Car Rentals in Bordeaux, FRA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Bordeaux

Renting a car in Bordeaux offers significant freedom and flexibility for exploring this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings. With a vehicle, you can visit key attractions such as the Cité du Vin, a cultural museum that celebrates wine, or stroll down Rue Sainte-Catherine, the bustling shopping street, at your own pace. The iconic Place de la Bourse, a stunning piazza, is easily accessible when you have the convenience of a car. Additionally, travelling to nearby areas like Merignac, known for its Circuit Bordeaux Merignac and Grand Theatre of Bordeaux, becomes straightforward. If you're interested in outdoor experiences, a drive to Pessac allows you to explore the Cité Frugès and unwind at the scenic Place de la Victoire. For those with luggage or families, managing your belongings is much simpler, enhancing your sightseeing experience. Whether you are seeking cultural experiences, urban exploration, or beach outings, a rental car enables you to customise your itinerary and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Gironde region without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Bordeaux

• Midsize SUV: The top choice for travellers in Bordeaux, a midsize SUV accommodates 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups. With ample space and versatility, this vehicle allows for comfortable journeys while exploring the scenic attractions in and around Bordeaux. Whether you’re heading to vineyards or coastal areas, the midsize SUV provides the freedom and comfort needed for a memorable road trip.
• Compact: A compact car is an excellent option for those looking for a balance between space and maneuverability. It comfortably seats 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, this car type offers flexibility for navigating Bordeaux’s urban environment and surrounding areas. With a compact, you can enjoy efficient driving while still having enough room for your luggage, making it a practical choice for your journey.
• Economy: The economy car is a budget-friendly option that accommodates 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking to save on rental costs while still enjoying the freedom of exploring Bordeaux. The economy car’s smaller size makes it easy to navigate through the city and find parking, providing a convenient and economical way to experience the sights and sounds of the region.

Top rated car suppliers in Bordeaux

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers in Bordeaux, with two rental locations in the area. Known for its quick pickup process and friendly staff, Alamo provides a reliable car hire experience. Customers frequently book Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, appreciating the well-maintained vehicles and cleanliness. The hassle-free returns further enhance the overall experience, making Alamo a solid option for those looking to explore Bordeaux at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget offers a convenient car hire solution with two rental locations in Bordeaux. This supplier is particularly favoured for its competitive pricing and a selection of popular vehicle types, including Economy cars and Midsize SUVs. Travellers appreciate the efficient service and straightforward rental process, allowing them to manage their plans with ease. Budget is an excellent choice for those seeking affordable options without compromising on quality.
• Rentscape: Rentscape is another notable supplier with two rental locations in Bordeaux, catering to a variety of needs. Customers often choose Rentscape for their Economy and Compact car options, which are perfect for navigating the city. The company is praised for its straightforward service and well-kept vehicles, making it a convenient option for visitors. Rentscape ensures that travellers can enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux and its surroundings comfortably.

Where to stay in Bordeaux

• Bordeaux City Centre: The heart of Bordeaux, the City Centre is ideal for those seeking a vibrant city experience. With attractions like the bustling Rue Sainte-Catherine and the picturesque Place de la Bourse, this area offers a mix of culture, shopping, and outdoor leisure. Enjoy local wineries and distilleries nearby, making it a perfect base for wine enthusiasts. The city's numerous theatres and entertainment venues add to its charm, especially during the cultural season in spring and autumn.
• Merignac: Known for its scenic beauty, Merignac is perfect for outdoor lovers and beachgoers. With proximity to family-friendly beaches and the stunning bay, it offers a relaxing atmosphere. Key highlights include the Circuit Bordeaux Merignac, ideal for motorsport fans, and the Grand Theatre of Bordeaux, which caters to those seeking romantic cultural outings. Dining options include a variety of restaurants and local wineries, making it a delightful area for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Pessac: Pessac is an excellent choice for travellers interested in outdoor activities and entertainment. This area is known for its educational institutions and beautiful golf courses, appealing to both business and leisure visitors. Explore cultural sites like the historic Cité Frugès and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Rue Sainte-Catherine. Pessac offers an array of wineries, perfect for sampling regional wines, and is conveniently located near the lively Place de la Victoire.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Bordeaux

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more economical to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bordeaux

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bordeaux is February, when both prices and demand are low. January and November also offer slight reductions in price and demand, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers. From March to June, you'll find moderate pricing and average demand, providing a nice balance for those looking to explore. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand due to the summer rush, followed closely by August, which sees similarly elevated prices and crowded conditions.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
March	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	46.8°F (8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average