What you should know before hiring a car in San Diego
| San Diego city centre | ||
| Lindbergh Field (SAN): 2 mi from city centre | ||
Car hires in San Diego: practical information
Where to rent a car in San Diego
Most visitors will hire a car when they plan a holiday in San Diego; it’s the easiest way to get around the city. Pick up your San Diego car hire at the airport. You’ll find all the international brands in the arrivals lounge. Local brands tend to be cheaper and negotiating prices is always a good idea.
Alternatively, you can use the free direct phones in the western terminal to call car hire agencies in the city centre who will offer a competitive price and arrange a courtesy bus to pick you up from the airport.
Driving in San Diego: parking and other tips
Driving is the most efficient way to get around San Diego. On-street parking is available throughout the downtown area and beach neighbourhoods, just remember to put some coins into the metre! It may also be worthwhile to purchase a pre-paid Meter Card to use for the duration of your holiday in San Diego.
Road trips from San Diego: what to do, what to see
Balboa Park
This is the centre of San Diego’s tourism area. It’s an expansive campus of museums, parks, gardens and arboretums. The highlight of course is the San Diego Zoo, a world-famous establishment with more than 100 acres of displays and habitats. There are some creatures here that aren’t visible in any other zoo in the world.
Mission Bay
Mission Bay is an area of San Diego that is a destination in its own right. Mission Bay is the ideal place to go sailing and windsurfing. Once you’re tired of the water, take a stroll through Belmont Park and take a ride on the famous “Giant Dipper” roller coaster. The boardwalk is the perfect place to spend the evening, just as the neon lights are turned on.
Tijuana
San Diego is probably the best city in the States for making a quick trip to Mexico. Tijuana is just across the border. Avoid the queues by parking on the American side and walking across the border. From there, it’s a mere 5 minute walk to Tijuana’s city centre. Bet you didn't think you could pair a Mexican adventure with your flights to San Diego, did you?