Car Hire in Avignon
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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.
Car Hire in Avignon
Most popular car hire at Avignon
The most selected hire car in Avignon is Ford Fiesta, with Renault Clio and Seat Ibiza also being a popular option. The most popular car types in Avignon are mini, economy, and compact.
Popular Driving Routes
Popular One-Way car hire from Avignon
Want to rent a car for a one-way trip? No worries! Orbit Car Hire offers a variety of one-way Car Hire options in many locations outside of Avignon. One-way car rental is ideal for cross-town or cross-country travel, saving time by not returning to your original location. Start your reservation with Orbit Car Hire and find great options on one-way car hire at locations across the France.
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Avignon-Aix-en-Provence (91km with approximately 1 hour of drive)
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Avignon-Marseille (103km with approximately 1-1,5 hours of drive)
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Avignon-Cannes (230km with approximately 2,5 hours of drive)
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Avignon-Nice (260km with approximately 2,5-3 hours of drive)
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.
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Explore France
Drive your rental car beyond Avignon
If you have decided to explore Provence, then a rental car is the best solution for you. There are so many beautiful places in this region that you cannot reach by public transport, that the best thing to do is to rent a car and drive around this amazing country. There are so many places to visit that you need to plan very well if you do not want to miss anything you like.
There is something for every taste and character in Provence. Once you have explored the city of Avignon, it is time to explore its surroundings. If you prefer historical sites, you can drive around and visit some great archaeological sites that are open to visitors. There are also some great museums and monuments around the country that are worth a visit. If you prefer a more active vacation, you can explore the many hiking trails in the mountains of this region. You can take part in many activities, from jogging, cycling, horseback riding, climbing, etc. And if you prefer a gastronomic vacation, you will of course get your money's worth here. You can drive from one town or village to another and taste the local food and wine. There are so many quality wines and such tasty olive oil produced here in Provence that you will simply enjoy it. With lots of local vegetables and fruits, the food here is fresh and delicious.
One of the cities you should visit is Cannes with its famous film festival, which is undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions for tourists from all over the world. In general, Provence is also one of the most popular regions with artists of all kinds. From painters to musicians to actors and directors who have been inspired by this amazing region.
Aside from the larger cities, there are also some fantastic smaller towns that you will find beautiful. One of these is Antibes. This medieval town is known for its great museums. Then there is the colourful and unique town of Menton. It is a so-called pearl of Provence. Èze is also an interesting place to visit. Other places that might interest you are: Arles, Bandol, Gordes, Uzès, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Venasque, Aix-en-Provence, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue...
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Enjoy the culture in Avignon
Where to eat, drink, and party in Avignon
Provence is a wonderful region for all foodies. The locals here are crazy about food and master the art of cooking perfectly. They prepare food in so many different ways that you will almost always try something new. The flavours here are so rich, which is mostly due to the local ingredients. Many people here make their olive oil and wine. They also grow their fruits and vegetables. So when you enjoy Provençal cuisine, you are exploring this beautiful region at the same time.
Besides many vegetables, fruits, herbs, wild mushrooms, etc., meat is also an important ingredient for them. But not only meat but also fish and seafood. So there is something for everyone. It's up to you what you prefer, but rest assured that no matter what you order here, the dish will be exceptional.
Some traditional dishes from Provence: bouillabaisse, pastis, daube, tapenade, nougat, omelette aux truffes, ratatouille, aïoli...
Best restaurants in Avignon:
La Cuisine du Dimanche
La Maison Tartare 1
Fou de Fafa
La Sou' Pape
Pollen
Restaurant Avenio
What do I need to rent a car in France?
A credit card in the name of the main driver needs to be presented. A security deposit may be required while renting a car so the credit card must have sufficient funds. You can find details about the security deposit listed while booking the vehicle as well as on your voucher. It is important to have a valid driving license with the name of the main driver as well as additional drivers when it applies. An International Driving Permit is required in addition to a National Driving License if the National Driving License you or any of the Additional Drivers hold is not identifiable as a Driving License, eg, it is in a non-Latin alphabet (eg Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese). It can also depend on the country or car rental company you are renting with. If you have found a car on our website, you can press the rental terms link from the supplier for more information about driving license requirements. You will need to have identification with you such as a passport and ID cards. When you pick up your rental car you need to have your voucher with you.
How old do I need to be to rent a car in France?
The minimum age to rent a car is 21 years old but drivers with this age can rent only Mini and Economy Car Categories. Renters aged 25 and older may rent all Car Categories. With some suppliers for people over 75 years of age. Young driver surcharges may apply to many car rental companies for people under 25 years of age.
Do I need car insurance in France?
Insurances are very important when renting a car and can be different between countries. When renting a car in France with Orbit Car Hire the prices will include mandatory insurances in the country.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car in France?
In most cases, a credit card is required to be presented in the name of the main driver. A security deposit may be required when renting a car so it is important to have sufficient funds on the credit card. When searching for a car at Orbit you can see credit card requirements from all our suppliers.
Do I need an international driving license in France?
Drivers license issued in France or within the European Union does not have to provide an international drivers license. For drivers with a license issued outside of the EU will need to have an international driving license as well as your standard driving license. You must have both licenses with you at all times while driving a car in France.
How do I find the cheapest car hire in France?
You can find cheap car hire by comparing prices with all major car rentals at Orbit. A good idea can be to book in advance as the prices can increase closer to the travel period.
What is the cheapest rental car in France?
You will find the mini car category or economy cars to be the cheapest car categories. Vehicles such as Renault Twingo and Citroen C3 often provide the best prices.
What is the best car rental company in France?
You may find excellent service provided by companies such as Europcar, Enterprise Rent a Car, Keddy by Europcar, Alamo Rent a Car, and GoldCar.
What types and makes of rental car deals can I find in France?
You will find car types such as mini, economy, compact, Full-Size, and luxury cars. Popular rental cars are Citroen C3, Renault Twingo, Peugeot 308, Toyota Yaris.
Does my rental car have unlimited mileage when I book it for France?
Most car rentals in France offer unlimited mileage in their offers.
How to hire a car in France?
You can hire a car in France with Orbit Car Hire in simple steps. First, you define where you would like to pick up and return the car, enter dates and times and you can search for your cheap France car hire.
How much is it to rent a car in France?
It will depend on where in France you would like to rent a car and at what period. The summer months can be more expensive than during the winter. You can find prices down to 12 GBP per day.
Can you rent an automatic car in France?
Yes, you can find a wide range of automatic rental cars in France. The best way to find your automatic car hire in France is to filter the "Automatic" transmission when searching for your vehicle.
Can I rent a car in France?
Yes, you can rent a car in France in simple steps with Orbit Car Hire. You just need to be over 21 years of age and have held the driving license for a minimum of one year (This can depend on the car hire companies)
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