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 its attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites such as the Château of the Dukes of Brittany, which provides a cultural and romantic experience, or the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, perfect for those interested in public art and city experiences. Both attractions are conveniently located in the Nantes Centre area, allowing for a seamless exploration of this vibrant neighbourhood. Families will appreciate the convenience of managing luggage and the ability to travel without the constraints of public transportation. You can also venture to nearby areas like Madeleine-Champ de Mars and Decré-Cathédrale, where you can find more cultural and entertainment-themed experiences. A rental car allows you to plan your itinerary freely, whether you are looking to dive into local culture or enjoy family-friendly activities. Overall, having a car enhances your trip by making it easy to navigate between attractions and enjoy everything Nantes has to offer.

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 operates one rental location in Nantes, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a solid selection of vehicles, with Compact and Midsize cars being the most booked choices. This supplier is popular among those seeking a straightforward rental experience, allowing you to explore Nantes and its surroundings with ease.
• Enterprise: With one rental location in Nantes, Enterprise is highly regarded for its exceptional customer service. Offering Midsize SUVs and Economy cars as the most popular options, Enterprise caters to various travel needs. Travellers appreciate the helpful staff and flexible rental policies, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals looking for a seamless car rental experience.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has one location in Nantes and is known for providing a hassle-free rental experience. The Economy and Compact SUVs are among the most booked vehicles, making it a great option for both solo travellers and small groups. Customers frequently highlight the cleanliness and condition of the cars, as well as efficient return processes, ensuring a pleasant journey around Nantes.

Where to stay in Nantes

• Nantes Centre: Nantes Centre is an ideal choice for travellers seeking a rich cultural experience. This vibrant neighbourhood features attractions such as the Château of the Dukes of Brittany, perfect for those interested in history and romance. Nearby, the Machines of the Isle of Nantes offers a unique artistic experience, while Place Royale serves as a lively piazza for leisurely strolls. With various cafes and dining options, Nantes Centre caters to families and business visitors alike, making it a convenient base for exploring local theatre and shopping venues.
• Beaujoire: If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, Beaujoire is the perfect neighbourhood. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and sports facilities, it features highlights such as the Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden that is ideal for relaxation and romance. The local stadium hosts various events, and the area is known for its festivals and vibrant community life. With bars and coffee spots nearby, Beaujoire offers a delightful mix of activities for those who enjoy both nature and sports.
• Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès: For a business-themed stay, Ile de Nantes Palais des Congrès is an excellent option. This neighbourhood is home to a modern convention centre and an art museum, making it suitable for professionals and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the nearby shopping centre and market for local goods. Key attractions like the Machines of the Isle of Nantes and the Château of the Dukes of Brittany are within reach, providing a blend of culture and city life that enhances your trip.

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 types and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, use the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are usually less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy urban areas. Mid-size vehicles 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
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 typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional fees.
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 for renting a car in and around Nantes is December, when both prices and demand are low. January and March also offer slightly low prices and quiet demand, making them good options for budget-conscious travellers. However, the rental market can become quite busy and expensive during July and August, when demand peaks and prices rise. June sees slightly high prices and average demand, setting the stage for the summer's busiest months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
April	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.2°F (17.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low