Car hire - Bordeaux

Bordeaux has really come into its own since the year 2000, enticing tourists from around the world to France. Previously known as La Belle au Bois Dormant - Sleeping Beauty - Bordeaux underwent a period of vast restoration that has resulted in half of the city being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has become a rich, vibrant city that seems to have shaken off its sleepy past.

While the city has a great public transport network, you can't beat the freedom that comes with hiring a car in Bordeaux. This means you can explore the city and the areas beyond to really appreciate the beauty of France. It is worth remembering that highways in and around Bordeaux are toll roads, so you should have cash and your card on you at all times.

You have several different choices when it comes to car hire companies in Bordeaux. This will allow you to take in the historical sites throughout the city and explore some of the other interesting areas in this region of France.

You can make finding the right vehicle for your budget easier by using of our booking tool. This will show you which companies have cars available for your date and what the costs are, without any hidden charges. Booking through Holiday Autos also ensures free cancellation, as well as around the clock support.

Whether you're flying into Bordeaux or arriving by train, you can get your holiday started the minute you arrive. Car hire pick-up is available at Bordeaux Airport and train station, with some companies offering other locations in the city.

At Bordeaux Airport, you'll find the car hire desks between halls A and B, so you can simply collect your luggage and be ready to go. If you're arriving at Bordeaux Saint Jean Railway Station, a number of car hire companies have offices for you to pick up your vehicle. Once you have your car, you can head straight to your hotel without the need for connections or start your exploration of Bordeaux immediately.

When it comes to beautiful historic sites in Bordeaux, you'll be spoilt for choice. It seems like wherever you look there is stunning architecture to behold, making even the shortest stroll interesting. Fans of museums will also be in their element, as there are several to visit giving you insights into Bordeaux's past and the art of France.

Of course, you can't visit Bordeaux without heading to the Esplanade des Quinconces in the centre of the city. The square is thought to be the largest in Europe, offering an expanse of public space that is ideal for people watching and enjoying some peaceful moments. In the square, you'll find statues and the iconic Monument aux Girondins fountain, all of which are worth a photo or two.

It isn't just the city that has great places to explore, heading further afield also offers some brilliant sightseeing opportunities. Around 45 minutes from the centre of Bordeaux via the D14 lie the ruins of Abbaye de la Sauve-Majeure. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the abbey was built between the 11th and 13th centuries, but now stands open to the elements. If you love taking photos, this is definitely the place to visit.

If you want to include a bit of the coast in your holiday, drive for an hour via the A63 and A660 to Arcachon. The seaside town offers great beaches suitable for sunbathing and swimming, as well as historical villas set among 1950s buildings, creating a varied feel.

The location of Bordeaux means that you are perfectly placed to explore more of what France has to offer. This includes the town of Bergerac, which is just over an hour away from the city via the A89. Bergerac is surrounded by stunning vineyards, which are worth a visit, and features a busy cafe scene that attracts visitors from around the world.

Another great place to drive to from Bordeaux is La Rochelle. Known as the White City due to the fact that its limestone facades glow in the sunlight, you can get to La Rochelle in around two hours if you take the A10. The stunning coastal town features one of France's most important historic seaports, which is really beautiful. You should also keep an eye out for the detailed gargoyles that protect buildings throughout the town.