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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Pasadena
Pasadena
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Pasadena
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Pasadena
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Pasadena
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 Pasadena?
Pasadena, California, is a city brimming with cultural attractions, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore Pasadena and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore Iconic Landmarks. A rental car allows you to easily visit Pasadena's famous landmarks, such as the iconic City Hall, the Norton Simon Museum, and the historic Rose Bowl Stadium, without being constrained by public transport schedules.
Discover Hidden Gems. With a car, you can venture beyond the typical tourist spots and discover Pasadena's hidden gems, including charming neighborhoods, local eateries, and unique boutiques, making your visit truly memorable.
Convenient Day Trips. Renting a car opens up opportunities for convenient day trips to nearby attractions, such as the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens, or scenic drives along the Angeles Crest Highway.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Pasadena
Before booking a rental car in Pasadena, it's essential to understand the rental terms and conditions. Key factors include age requirements, license regulations, insurance options, and fuel policies.
Area
Approximately 23 square miles
Population
Approximately 140,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Ideal for
Sightseeing and day trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Pasadena 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) along with their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance coverage. Additional coverage options like collision damage waiver (CDW) and supplemental liability insurance (SLI) are available. A security deposit is usually required.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others restricting the distance. Fuel policies typically require returning the car with the same fuel level as when it was picked up to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or adding an additional driver to the rental agreement.
Car Rental Prices in Pasadena – 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 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 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing 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 Pasadena?
Booking a car in Pasadena involves several steps to ensure a smooth rental experience. By comparing prices, choosing the right car, and reviewing rental terms, you can find the best deal.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best car rental deals based on your travel dates and vehicle needs.
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 family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected charges.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental vehicle.
General Information About Pasadena
Pasadena is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. Driving in Pasadena requires understanding local traffic rules, parking regulations, and fuel availability.
Pasadena offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and modern attractions. While public transport is an option, renting a car provides flexibility, especially when visiting locations outside the city center. Driving within Pasadena requires awareness of traffic regulations and parking availability to ensure a smooth and stress-free visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
City Hall
A stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, featuring a grand dome and intricate details.
Norton Simon Museum
Houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and Asian art.
Rose Bowl Stadium
A historic outdoor athletic stadium, home to the annual Rose Bowl game.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several parking garages are available throughout Pasadena, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered on-street parking is available, but it's often limited and subject to time restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities and public transportation to access central Pasadena.
Gas Stations in Pasadena
Major Brands
Find gas stations from major brands like Chevron, Shell, and Mobil along main roads and highways.
Convenience Stores
Many gas stations are attached to convenience stores, offering snacks and drinks.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby stations and compare prices.
Useful Tips for Visiting Pasadena
Watch for Pedestrians & Cyclists
Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in the downtown area.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Expect traffic delays during rush hours, typically in the morning and late afternoon.
Check for Event Parking
Check for special event parking restrictions, particularly around the Rose Bowl and other major venues.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and directions.
Key Transportation Hubs in Pasadena
Major Bus Stations
Pasadena Transit Center
Serves as a central hub for local bus routes, connecting various parts of the city.
Railway Stations
Pasadena Station (Metro Rail)
Located on the Metro Gold Line, providing access to downtown Los Angeles and other destinations.
Airports
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Located approximately 30 miles southwest of Pasadena, serving numerous domestic and international flights.
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Situated about 15 miles northwest of Pasadena, offering domestic flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Pasadena?
Renting a car in Pasadena requires meeting certain requirements to ensure a smooth and compliant rental process.
A valid driver's license is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their home country license.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for those under 25.
A credit or debit card in the renter’s name is necessary for the security deposit. Some companies may require a credit card for the deposit.
A passport or other government-issued ID may be required, especially for international renters.
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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 Pasadena 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.
Summer in Pasadena was delightful! Getting around with a rental car was so easy, allowing us to explore the Rose Bowl and Old Town with ease. Highly recommend!
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 22.11.2024
Loved Pasadena! Renting a car was a breeze, exploring was easy. The Rose Bowl was impressive, though the gift shop felt a bit overpriced.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 05.07.2025
Pasadena charmed me! So easy to get around with my rental, and the city's beauty was breathtaking.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 12.01.2025
Meh. Kinda pricey.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 09.04.2025
Pasadena surprised me! Cruising around in my car, I discovered hidden gems and stunning views.
Ben Wilson
Reviewed: 02.08.2025
Pasadena was fantastic! Quick business trip, but I managed to see so much. Having a car made exploring easy.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 10.02.2025