Car rental in Marseille

Marseille by car

Marseille wraps around an ancient harbour with limestone hills at its back and the Calanques cutting into the shoreline just east of it. Whole districts climb those hills in terraces, so addresses a short distance apart can be a long way apart in practice.

Driving in Marseille

Marseille is reached by A7, A50, A51 and A55. The centre of Marseille is closed to through traffic. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Driving through the centre is restricted, so most drivers park on the edge.

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 Marseille

  • Cassis — 16 km
  • Aix-en-Provence — 27 km
  • Avignon — 86 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 Marseille?

In the city and at the airport — Marseille Provence 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 Marseille?

The centre of Marseille is closed to through traffic rather than filtered by emissions.

Where do I park in the centre of Marseille?

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.