Car rental at the Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is situated in Colombier-Saugnieu, which is 20 km southeast of Lyon, the third-largest city in France. Thanks to its central location in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, it's a great starting point for a car rental journey.

Renting a Car at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport

There are more than eight car rental agencies located directly at the airport. Compared to other European countries, car rental is quite affordable in France, but do remember to book in advance to avail the best prices and your preferred vehicle.

Car Class Recommendations

Touring France with a car? Opt for a compact or economy vehicles. They not only save fuel but are also easier to handle on narrow and busy city roads.

Driving in France

Steering wheel? On your left. Driving lane? Right. And guess what? France drives on the right side of the road! This can be a change if you are used to driving in the UK.

Speed Limits

The general speed limits in France vary depending on the type of roads and weather conditions. It’s typically 50km/h in the built-up area, 80km/h on the open road, 110km/h on dual carriageways and 130km/h on motorways.

Refuelling Your Car

There are several petrol stations located near the airport, most of them open 24 hours a day. Payments can be made using credit cards, but it's always handy to keep some cash with you.

Currency

France is part of the Eurozone, which means the local currency is the Euro (€). It's always a good idea to have some local currency for toll booths and some smaller shops that don't accept cards.

Exploring Lyon and Beyond

Once you've grabbed your hired wheels, why not explore Lyon's historic city centre? If you're up for a longer road trip, the charming towns of Grenoble and Annecy are less than 2 hours drive away.

Climate

The climate in Lyon is temperate, with warm summers and cool winters. Be sure to check the forecast in advance, as weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous regions - snow chains might be necessary for your car tyres in winter.

Safe Travels!

Now that you’re prepared, it's time to enjoy your trip! Safe travels on your journey through the beautiful Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France.