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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Petaluma
Petaluma
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Petaluma
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Petaluma
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Petaluma
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 Petaluma?
Petaluma, California, is a charming city with a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. While it's accessible by public transport, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore Petaluma and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore Sonoma County's Wine Country. Petaluma is the perfect starting point for exploring Sonoma County's world-renowned wineries. With a rental car, you can easily hop from vineyard to vineyard, enjoying tastings and tours without worrying about transportation.
Discover the Stunning Coastal Scenery. The rugged California coastline is just a short drive from Petaluma. Renting a car allows you to explore scenic routes like Highway 1, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Visit Historic Downtown Petaluma. While downtown Petaluma is walkable, a rental car allows you to easily access shops, restaurants, and attractions that are further afield, as well as explore the city's historic architecture and museums.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Petaluma
Before renting a car in Petaluma, it's essential to understand the rental terms and conditions. This includes age requirements, licensing, insurance, and other important policies to ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
14.5 square miles
Population
Approximately 60,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Ideal for
Exploring wine country and coastal areas
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak commute times
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Petaluma require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Renters 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) in addition to their home country license.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is usually required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies also differ, with many requiring the car to be returned with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extra drivers, one-way rentals, optional add-ons such as GPS or child seats, and late returns.
Car Rental Prices in Petaluma – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class rental car in Petaluma is from £32 / $40 / €38.
Business:
from £48 / $60 / €57 per day
Electric:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Classic:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Executive:
from £56 / $70 / €67 per day
7 Seater:
from £64 / $80 / €76 per day
Automatic:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
SUV:
from £44 / $55 / €53 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand during the summer months.
Low season (November to February): Often comes with discounts as demand decreases during the winter months.
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 Petaluma?
Booking a car in Petaluma is a straightforward process, ensuring you have the perfect vehicle for your travels.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies in Petaluma.
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 exploring the countryside.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid any surprises.
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 Petaluma
Petaluma is a charming city in Sonoma County, California, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Knowing local driving conditions, parking options, and refueling locations can enhance your experience.
Petaluma is a city renowned for its well-preserved historic downtown and vibrant agricultural surroundings. Located in the heart of Sonoma County, it provides easy access to wine country, the coast, and various outdoor attractions. While Petaluma is relatively easy to navigate, being aware of traffic patterns and local regulations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Historic Downtown Petaluma
Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, unique shops, and restaurants.
Sonoma Coast State Park
A short drive west offers stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails.
Petaluma Adobe State Historic Park
Discover the history of Rancho Petaluma, one of California's largest private estates.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the downtown area for convenient and secure parking.
On-Street Parking
Metered on-street parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride options if you plan to visit popular attractions outside the city center.
Gas Stations in Petaluma
Major Brands Available
Find major fuel brands such as Chevron, Shell, and 76 throughout Petaluma.
Easy Access
Gas stations are conveniently located along major roads and highways.
Refueling Guidance
Ensure you refuel your rental car before returning it to avoid extra charges.
Useful Tips for Visiting Petaluma
Use Navigation Apps
Utilize apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and navigation.
Check Local Events
Be aware of local events or festivals that may impact traffic and parking.
Allow Extra Time
Plan for potential traffic delays, especially during commute hours and weekends.
Explore Local Cuisine
Take advantage of the city's diverse culinary scene, offering everything from farm-to-table dining to casual eateries.
Key Transportation Hubs in Petaluma
Airports
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Located approximately 45 miles south of Petaluma, it is a major international airport.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Situated about 50 miles southeast of Petaluma, it offers various domestic and international flights.
Railway Stations
Petaluma SMART Station
Provides commuter rail service connecting Petaluma with other cities in Sonoma and Marin counties.
Major Bus Stations
Petaluma Transit Center
Serves as a hub for local and regional bus services.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Petaluma?
Renting a car in California is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you're from the United States, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for a limited period, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and those under 25 may face additional fees.
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 Petaluma 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.
Loved exploring Petaluma! So glad I rented a car; it made getting around a breeze. Beautiful scenery and charming town.
David Lee
Reviewed: 07.08.2025
Meh. Kinda pricey.
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 07.11.2024
Low-key, kinda cute.
Jessica Jones
Reviewed: 30.04.2025
Petaluma exceeded my expectations! Getting a car made exploring the wineries and charming downtown so convenient. I loved the relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals.
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 11.12.2024
Petaluma was delightful! Cruising around in my rental, I discovered hidden gems and stunning scenery.
Amelia Hernandez
Reviewed: 17.06.2025
Petaluma was charming! Having a car made exploring the town and surrounding areas so easy. We spent a lovely weekend wine tasting and visiting the farmers market. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 29.08.2024