Compare cheap car hire at Lyon Airport with practical details on rental desks, vehicles available, driving routes and seasonal prices.
Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) is the main international airport serving the city of Lyon and the wider Rhône-Alpes region of eastern France. Located about 25km east of Lyon city centre, the airport is frequently used by travellers heading to the Alps, Burgundy wine regions and southern France.
Many visitors collect a rental car at the airport to explore the surrounding countryside or to continue on to ski resorts and Alpine destinations.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Lyon Airport has direct flights from Ireland during parts of the year.
- Dublin → Lyon (Aer Lingus seasonal services)
The flight from Dublin to Lyon usually takes around 2 hours.
Where the Car Hire Desks Are Located
The car hire desks at Lyon Airport are located inside the arrivals areas of Terminals 1 and 2. After exiting baggage reclaim, travellers will find the rental counters in the public arrivals halls.
Vehicles are collected from the P0 car rental parking area located beside the terminals, within walking distance of the arrivals exit.
Airport maps and passenger information are available on the official Lyon Airport website.
Car Hire Companies at Lyon Airport
Several international car rental companies operate at the airport.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
Vehicles are usually parked in the dedicated rental car parking area close to the terminals.
Typical Rental Prices at Lyon Airport
| Season | Economy Car | Family / Compact | Larger Family Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €35 – €60 per day | €60 – €95 per day | €95 – €160 per day |
| April – June | €40 – €75 per day | €75 – €120 per day | €120 – €190 per day |
| July – August | €55 – €95 per day | €95 – €150 per day | €150 – €230 per day |
| September – October | €40 – €80 per day | €80 – €130 per day | €130 – €200 per day |
| November – December | €35 – €65 per day | €65 – €105 per day | €105 – €170 per day |
Choosing the Right Rental Car in Lyon
Economy Cars
Small hatchbacks are useful for city driving and are easy to park in central Lyon.
Family Cars
Mid-size vehicles are a comfortable option for travelling across the Rhône-Alpes region.
Estate Cars
Estate vehicles provide additional luggage space and are popular with travellers heading to the mountains.
Crossover Vehicles
Crossover vehicles are often chosen by visitors travelling into the Alps, particularly during the winter ski season.
Driving from Lyon Airport
Lyon Airport connects directly to several major French motorways.
- Lyon city centre – about 30 minutes
- Grenoble – around 1 hour
- Annecy – roughly 1 hour 40 minutes
- Geneva – about 1 hour 50 minutes
The A43 motorway connects the airport with Lyon and the Alpine region.
Travellers exploring eastern France sometimes also compare arrival airports such as Geneva, Grenoble Airport or Chambery Airport when planning trips to the Alps.
Driving Tips for France
Driving in France is on the right-hand side of the road. Motorways are generally well maintained and clearly signposted.
Many French motorways operate toll systems known as “péage”. Drivers can pay using credit cards or cash at motorway toll booths.
More visitor information can be found on the official France tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Lyon
Lyon is well positioned for exploring several regions of eastern France.
- Beaujolais wine region – vineyards and villages north of Lyon
- Annecy – lakeside town near the Alps
- Grenoble – gateway to Alpine ski resorts
- Chamonix – famous mountain town at the base of Mont Blanc
Many travellers start their Alpine road trip from Lyon Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Lyon Airport?
The rental desks are located inside the arrivals areas of Terminals 1 and 2.
Which companies operate car hire at Lyon Airport?
Major suppliers include Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget, Sixt and Enterprise.
How far is Lyon Airport from Lyon city centre?
The airport is located about 25km east of the city.
Is driving in France easy for visitors?
Yes. Motorways and main roads are generally modern and clearly signposted.
Do French motorways have tolls?
Yes. Many motorways operate toll systems known as péage.
Do I need a credit card to hire a car at Lyon Airport?
Most rental companies require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are still common in France.
Should I book Lyon Airport car hire in advance?
Booking ahead usually provides better prices and vehicle availability.
How long does it take to drive from Lyon to Geneva?
The journey usually takes around 1 hour 50 minutes depending on traffic.
Which motorway connects Lyon Airport with the Alps?
The A43 motorway provides the main route toward Alpine destinations.
