Car Hire Paris

France’s capital is one of the most visited cities in the world, with something to discover around every corner. Starting from Place de la Concorde, drive along Avenue des Champs-Élysées all the way up to the Arc de Triomphe to tick off two of Paris’ most famous sights.

Head down Avenue Marceau and across the River Seine to see the Eiffel Tower. From here, follow Quai d’Oray and the one-way system to Notre Dame, the world-famous cathedral perched on Île de la Cité.

Car hire in Paris means that as well as exploring the city you can also use it is as a perfect starting point for a French road trip. The capital is surrounded by an easy-to-navigate motorway – or autoroute – network, with tolls in place along some stretches.

While in France you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits vary from 50km/h in urban areas to 130km/h on autoroutes – so keep an eye out for signage.

Take the A4 east of the city and it’s a 40-minute drive to Disneyland Paris. Ample parking is available onsite so you can easily leave your hire car for a day of fun, with thrilling rides and all-singing, all-dancing street parades to enjoy. 

Drive east out of the city via the A13 to experience the regal Palace of Versailles. This World Heritage Site dates back to the 17th century and one of the finest examples of art from the period.

Be mesmerised by the spellbinding Hall of Mirrors, lined with more than 350 lavish mirrors, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the sprawling manicured gardens, peppered with fountains and statues.

While you’re in northern France, take the opportunity to discover the wildly beautiful west coast. Take the A11 to Nantes, one of France’s top art cities. Don’t miss the Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a steampunk park filled with other-worldly creations.

From here, the historic port of La Rochelle is due south down the A83. Stop off for a day at the beach and wander the picturesque harbour. Finish off your road trip in Bordeaux, a two-hour journey down the A10. It’s worth the drive to experience the elegant architecture and heavenly food of the city.

Paris conjures up entrancing images of the Eiffel Tower soaring high up above the city and dominating the skyline. But there is so much more to this alluring city.

You’ll find effortless sophistication in every corner café, designer boutique and elegant restaurant, along with instantly recognisable landmarks at every turn. The magnetic charm of Paris is yours to discover.

Admire Parisian architecture

There’s no shortage of iconic and imposing architecture in the city. Start with the Arc de Triomphe, the 19^th century landmark standing proud in the heart of the capital. Park up and head to the viewing platform 164 feet above the ground for spectacular views along the avenues snaking away from the monument.

Make your way to the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral. Outside, it dazzles with Gothic detailing and gargoyles, while inside you can spy beautiful stained glass windows and 10 enormous bells.

Climb the 422 steps to reach the star of the show – Notre Dame’s huge tenor bell, Emmanuel. Then step on to the panoramic terrace for a view across Paris that takes some beating.

Of course, you can’t visit the city without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Not only is it the city’s most visited attraction, it’s also the most prominent, at more than 1,000 feet tall. Take the lift to one of the 19^th century landmark’s viewing platforms and drink in the lofty views of the city.

Get a different perspective of the monument from Champ de Mars, a grass spot sandwiched between the tower and the École Militaire. From here, crane your neck and look up at the wrought iron wonder as you enjoy a picnic. Make sure you see this world famous monument after the sun goes down – it looks extra special when it twinkles against the starry night sky.

Tantalise your taste buds

Whether on a sun-kissed cafe terrace, sipping espresso and eating croissants, or inside one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, Parisian cuisine is among the best in the world.

To experience a quintessential cosy bistro, dine at Café St Regis. This vintage spot on Ile Saint-Louis – one of two natural islands in the Seine – exudes charm. Slide into one of the booths and feast on the crème de la crème of French cuisine, from duck confit and fresh oysters to garlicky snails and croque monsieur.

Indulge your sweet tooth at Ladurée, one of the city’s finest macaron makers. Inside you’ll come face-to-face with a rainbow of macaroons gleaming behind the glass counter. Fill a box with your favourite flavours and take them to go – there’s nothing better than enjoying them as you wander Paris’ chic streets.

Embrace your inner child at Disneyland

Drive out of the city and as the elegant French capital melts away behind you, in its place you’ll find a fantasy land filled with must-try rides. There are two parks at Disneyland Paris – Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

Enter through the gates of Disneyland Park and you’ll find five different zones to enjoy. Hurtle through space aboard the Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain, fly through the skies with Dumbo the Flying Elephant and zoom through jungle ruins when you ride Indiana Jones™ and the Temple of Peril.

In between riding the coasters, pose for a photo with your favourite Disney characters and admire the myriad mystical architecture. Finish off the day in style watching spectacular fireworks pop and whizz above the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Car rental in Paris will allow you to take in every corner of this sumptuous city as well as giving you the freedom to head beyond the capital to see more of France – all at your own pace.