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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in La Rochelle
La Rochelle
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
La Rochelle
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
La Rochelle
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
La Rochelle
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.
Why Hire a Car in La Rochelle?
La Rochelle is a beautiful coastal city with a rich maritime history and stunning architecture. While the city centre is easily walkable, hiring a car offers the freedom to explore the surrounding areas and enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Charente-Maritime region.
Explore the Coastline. A car allows you to easily visit nearby beaches, charming seaside villages, and scenic coastal routes. Discover hidden gems and enjoy the freedom to stop whenever you please.
Visit Île de Ré. Just a short drive across the bridge, Île de Ré is a must-see destination with picturesque villages, sandy beaches, and salt marshes. A car makes it easy to explore the island at your own pace.
Discover the Countryside. Venture inland to explore the rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns of the Charente-Maritime region. A car gives you the flexibility to discover the region's hidden treasures.
Rental Terms and Conditions in La Rochelle
Before booking a hire car in La Rochelle, be sure to check the rental terms and conditions. These include age requirements, licence requirements, insurance coverage, and fuel policies. Understanding these terms will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
28.43 square kilometres (10.98 square miles)
Population
Approximately 78,000 residents
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1)
Ideal for
Coastal and countryside exploration
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during morning and evening commutes.
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car hire companies in La Rochelle require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have higher age requirements for certain vehicle categories, and young driver surcharges may apply for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required. Drivers with licences issued outside the European Union may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Make sure to bring your passport or other form of identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance coverage. Consider purchasing additional coverage, such as a collision damage waiver (CDW), for extra protection. A security deposit is usually required and will be refunded upon the safe return of the vehicle.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy to ensure it meets your needs. Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have restrictions. Be aware of the fuel policy and return the car with the specified fuel level to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for optional extras, such as GPS navigation systems or child seats. One-way rentals and late returns can also incur extra charges.
Car Hire Prices in La Rochelle – How Much Does It Cost?
Car hire prices in La Rochelle can vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and rental company. Generally, economy-class cars average from £20 / $25 / €24 per day.
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €48
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €36
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €18
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €42
7 Seater:
from £50 / $63 / €60
Automatic:
from £25 / $32 / €30
SUV:
from £30 / $38 / €36
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Demand is high, and prices can increase by 20-30%.
Low season (November to February): Discounts are often available during the off-season.
Car hire prices in La Rochelle are subject to seasonal fluctuations.
How to Book a Car in La Rochelle?
Booking a car in La Rochelle is a straightforward process. By comparing prices, choosing the right car, and booking in advance, you can secure the best deal and ensure a smooth rental experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals from different rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs and budget, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms and conditions, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your car in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, and credit card to pick up your rental car.
General Information About La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a historic port city located on the Atlantic coast of France. Known for its stunning architecture, maritime history, and vibrant cultural scene, La Rochelle is a popular tourist destination.
La Rochelle offers a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and beautiful coastal scenery. Hiring a car can enhance your experience by allowing you to explore the surrounding region at your own pace. However, it's important to be aware of local traffic regulations, parking options, and fuel availability to ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Old Port
The heart of La Rochelle, with its iconic towers and bustling atmosphere.
La Rochelle Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing a diverse range of marine life.
Île de Ré
A beautiful island connected to La Rochelle by a bridge, offering stunning beaches and charming villages.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Conveniently located throughout the city centre, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Available in some areas, but can be limited and subject to time restrictions.
Park & Ride
Park outside the city centre and take a bus or tram to avoid traffic congestion.
Gas Stations in La Rochelle
Major Brands Available
Find Total, BP, and other major fuel brands throughout La Rochelle and the surrounding areas.
Refuelling Tips
Plan your refuelling stops in advance, especially if you're planning a long drive outside the city.
Fuel Prices
Fuel prices can vary, so it's worth comparing prices at different stations.
Useful Tips for Visiting La Rochelle
Use Contactless Payment
Contactless payment is widely accepted for parking, tolls, and other services.
Be Aware of Pedestrians and Cyclists
La Rochelle has many pedestrians and cyclists, so be mindful and share the road.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially in the city centre.
Check the Weather Forecast
The weather in La Rochelle can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before heading out.
Key Transportation Hubs in La Rochelle
Major Bus Stations
La Rochelle Bus Station
Located near the city centre, providing connections to regional and national destinations.
Railway Stations
La Rochelle Railway Station
Offers high-speed train services to Paris and other major cities.
Airports
La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport (LRH)
Serves domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the city and surrounding areas.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in La Rochelle?
Hiring a car in La Rochelle requires a few essential documents and qualifications. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
A valid driver's licence is required. If your licence is not in a language easily understood, an International Driving Permit (IDP) might be necessary.
The minimum age to rent a car is usually 21, but some companies may have different requirements or charge extra for young drivers.
A credit or debit card in the renter’s name is needed for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of official identification is usually required.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as La Rochelle as
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.
Pretty relaxed vibe.
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 11.12.2024
Pleasant enough, really.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 03.02.2025
La Rochelle in the summer was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy. Beautiful beaches and charming streets.
Emily Brown
Reviewed: 12.10.2024
Charming town, easy to navigate with our rental car. The old port was lovely, though the tourist shops felt a bit generic.
Ava Garcia
Reviewed: 15.06.2025
La Rochelle was lovely; renting a car was a great decision. Exploring the Île de Ré was effortless, though the aquarium felt a bit overpriced.
David Lee
Reviewed: 21.03.2025
Summer in La Rochelle was perfect! Getting around with a car was so convenient; loved exploring the coast.
Benjamin Wilson
Reviewed: 16.11.2024
La Rochelle was delightful in the summer. Having a car made exploring the Île de Ré incredibly easy. The only downside? The ice cream was a bit pricey.
Olivia Thompson
Reviewed: 31.10.2024
Absolutely loved La Rochelle! The summer weather was perfect for exploring the coast, and having a car made getting around so much easier. Highly recommend!
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 30.09.2024
Pretty good, really.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 03.12.2024
Such a gorgeous spontaneous weekend! La Rochelle was charming, and having a car made exploring so much fun.
Katherine Evans
Reviewed: 26.04.2025
Pretty decent, overall.
Ethan Carter
Reviewed: 19.03.2025
Pretty chill, actually.
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 28.09.2024