Car hire in Paris, whether at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Orly Airport (ORY), or city locations, gives you the freedom to explore the capital and the wider region at your own pace. Daily rates start from about €40, and you can compare trusted providers like Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis, and Budget to secure the best value for your journey.
The Paris region is home to more than 11 million residents and welcomes tens of millions of visitors every year. A rental car makes it easy to reach highlights within the city and day trip favourites such as Versailles, Giverny, Reims and the Champagne vineyards, and the Loire Valley chateaux.
Eiffel Tower: Enjoy grand views from the observation decks and the Champ de Mars lawns below. Official Site.
Louvre Museum: The largest art museum in the world, home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and vast collections from many eras. Louvre Museum.
Notre Dame Cathedral: A masterwork of Gothic design on the Ile de la Cite. Restoration continues and the site remains a key landmark.
Champs Elysees and Arc de Triomphe: A grand avenue for shopping and cafes that leads to the famous triumphal arch.
Montmartre and Sacre Coeur: An artistic hilltop district with winding streets, painters, and a white basilica with sweeping views.
Palace of Versailles: Around 20 km from Paris, this UNESCO listed royal residence features the Hall of Mirrors and vast gardens. Visit Versailles.
French Classics: Taste escargots, boeuf bourguignon, duck confit, and onion soup in traditional bistros.
Fine Dining: Paris holds many Michelin-starred restaurants including Le Meurice, Guy Savoy, and Arpège.
Pâtisseries and Cafés: Enjoy croissants, pain au chocolat, and macarons at Café de Flore and Angelina Paris.
Food Markets: Visit Marché des Enfants Rouges or Marché Bastille for fresh produce and street food.
Paris Fashion Week: A major style event held twice a year in spring and autumn.
Museum Night: Many museums offer late entry and special programs during Nuit des Musées.
Opera and Theatre: See a performance at Palais Garnier or the Opéra Bastille.
Seine River Cruises: Sightseeing and dinner cruises depart from the Eiffel Tower area and Pont Neuf.
Public Transport: The metro and RER network covers the city and suburbs. Use a Navigo card or contactless payment for metro, buses, and trams. RATP Info.
Driving: Central traffic can be busy. A compact car helps with parking and narrow streets.
Toll Roads: Motorways in France use tolls. Pay by card or cash at the booths. Consider a télépéage tag for frequent travel.
Rental Companies: Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget, Sixt, and Enterprise operate at both airports and across the city.
Airport Rentals: Desks are located at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY), with many providers offering twenty-four-hour options.
City Rentals: Common pick-up points include Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, Saint-Lazare, and central districts such as Opéra and Montparnasse.
Extras: Add a GPS, child seats, and extra drivers during booking. A credit card in the main driver’s name is required for deposit.
License: Drivers must hold a valid license, and many providers require at least one year of driving experience. Non-EU visitors should carry an International Driving Permit.
Insurance: Basic cover is included. Consider excess reduction and theft protection for broader coverage.
Minimum Age: Usually 21 to 25 depending on the provider. A young driver fee may apply.
Parking: Street parking is metered and limited in the centre. Look for underground garages near major sights.
Traffic Rules: Drive on the right side. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are usually 50 km per hour in cities and up to 130 km per hour on motorways in dry conditions.
Paris offers boutique hotels, classic grand properties, and budget-friendly stays. A typical mid-range room costs around €160 to €220 per night, and luxury stays can exceed €500 in peak season.
A valid driving license, a credit card in the renter’s name, and your booking confirmation. Some non-EU licenses also require an International Driving Permit.
Most companies accept drivers from 21. A young driver fee may apply for drivers under 25 and certain car groups.
Yes. You can drive across France and into many neighbouring countries. Confirm cross- border rules and fees with your provider.
Basic cover is included. Excess reduction and full protection can limit your liability for damage or theft.
Central parking can be scarce. Use Parkopedia France to find garages near your destination.
A rental car lets you discover Paris and beyond on your own schedule, from the grand avenues of the city to the vineyards of Champagne and the castles of the Loire.
With rates from around €40 to €55 per day and many pick-up points at the airports and in the city, finding the right vehicle is simple.
Compare deals, choose your car, and book securely through our trusted partner. Enjoy the freedom to explore the Île-de-France and further afield with ease.
