Bordeaux

🚖

Car Rentals and Ridesharing

Sections

Car Rentals in Bordeaux

1. Overview

Renting a car in Bordeaux is a great option if you plan to explore the surrounding wine regions, countryside, or nearby towns like Saint-Émilion or Arcachon. However, within the city itself, public transportation and walking are often more convenient due to narrow streets, limited parking, and traffic restrictions in the city center.

2. Costs

  • Daily Rental Rates: Expect to pay between €30–€70 per day for a standard car, depending on the season, car type, and rental company.
  • Fuel Costs: Gasoline prices in France are relatively high, averaging around €1.80–€2.20 per liter (as of 2023). Diesel is slightly cheaper.
  • Insurance: Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage (e.g., collision damage waiver or theft protection) can cost €10–€30 per day.
  • Additional Fees:
    • Young driver surcharge (under 25): €10–€20 per day.
    • One-way rental fees if returning the car to a different location.
    • GPS or child seat rental: €5–€15 per day.

3. Procedures for Renting a Car

  • Eligibility:

    • Minimum age: 21 years (some companies require 25 for certain car categories).
    • Valid driver’s license: EU licenses are accepted. Non-EU visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their home license.
    • Credit card: Required for the security deposit.

  • Booking:

    • Book online in advance for better rates and availability, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and harvest season in the wine regions).
    • Compare prices on platforms like Rentalcars.com, Kayak, or directly on rental company websites.

  • Pick-Up Locations:

    • Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD): Most major rental companies have offices here.
    • Bordeaux Saint-Jean Train Station: Convenient for those arriving by train.
    • City Center: Limited options, but some companies have offices near Place Gambetta or Quinconces.

4. Popular Rental Companies

  • International Companies:
    • Hertz
    • Avis
    • Europcar
    • Sixt
    • Enterprise
  • Local Companies:
    • Rent A Car
    • Ada
  • Car-Sharing Services:
    • Ubeeqo: A car-sharing service with vehicles available for short-term rental in Bordeaux.

5. Local Regulations

  • Driving Rules:

    • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
    • Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
    • Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80–90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on highways (110 km/h in wet conditions).
    • Blood alcohol limit: 0.05% (lower for new drivers: 0.02%).

  • Parking:

    • Parking in the city center is limited and often expensive (€2–€4 per hour).
    • Use public parking garages or park-and-ride facilities (P+R) on the outskirts of the city.
    • Avoid parking in restricted zones (look for signs indicating "Stationnement interdit").

  • Toll Roads:

    • Many highways in France are toll roads. Payment can be made by cash, card, or electronic toll tags.

6. Tips for Renting a Car

  • Opt for a smaller car to navigate Bordeaux’s narrow streets more easily.
  • Check for existing damage on the car before driving off and document it with photos.
  • Ensure your rental includes unlimited mileage if you plan to travel extensively.
  • Return the car with a full tank of fuel to avoid extra charges.

Ridesharing in Bordeaux

1. Overview

Ridesharing is a convenient and affordable way to get around Bordeaux, especially for short trips or when public transportation is unavailable. It’s also a great option for traveling to nearby towns or regions without renting a car.

2. Popular Ridesharing Apps

  • Uber: Available in Bordeaux and widely used. Prices are competitive, and the app is user-friendly.
  • Bolt: Another ridesharing app with similar services to Uber.
  • Heetch: A budget-friendly option, especially popular for late-night rides.
  • BlaBlaCar: A long-distance ridesharing platform ideal for trips to other cities or regions. Drivers post their routes, and passengers can book a seat for a shared cost.

3. Costs

  • Uber/Bolt/Heetch:
    • Base fare: €1.50–€2.50.
    • Per kilometer: €1–€1.50.
    • Per minute: €0.20–€0.30.
    • Typical city ride: €8–€15.
  • BlaBlaCar:
    • Costs depend on the distance and are usually much cheaper than trains or buses. For example, a ride from Bordeaux to Toulouse might cost €15–€25.

4. Procedures for Using Ridesharing Apps

  • Download the app (Uber, Bolt, Heetch, or BlaBlaCar) and create an account.
  • Add a payment method (credit/debit card or PayPal).
  • Enter your pick-up and drop-off locations to get a fare estimate.
  • Confirm your ride and wait for the driver to arrive.

5. Local Regulations

  • Ridesharing drivers in France must have a professional license, so services are generally safe and reliable.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (rounding up the fare is common).

6. Cultural Considerations

  • Greet your driver with a polite “Bonjour” (hello) when entering the car.
  • Avoid eating or drinking in the vehicle unless permitted by the driver.
  • If using BlaBlaCar, be prepared for a more social experience, as drivers often enjoy chatting with passengers.

7. Tips for Using Ridesharing Services

  • Use ridesharing apps during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing.
  • Confirm the car’s license plate and driver’s name before getting in.
  • For BlaBlaCar, book rides in advance, especially for popular routes.

Conclusion

Both car rentals and ridesharing are excellent options for getting around Bordeaux and its surrounding areas, depending on your needs. If you plan to explore the countryside or vineyards, renting a car offers flexibility and convenience. For city travel or short trips, ridesharing is a cost-effective and hassle-free alternative. By understanding the costs, procedures, and local customs, you can make the most of your transportation experience in Bordeaux. Bon voyage!