Car rental in Marseille
Second largest city in France, after Paris, Marseille, located in the south of the country, offers a wide diversity of landscapes. Highly visited, millions of people discover the Phocaean city each year, whether by plane, train, boat, or bus. Coming to Marseille is a great adventure that allows you to discover a beautiful region. For those who want to experience this adventure and be free to move around and explore without schedule constraints, renting a car can prove to be an advantageous solution.
Indeed, it's a practical way to explore the city and its surroundings with the freedom to come and go as you please without having to rely on public transportation or taxis, which impose restrictive schedules. By choosing to rent a car in Marseille, you can explore major tourist sites and easily adjust your itinerary based on your interests, as well as venture to less accessible destinations such as nearby villages.
Renting a car in Marseille, a good idea ?
Having a car during your stay is a significant advantage for enjoying quality time. It allows for easy travel and access to distant or difficult-to-reach tourist sites. It can also represent a way to have unconventional vacations, at your own pace, with last-minute decisions or unexpected destinations. This is an advantage compared to other means of transportation which can be expensive per person. Moreover, comfort is also important, and transportation becomes more complicated beyond certain hours, as public transport stops at night. A car also offers undeniable comfort, especially for groups of friends, families with children, and couples. You have the ability to adjust the air conditioning to your liking, listen to your own music, and even make stops or take breaks whenever you want.
One of the only real disadvantages may be the cost of renting a car as well as the price of fuel and tolls, which can be high, especially if you plan to travel a lot. Also, a car has a limited number of seats which reduces the number of possible passengers. Marseille is known for its parking difficulties. The car can be limiting if parking spaces are scarce or paid. Let's not forget the traffic which can be heavy, especially during peak season and rush hours. This can become a significant source of stress.
What are the various options for renting a car in Marseille ?
To choose the right rental car, it is important to select the type of vehicle that suits you and meets your needs. A compact car may be interesting because it is economical, a larger car may be suitable for families, and a more luxurious car will please couples. Choose your vehicle based on the number of passengers planned, the type of travel you are considering (urban? rural?), and the time of year you plan your trip, as this will greatly influence prices. Also take the time to compare different providers such as Avis, Sixt, Hertz, or Europcar, especially compared to local vehicle rental agencies. You can use online sites that will compare different rental options based on your needs, rental period, availability, and budget. There are many rental points directly in Marseille, if you had planned a different plan than renting a car: the Marseille-Provence Airport, the Saint-Charles train station, among others.
How does the rental process work?
Once you have compared options on websites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars, and chosen the best vehicle for your needs, the rental process unfolds in several steps. Select the rental agency that is most advantageous for you in terms of price, type of car, unlimited mileage options, etc. Also, take the time to ensure that the rate includes all necessary insurance for your trip, includes unlimited mileage if needed, and that equipment is included or available as an option (GPS, baby seat). Then, book your car, enter your information (rental dates, driver's license of the driver, their age). Proceed with payment, either in part or in full. If your situation requires additional options, don't hesitate to inform your rental agency. Finally, confirm your reservation! You will pay the remaining rental fee directly to the agency, if not already done. That's it, you're done!
Attention: always remember to carefully read the terms and conditions of your rental contract before finalizing your reservation to avoid surprises such as hidden fees, fuel not included, or cleaning fees.
Car pickup : steps not to forget
When picking up your vehicle, bring your driver's license, a credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit, and your reservation confirmation. Before leaving the agency, it is important that you take the time to thoroughly inspect the car for any existing or potential damage. Make sure that all functions (lights, gearbox, brakes, air conditioning, etc.) are operational.
Car return : beware of the vehicle's condition
Check the car return times and make sure to return it at the agreed-upon time. Indeed, a delay can incur additional charges. Be careful about this to avoid unexpected fees, which would not be welcome. Return the car in the same condition as when picked up, this will help you avoid charges for damages. If you pay attention and scrupulously follow these tips, your rental experience in Marseille will be stress-free.
Some practical tips for driving serenely in Marseille
A particular aspect of Marseille is the density of its traffic and the narrowness of some of its streets, especially in the Vieux-Port and Panier neighborhoods where it is best to drive cautiously. Traffic rules must be strictly followed. It is essential to follow these recommendations to ensure not only your safety but also that of other road users. The maximum speed allowed in the city is generally 50 km/h, but it can be reduced to 30 km/h in some residential areas or near schools, while on highways, the limit is 130 km/h in dry weather and 110 km/h in rainy weather. There are many secure underground parking lots, such as those in the Vieux-Port or Joliette. Rates are affordable, however, spaces are limited.
What to see in Marseille during your stay?
For nature lovers, the calanques are an absolute must-see during your stay in Marseille, whether by land, with various hikes, or by sea, by boat or kayak. Another world awaits you! There are many ports to visit, each more beautiful than the last, but also restaurants and bars where you can taste local dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions about car rental in Marseille
How much does a car rental in Marseille cost on average?
On average, car rental costs 20 euros per day. However, it is possible to find cheaper or more expensive rates, depending on the date of your stay and the chosen vehicle.
What are the must-visit places in Marseille?
The must-visit places in Marseille are the calanques, the Vieux-Port, the Frioul islands, the Mucem, the Panier district, and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde.