Car Rental Temecula, CA

Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore Temecula's wine country, but you should always have a driver who isn't drinking. Or, you can take a guided wine tour so everyone can enjoy the tastings. You'll find most wineries along Rancho California Road and De Portola Road, about 5-10 miles (8-16 km) east of Old Town Temecula.

Most people find visiting 3-4 wineries in one day is a good pace and doesn't feel rushed. You should plan to spend about 45-90 minutes at each winery. The tasting rooms usually open around 10 AM and close by 5-6 PM. If you visit on a weekday, you'll likely have a more relaxed time because the tasting rooms are less crowded.

Any standard car works well on Temecula's wine country roads, since they are paved and in good shape. Many people like to drive convertibles to enjoy the scenic countryside, especially during the mild spring and fall. If you are in a group, renting a minivan or SUV and having a designated driver can be cheaper than a wine tour service.

You'll find the wine country roads are mostly easy to drive on, but some parts can be winding. Most wineries have clear signs pointing to them from the main roads. Your cell service might be poor in some spots, so it's smart to bring a map or download directions beforehand. The roads get busiest on weekend afternoons when many cars are turning into and out of wineries.

You can find plenty of free parking in public lots all around Old Town Temecula's historic district. You can also park on the street along Old Town Front Street and its side streets. Even on busy weekends, you can usually find a spot just a short walk from the shops and restaurants. Some lots limit how long you can park (usually 2-3 hours) during business hours.

Temecula sits between several airports. It's about 60 miles (97 km) north of San Diego International Airport (a 1-1.5-hour drive), 55 miles (89 km) south of Ontario International Airport (about a 1-hour drive), 50 miles (80 km) east of John Wayne Airport in Orange County (around a 1-hour drive) and 85 miles (137 km) southeast of Los Angeles International Airport (a 1.5-2.5-hour drive depending on traffic).

Yes, Temecula is a great starting point for day trips because of its central location. You can get to San Diego, about 60 miles (97 km) south, in 1-1.5 hours. The Orange County beaches are 45-55 miles (72-89 km) west (a 1-1.5-hour drive) and Palm Springs is about 70 miles (113 km) east (around a 1.5-hour drive). Even Los Angeles attractions are close enough for a day trip at 85-100 miles (137-161 km) away (1.5-2.5 hours depending on traffic).

Yes, you can take several scenic drives from Temecula. The Ortega Highway (Highway 74) is a beautiful drive through the mountains to Lake Elsinore and Orange County. Highway 79 South takes you through the countryside on your way to Warner Springs and Julian. If you want a longer trip, the back roads to Palomar Mountain have spectacular views and lead to the famous observatory.