Compare cheap car hire at Marseille Airport with practical information on rental desks, vehicle types, driving routes and seasonal prices.
Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the main airport serving Marseille and the Provence region of southern France. The airport is located around 27km northwest of Marseille city centre and provides easy access to the Mediterranean coast, Provence countryside and cities such as Aix-en-Provence, Avignon and Nice.
Many visitors rent a car at the airport to explore the Provence region, coastal towns along the French Riviera and the countryside of southern France.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Marseille Airport has seasonal direct flights from Ireland, mainly during the summer months.
- Dublin → Marseille (seasonal services)
The flight from Dublin to Marseille typically takes around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Where the Car Hire Desks Are Located
The car hire desks at Marseille Airport are located in the Car Rental Centre next to Terminal 1. After leaving the arrivals hall, travellers can follow signs to the dedicated car rental building.
Vehicles are collected from the car rental parking area beside the rental centre, only a short walk from the terminal.
Airport maps and passenger information are available on the official Marseille Provence Airport website.
Car Hire Companies at Marseille Airport
Several international rental companies operate at the airport.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
Vehicles are normally collected from the airport’s dedicated car rental parking area next to the rental centre.
Typical Rental Prices at Marseille 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 – €100 per day | €100 – €160 per day | €160 – €240 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 Provence
Economy Cars
Small hatchbacks are practical for city driving in Marseille and nearby towns.
Family Cars
Compact and mid-size vehicles are comfortable for exploring Provence and the Mediterranean coastline.
Estate Cars
Estate vehicles are useful for travellers carrying luggage while visiting several destinations across the region.
Crossover Vehicles
Crossover vehicles offer additional comfort for longer road trips through Provence and southern France.
Driving from Marseille Airport
The airport connects directly to several major roads and motorways.
- Marseille city centre – about 25 minutes
- Aix-en-Provence – around 25 minutes
- Avignon – roughly 1 hour
- Nice – about 2 hours 30 minutes
The A7 and A55 motorways provide the main road connections between the airport and surrounding cities.
Travellers exploring southern France sometimes also compare arrival airports such as Nice Airport, Montpellier Airport or Lyon Airport.
Driving Tips for Southern France
Driving in France is on the right-hand side of the road. Major motorways are generally well maintained and clearly signposted.
Many motorways operate toll systems known as “péage”. Drivers can pay tolls using credit cards or cash at toll booths.
Further visitor information can be found on the official France tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Marseille
Hiring a car makes it easy to explore several destinations across Provence and the Mediterranean coast.
- Aix-en-Provence – historic town with markets and cafés
- Cassis – seaside town known for its harbour and cliffs
- Avignon – historic city famous for the Palais des Papes
- Camargue – nature reserve with wetlands and wildlife
Many visitors combine several of these locations during a road trip through Provence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Marseille Airport?
The rental desks are located in the Car Rental Centre next to Terminal 1.
Which companies operate car hire at Marseille Airport?
Major suppliers include Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget, Sixt and Enterprise.
How far is Marseille Airport from the city centre?
The airport is located about 27km northwest of Marseille.
Is driving in southern 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 Marseille 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 remain common in France.
Should I book Marseille Airport car hire in advance?
Booking ahead usually provides better prices and vehicle availability.
How long does it take to drive from Marseille to Nice?
The journey normally takes about 2 hours 30 minutes depending on traffic.
Which motorway connects Marseille Airport with Provence?
The A7 motorway provides a major connection between Marseille and northern Provence.
