Lyon Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lyon

Renting a car in Lyon allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Bellecour Square, Tête d'Or Park, and Hôtel de Ville de Lyon, all conveniently located within the area. This option is particularly appealing for families and those with outdoor interests, as it simplifies luggage management and travel plans.

Moreover, a rental car enables you to explore popular destinations like Lyon City Centre, Saint-Priest, and Villeurbanne, where you can enjoy cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Whether you wish to take a leisurely drive through Tête d'Or Park or visit the vibrant Lyon City Centre, having a car ensures you can do so without the constraints of public transport schedules. Overall, renting a car in Lyon enhances your travel experience, making it easier to discover the city's rich culture and beautiful landscapes while accommodating various travel needs.

Most popular car rentals in Lyon

• Economy: This car option accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. It is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore Lyon comfortably while managing luggage efficiently. The economy car is perfect for navigating the city and nearby areas, providing a balance of space and fuel efficiency.
• Compact: Similar to the Economy, the Compact car also accommodates 5 travellers but offers space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, and families who need a bit more luggage capacity. Its smaller size makes it great for urban settings like Lyon, where parking can be challenging, while still allowing for flexibility in travel plans.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides extra space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for longer excursions in and around Lyon. With its capability to handle various terrains, it offers a more versatile driving experience for those planning to explore the surrounding region.

Top rated car suppliers in Lyon

• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations across Lyon, Enterprise provides excellent accessibility for travellers. Known for its diverse fleet, the most booked vehicles with this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, allowing you to select the perfect car for your exploration. Enjoy the flexibility of managing your itinerary and luggage with ease while discovering the attractions in and around Lyon.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo offers 2 convenient rental locations in Lyon, making it easy for visitors to access their services. The supplier is popular for its Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for navigating both the city and the surrounding areas. Alamo is dedicated to providing a smooth rental experience, ensuring you can focus on enjoying all that Lyon has to offer.
• Budget: With 3 rental locations throughout Lyon, Budget is well-positioned to meet the needs of tourists seeking value. The most booked vehicles from Budget are Compact and Midsize SUVs, perfect for a comfortable journey as you explore the region. Offering affordable options, Budget ensures that your car rental experience is both economical and convenient for your travels.

Where to stay in Lyon

• Lyon City Centre: Lyon City Centre is a vibrant neighborhood ideal for those seeking a city and culture-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Bellecour Square and Place des Terreaux, both piazza squares that enhance the cultural atmosphere. The area is also home to the historic Hôtel de Ville de Lyon, perfect for culture enthusiasts. With numerous shopping centres and a variety of food and drink options, including wineries and cafes nearby, Lyon City Centre provides an enriching experience for families and travellers alike.
• Saint-Priest: Situated in the Lyon area, Saint-Priest is known for business and entertainment-themed experiences. Key attractions include the Tête d'Or Park, an urban park suitable for family outings, and the Musée des Confluences, ideal for culture lovers. The area boasts shopping malls and entertainment facilities, ensuring visitors have access to various activities. With local options for wineries and distilleries, Saint-Priest offers a unique blend of experiences while remaining accessible to the vibrant city of Lyon.
• Villeurbanne: Villeurbanne is a family-friendly city that offers a mix of business and city-themed experiences. Notable landmarks include the Place Grand Clement and the beautiful Tête d'Or Park, which is perfect for outdoor family activities. The area features shopping centres and theatres for entertainment seekers. With various bars available for socializing, Villeurbanne provides a great base for exploring nearby Lyon while enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Lyon

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure better rates and have a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most straightforward option. Other rentals might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unexpected arises during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a simple process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lyon

The best value period to rent a car in and around Lyon is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This month is often quieter, making it a great time to explore the region. September also offers slightly low prices, though demand can be moderately high. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand. August follows closely with similar price and demand characteristics.