Car Rental in Provence | Book at Unbeatable Prices

1. How much does it cost to rent a car in Provence?

The cost of car rental in Provence varies based on factors such as the type of car, duration of rental, and booking season. On average, you can expect to pay anything between €30 to €90 per day.

2. Which rental car is most in-demand in Provence?

The most popular rental car in Provence is often a compact model due to the narrow and winding roads typical in this region. Compact cars like the Fiat 500 or the Volkswagen Polo are preferred for their ease of maneuverability. Small-size vehicles are also economical in fuel consumption which is a plus in the fairly large Provence region.

3. What are the most popular places to rent a car in Provence?

Common locations from where tourists rent cars in Provence include Nice, Marseille, and Avignon, mainly because of their airports and accessibility.

4. Is there a pick-up and drop-off service round the clock?

Yes, many car rental companies in Provence offer 24-hour pick-up and drop-off services, though this could be subject to an extra fee.

5. Is there a minimum rental period?

Typically, car rental companies in Provence require a minimum rental period of 24 hours.

6. What is the minimum age to rent a car in Provence?

The minimum age requirement to rent a car in Provence is generally 21 years. However, drivers under 25 may be charged an additional young driver fee.

7. What documents do I need to rent or drive a car in Provence?

When renting a car in Provence, you will need your driving license, passport, and a credit card. If your driver's license is not in the Roman alphabet (i.e., if it is in Arabic, Greek, Cyrillic, or Chinese), you will need to bring an international driving permit and your domestic license.

8. What's the best time of year to explore Provence by car?

While Provence can be visited year-round, the best time to explore by car is between April and October, when the weather is more stable and you get to enjoy the lavender fields in full bloom.

9. What are the major airports in Provence?

The main airports in Provence are Marseille Provence Airport and Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.

10. Can I pick up the car in one Provence city and return it in another?

Most car rental companies in Provence offer the option to pick up a car in one city and drop it off in another. However, it's important to note that this service usually comes with an additional fee.

1. Marseille: The largest city in Provence known for its diverse culture and rich history.
2. Aix-en-Provence: Famous for its classical architecture, art scene, and is the birthplace of the painter Cézanne.
3. Avignon: Renowned for the Palais des Papes and celebrated summer arts festival.
4. Nice: Known for its stunning coastline along the Mediterranean and vibrant nightlife.
5. Arles: Renowned for its Roman and Romanesque monuments and was once the home of Van Gogh.
6. Cannes: Famed for its international film festival and home to numerous luxury shops, restaurants and hotels.
7. Saint-Tropez: Known for its car-free old town and iconic bell tower overlooking the Mediterranean.

1. Marseille - Nice: Stretching over 207 km, the drive from Marseille to Nice takes around 2h 20m via A8. Known for its scenic routes and well-maintained roads.
2. Avignon - Cannes: It's a 260 km drive from Avignon to Cannes with a driving time of about 2h 50m via A8. Safe, straightforward and offers picturesque landscape views.
3. Arles - Antibes: The connection between Arles to Antibes is about 255 km and takes about 2h 30m via A8. A popular route for tourists with properly marked signs.
4. Aix-en-Provence - Saint-Tropez: Enjoy a beautiful 134 km drive that typically takes around 1h 50m via A57 and D98, featuring vibrant coastal views.
5. Marseille - Monaco: Covering a distance of 212 km, it takes about 2h 15m via A8. Smooth ride and certainly a drive to remember.
6. Aix-en-Provence - Nice: Spanning over 180 km, it takes around 1h 55m via A8. Renowned for its breathtaking landscape and well-constructed roads.
7. Avignon - Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: Drive the 95 km route from Avignon to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in about 1h 15m via D570. This route showcases the beautiful countryside of Provence.

1. What side of the road do I drive on in Provence?

In Provence, as in all of France, you should drive on the right-hand side of the road.

2. What is the speed limit in Provence?

Speed limits vary in Provence depending on the type of road. On motorways, it's usually 130 km/h (110 km/h in rain). On dual carriageways and non-urban main roads, it's 110 km/h (100 km/h in rain). On other non-urban roads, it's 80 km/h. In built-up areas, it's typically 50 km/h.

