Compare car hire at Perpignan Airport including rental companies, prices, vehicle types and driving tips for southern France.
Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport is the main airport serving the French Catalonia region in southern France. Hiring a car here allows visitors to explore Mediterranean beaches, vineyards and historic towns close to the Spanish border.
The airport sits around 5 km north of Perpignan city centre, making the drive into the city quick and straightforward. Travellers exploring the wider south of France often combine journeys with nearby airports such as Carcassonne Airport car hire or coastal routes beginning with a Nice Airport rental car. If you plan to explore further, you can also compare options for car hire across France.
Airport services and facilities are listed on the official Perpignan Airport website.
Where to Collect Rental Cars
Perpignan Airport is relatively small and easy to navigate. Car hire desks are located in the terminal arrivals hall, and vehicles are collected from a nearby car park within walking distance of the terminal.
The airport connects directly to regional routes leading to the Mediterranean coast, vineyards of Roussillon and the Pyrenees mountains.
Car Hire Companies at Perpignan Airport
Several well-known international and French rental companies operate desks at the airport.
- Avis – Perpignan Rivesaltes Airport, Avenue Maurice Bellonte, 66000 Perpignan
- Sixt – Airport Arrivals Hall Rental Desk, Perpignan Airport
- Europcar – Avenue Maurice Bellonte, Perpignan Airport
- Hertz – Perpignan Airport Terminal Rental Area
- Enterprise / Alamo / National – Perpignan Airport Car Hire Centre
- Rent-A-Car – Airport Rental Office
These suppliers operate directly from the airport terminal, allowing travellers to collect their vehicles shortly after landing.
Popular Rental Cars in Perpignan
The type of car travellers choose usually depends on whether they plan to stay in the city or drive across southern France.
Compact Cars for City Travel
Small vehicles are the most commonly rented category because they are economical and easier to park in historic towns.
- Renault Clio
- Peugeot 208
- Citroën C3
- Volkswagen Polo
Family Cars for Regional Trips
Travellers planning longer drives along the coast or into the Pyrenees often choose a larger vehicle.
- Volkswagen Golf
- Ford Focus
- Peugeot 308
- Skoda Octavia
Premium and SUV Options
SUVs and executive cars are also available for travellers seeking additional comfort.
- Peugeot 3008
- BMW 3 Series
- Audi Q5
Typical Car Hire Prices at Perpignan Airport
Rental prices vary depending on demand and the time of year. Economy vehicles are usually the most affordable option.
| Season | Economy Car | Family Car | Premium Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €20 – €35 | €40 – €65 | €110 – €170 |
| April – June | €30 – €55 | €60 – €95 | €160 – €240 |
| July – August | €60 – €120 | €110 – €170 | €260 – €380 |
| September – October | €35 – €70 | €70 – €110 | €190 – €280 |
| November – December | €25 – €40 | €45 – €75 | €130 – €200 |
Driving Routes from Perpignan
The airport provides easy access to several major routes in southern France.
- A9 motorway – main route connecting Montpellier, Perpignan and Spain
- D914 coastal road – scenic drive toward Collioure and the Mediterranean coast
- N116 – route leading inland toward the Pyrenees mountains
Travellers exploring multiple regions of southern Europe sometimes continue their journey toward Spain via routes linking to Barcelona Airport car hire.
Places to Visit Near Perpignan
With a rental car, several well-known destinations are within easy reach of the airport.
- Collioure – colourful seaside town about 25 minutes away.
- Canet-en-Roussillon – popular Mediterranean beach resort.
- Pyrenees Mountains – scenic region ideal for hiking and skiing.
Shopping
Shop for Catalan pottery on the Rue Sant-Vicens, stroll along the romantic canal-side Quai Vauban and refuel on garlicky escargots or salty jamón in restaurants close to Place Arago.
Festivals in Perpignan
Perpignan’s Festa Major festival has its roots in pagan tradition. Flames are carried to the summit of the sacred Mount Canigou from where runners take them up, crossing mountains and lighting fires. In Perpignan itself there are spectacular fireworks and celebrations. It occurs in June every year.
Perpignan Markets
Perpignan’s annual medieval market brings to life all of the hustle and bustle of bygone times. Catch a whiff of roasting piglet or watch a ragged thief undergo public humiliation for his deeds throughout this impressive recreation of medieval existence. This festival takes place in September each year.
Documents Required to Hire a Car
Most car hire companies at Perpignan Airport require the following when collecting a vehicle:
- Valid driving licence
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the main driver’s name
- Booking confirmation or voucher
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Perpignan Airport from the city centre?
The airport is located about 5 kilometres north of central Perpignan.
Which car hire companies operate at Perpignan Airport?
Companies including Avis, Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise and Alamo operate at the airport.
Is it easy to collect a rental car at Perpignan Airport?
Yes. Rental desks are located inside the arrivals hall, with vehicles collected from a nearby car park.
What side of the road do you drive on in France?
Drivers travel on the right-hand side of the road.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are still more common across France.
Is unlimited mileage included?
Many rental deals include unlimited mileage depending on the supplier.
What is the minimum age to rent a car?
Most car hire companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
Are there toll roads near Perpignan?
Yes. The A9 motorway connecting France and Spain operates a toll system.
Should I book Perpignan Airport car hire in advance?
Booking early often provides better prices and ensures vehicle availability during busy travel periods.
What are the best places to visit near Perpignan?
Popular destinations include Collioure, the Mediterranean coast and the Pyrenees mountains.
Address: Avenue Maurice Bellonte, 66000 Perpignan, France
Code: PGF
Phone: +33 4 68 52 60 70
