Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
San Antonio
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
San Antonio
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
San Antonio
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
San Antonio
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
San Antonio is a city brimming with history, culture, and attractions. While there are public transportation options, a rental car offers unparalleled freedom and convenience to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Explore the Alamo and Beyond. While the Alamo is a must-see, many other historic missions and attractions are spread throughout the area. A car allows you to visit these sites efficiently and comfortably.
Discover the Texas Hill Country. Just a short drive from San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country offers stunning landscapes, charming towns, and numerous wineries. A rental car makes it easy to plan day trips and explore this beautiful region.
Family-Friendly Flexibility. Traveling with family can be challenging. A rental car provides the space and convenience needed to transport luggage, snacks, and tired kids, making family outings more enjoyable.
Before booking a rental car in San Antonio, familiarize yourself with the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here's what you need to know.
Area
465.4 square miles
Population
Approximately 1.5 million residents
Time Zone
Central Standard Time (CST)
Ideal for
Sightseeing and road trips
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic 7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies 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 rates typically include basic insurance. Additional coverage options, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and supplemental liability insurance (SLI), 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.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Peak season (March 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.
Booking a car in San Antonio is a simple process if you follow these steps.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
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 longer trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid 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.
San Antonio is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions. Understanding local traffic and parking regulations can enhance your driving experience.
As a major city in Texas, San Antonio offers a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. While the city has public transport options, renting a car is ideal for exploring beyond the city center. However, navigating the city requires awareness of local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel station availability.
Top Attractions to Discover
The Alamo
A historic mission and fortress, a symbol of Texas independence.
River Walk
A scenic network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants and shops.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring several well-preserved Spanish missions.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages in downtown and near popular attractions.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available, but be mindful of time limits and regulations.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities to avoid downtown traffic and parking fees.
Gas Stations in San Antonio
Major Brands
Find gas stations from major brands like Valero, Shell, and ExxonMobil throughout the city.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are readily available on major roads and highways.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to locate nearby gas stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting San Antonio
Plan for Traffic
Allow extra time for travel during rush hours (7 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 6 PM).
Stay Hydrated
Especially during summer, carry water to stay hydrated while exploring.
Check Local Events
Be aware of local events and festivals that may affect traffic and parking.
Major Bus Stations
San Antonio Greyhound Station
Located in downtown San Antonio, it serves as a major hub for intercity bus travel.
Railway Stations
San Antonio Amtrak Station
Provides passenger rail services to destinations across the United States.
Airports
San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
Located about 8 miles north of downtown San Antonio, offering domestic and international flights.
Renting a car in San Antonio requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria. 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 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
This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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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 clients rate such place as San Antonio 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.
Pretty chill, overall
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 09.09.2024
San Antonio charmed me! Getting around with a rental car was a breeze; exploring the Alamo and Pearl District was effortless.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 25.12.2024
San Antonio was efficient for my quick business trip. Having a car was a lifesaver, but the hotel breakfast was a bit underwhelming. Otherwise, a smooth experience.
David Lee
Reviewed: 11.10.2024
Pretty relaxed, overall.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 29.04.2025
Quick San Antonio trip! Loved the River Walk, but the food at my hotel was underwhelming. Having a car was great for exploring.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 10.06.2025
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San Antonio in the summer was amazing! Having a car made exploring the River Walk and missions so easy. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 27.11.2024