Lyon Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lyon

Renting a car in Lyon offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Bellecour Square, Tête d'Or Park, and the historic Hôtel de Ville de Lyon. These sites are conveniently located throughout the city, allowing you to navigate between them with ease. For families, having a car makes it simpler to manage luggage and gear when heading to family-friendly destinations like the expansive Tête d'Or Park. If you're interested in business or outdoor experiences, a rental car enables you to access areas like Saint-Priest and Villeurbanne, both of which feature additional cultural and scenic spots such as the Musée des Confluences and Place Grand Clement. This mode of transport is particularly beneficial for those who desire a tailored travel itinerary, as it allows for spontaneous stops and detours along the way. Overall, renting a car enhances your experience in and around Lyon, providing convenience that public transportation may not offer.

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: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers in Lyon, featuring 4 convenient rental locations throughout the area. Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise provides a wide selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs being the most booked options. Many customers appreciate the helpful staff and smooth rental process, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore Lyon and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car operates 2 rental locations in Lyon, offering a reliable option for tourists. Travellers frequently opt for Compact SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring the city and beyond. Customers commend Alamo for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it a great choice for those seeking a hassle-free rental experience while enjoying the flexibility of a car.
• Budget: Budget has 3 rental locations in the Lyon area, making it a convenient option for car rentals. With a focus on providing competitive pricing, Budget is popular among travellers looking for value. The most booked vehicles include Compact and Midsize SUVs, perfect for navigating Lyon and exploring the beautiful Rhône-Alpes region. Many customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the quality of the vehicles, ensuring a pleasant trip.

Where to stay in Lyon

• Lyon City Centre: This vibrant neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a city and culture-themed experience. With proximity to attractions such as Bellecour Square and Place des Terreaux, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture. The area boasts shopping centres and a variety of dining options, including cafes and wineries, making it a lively hub for families and solo travellers alike.
• Saint-Priest: Known for its business and family-friendly environment, Saint-Priest offers access to arena entertainment facilities and shopping malls. Highlights include Tête d'Or Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the Musée des Confluences for culture enthusiasts. The area is well-equipped with food and drink options, including local wineries, making it a pleasant stay for those visiting for both work and leisure.
• Villeurbanne: This city is a great choice for families and business travellers, offering a mix of cultural and entertainment venues. Key points of interest include Tête d'Or Park, ideal for outdoor relaxation, and the bustling shopping centres. With nearby bars for evening outings, Villeurbanne provides a balanced atmosphere for both work and play, making it an appealing option for your stay in the Lyon area.

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

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 added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary greatly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to access lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 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 restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid refueling, which can also be acceptable, just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, although the extra cost might be justified by the convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Most 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 in case of unforeseen events 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, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
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 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. The months of February and September also offer a good balance, with slightly low prices and average to moderately high demand. In contrast, July stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. August follows closely, maintaining slightly high prices with average demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
July	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
October	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	39.7°F (4.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High