Arriving at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) is a great start to your journey through France. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore Lyon and the surrounding regions at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand potential costs, and prepare for driving on French roads.
Most car rental companies have their desks directly at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport. They are usually located in the arrivals area, often in the main terminal or nearby. You may need to take a free shuttle to reach the car rental location, especially if you are renting from a company that does not have a desk in the main terminal. Pay attention to signs in the airport to find the desired office.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and premium cars. Here are a few popular options:
| Economy | 20 – 35 EUR |
| Compact | 30 – 45 EUR |
| Intermediate | 40 – 60 EUR |
| SUV | 60 – 100 EUR |
| Minivan | 70 – 120 EUR |
| Premium | 100+ EUR |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
To rent a car, you will need: a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be useful, although not always required), a passport or other identification document, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25 years. A deposit will be blocked on your credit card and may vary depending on the company and car class. Make sure you have sufficient free credit limit on your card.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car resulting from a collision. Theft Protection protects against theft. It is important to pay attention to the amount of the excess – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully and ask the company representative about all the details.
France has toll roads (autoroutes). Use a credit card or cash to pay for passage. Parking in cities can be paid and limited. Pay attention to road signs and parking rules. The speed on highways is usually 130 km/h, but may be limited in adverse weather conditions. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50 km/h.
Driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name.
Usually 21, but some companies require 23 or 25 years.
This is the amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft of the car.
Not always required, but may be useful.
Payment is made by credit card or cash at toll booths.
No, parking in cities is often paid and limited. Pay attention to signs.
Usually 130 km/h, but may be limited.
Collision Damage Waiver insurance.
Usually a credit card is required to block the deposit.
Immediately notify the rental company and fill out the necessary documents.
Yes, the rental price usually includes VAT.