Paris Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Paris

Renting a car in and around Paris offers freedom and flexibility for tourists looking to explore the city's rich culture and attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and those seeking a romantic getaway or outdoor experiences. You can visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, both located in the heart of Paris. Additionally, you can enjoy family fun at Disneyland® Paris, which is conveniently situated nearby.

Driving allows you to discover charming neighbourhoods like the Paris City Center, where you can explore Notre-Dame and Palais Garnier, or wander through the historic streets of Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Having a rental car makes it easy to navigate between these popular destinations without relying on public transport, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in culture or enjoy leisurely drives through picturesque areas, renting a car enhances your travel experience in Paris.

Most popular car rentals in Paris

• Economy: The Economy car is a top choice for travellers in Paris, accommodating up to 5 individuals with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who appreciate the convenience of manageable luggage while exploring the city. With its compact size, navigating the bustling streets of Paris becomes a breeze, allowing for flexible travel plans and easy parking.
• Midsize SUV: For those seeking more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option, accommodating 5 travellers and offering room for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility. With its higher seating position and additional cargo capacity, the Midsize SUV enables you to enjoy the attractions around Paris without feeling cramped, making it a popular choice among renters.
• Compact: The Compact car is another highly booked option in Paris, fitting 5 travellers and allowing for 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families who prefer a smaller car that still offers sufficient space for luggage. The Compact car strikes a balance between size and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to explore the city while ensuring easy handling and parking in urban settings.

Top rated car suppliers in Paris

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Paris, featuring over 5 rental locations throughout the city. Known for its excellent service, Alamo ensures a smooth rental experience with quick pickups and friendly staff. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to various needs for comfort and space. With a focus on cleanliness and hassle-free returns, Alamo provides a reliable option for visitors looking to explore Paris at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget stands out with more than 5 rental locations in the Paris area, making it convenient for tourists. This supplier is well-regarded for offering competitive pricing, particularly for Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which are the most sought-after options. Customers appreciate the efficient service and straightforward rental process, making Budget a solid choice for those looking for value without compromising on quality during their stay in Paris.
• Europcar: With over 10 rental locations in Paris, Europcar provides exceptional accessibility for travellers. This supplier is noted for its diverse selection of vehicles, particularly Compact and Economy cars, making it easy to find the right fit for your journey. Europcar is praised for its quick return process and competitive pricing, ensuring a hassle-free experience that allows you to maximize your time exploring the beautiful attractions of Paris.

Where to stay in Paris

• Paris City Center: Located at the heart of Paris, this vibrant neighbourhood offers a rich cultural experience with iconic attractions like the Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. The Palais Garnier is also nearby, perfect for those seeking a romantic outing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's significant architecture and monuments.
• 8th Arrondissement: This district boasts famous landmarks such as the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower, providing a quintessential Parisian experience. With a strong emphasis on culture and romance, the 8th Arrondissement features numerous shopping areas and cafes. Travellers can immerse themselves in the artistic atmosphere, especially with the Louvre Museum in close proximity, making it a delightful choice for city-themed holidays.
• 15th Arrondissement: Known for its outdoor spaces and romantic ambiance, the 15th Arrondissement is home to the iconic Eiffel Tower and the impressive Tour Montparnasse. This district offers a mix of shopping centres and local cafes, perfect for leisurely afternoons. With attractions like Rue du Commerce nearby, it provides a vibrant urban experience, making it suitable for culture and city-themed getaways.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but it may be worth it for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Paris

The best value period to rent a car in and around Paris is November, when demand is low and prices are slightly lower than average. January and February also offer quieter conditions with average to slightly low prices, making them good options as well. In contrast, July and August are the most expensive months, with high demand and slightly elevated prices, as many tourists flock to the city during summer. June tends to see high demand too, with average pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	41.0°F (5.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	51.8°F (11.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
December	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High