Car rental San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Once you’ve collected your rental car at the airport, it’s just a 20km drive to the heart of the city via Route 101. This world-famous route passes all the way through San Francisco, continuing over the Golden Gate Bridge and up the West Coast, taking in some spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean along the way.

With your car rental from San Francisco International Airport it’s easy to reach other destinations around California, including Berkley and Oakland just across the Bay via the I-80. The biggest city in the state, Los Angeles, is just over 600km south along the I-5.

If you’re driving in downtown San Francisco, traffic can get heavy around the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge during rush hour so it’s worth allowing plenty of time for your journey. The city also has lots of steep hills, so give yourself time to stop when travelling downhill, and when stopping at an uphill intersection make sure you leave space between your car and the one in front.

In some Californian cities, including San Francisco, you might spot carpool lanes. These are sometimes known as diamond lanes, due to the pattern painted on their surfaces. To drive in these lanes you need a minimum number of passengers, sometimes three but more often two. There should be signs at the roadside specifying the rules for each lane.

California has a Basic Speed Law, which means you can be penalised you for driving faster than is safe for the conditions – even if you’re below the speed limit. The maximum limit on most California highways is 65mph (104km/h), increasing to 70mph (112km/h) in some places.

Unless otherwise stated, the maximum speed limit on a two-lane undivided highway is 55mph (88km/h), falling to 25mph (40km/h) in urban and residential areas, and 15mph (24km/h) near schools.

Speed limits can change so be sure to look out for signs and stick to the limit, or lower in poor driving conditions.

With its famous fog, cultural history and diverse range of cuisines, San Francisco is sure to provide you with the journey of a lifetime. There are lots of exciting highlights to explore, both within the golden city and beyond.

Best of the Bay

Many of San Francisco’s most famous attractions are found around the Bay. At the entrance stands the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, an unmissable sight with its two towers and signature orange hues. At both ends of the bridge you’ll find the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, where you can enjoy a walk or picnic with fantastic views.

To see more of the bridge and other landmarks, head to Twin Peaks Park. This vantage point is located right at the geographical heart of the city, so you can enjoy panoramic views of the Bay area and the Pacific Ocean beyond. 

Another popular destination for visitors to San Francisco is Pier 39, home to shops, waterfront restaurants and an aquarium. It’s also a great place to spot the California sea lions, who can often be found lounging in the sun at the K-Dock area.

Just a few blocks east you’ll find Pier 33, the departure point for boat trips to Alcatraz Island. If you want to take a tour of the former prison, make sure to get tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

Foodie haven

If all that sightseeing has made you hungry, you’re in luck. San Francisco is an exciting destination for food lovers with something to suit all tastes. Whether you prefer dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a casual Sunday brunch, you won’t go hungry here.

As you’d expect from a coastal city, some of the most famous traditional dishes are seafood-based, so try the Dungeness crab or Bay shrimp for a taste of authentic local classic.

California’s warm climate and green valleys have also made it a prolific producer of everything from fruit and vegetables to wine and cheese. You’ll find fresh local ingredients in cafes and restaurants that are sourced from farmers’ markets.

Further afield

With car rental in San Francisco you’ll have the chance to explore beyond the city limits and sample other Californian highlights. Drive north over the Golden Gate Bridge and you’ll find scenic countryside and coastal areas.

For fishing, photography and wildlife spotting, head to the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, just a short drive outside San Francisco. The refuge is home to canvasback ducks and the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse, among many others. Closer to the city, head to the beautiful Muir Beach, set in a peaceful sandy cove with outstanding views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin coastline.

With Hertz car rental from San Francisco Airport it’s possible to explore all this and more during your stay in this fantastic destination.