Lyon car rentals

Explore Lyon at Your Leisure

Renting a car in Lyon offers the freedom to explore this beautiful French city and its surroundings on your own schedule. With a personal vehicle, you can easily drive to the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, enjoy the Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, or venture out to the picturesque Beaujolais wine region, all at your convenience. Embrace the flexibility of visiting these attractions without the constraints of public transportation.

Inspect Your Rental Car Thoroughly

Before you set off on your Lyon adventure, take the time to examine the rental car for any pre-existing damage. Document any scratches, dents, or other imperfections and report them to the rental agency to prevent any misunderstandings when you return the car. It's wise to capture images or video footage as proof. Familiarize yourself with the rental contract, paying close attention to details such as mileage allowances, fuel policies, insurance inclusions, extra fees, and any driving area restrictions. Remember to refuel the car before returning it to sidestep additional charges.

Child Safety Measures

In France, child safety in vehicles is paramount. Ensure that you have the appropriate car seats for your little ones when renting a vehicle in Lyon. Most car rental agencies offer child and booster seats, but it's best to confirm their availability and whether they'll be pre-installed in your rental car. Traveling without proper child restraints is not only unsafe but also against the law.

Plan Around Traffic Patterns

Lyon, like any major city, can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours. To avoid delays, try to steer clear of peak travel times, usually in the mornings and evenings on weekdays. When navigating through Lyon, especially around busy areas like Part-Dieu or Presqu'île, allow extra time for your journey and consider alternative routes when possible.

Cost-Effective Exploration

While Lyon has an extensive public transport system, renting a car can be a more economical choice for those planning to visit multiple sites or travel outside the city. Taxis can be expensive, and with a rental car, you have the advantage of a GPS navigation system to guide you to destinations such as the medieval city of Pérouges or the scenic Parc de la Tête d'Or, without the worry of racking up a hefty fare.

Convenient Rental Locations

Lyon boasts several convenient spots to pick up your rental car, including Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport and various locations throughout the city. You'll find a range of reputable car rental agencies offering a selection of vehicles to suit your needs, whether you're looking for a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for a family trip.

Understanding Local Driving Laws

In France, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Road signs are typically in French, so having a vehicle with a reliable navigation system that offers English language options can be incredibly helpful. Be mindful of local driving laws, such as the prohibition of crossing solid white lines on the road, the requirement to stop at red traffic lights and before crossing train tracks, and the strict enforcement of drunk driving laws. Always have a sober driver if you plan to indulge in the region's famous wines.