Car Hire San Francisco

Parking information

• Fifth & Mission / Yerba Buena Garage is a convenient facility with around 2,585 vehicle spaces.
• Sutter-Stockton Garage works well for Union Square, Chinatown, and the Financial District, with over 1,865 vehicle spaces.
• Japan Center Garage is a useful parking facility for Japantown and Fillmore, with around 745 vehicle spaces.

Key roads

• Interstate 80: The main route for the Bay Bridge, Oakland, Berkeley, and Sacramento.
• Interstate 280: A convenient southbound route toward San Jose and Silicon Valley.
• California State Route 1: Best route for Ocean Beach, Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, and coastal routes.

Electric car hire

Want a lower-emission way to explore the Bay Area? Hertz electric car hire in San Francisco suits city drives, bridge routes, coastal stops, and planned day trips in a greener, more silent way.

Charging points

San Francisco has around 1,176 public charging stations, including 175 DC fast chargers, which gives EV drivers useful coverage for city stays and shorter Bay Area routes.

Congestion charges

San Francisco does not currently run an active London-style congestion charge. A downtown congestion pricing study exists, but it has been paused.

The main costs to plan for are parking, bridge tolls, and rental toll-payment options.

Travel routes

Getting from San Francisco to Muir Woods

From central San Francisco:

• Head north toward US-101.
• Cross the Golden Gate Bridge into Marin County.
• Take the CA-1 / Mill Valley / Stinson Beach exit.
• Follow signs toward Muir Woods Road and the park entrance.
• Parking reservations are required for private vehicles, so book ahead before driving.

Getting from San Francisco to Napa Valley

From central San Francisco:

• Head north on US-101 and cross the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Continue through Marin toward San Rafael and Novato.
• Join CA-37 East, then connect toward CA-121.
• Continue toward CA-29 for Napa and wider wine-country routes.
• The Golden Gate Bridge is tolled southbound when returning to San Francisco.

Best hotels in San Francisco

Fairmont San Francisco

950 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA 94108

A landmark Nob Hill hotel known primarily for its classic luxury and city views among locals and travellers alike.

Argonaut Hotel

495 Jefferson Street, San Francisco, CA 94109

A waterfront-style stay near Fisherman’s Wharf boasting a strong bay character.

LUMA Hotel San Francisco

100 Channel Street, San Francisco, CA 94158

A modern Mission Bay stay option when you wish to explore the Chase Center and south-side routes.

Popular restaurants in San Francisco

Zuni Café

1658 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

A long-running local favourite known for California cooking.

State Bird Provisions

1529 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94115

A creative Fillmore restaurant with a modern small-plates style.

Tadich Grill

240 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94111

A classic seafood spot with an old-school San Francisco feel.

Best places to visit in San Francisco

Golden Gate Park

501 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA 94117

A large city park with gardens, museums, and relaxed open spaces.

Alcatraz Island

Pier 33, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133

A famous bay landmark reached by ferry from Pier 33.

Palace of Fine Arts

3301 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123

A striking Marina District landmark with grand architecture and open space.

FAQs

1. What do I need to bring for a car rental in San Francisco?

Bring a valid driving license, passport or ID, and a payment card in the main driver’s name. Non-Latin licenses may need an International Driving Permit.

2. What are the age rules for car hire in San Francisco?

Drivers must usually be at least 20. Under-25 drivers may face a Young Renter fee and vehicle restrictions.

3. What payment types are accepted?

Credit cards are usually preferred. Debit card rules can vary by location, booking type, and rental terms.

4. Does the rental come with a full tank of fuel?

Fuel is usually not included. Return the car according to the fuel policy shown in your booking.

5. What is Hertz’s cancellation policy in San Francisco?

Cancellation rules depend on your booking type. Prepaid and pay-at-location rentals may have different refund or no-show terms.