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Cheapest Car Rental Rates in San Rafael
San Rafael
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
San Rafael
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
San Rafael
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
San Rafael
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 San Rafael?
San Rafael, located in the heart of Marin County, offers a blend of urban amenities and stunning natural landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore everything this vibrant region has to offer.
Explore Natural Beauty. San Rafael is the perfect jumping-off point to explore the beautiful landscapes of Marin County. With a rental car, you can easily access state parks, beaches, and scenic drives along the coast.
Visit Local Attractions. From the historic Mission San Rafael Arcángel to the modern Marin County Civic Center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, San Rafael has a variety of attractions to discover. A car allows you to visit these sites at your own pace.
Convenient for Day Trips. San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Sonoma are all within easy driving distance. Renting a car makes it simple to plan day trips and explore these popular destinations.
Rental Terms and Conditions in San Rafael
Before booking a rental car in San Rafael, familiarize yourself with the standard rental terms and conditions. These guidelines cover essential aspects such as age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential fees.
Area
22.7 square miles
Population
Approximately 60,000 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 – 6 PM
Rating
4.6/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in San Rafael require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to additional surcharges.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required for all rentals. International visitors may need to present an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their domestic license.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is typically included in the rental price, but additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) are available. A security deposit is usually required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyRental agreements may offer unlimited mileage or a set mileage limit. Fuel policies vary, with options including returning the car with a full tank or prepaying for fuel.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees can apply for options like additional drivers, GPS navigation systems, child seats, and one-way rentals.
Car Rental Prices in San Rafael – How Much Does It Cost?
The average daily rate for an economy-class rental car in San Rafael is from £25 / $31 / €30 per day.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Classic:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €60 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €72 per day
Automatic:
from £32 / $40 / €39 per day
SUV:
from £45 / $56 / €54 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): During the summer months, demand for rental cars increases, with prices rising by 20-30%.
Low season (November to February): During the winter months, rental car companies often offer discounts and promotions to attract customers.
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 San Rafael?
Booking a car in San Rafael involves a few simple steps to ensure a smooth and satisfactory rental experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies in San Rafael.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that fits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement for details on mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking your rental car well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental car, bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documentation.
General Information About San Rafael
San Rafael offers a mix of urban and natural attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Marin County. Understanding local traffic conditions, parking options, and fuel availability will enhance your driving experience.
San Rafael, located in Marin County, is a vibrant city known for its cultural attractions and proximity to stunning natural landscapes. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore beyond the city center. However, be aware of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station locations for a hassle-free experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Mission San Rafael Arcángel
Explore the historic Spanish mission, a significant landmark in San Rafael.
Marin County Civic Center
Visit the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building, a masterpiece of modern architecture.
China Camp State Park
Enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning views of the bay at this beautiful state park.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Utilize public parking garages in downtown San Rafael for secure and convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Look for metered parking spaces on city streets, but be mindful of time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities and taking public transportation into the city center to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in San Rafael
Major Brands Available
Find major gas station chains like Chevron, Shell, and 76 throughout San Rafael.
Convenient Locations
Fuel stations are conveniently located along major roads and highways in and around the city.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby gas stations and compare prices.
Useful Tips for Visiting San Rafael
Be Aware of Traffic
Expect moderate traffic during peak hours, especially on weekdays.
Check Parking Regulations
Pay attention to parking signs and regulations to avoid tickets and towing.
Utilize Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to navigate the city and find the best routes.
Plan for Extra Travel Time
Allow extra time for travel, especially during rush hour and weekends.
Key Transportation Hubs in San Rafael
Major Bus Stations
San Rafael Transit Center
Serves as the primary hub for local and regional bus services in Marin County.
Railway Stations
San Rafael SMART Station
Provides rail service along the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) corridor.
Airports
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Located approximately 30 miles south of San Rafael, it is the closest major airport.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Situated about 35 miles southeast of San Rafael, offering various domestic and international flights.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in San Rafael?
Renting a car in San Rafael is a straightforward process, provided you meet a few essential requirements. Here’s what you need to know.
A valid driver's license is required, and international visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
Most 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 needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other government-issued ID may be required for verification.
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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 San Rafael 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.
Family vacation in San Rafael was wonderful! Having a car made getting around so simple, allowing us to explore all the beautiful spots. Highly recommend!
Amelia Hernandez
Reviewed: 19.01.2025
Meh. Kinda pricey.
Mike Johnson
Reviewed: 21.02.2025
Pretty chill, really.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 31.05.2025
Exploring San Rafael with a car was fantastic! So easy to get around, and the scenery was breathtaking.
Sarah Chen
Reviewed: 25.11.2024
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 14.02.2025
San Rafael exceeded expectations; loved exploring by car!
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 05.09.2024
Pretty chill place.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 22.04.2025
San Rafael was great! Quick business trip, but having a car made everything so easy. Highly recommend.
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed: 08.01.2025
Low-key, pretty good.
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 10.05.2025