Hertz car hire in Lyon

Steeped in centuries of heritage, culture and history, exploring the streets of Lyon is like stepping through time itself. Offering gastronomic delights, breath-taking architecture and a vibrant atmosphere, this destination is a feast for the senses.

As France’s third largest city, with a wonderful array of attractions both locally and further afield, with car hire in Lyon you can see all that this sensational slice of French elegance has to offer.

We have several pick-up points in and around the city, including at Lyon Saint Exupery Airport, and whether you plan on staying close by or exploring the allure of the landscape beyond, our expansive car collection has options to suit all needs, from spacious family vehicles to sleek and luxurious models.

Book online before you travel and our helpful staff will aim to have you on the road and enjoying your adventure as soon as possible.

Driving in and around Lyon

Lyon is well-connected through a series of major roads and streets, with several bridges at your disposal to cross into its various districts. As with other major cities in France, you must display a Crit’Air vignette (or low emission) sticker when driving between peak hours (8am-8pm Monday to Friday).

There’s plenty of parking in Lyon’s centre, with the majority being short-stay street parking during Monday-Saturday, with free parking in designated areas on Sundays. There are also many 24-hour car parks offering an hourly rate if you want a longer stay, or to leave your car overnight.

As well as being a delight to visit and explore, Lyon also offers a gateway to authentic French villages, stunning countryside and other attractions beyond.

The energetic city of Grenoble is less than two hours’ drive away via the A48, surrounded by picturesque mountains which provide an unforgettable experience. You can also reach Clermont-Ferrand via the A89 to the west – a hidden gem nestled by two national parks and a large collection of volcanic peaks.

Driving in France is on the right-hand side of the road, with overtaking on the left. Speed limits typically vary from 50km/h in towns and cities to 80km/h on rural roads and up to 130km/h on motorways or ‘autoroutes’ in fine weather. But limits can vary according to location and driving conditions (lowering to 110km/h on autoroutes in rain, for example), so always ensure you check signs for the route that you are on.

A quick guide to Lyon

A historic city split into three unique parts by the rivers Saône and the Rhône, there’s plenty to explore in the dynamic and exciting streets of Lyon.

Delve into the past by discovering the Old Town and venturing along the west of the Saône river, then hang out in the heart of the city at the classic ‘1st arrondissement’ district – or indulge on gourmet food and luxury shopping in the city’s eastern quarter. You can also take a day trip or two into the wider landscape.

The choice is yours, and there is much to see and do.

Historic landmarks

A city dating back to Roman rule in 43BC, Lyon has a wealth of history to discover. Once a pioneer of silk and textiles, the city has grown from strength to strength, preserving its rich heritage while making room for further innovation.

No building stands out as the pinnacle of Lyon’s historic splendour quite like the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière. Towering over the city and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this stunning structure has long been a symbol of strength and purity for Lyon and its people, with its looming white towers and awe-inspiring grandeur. Head inside to see this ornate place of worship at its best, or head to its terrace for sweeping views of Lyon below.

Another impressive sight to spot from the top of the basilica is the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Effortlessly blending both Gothic and Roman styles, the cathedral took three centuries to complete. The real treasure is the 14^th-century Astronomical Clock inside the cathedral, which not only displays the time and date but also the position of the sun and moon.

Gastronomic feasts

Often proudly referred to as ‘the food capital of the world’, Lyon provides the perfect opportunity to tantalise your taste buds – with everything from Michelin-star splendour to quaint, authentic bistros to enjoy.

For an explosion of flavours and colour, head to Les Halles de Lyon, an indoor food market which has to be experienced to be believed. Peruse more than 50 stalls offering authentic French staples, from pastries and chocolates to cheese and wine. You can even head to the hall in the evening to experience the coming-together of these flavours in its many restaurants.

Lyon also has its own signature restaurant style, not found anywhere else in the world. Dubbed the ‘bouchon’, these often small, intimate family-owned bistros offer traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in a friendly atmosphere, with delicious meat dishes and other options served up with a truly personal touch.

Mountaintop views

Lyon is in touching distance of magnificent national parks and stunning mountains, providing the perfect starting point to venture into the blissful tranquillity of some of France’s best-loved mountain ranges.

To start your journey to the peaks, head to Grenoble– less than two hours’ away via the A43 and A48. Surrounded by national reserves and spellbinding views, Grenoble is often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Alps’ – with Chartreuse to the north, the Vercors range to the south and west, and Belledonne to the east. Delve into natural beauty by hiking, skiing and riding your way to fresh heights.

Towards the centre of France, the picturesque destination of Clermont-Ferrand lies among the vast Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park. You can enjoy the city itself, or hike your way to the top of these dormant craters, which offer sweeping panoramas of the breath-taking scenery all around.

From delicious food to astonishing views, ensure you fully immerse yourself in a wonderful city and the allure of the French landscape, with car hire in Lyon.