Car rental in Lyon

Lyon by car

Two rivers meet at Lyon and pin its oldest quarters onto a peninsula between them, with a hill rising on either side. Whoever travels between Paris and the Mediterranean passes through, which is why tunnels burrow under the Fourvière slope.

Driving in Lyon

Lyon is reached by A6, A7, A42, A43 and A46. Lyon has a low-emission zone: check the sticker rules before driving into the centre. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Streets in the old centre are narrow, a smaller car is easier.

Renting and driving in France

Speed limits 50 / 80 / 130 km/h. Alcohol limit 0.5 ‰. Motorways charge at the barrier.

Within a day’s drive of Lyon

  • Saint-Étienne — 50 km
  • Grenoble — 96 km
  • Annecy — 100 km

What kind of car do you need?

Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.

  • Economy

    4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small

    City streets and tight parking

  • Standard

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Long drives with full luggage

  • SUV

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Mountain roads and winter trips

  • Estate

    5 seats · 3 large bags

    Families with a lot of luggage

  • People carrier

    7 seats · 4 large bags

    Groups of six or more

  • Luxury

    5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small

    Business trips and long motorways

  • Convertible

    4 seats · 2 small bags

    Coastal roads in warm weather

Airports serving this city

Other cities in France

Frequently asked questions

Where can I pick up a car in Lyon?

In the city and at the airport — Lyon-Bron Airport and Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is shown by the rental company before you book.

France: which side of the road do they drive on?

On the right. Speed limits are posted at the roadside and differ between towns, open roads and motorways.

Which currency will I be charged in?

Prices are usually set in EUR. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.

Can I drive the car into another country?

Often yes within the EU, but never assume it. Crossing a border has to be allowed by the rental company and usually costs extra, so check the terms before you book.

Is there a low-emission zone in Lyon?

Yes. Lyon has a low-emission zone covering the centre, and cars have to meet its emission rules to drive in.

Where do I park in the centre of Lyon?

Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.

What are the speed limits in France?

50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on open roads, 130 km/h on motorways.

Are the motorways tolled?

Motorways charge at the barrier. Payment is by cash, card or an electronic tag.