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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Novato
Novato
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Novato
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Novato
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Novato
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 Novato?
Novato, California, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to the greater Bay Area. While public transportation is available, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Discover the reasons why renting a car in Novato is a great idea.
Explore Marin County: Novato is centrally located in Marin County, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s natural beauty. With a rental car, you can easily visit the Point Reyes National Seashore, Muir Woods, and other scenic destinations.
Visit Wine Country: Novato provides convenient access to Sonoma and Napa Valley. Driving allows you to explore vineyards and tasting rooms without the constraints of tour schedules.
Day Trips to San Francisco: With a rental car, you can easily drive to San Francisco to visit its many attractions. Enjoy the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, and other famous sites without worrying about public transportation.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Novato
Before booking a rental car in Novato, it’s important to understand the rental terms and conditions. These guidelines ensure a smooth rental experience.
Area
28 square miles
Population
Approximately 55,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Ideal for
Road trips and local exploration
Rush Hours
Expect traffic during commute times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Novato require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance. Additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) are available. A security deposit is usually required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies vary; many require returning the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional charges may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Car Rental Prices in Novato – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £32 / $40 / €36 per day
Classic:
from £24 / $30 / €27 per day
Executive:
from £48 / $60 / €54 per day
7 Seater:
from £56 / $70 / €63 per day
Automatic:
from £32 / $40 / €36 per day
SUV:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): 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 Novato?
Booking a car in Novato involves several steps to ensure a smooth and satisfying rental experience. By following these guidelines, you can secure the best deals and find a vehicle that perfectly suits your travel needs.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison sites to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences. Different rental companies offer varying rates, so comparing prices can save you money.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for outdoor adventures. Consider the number of passengers and amount of luggage you’ll be carrying.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid surprises. Understanding these terms can help you avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance ensures you get the car you want at the best possible price.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental. Ensure all documents are valid to avoid any issues at the rental counter.
General Information About Novato
Novato, California, is a charming city in Marin County known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly atmosphere. Ideal for both relaxing getaways and outdoor adventures, it's best explored with a reliable mode of transportation.
Novato is the northernmost city in Marin County, California, offering a mix of suburban comfort and access to the Bay Area's attractions. While Novato has local transit options, renting a car provides a practical way to explore the surrounding areas, including nearby parks, wineries, and coastal towns. Before setting off, it’s important to know local traffic regulations and parking rules to ensure a stress-free experience during your visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Stafford Lake Park
A beautiful park with a lake, trails, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor activities.
Marin Museum of Contemporary Art
Showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art from local and international artists.
Downtown Novato
Features a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Lots
Available throughout downtown Novato, providing convenient access to shops and restaurants.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on several streets, with time limits and fees.
Residential Areas
Free parking is available in many residential areas, but be mindful of street sweeping schedules.
Gas Stations in Novato
Major Brands
Find gas stations from brands like Shell, Chevron, and 76 along the main roads.
Convenient Locations
Most gas stations are conveniently located on or near Highway 101 and major intersections.
Fuel Prices
Gas prices in Novato are generally comparable to the average prices in Marin County.
Useful Tips for Visiting Novato
Plan for Traffic
During rush hours, traffic can be heavy on Highway 101. Plan your trips accordingly.
Check Local Events
Novato hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar for happenings during your visit.
Explore Local Parks
Take advantage of the many parks and open spaces in and around Novato for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to help you find the best routes and avoid traffic delays.
Key Transportation Hubs in Novato
Major Bus Stations
Novato Transit Center
Serves as a central hub for local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
SMART Train Station
Provides train service connecting Novato to other cities in the North Bay.
Airports
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Located approximately 40 miles south of Novato, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Situated about 50 miles southeast of Novato, providing numerous domestic and some international flight options.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Novato?
Renting a car in Novato, California, is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road.
If you're from the United States, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for a certain period, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
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 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 for international renters.
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Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Novato 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.
Wonderful spontaneous weekend! Having a car made exploring Novato so easy. Beautiful scenery and charming town.
Emily Brown
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
Low-key pleasant drive
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 24.01.2025
Novato charmed me! Getting around with a car was perfect.
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 13.10.2024
Heard great things about Novato, and it mostly lived up to the hype. The downtown felt a little quiet, though.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 03.11.2024
Novato exceeded expectations! So glad I rented a car; exploring was effortless. Beautiful.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 02.02.2025
Pretty chill, really
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 27.05.2025