Car Rentals in Lyon, FRA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Lyon

Renting a car in Lyon allows you to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace, providing the freedom and flexibility to visit key attractions and nearby destinations. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed, making it ideal for families, business travellers, or those seeking outdoor experiences.

Key sites such as Bellecour Square, Tête d'Or Park, and the historic Hôtel de Ville de Lyon are conveniently accessible. You can also explore the lively neighbourhoods of Lyon City Centre, Saint-Priest, and Villeurbanne, where you'll find a blend of culture and leisure. For instance, Tête d'Or Park is perfect for family outings, while Bellecour Square offers a rich cultural experience. Having a car makes day trips effortless, allowing you to venture beyond the city limits and discover more of the surrounding area without the constraints of public transport. Whether you’re visiting Lyon for business or leisure, a rental car enhances your experience, providing comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

Most popular car hires in Lyon

• Compact: The Compact car option is a popular choice for those travelling in and around Lyon. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases, this type of vehicle is particularly suitable for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its manageable size makes navigating the city’s streets and finding parking easier, providing the freedom to explore at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: If you're looking for a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is an excellent option. This vehicle accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The extra room provides comfort for longer journeys and flexibility for carrying larger amounts of luggage, ensuring you can enjoy your time in Lyon without the hassle of cramped seating.
• Economy: The Economy car type is another well-liked choice for those visiting Lyon. Capable of seating 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases, this option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a cost-effective way to explore. Its smaller size contributes to better fuel efficiency and ease of driving, making it a practical choice for navigating the charming streets and surrounding areas of Lyon.

Top rated car suppliers in Lyon

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Lyon, boasting two rental locations within the area. Known for its quick pickup process and friendly staff, Alamo provides a hassle-free rental experience. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, catering to various travel needs. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the vehicles and the ease of returns, making Alamo a reliable option for those looking to explore Lyon at their own pace.
• Budget: With three rental locations in Lyon, Budget offers a fantastic selection of vehicles at competitive prices. It is particularly well-regarded for its Economy and Midsize SUVs, which are popular among travellers seeking practicality and comfort. Customers often highlight Budget's efficient service and convenience, ensuring a smooth experience from pickup to drop-off. This supplier is an excellent choice for those looking for flexibility while exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings.
• Hertz: Hertz operates two rental locations in Lyon and is known for its diverse range of vehicles, including the frequently booked Compact and Midsize SUVs. Travellers appreciate Hertz for its excellent customer service and well-maintained cars. The ease of booking and the quick return process are often noted as significant advantages. For those planning to explore Lyon and the nearby region, Hertz provides a dependable option that combines quality and convenience.

Where to stay in Lyon

• Lyon City Centre: Located at the heart of the city, Lyon City Centre is ideal for those seeking a culture-themed experience. With landmarks such as Bellecour Square and Hôtel de Ville de Lyon nearby, visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. This area also features shopping centres and a variety of dining options including cafes and wineries, making it perfect for family outings and cultural exploration.
• Saint-Priest: Known for its business and entertainment vibe, Saint-Priest offers attractions like the Tête d'Or Park and the Musée des Confluences. This city is home to shopping malls and arena entertainment facilities, catering to both family and business travellers. The presence of local wineries and distilleries adds a unique touch, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
• Villeurbanne: Villeurbanne is a vibrant area attracting families and business visitors alike. Key highlights include the urban oasis of Tête d'Or Park and the bustling Place Grand Clement. The neighbourhood is well-equipped with theatres and shopping centres, ensuring a blend of cultural and leisure activities for guests. Additionally, it offers nearby bars for a relaxed evening out after a day of exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre 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 surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience might justify the extra 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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

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. This time is ideal for quieter travels. October also shows lower demand, making it a decent choice. March and May can be good shoulder months as well, with slightly low prices and moderate demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, creating a busier rental landscape.

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