One-Way Car Rental from Paris to Lyon | Compare Prices & Fees

Document required for international visitors

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Local renters may need to present additional documents such as a utility bill within 3 months for verification.

Notes: Local Renter Requirements: If you live within 100 km of the rental location and your booking is not linked to a corporate or insurance account, extra verification is required. Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit will apply: $1,000 standard.
Form of ID: A valid physical national photo ID is required.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and AMEX. Some locations may also accept debit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, typically around $10-$35 per day, depending on the rental location and currency. Some policies cap the total young driver fee for the rental period.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Non-local renters must present an original driving licence along with one of the following: International Driving Permit (IDP), NAATI-certified translation, or an English version of a South Korean driver's license.

Notes: Non-local renters may be required to present a return airline ticket or additional documentation depending on the country of residence.
Form of ID: A valid passport is required.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, and AMEX. Some locations may also accept debit cards.
Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80 years. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, typically around $10-$35 per day, depending on the rental location and currency. Some policies cap the total young driver fee for the rental period.

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 22-334	US$ 0.00-606.42	US$ 68-489	Solo travelers, couples
Medium	US$ 386-386	US$ 0.00-155.40	US$ 605-605	Small families, light luggage
Large	US$ 49-2507	US$ 0.00-206.02	US$ 152-4794	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 23-382	US$ 0.00-520.79	US$ 71-594	Large groups, long drivers
Premium	US$ 1810-1921	US$ 155.40-155.40	US$ 3465-3665	Families, comfort seeker
Van	US$ 109-1735	US$ 0.00-518.07	US$ 304-1735	Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fee: Some rental companies charge an additional fee for one-way bookings. Be sure to check this cost beforehand.
Cross-Border Regulations: If planning to cross international borders, confirm with the rental provider regarding their policies and any additional documentation you'll require.
Rental Period: Ensure your rental period aligns with your travel itinerary to avoid late return fees.
Return Location Availability: Verify that the rental company has drop-off points in Lyon and any specific return instructions.
Refueling Policy: Understand the refueling policies; some require a full tank at return, while others do not.

Smart Planning Tips:

Book In Advance: Advance bookings can help ensure vehicle availability and potentially lower costs.
Plan Your Route: Determine your primary and alternative routes, accounting for potential stops and traffic conditions.
Choose The Right Vehicle: Select a vehicle that fits your journey’s needs, focusing on comfort and economy for longer trips like Paris to Lyon.
Understand Insurance Coverage: Confirm the insurance coverage provided and consider additional coverage for peace of mind during the trip.
Familiarize With Road Laws: Ensure you are familiar with local road rules, speed limits, and driving laws in France.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Tolls

Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

TotalEnergies - Lyon ST Exupery - 600 Rue de France, 69124 Colombier-Saugnieu, France

Esso Express - Av. Jean Moulin D306, 69720 Saint-Laurent-de-Mure, France

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle.

Ensure tires are properly inflated for optimal performance.

Paris Parking

Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts for cheaper rates.

Parking in Paris can be expensive, with rates around €4 per hour in central areas.

Lyon Parking

Booking parking spaces online in advance can save time and money.

Lyon offers parking garages with rates averaging €2 per hour.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like Parkopedia and Indigo can help users find or book parking in advance.

Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure to have cash or a credit card ready for toll payments.

Using an electronic toll pass can save time at toll booths.

The route from Paris to Lyon includes several toll roads, with total charges estimated at €35.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Suggested Routes From Paris to Lyon:

Direct Highway Route

Efficient 4 hours 30 minutes

A straightforward route via the A6 highway, ideal for quick and efficient travel.

Paris , Auxerre , Lyon

Scenic Bourgogne Route

Scenic 6 hours

An enchanting route through the Bourgogne wine region, perfect for leisurely drives with stops at vineyards.

Paris , Dijon , Lyon

Historic Loire Valley Route

Historic 7 hours

A heritage-rich journey exploring the castles and towns of the Loire Valley.

Paris , Orleans , Lyon

Explore Nearby Attractions:

Versailles to Lyon

5 hours 30 minutes

This route takes you via the Palace of Versailles, making it a cultural excursion.

Dijon to Lyon

2 hours

A swift journey from the capital of gastronomy to Lyon, perfect for foodies.

Paris to Beaune

3 hours

Drive to Beaune, the heart of wine tourism in France for a delightful experience.

Lyon to Geneva

2 hours 45 minutes

Head towards Switzerland to witness the beautiful landscapes on this route.

Road Trip Planning Tips:

Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a car that matches your travel needs, keeping fuel efficiency and comfort in mind.

Plan Your Stops: Research and schedule stops along the route for food, rest, and sightseeing.

Use Reliable Navigation: Ensure you have a reliable GPS system to avoid getting lost.

Budget for Tolls: Account for toll charges when planning your expenses.

Fuel Up Smartly: Identify fuel stations along the route with competitive prices.

Pack Essentials: Carry snacks, water, and a first aid kit to ensure a smooth journey.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting the right car rental company is crucial for a seamless one-way trip between Paris and Lyon. Each company offers distinct advantages tailored to different needs.

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Europcar	$$	Extensive selection, including luxury and eco-friendly models	Widespread with numerous countrywide outlets	Flexible booking policies , Exclusive rewards for loyal customers
Hertz	$$	High-quality vehicle options from economy to premium	Available at major cities and airport locations	24/7 roadside assistance , Subscription discounts for frequent users
Sixt	$	Offers unique models such as electric cars and premium brands	Serving both central and rural areas extensively	Fast and simple digital check-in , Free mileage on various cars
Avis	$$$	Broad choice from practical cars to luxury SUVs	Strategically placed at main transit hubs	Specialized vehicles for families and large groups , Access to premium customer service

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Car Rental Information for Paris and Lyon

Operating Hours:

Rental centers are generally open from 7:00am to 10:00pm daily, with 24/7 booking support.

Location of Rental Car Centers:

Paris central office is located near Gare de Lyon station, and in Lyon, most locations centralize in central districts and near the city's airport.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttles are available from major public transport points to car rental hubs.

Road and Traffic Conditions:

Travelers should be aware of traffic relations and road toll costs along the route.

Access to Gas Stations:

Gas stations are dotted along the A6 motorway with various options open 24/7.

Consider online check-ins to reduce wait times, and review specific rental policies on fuel returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of renting a car for a one-way trip from Paris to Lyon?

The cost for a one-way car rental varies depending on the car rental company's pricing structure, the type of car chosen, and the date of booking. Additional one-way fees might also apply for the distinct drop-off location.

Are there any restrictions on the type of cars available for one-way rentals?

Many car rental companies offer various vehicle types, from compact cars to SUVs, for one-way rentals. However, the availability of specific types may vary by company and location.

Can I pick up the rental car in Paris city center and drop it off at Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport?

Yes, most car rental companies provide flexibility in drop-off locations, allowing for vehicle return at locations like Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport instead of the city center.

What documents do I need to furnish when picking up the rental car in Paris?

You typically need a valid driver's license, a credit card for the deposit or payment, and sometimes an International Driving Permit if your license isn't in the language of the rental country.

Are there any additional fees for one-way rentals from Paris to Lyon?

Many car rental companies charge a one-way rental fee. This fee compensates for the logistical effort of returning the vehicle to its original location. Confirm this fee when booking your rental.

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