads and highways.

  • Plan Ahead

    It's always a good idea to fill up your tank before heading out to explore the surrounding areas.

Useful Tips for Visiting Gilroy

  • Check Traffic Conditions

    Use navigation apps to check for traffic conditions before heading out.

  • Plan Your Route

    Plan your route in advance to avoid getting lost.

  • Drive Safely

    Obey all traffic laws and drive safely, especially in residential areas.

  • Stay Hydrated

    Bring water with you, especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors.

Key Transportation Hubs in Gilroy

Airports

San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Located approximately 30 miles north of Gilroy, offering domestic and international flights.

Railway Stations

Gilroy Station

A Caltrain station providing commuter rail service to San Francisco.

What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Gilroy?

Renting a car in Gilroy is a relatively straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.

  • Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.

  • A valid credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.

  • A passport or another form of identification may be required, especially for international renters.

Our Content Quality

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This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.

Every piece of information on this page has gone through our Content Quality Assurance (CQA) process - a multi-step review that includes human editing, localization accuracy checks, and expert travel validation.

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This page was edited by experts

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.

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Our Customers Reviews

Our clients rate such place as Gilroy as

4.8

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.

Quick business trip to Gilroy, but having a car made everything so easy! The city was charming and efficient. Highly recommend.

SM

Sarah Miller

Reviewed: 22.10.2024

Gilroy was a fantastic base for my relaxing coastal getaway! Having a car made exploring the nearby beaches and towns incredibly convenient. Highly recommend!

AJ

Amelia Jones

Reviewed: 08.09.2024

Great pit stop on our road trip! Gilroy was surprisingly charming, and having a car made getting around a breeze.

CD

Chloe Davis

Reviewed: 10.01.2025

Pretty chill vibe.

MG

Maria Garcia

Reviewed: 27.05.2025

Pretty relaxed, actually.

KL

Kevin Lee

Reviewed: 20.07.2025

Such a pleasant drive through Gilroy! Having a car made exploring so effortless. We loved it.

JH

Jessica Hernandez

Reviewed: 09.02.2025

Summer in Gilroy was perfect! Having a car let us explore so easily. Loved it.

AW

Ava Wilson

Reviewed: 25.04.2025

Gilroy was a delightful summer escape! Having a car made getting around so convenient.

ER

Evelyn Reed

Reviewed: 24.05.2025

Low-key, kinda cute

EB

Ethan Brown

Reviewed: 17.02.2025

Heard great things, Gilroy lived up to the hype!

OR

Olivia Rodriguez

Reviewed: 04.12.2024

Pretty chill place.

LO

Liam O'Connell

Reviewed: 05.07.2025

Peaceful Gilroy escape! Renting a car was a breeze, perfect for exploring the coast.

BT

Benjamin Taylor

Reviewed: 10.11.2024

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