Car Rentals in Palo Alto from $28

Find the best car rental deals in Palo Alto, California

Like much of California, Palo Alto is a driving destination. The extensive highway system can get you anywhere in the city you need to go, and also get you out on an adventure.

If you want to get around Palo Alto comfortably, whether it’s to business meetings, Stanford University, or nearby state parks, renting a car is the easiest option. Use Orbitz to help you choose from plenty of car rental companies in Palo Alto and the other nearby cities, as well as many options located at the Palo Alto Airport and the nearby San Francisco and Oakland airports.

Palo Alto and beyond: Three destinations by car

One of the great things about Palo Alto is how close it is to other fantastic northern California destinations. Here are three places to discover by car.

San Francisco

Take a ride over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and visit the laid-back city of San Francisco.

Pop into a museum for some art, get a taste of San Francisco culture on Mission Street, and watch the seals at Fisherman’s Wharf. You could also check out Chinatown – one of the oldest in the United States – or take a ferry to Alcatraz, the notorious island prison.

Journey time: Around 45 minutes

Distance: Approximately 34 miles

Point Reyes National Seashore

Just a short drive north of Palo Alto you’ll find rugged cliffs covered in lush, green grass. Take a hike and watch for whales at the lighthouse at the end of a rocky headland, stop at beautiful Alamere Falls, picnic on the beach, or walk through the Phillip Burton Wilderness area to the peak of Mount Wittenberg. The drive along the cliffs is gorgeous, and a far cry from the city.

Journey time: Around 1.7 hours

Distance: Approximately 62 miles

Monterey

For a road trip with a lot of beauty and a little literary history, head to Monterey, which John Steinbeck wrote about in East of Eden, Cannery Row, and other novels.

The town used to be a hub for sardine packing, but is now filled with boutiques, bed and breakfasts, and fantastic seafood restaurants. The harbor is charming, and the large aquarium is famous for its wide range of exhibits.

Journey time: Around one hour

Distance: Approximately 88 miles