I've read a good number of posts about car rentals in France and wonder if any travelers can offer any advice based on recent experiences with renting a car in Paris. Two things I need help with: 1. Where in Paris to pick up the car. We'll be staying in The Marais, leaving on a Monday morning for Beanue. Anybody know the most convenient pick-up location? I'd also welcome advice about where in Lyon to drop off the car. Again, we won't use it in the city. 2. Car-rental company. Most people seem to recommend booking directly with Hertz in advance, from the U.S, or using an online third-party such as AutoEurope or Kemwel. I'd like to be able use AmEx membership rewards points, but that might be a complicating factor. There will be three adults traveling and we will rent a manual transmission. Thanks to all for any advice.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
Just be sure to check the drop charge and the open hours for the drop locations.
Posted by
Panguitch, Utah
2707 posts
You´ll need to exit Paris at Porte d´Orléans which is from where A6 originates. You can orbit around on the périphérique from anywhere in Paris to reach Porte d´Orléans.
I would contact Autoeurope for a quote. You might want to avoid train station or airport pickups as they typically incur a 45€ surcharge. You should also be able to avoid a one way, in France fee. Hertz and Avis typically charge one way, in France fees, Sixt or Europcar do not.
For auto insurance, you probably already have signed up for American Expresse´s $25 primary insurance coverage. It is the best rental insurance available for those from the USA and it´s bargain priced.
Posted by
New York, NY
70 posts
A few years ago, we picked up a car (from Hertz) at Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu and drove out of the city. I remember it being very easy and didn't require too many steps/turns to get to the main road to leave the city. I imagine the reverse wouldn't be too much harder, though I can't say from experience. Best I remember, the rental car pick-up lot was on the back side of the train station (i.e., on the opposite side of the building than the main entrance), if the drop-off lot is in the same area. Have a wonderful trip!
Posted by
Virginia
100 posts
We have used Hertz the past four years, and the experiences have been good. I always rent online as a Hertz rewards member (free). Take a taxi to whatever pickup post you use. The pickup point at Gare de Lyons is a bit hard to find - up a long stairway to the rental car area, but the exit from Paris was easy. P.S. When in Lyons, be sure to eat at a bouchon - traditional Lyon restaurant - and have some quenelles.