If ever there is a list of places to visit and memories to make that a traveler must have, San Francisco should be one of them. This is simply because of what the city has to offer to travelers from all over the globe. Thus, you just can’t say no to its unique charm, vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery.
From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the fog-kissed Golden Gate Bridge, those who want to explore San Francisco would know that it never runs out of adventure. Fortunate enough for you because you can easily navigate its diverse neighborhoods and picturesque surroundings with a rental car.
Here are a few things for you to learn more about the ins and outs of rental car San Francisco airport, as well as valuable tips and insights to help you make the most of your journey through the City by the Bay.
Why rent a car in San Francisco?
While San Francisco has quite an assortment of public transportation systems, which include buses, cable cars, and trams, the feeling of driving at your own pace provides incomparable freedom and flexibility. You will surely be able to explore the city and its outskirts, uncovering hidden gems and other attractions that might be harder to reach by public transport.
Moreover, personally driving your vehicle enables you to venture beyond the city limits and explore the natural wonders of the Bay Area, from the rocky coastal area of Big Sur to the grand redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument. There are countless natural sights to see and maximizing a trip means you’ll want your own means of transportation.
Choosing the right rental car
First off, you have to consider a number of factors when selecting a rental car in the city of San Francisco. Among them are your travel itinerary, group size, and budget considerations.
Pick compact cars for versatile traffic maneuvers. For instance, you may consider compact cars if you are navigating the city’s narrow streets and limited parking spaces, or SUVs if you want more space and versatility for exploring the surrounding areas.
Select fuel efficient cars with automatic transmission. Likewise, keep in mind that San Francisco’s hilly terrain and heavy traffic conditions can be challenging for new drivers. So, you need to pick a vehicle with good fuel efficiency and automatic transmission to ensure a smoother driving experience.
Navigating San Francisco’s traffic and parking
Plan your smart driving routes. While driving in San Francisco can be exciting, it’s important to be prepared for the city’s unique traffic patterns and parking challenges. Note that rush hour traffic can be particularly congested, especially during peak commuting times. Therefore, you have to plan your driving routes accordingly to avoid delays.
Lookup for available parking spaces. Parking in San Francisco can also be a daunting task. That is because of its limited street parking and expensive parking garages in popular tourist areas. In such cases, you may consider using mobile parking apps to find available parking spots easily and be prepared to pay for parking in downtown areas and popular attractions.
Exploring San Francisco and beyond. You are almost ready to explore the diverse neighborhoods and attractions of San Francisco using your rental car as your trusty companion. Now, you will be able to take a leisurely drive along the scenic coastline of Highway 1 or make a stop at picturesque seaside towns like Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. With that said, don’t miss the opportunity to visit a number of attractions in and out of the city.
Here are possible destinations you can enjoy while you are driving a rental car.
- Golden Gate Bridge. Drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, as it offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay.
- Fisherman’s Wharf. You may also explore the historic waterfront of Fisherman’s Wharf, sample fresh seafood at local eateries, and visit the famous sea lions at Pier 39.
- Marin County. Nature enthusiasts can also venture north to Marin County and discover the natural beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore. Point Reyes National Seashore is home to elephant seals, tule elk and a range of other wildlife.
- Napa Valley. Head east to the wine country of Napa Valley for a day of wine tasting and vineyard tours.
- Yosemite National Park. Head east along CA 120 to one of America’s most iconic national parks! We loved having a rental car to get to different trailheads and get the most out of visiting Yosemite.
Booking from a National Car Rental service simply opens up a world of possibilities for travelers looking to explore San Francisco and its surrounding areas. It is when you can freely roam at your own pace and have the flexibility to discover other valuable spots. Thus, you can rest assured that you are on your way towards making an unforgettable journey through the City by the Bay.
But choosing the right car is also another factor to consider because you may not be familiar with your destination of choice. Additionally, your choice of vehicle and the season you are going to visit can also have a significant impact on your travel experience as a whole.
