All-inclusive car rental in Paris

In short

An all-inclusive rental in Paris includes full insurance with zero excess - but the city is best by metro. Use a car for day trips to Versailles, Giverny and the Loire châteaux.

Driving in central Paris is best avoided - traffic, the Crit’Air low-emission rules and scarce parking make the metro far easier. A rental car comes into its own for escaping the city: the palace of Versailles, Monet’s gardens at Giverny and the châteaux of the Loire.

A Cardamar all-inclusive rental includes comprehensive zero-excess cover, unlimited mileage and free cancellation, with pick-up at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Good to know before you drive in Paris

Pick-up pointParis Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
City drivingAvoid - use the metro
Crit’AirLow-emission sticker required in Paris
Best day tripsVersailles, Giverny, Fontainebleau, Loire

Where a car takes you from Paris

Versailles is under an hour away, Giverny about 1 hour 15, and the great Loire châteaux (Chambord, Chenonceau) roughly two hours southwest - a classic overnight trip. Champagne (Reims, Épernay) lies to the east.

The Paris ring road (périphérique) and the autoroutes are the way out; the latter are tolled, payable by card.

Crit’Air and city rules

Paris operates a Crit’Air low-emission zone; rental cars usually carry the required sticker, but confirm if you plan to drive within the city. Honestly, though, the metro is faster - save the car for the day trips.

Zero-excess cover is reassuring once you are on busy autoroutes and in château car parks.

Paris car rental - FAQ

Should I drive in central Paris?

No - traffic, Crit’Air rules and parking make it stressful. Use the metro in the city and rent a car for day trips like Versailles and the Loire.

What is a Crit’Air sticker?

A low-emission badge required to drive in Paris’s zone. Rental cars usually have one; confirm with the supplier if you plan to enter the city.

How far are the Loire châteaux?

Around two hours southwest - a popular overnight or long day trip with your own car.