3. Can I drive with my overseas license in Provence?

Yes, most foreign drivers can use their domestic license in Provence. However, it’s advisable to get an International Driving Permit if your license is non-European or not in French.

4. Are there many speed cameras in Provence?

Yes, there are plenty of speed cameras across Provence. It's important to obey the speed limits to avoid fines.

5. Is it expensive to use the toll roads in Provence?

Tolls in Provence can sum up if you're travelling long distances. However, they offer good road conditions and often quicker travel times.

6. What are the rules about overtaking in Provence?

In Provence, you can overtake on either side on dual carriageways and motorways. On other roads, the usual rule is to overtake on the left.

7. Are service stations common in Provence?

Yes, service stations are frequent on motorways, main roads, and in towns. They typically offer fuel, food, and restrooms.

8. Are the road conditions good in Provence?

Road conditions in Provence are generally good, specially on main roads and motorways. However, in rural areas and mountain roads, conditions can vary.

9. Are there specific traffic rules in Provence?

In Provence, the general French traffic laws apply. An important rule is the priority to the right ('priorité à droite'), meaning that you must give way to vehicles coming from your right unless otherwise indicated.

10. Can I park my car anywhere in Provence?

Free parking spaces are generally available but not everywhere. Pay attention to local parking signs. Some areas require a parking disk ('disque de stationnement') which should be displayed in your car.

11. Are there road safety concerns in Provence?

Provence has a good road safety record. But as in all places, care should be taken on rural roads, especially in poor weather or low visibility conditions.

12. Can I use my GPS device in Provence?

Yes, using a GPS device in Provence is allowed. However, devices that actively signal the location of speed cameras are prohibited.

13. Are there pedestrian zones in Provence?

Yes, many cities and towns in Provence have pedestrian-only zones. Always respect these areas and other road-related signs.

14. What safety measures are necessary while driving in Provence?

Always wear a seatbelt and ensure passengers are also buckled in. Use of mobile phones without a hands-free kit is illegal. Make sure to have a high-visibility vest and warning triangle in your car – these are French legal requirements.

15. Can I drive in Provence if I don't speak French?

Yes, you can drive in Provence without speaking French. Understanding basic traffic signs and rules is generally sufficient. However, it might be useful to learn a few French road terms.

1. Palais des Papes: A historical palace in Avignon, known for its stunning Gothic architecture.
2. Verdon Gorge: A breathtaking canyon known as the 'Grand Canyon of Europe'.
3. Vieux Port: Marseille's old port, harboring traditional fishing boats and yachts.
4. Mont Saint-Victoire: A significant landmark near Aix-en-Provence, inspiring many of Cézanne’s artworks.
5. Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate: An iconic Baroque cathedral in the heart of Nice.
6. Roman Theatre of Orange: One of the best preserved Roman theatres in the world.
7. Calanques National Park: A natural park spanning from Marseille to Cassis featuring dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water.
8. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A medieval hilltop village, famous for its art and panoramic views.

1. The Lavender Route: This famous 200-kilometre journey immerses you in the iconic Provence scenery with lavender fields and hilltop villages.
2. Côte d'Azur Drive: A 120-km seaside route revealing the glamour, rich heritage, and stunning landscapes of the French Riviera.
3. Route du Ventoux: Stretching 160 km, this route offers diverse sights from the mountainous Mont Ventoux, vineyards to ancient Roman structures.
4. The Gorges du Verdon Circuit: This 140-km journey plunges you into 'Europe's Grand Canyon', with picturesque views and vibrant turquoise waters.
5. Route des Crêtes Cassis - La Ciotat: A 15-km dramatic coastal drive with breathtaking sea views, cliffs, and sandy coves.
6. Alpilles Regional Nature Park Circuit: A route of roughly 90 km winding through natural landscapes, olive groves, medieval castles, and artistic heritage.
7. Camargue Nature Reserve Trip: A 100-km route revealing the raw beauty of marshlands, wild animals, and vibrant flamingoes.
8. Route des Vins de Provence: Discover Provence's renowned wineries on this 220-km journey enchanted by vineyards, charming villages, and wine degustation opportunities.