Nantes Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Nantes

Renting a car in Nantes offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking entertainment experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans without the constraints of public transportation. Key attractions such as the Parc des Expositions de Nantes La Beaujoire, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, and the Château of the Dukes of Brittany are all easily accessible, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Driving also enables convenient visits to popular neighbourhoods like Nantes Centre, Madeleine-Champ de Mars, and Decré-Cathédrale, where you can discover sites like Place Royale and enjoy local dining and shopping. Whether you are planning a family outing or a cultural exploration, having a rental car ensures you make the most of your time in Nantes, allowing for spontaneous stops and discoveries along the way. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience, making it more enjoyable and tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals in Nantes

• Compact: The compact car is a popular choice for those exploring Nantes. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, it’s ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families. Its smaller size makes it perfect for navigating the city’s streets and finding parking with ease, while still providing comfort and efficiency for your travel needs.
• Midsize SUV: If you’re travelling with a larger group or family, the midsize SUV is an excellent option. This vehicle can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups. The added space and comfort make it perfect for longer journeys around Nantes, providing a blend of versatility and practicality for your trip.
• Economy: The economy car is another great option for those looking to explore Nantes. With capacity for 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases, it’s well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This choice offers a balance of affordability and functionality, allowing you to navigate the city while keeping your travel costs low.

Top rated car suppliers in Nantes

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travellers in Nantes, offering a convenient rental location within the city. With a focus on Compact and Midsize vehicles, Hertz provides options that are ideal for navigating Nantes and its surroundings. Customers appreciate the ease of the rental process and the reliability of their well-maintained cars, making it a great option for those looking for flexibility during their trip.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and offers a single rental location in Nantes. The most booked vehicles with Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to various travel needs. Travellers often highlight the helpful staff and smooth check-in process, ensuring a pleasant experience. This makes Enterprise a solid choice for both leisure and business travellers seeking a trustworthy rental experience.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is recognized for providing a reliable and hassle-free rental experience in Nantes. With a focus on Economy and Compact SUVs, Alamo meets the demands of those looking for practical and efficient options. Customers frequently commend the quick pickup and the cleanliness of the vehicles, contributing to an overall positive experience. Alamo's commitment to customer satisfaction makes it an appealing option for visitors exploring the region.

Where to stay in Nantes

• Nantes Centre: Stay in Nantes Centre for a blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. This vibrant neighborhood is home to attractions such as the Château of the Dukes of Brittany, ideal for those seeking romance and history, and the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, perfect for art enthusiasts. Additionally, the Place Royale serves as a picturesque gathering spot. With various cafes and dining options nearby, Nantes Centre offers a lively atmosphere for exploration.
• Beaujoire: If you’re looking for an outdoor and sports-oriented experience, Beaujoire is a great option. This neighborhood features attractions like the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden, and provides access to sports facilities and festivals. The Château of the Dukes of Brittany and the Place Royale are also within reach, enhancing your cultural experience. The area boasts charming bars and coffee spots, making it a suitable choice for families and outdoor lovers.
• Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès: For those visiting for business or seeking a city-themed experience, Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès is an excellent location. It’s adjacent to the convention centre and art museum, making it ideal for professionals and culture enthusiasts alike. Key attractions such as the Machines of the Isle of Nantes and the Château of the Dukes of Brittany are close by, ensuring a rich cultural immersion. Enjoy a variety of coffee options in the area, perfect for a quick break between meetings.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option 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 in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a reasonable compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are fine as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify 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 unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should an unforeseen issue arise during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Nantes

The best value period to rent a car in and around Nantes is December, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. January and March also offer good opportunities, as they tend to have slightly low pricing and low demand. As summer approaches, prices climb, particularly in July and August, which are the most expensive months with high demand. June also sees slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busy time for rentals.