Compare cheap car hire at Nimes Airport with direct flights from Ireland, rental desk locations, pickup advice, prices and driving tips for Occitanie and Provence.
Nimes Airport is a practical arrival point for southern France, especially if you are heading to the Camargue, Provence border towns, Roman cities, vineyards or Mediterranean coast resorts without using the larger airports at Marseille or Montpellier. It is a small airport, so arrivals are usually fast and the car collection process is straightforward.
A hire car makes a real difference here. Many of the most interesting places nearby are easier to reach by road than by rail, especially villages, nature areas and coastal routes.
Direct Flights from Ireland to Nimes
There are direct flights from Ireland to Nimes Airport. Travellers from Ireland can also connect through another European airport or fly direct to larger airports such as Marseille, Montpellier or Toulouse and continue from there.
Car Hire Companies at Nimes Airport
Nimes Airport officially lists four on-site rental companies. The desks are in the terminal building, and the cars are within walking distance of arrivals.
- Enterprise / Citer: Counter located in the terminal. Cars collected from the nearby airport parking area.
- Avis: Desk in the terminal arrivals area with pickup from the adjacent rental bays.
- Hertz: Terminal desk with vehicle collection a short walk outside.
- Sixt: Airport desk in the terminal with nearby handover spaces.
How to Collect Your Car
- Leave baggage reclaim and enter the arrivals hall.
- Follow signs for Car Rental / Location de Voitures.
- Complete your paperwork at the desk.
- Walk to the nearby collection area.
- Inspect the vehicle before departure.
Best Cars to Rent at Nimes Airport
| Car Type | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Compact | Couples, city breaks | Easy parking in historic towns and lower fuel costs. |
| Automatic Hatchback | Relaxed touring | Simple option for mixed city and rural routes. |
| Estate Car | Family travel | Extra luggage space for longer stays. |
| SUV | Comfort holidays | Good for longer drives and family gear. |
| Premium | Business trips | More comfort for motorway travel. |
Typical Daily Prices
| Season | Small Car | Family Car | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan–Mar | €22–€38 | €38–€68 | €68–€125 |
| Apr–Jun | €28–€52 | €52–€90 | €90–€165 |
| Jul–Aug | €42–€80 | €80–€145 | €145–€255 |
| Sep–Dec | €24–€46 | €46–€82 | €82–€150 |
Driving from Nimes Airport
The airport sits southeast of Nimes and connects quickly to the A54 and regional roads.
- Nimes city centre: around 20 minutes
- Arles: around 20 minutes
- Montpellier: around 45 minutes
- Camargue beaches: around 45 to 60 minutes
- Avignon: around 50 minutes
You drive on the right in France. Speed limits are shown in km/h. Some motorway routes use tolls.
Why Rent a Car Here?
Camargue: Wetlands, beaches, wildlife areas and rural roads are easiest by car.
Roman Heritage: Nimes, Arles and Pont du Gard make an easy self-drive route.
Southern Villages: Flexible access to markets, vineyards and countryside stays.
Mediterranean Coast: Easier access to smaller seaside towns than relying on public transport.
Useful Booking Tips
- Book early in summer, especially for automatic cars.
- Check desk opening hours against your arrival time.
- Take photos of the car before departure.
- Compare fuel policies before booking.
- If arriving late, confirm after-hours pickup in advance.
Useful Official Links
Nimes Airport official website
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nimes Airport good for car hire?
Yes, especially for the Camargue, Arles, Nimes and southern France touring holidays.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Nimes?
No regular direct flights currently operate from Ireland to Nimes Airport.
Where are the rental desks at Nimes Airport?
They are inside the terminal, with cars collected within walking distance outside.
Do I need a shuttle bus?
No, the collection area is beside the terminal.
How far is Nimes Airport from the city?
Usually around 20 minutes by car.
Do I need a credit card?
Usually yes for the security deposit.
Is an automatic car available?
Yes, but early booking is recommended.
Are there toll roads nearby?
Some French motorway routes use tolls.
What is the cheapest time to rent?
Outside peak summer is often cheaper.
Is Nimes better than Marseille for the Camargue?
It can be, especially if your stay is focused on Nimes, Arles or the western Camargue.
