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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Pau
Pau
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Pau
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Pau
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Pau
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 Rent a Car in Pau?
Pau, nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. While public transport is available, a rental car provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems beyond the city centre.
Explore the Pyrenees Mountains: With a rental car, you can easily access the breathtaking Pyrenees Mountains, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and charming villages.
Visit Local Vineyards: The Pau region is known for its vineyards, and a car allows you to visit several wineries and sample local wines without relying on tours or public transport schedules.
Discover Historic Sites: Pau is home to many historical sites, including the Château de Pau, birthplace of King Henri IV. Having a car makes it convenient to visit these sites and learn about the area's rich history.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience: A rental car provides the flexibility to create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, making your trip to Pau more enjoyable and stress-free.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Pau
Before renting a car in Pau, it's important to understand the rental terms and conditions to avoid any surprises. Here's what you need to know:
Area
31.51 square kilometres (12.17 square miles)
Population
Approximately 77,000 residents
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) & CEST (UTC+2) during summer time
Ideal for
Exploring the Pyrenees and local vineyards
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during peak hours (7:30 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Pau require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge.
2. Driver's LicenseA valid driver's license is required. If your license is not in French or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
3. InsuranceBasic insurance is usually included in the rental price, but you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.
4. Security DepositA security deposit will be held on your credit card. The amount varies depending on the rental company and the type of car.
5. Fuel PolicyMost rental companies operate with a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank of petrol to avoid extra charges.
6. MileageCheck the mileage policy before booking. Unlimited mileage is often included, but some rentals may have restrictions.
Car Rental Prices in Pau – How Much Does It Cost?
Car rental prices in Pau can vary depending on the season, the type of car, and the rental company. Here's a general overview of what you can expect to pay:
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £25 / $31 / €28 per day
Classic:
from £15 / $19 / €17 per day
Executive:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
7 Seater:
from £45 / $56 / €50 per day
Automatic:
from £28 / $35 / €32 per day
SUV:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists visiting the area during the summer months.
Low season (November to February): You can often find discounts of up to 20% on car rentals during the off-season months.
Car rental prices in Pau fluctuate depending on the time of year.
How to Book a Car in Pau?
Booking a rental car in Pau is easy. Just follow these steps:
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, whether it's a compact car for city driving or an SUV for exploring the mountains.
3. Check Rental Terms - Read the rental terms and conditions carefully, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Book your rental car in advance, especially if you're travelling during the peak season, to secure the best rates and availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When picking up your rental car, bring your driver's license, passport, and credit card. Inspect the car for any damage before driving off.
General Information About Pau
Pau is a charming city in southwestern France, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning views of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Pau offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. While exploring the city centre is best done on foot, a car is essential for venturing into the surrounding countryside and mountains. Remember to familiarise yourself with local traffic laws and parking regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Château de Pau
The birthplace of King Henri IV, offering a fascinating glimpse into French history.
Boulevard des Pyrénées
A scenic promenade with panoramic views of the Pyrenees Mountains.
Musée des Beaux-Arts
A fine arts museum featuring works by local and international artists.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available in the city centre, offering secure and convenient parking options.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available in some areas, but it can be limited and may require payment.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city, which offer free parking and shuttle service to the city centre.
Gas Stations in Pau
Major Brands Available
You'll find several petrol stations in Pau, including major brands like Total, Shell, and BP.
Easy to Find
Petrol stations are generally easy to find along the main roads and highways.
Check Opening Hours
Be aware that some petrol stations may have limited opening hours, especially on Sundays and holidays.
Useful Tips for Visiting Pau
Plan Your Route
Plan your route in advance, especially if you're driving in the city centre, to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Watch for Speed Limits
Pay attention to speed limits, which are typically lower in urban areas.
Allow Extra Time
Allow extra time for travel, especially during peak hours, as traffic can be heavy.
Use GPS Navigation
Use a GPS navigation system to help you find your way around and avoid getting lost.
Key Transportation Hubs in Pau
Railway Stations
Pau Railway Station
The main railway station in Pau, connecting the city to other major destinations in France.
Airports
Pau Pyrénées Airport (PUF)
Located approximately 11 kilometres (7 miles) from the city centre, serving domestic and international flights.
Bus Stations
Pau Bus Station
Located near the railway station, providing connections to other towns and cities in the region.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Pau?
To rent a car in Pau, you'll need to meet a few basic requirements:
You'll need a valid driver's license from your country of residence. If your license is not in French or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, although some may have higher age requirements for certain types of vehicles.
A valid credit card in the name of the main driver is required to cover the security deposit.
You may also need to provide proof of identity, such as a passport or national ID card.
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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.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Pau 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.
Heard such great things about Pau, and they were right! Having a car made exploring the region a breeze. Beautiful!
David Lee
Reviewed: 10.05.2025
Pau exceeded expectations! So convenient having a car to discover the Pyrenees.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 08.01.2025
Lovely summer escape to Pau! Getting around was a breeze thanks to a car. Highly recommend.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 15.11.2024
Pretty chill, overall.
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 23.05.2025
Absolutely loved Pau! Getting around was effortless, the scenery was breathtaking. A perfect trip.
Ava Johnson
Reviewed: 16.09.2024
Relaxing, quite peaceful.
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 26.02.2025
Pau was charming! Exploring the city and surrounding areas with my rental car was so easy. Great weekend catching up with friends.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 11.12.2024