Car Hire in Avignon

About Avignon

Avignon is the capital of the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France. The river Rhône flows through the city. Due to its cultural and historical importance, Avignon is a World Heritage Site UNESCO. In 2000, the city was the European Capital of Culture. Some excavations here in Avignon and its surroundings indicate that the city was founded about 5000 years ago and gained importance throughout history. It reached its peak in the 14th century when it was also chosen as the papal residence. The city reached another peak of its development during and after the French Revolution when the city experienced its greatest expansion.

Today Avignon is the commercial and administrative centre of Provence, one of the richest agricultural regions of France. Fruit and vegetable growing is very well developed in this region and this is no different in Avignon and the surrounding area. But apart from that, tourism is the driving force of Avignon's economy. With the great cultural and historical sites that Avignon has to offer, it is truly one of the must-visit places in France. There are so many buildings, museums, galleries and other things to see in the city that you will simply enjoy your stay here. Also, there is some very delicious food here, which is kind of a trademark of Provence. One of the main attractions in the city of Avignon is also the many festivals that are held here. But among all, the most famous and important festival is Festival d'Avignon, which is held here every year and is an amazing event that you will enjoy.

Avignon also has a renowned university with great faculties and the city is one of the most popular destinations for students from all over France.

So, Avignon is undoubtedly one of the most exciting cities in this part of France or maybe even in the whole country. With many cultural and historical sites, great museums, galleries, operas, theatres, restaurants, festivals, etc, it is a city worth visiting. You will find something interesting for every taste. You just have to come here and explore this charming city in the heart of Provence. And by the way, if you like lively nightlife with lots of parties, concerts, and events all over the city, Avignon is a must for you.

Basic info and car hire in Avignon

• Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, France
• Population: 91,729
• Official language: French
• Currency: Euro
• Weather:   Avignon has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate
• Internet coverage: Hotels, bars, restaurants, and cafés offer Wi-Fi.
• Road conditions:  Most roads in Avignon are in good condition.
• Car hire in Avignon:  The most common pick-up point for vehicles in Avignon is at Avignon airport. Please note that prices vary frequently. It is best to book a car 3 to 8 weeks in advance of your desired pick-up date - this will ensure you get the cheapest rental rate. Alternatively, it is also possible to find cheap last-minute car hire. Find the best deal on car hire in Avignon!

 Driving in Avignon

As in other smaller towns of France, the traffic in Avignon is not very dense. There can be minor traffic jams at rush hour and in high season. But overall, driving in Avignon is not strenuous and it is quite easy to get around the city. The only challenge is the old city centre, where the streets can be very narrow and you have to be very careful when driving through them. But there is no need to drive your car into the old town. There are many parking garages and lots throughout the city, so you can leave your car there and explore the city centre on foot. There is also a large free car park at the entrance to the city. If you come to Avignon by car, you can leave it in this free parking lot and take the shuttle into the city. This is perhaps the best and easiest way to explore the city centre.

Here in Provence, there are many places that you cannot reach by public transport. Therefore, it is best to rent a car. Around Avignon, there are so many beautiful villages and such breathtaking scenery that you will simply fall in love with it while driving.

You have to pay special attention to the cyclists in Provence. There are a lot of them on the road, from locals to professional cyclists who train here on these beautiful roads. So, be extra careful when you are out and about here and be on the lookout for the cyclists. Otherwise, this is one of the best places for anyone who enjoys driving. The roads are in great condition, the views are breathtaking, and there's plenty to see and do. Buckle up and drive safely.

• Age limits: The minimum age to drive a car in France is 18 years.
• International Driving Permit:  Yes, if you are a non-EU license holder.
• Additional papers:   Identification(passports for all people in the car), the car's registration certificate, and your M.O.T. certificate (for cars over three years old, proving the vehicle meets environmental and road safety standards), a valid driving license, and valid proof of insurance. (It is advisable to buy insurance at the car hire agency in case your policy doesn't cover you while driving in France)
• Additional requirements:  High-visibility, reflective vest for every person in the car, Warning triangle, Full set of replacement bulbs for head and taillights, Spare pair of glasses, Headlight converters (required if driving from, "Crit'Air" badge (required in central Paris), Breathalyzer.
• Children in the car:  Children under 13 must be in car seats or wearing seat belts appropriate for their age and height. Babies and infants about a year old or under should always be positioned in rear-facing car seats.
• Driving side of the road: Right
• Lights:  Check that all lights are working, clean, and correctly aimed.
• General speed limits: There is a variable maximum speed on French roads, depending on weather conditions. In dry weather, 2- or 3-lane rural roads are limited to 80 km/h, 4-lane expressways (in rural areas) are limited to 110 km/h, and motorways (in rural areas if classified as highways) are limited to 130 km/h. In rainy conditions, the limits are lowered to 80, 100, and 110 km/h respectively. The 50 km/h speed limit in cities is independent of weather conditions. The general speed limit is reduced to 50 km/h on all roads in fog or other poor visibility conditions when visibility is less than 50 meters.
• Parking suggestions: In the city area, you must pay for all street parking from Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am-8:00 pm, and you pay per hour. Parking is free on Sundays and holidays. Generally, you can park for up to 6 hours at a time if you do not have a resident's permit, and up to a week at a time with a permit.

What to see in Avignon

Le Pont d'Avignon

Half of this fascinating medieval bridge collapsed in the 17th century due to numerous floods. Today, the remaining half of the bridge is open to visitors and you can also admire the Chapel of Saint Nicholas, which stands on the bridge. 

Le Palais des Papes

This majestic building is considered one of the largest medieval Gothic buildings in the world! It was built in the 14th century and used by the popes during Avignon's papacy. Today it is open to visitors and there are many art exhibitions held here throughout the year. On the roof of the building, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Avignon and its surroundings.

Musée Louis Vouland

This was once a private museum, but at the end of the 20th century, it was opened to visitors, who can admire a wonderful collection of furniture, vases, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, etc. here. The collection was the property of Louis Vouland. This small but rich museum will transport you to the 18th century with all its glamour. 

Notre-Dame des Doms

This medieval church is one of the most important buildings in the city. Located next to the Palais des Papes, it represents the great medieval architectural masterpieces built in the area. There are many different parts of this cathedral, all unique because they were renovated in different eras with different style influences. Worth a visit.

Best restaurants in Avignon:

La Cuisine du Dimanche

La Maison Tartare 1

Fou de Fafa

La Sou' Pape

Pollen

Restaurant Avenio