Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
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Poitiers
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Poitiers
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Poitiers
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Poitiers
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.
Poitiers, a city steeped in history and charm, offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. While public transport is available, a rental car provides the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. Here's why renting a car in Poitiers is a great idea:
Explore Historical Sites. Poitiers is home to numerous historical sites, such as the Baptistère Saint-Jean and the Église Notre-Dame la Grande. Having a car allows you to visit these sites easily and without being tied to public transport schedules.
Discover the Vienne Region. With a rental car, you can easily explore the beautiful Vienne region surrounding Poitiers. Visit picturesque villages, vineyards, and natural landscapes at your leisure.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience. A car provides the convenience of travelling on your own schedule. You can make spontaneous stops, visit multiple locations in a day, and avoid the hassle of waiting for buses or trains.
Before renting a car in Poitiers, it’s essential to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Area
42.11 square kilometres (16.26 square miles)
Population
Approximately 88,000 residents
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET) / Central European Summer Time (CEST)
Ideal for
Exploring the city and surrounding region
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic between 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsThe minimum age to rent a car in Poitiers is typically 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge. Check with the rental company for specific age-related policies.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. If your license is not in a Latin-alphabet language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary. Always carry your passport or ID card with you.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements usually include basic insurance. Consider additional coverage options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Theft Protection for added security. A security deposit is required, usually held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyCheck the mileage policy to see if there are any restrictions. Fuel policies vary, with options to return the car with a full tank or pay for fuel upon return. Returning the car with a full tank is generally more economical.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems or child seats.
The cost of renting a car in Poitiers can vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and time of year. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect to pay:
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45
Electric:
from £30 / $38 / €35
Classic:
from £20 / $25 / €22
Executive:
from £50 / $63 / €58
7 Seater:
from £60 / $75 / €70
Automatic:
from £35 / $44 / €40
SUV:
from £45 / $56 / €52
Peak season (June to August): Prices tend to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists. Booking well in advance is recommended.
Low season (November to February): You can often find discounts and lower rates. This is a great time to visit if you’re looking for budget-friendly options.
Car rental prices in Poitiers fluctuate with the seasons. Understanding these trends can help you secure the best deals.
Booking a rental car in Poitiers is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and satisfactory experience:
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies. Consider factors like price, vehicle type, and customer reviews.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for family trips.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early, especially during peak season, can help you secure better rates and ensure vehicle availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to the rental office when picking up your car. Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving off.
Poitiers is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Knowing a few key details can enhance your driving experience:
Poitiers, a city in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of western France, is known for its historical significance and charming atmosphere. The city offers a blend of Romanesque architecture, medieval streets, and modern amenities.
Top Attractions to Discover
Baptistère Saint-Jean
One of the oldest Christian buildings in France, dating back to the 4th century.
Église Notre-Dame la Grande
A Romanesque church with a stunning facade and intricate carvings.
Futuroscope
A popular theme park offering a variety of immersive attractions and experiences, located a short drive from Poitiers.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking garages are available throughout the city centre, providing secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available but may be limited, especially in the city centre. Pay attention to parking signs and regulations.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city to avoid traffic congestion in the centre.
Gas Stations in Poitiers
Availability
Gas stations are readily available in and around Poitiers, making it convenient to refuel your rental car.
Major Brands
Major fuel brands like Total, Shell, and BP operate stations in the area.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept credit cards and cash.
Useful Tips for Visiting Poitiers
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of rush hour traffic, especially during weekdays.
Use Navigation Apps
Use GPS navigation apps to help you navigate the city and find parking.
Explore Local Cuisine
Take the opportunity to explore the local cuisine and sample regional specialities.
Railway Stations
Poitiers Railway Station
The main railway station in Poitiers, providing connections to major cities in France.
Airports
Poitiers–Biard Airport (PIS)
A regional airport serving domestic and international destinations.
Major Bus Stations
Poitiers Bus Station
Located near the railway station, providing regional and national bus services.
Renting a car in Poitiers is relatively straightforward, but you need to ensure you have all the necessary documents and meet the requirements. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
You’ll need a valid driver’s license. If your license is not in French or a Latin-alphabet language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) might be required.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge extra for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the main driver’s name is needed for the security deposit and rental payment. Some companies prefer credit cards for deposits.
A passport or other form of photo identification may be required, especially 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.
Our clients rate such place as Poitiers 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.
Great short trip to see friends in Poitiers! Having a car made exploring so convenient.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 22.01.2025
Relaxing, pleasant drive.
Olivia Garcia
Reviewed: 05.05.2025
Poitiers was delightful! Catching up with friends was easy thanks to having a car. The city itself is gorgeous.
Ava Lee
Reviewed: 17.09.2024
Pretty chill vibe
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 09.01.2025
Such a lovely stop on our road trip! Poitiers was easy to navigate by car, and we found some great spots.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 08.01.2025
Heard so much about Poitiers, and it lived up to the hype! Getting around with a car was a breeze, allowing us to explore everything at our own pace. A truly memorable trip.
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 18.03.2025
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Perfect weekend getaway! Poitiers was charming, easy to explore with a rental car. Loved the historical sites and local cafes.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 18.03.2025