Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is a charming port city with a rich maritime history and stunning coastal landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to explore the region's hidden gems and picturesque surroundings.
Explore Coastal Wonders. Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is surrounded by breathtaking coastline, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint fishing villages. A rental car allows you to discover these natural wonders at your own pace.
Visit Historical Sites. The region is steeped in history, from the Cité de la Mer maritime museum to the D-Day landing beaches. With a car, you can easily access these important historical sites and learn about the area's fascinating past.
Discover Local Culture. A car provides the flexibility to explore local markets, sample regional cuisine, and experience the authentic culture of Normandy. You can venture beyond the city centre and discover hidden gems that are off the beaten path.
Before booking a rental car in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, be aware of standard requirements such as minimum age, licence validity, and insurance policies. Understanding these terms ensures a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
68.65 square kilometres (26.51 square miles)
Population
Approximately 80,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET)
Ideal for
Exploring Normandy's coast and countryside
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during morning and evening commutes
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU residents.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is required and will be refunded upon safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary; some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Fuel policies typically require returning the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional equipment such as GPS or child seats.
The average daily rate for an economy-class rental car in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is from £25 / $31.50 / €30 per day.
Business:
from £40 / $50.40 / €48 per day
Electric:
from £35 / $44.10 / €42 per day
Classic:
from £20 / $25.20 / €24 per day
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €60 per day
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75.60 / €72 per day
Automatic:
from £30 / $37.80 / €36 per day
SUV:
from £45 / $56.70 / €54 per day
Peak season (June to August): Demand increases significantly during the summer months, with prices rising by 20-30%.
Low season (November to February): Rental rates are generally lower during the off-season, often with discounts available.
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
Booking a car in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin involves a few simple steps to ensure you get the best deal and the right vehicle for your needs. Follow these guidelines for a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering size, fuel efficiency, and luggage space.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure better rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, and credit card when collecting your rental car.
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin is a vibrant port city offering a blend of maritime history and cultural attractions. Driving is a convenient way to explore the region, but it's important to be aware of local traffic regulations and parking options.
As a key maritime centre in Normandy, Cherbourg-en-Cotentin provides access to both historical sites and scenic coastal routes. While the city centre is manageable, a car allows you to venture into the surrounding countryside and coastal areas with ease.
Top Attractions to Discover
Cité de la Mer
Explore the depths of the ocean and maritime history at this renowned museum.
Liberation Museum
Learn about the region's role in World War II and the liberation of France.
Parc Emmanuel Liais
Discover exotic plants and a beautiful observatory in this charming park.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use parking garages in the city centre for secure and convenient parking.
On-Street Parking
Pay-and-display bays are available, but check time limits and restrictions.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city to avoid congestion.
Gas Stations in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Major Brands Available
Find fuel stations from major brands like Total, Shell, and BP throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Plan Ahead
Fuel stations are generally easy to find, but plan your refuelling stops if you're driving long distances.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept credit cards and cash.
Useful Tips for Visiting Cherbourg-en-Cotentin
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of moderate traffic during peak hours, especially in the city centre.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilise navigation apps to find the best routes and avoid traffic delays.
Respect Speed Limits
Adhere to posted speed limits to ensure safe driving.
Check Local Regulations
Familiarise yourself with local driving regulations and parking rules.
Railway Station
Cherbourg Railway Station
Provides train services to various destinations, including Paris.
Ferry Terminal
Cherbourg Ferry Terminal
Serves ferry routes to the [COUNTRY PLACE] and Ireland.
Airport
Cherbourg – Maupertus Airport (CER)
Offers limited regional flights.
Renting a car in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin requires a few essential documents and meeting certain criteria. Ensure you have everything in order for a smooth rental process.
A valid driver's licence is required. Non-EU residents may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for younger drivers.
A credit or debit card in the driver's name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of identification is required for international renters.
This content was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
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To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Such a lovely spontaneous trip! Cherbourg-en-Cotentin was gorgeous, easy to navigate by car.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 28.03.2025
Family vacation in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin was great; the Cité de la Mer was amazing, though the local bakery was a bit underwhelming.
Jessica Brown
Reviewed: 15.07.2025
Having a car made exploring Cherbourg-en-Cotentin so much easier for our quick weekend trip. The Cité de la Mer was a highlight, though the local seafood restaurants were a bit pricier than expected. Overall, a lovely visit.
Olivia Davis
Reviewed: 23.06.2025
Pretty chill vibe.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 30.11.2024
Cherbourg-en-Cotentin was a delightful weekend getaway! Exploring the coast with our rental car was so easy and scenic.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 02.10.2024
Pleasant enough, really.
Chloe Wilson
Reviewed: 04.11.2024
Peaceful, quite lovely.
Mia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 04.06.2025
Quick weekend trip to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. Loved the harbor views, though the local bakery was a bit underwhelming.
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 28.06.2025
Summer in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin was fantastic! Getting around with a car was so convenient, and the coastal views were breathtaking.
Katherine Jones
Reviewed: 26.12.2024
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Perfect stop on our road trip! Cherbourg-en-Cotentin was charming, easily explored by car.
David Lee
Reviewed: 30.10.2024