The scent of warm croissants drifts through the arrivals hall as you wheel your luggage past sleepy-eyed travellers and bustling crews. A murmur of French, English, and every language in between fills the vast glass-and-steel terminal. You’ve just landed at Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, FR — France’s busiest international gateway. Your journey awaits, and there’s no better way to seize it than behind the wheel. With rental counters just minutes away and the open road calling, your Parisian adventure begins the moment you step outside.

Drive Your Journey

Easy, Fast & Reliable Car Rentals by Sixt

https://www.sixt.com

Why Rent at the Airport?

There’s a compelling reason so many travellers opt for car rental at Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, FR: convenience. Whether you're here for a countryside retreat, vineyard-hopping in Champagne, or a drive down to the Riviera, having your own vehicle from the outset saves time and money. You avoid expensive city transfers and gain the flexibility to explore on your terms.

Unlike central Paris depots that can be cramped and confusing, the airport’s car rental facilities are purpose-built. You’ll find well-signed rental areas in Terminals 1 and 2, and staff who are used to processing international renters efficiently. Plus, the A1 autoroute is just minutes from the parking garage — meaning you’ll be on the road before your espresso cools.

And let’s face it: after a long-haul flight, nobody wants to juggle metro transfers and luggage. Renting directly at CDG gives you freedom from Day One.

Step-by-Step Pickup Guide

1. Once you exit customs, follow signs for "Car Rental" or "Location de Voitures."
2. Head to your chosen terminal’s rental zone — Terminal 1 (Level 5) or Terminal 2 (between Halls 2D/2F).
3. Show your documents: driving licence, passport, and credit card. International Driving Permits are recommended for non-EU travellers.
4. Confirm vehicle details, insurance options, and return procedures with the agent.
5. Sign the agreement and receive your keys and parking lot directions.
6. Inspect the car for scratches/dents; take timestamped photos for proof.
7. Set your satnav (or download offline maps) before hitting the road.
8. Drive carefully exiting the terminal — French roads begin with roundabouts and yield signs!

Major Rental Brands Compared

Sixt stands out as one of the leading car rental companies at Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, offering reliable and convenient services for travellers looking to rent a vehicle.

Each brand has its strengths — Sixt stands out for style and fast service, while Hertz is a favourite for electric vehicles and seamless returns. If you're staying more than three days, Europcar's loyalty perks may prove cost-effective. Budget suits travellers who want a no-frills deal. (Rates & policies as of May 2025)

Money-Saving Hacks

• Book at least 3 weeks in advance — last-minute desks charge up to 35% more.
• Use a credit card with car rental insurance to avoid duplicate coverage costs.
• Pick up and return during office hours to dodge out-of-hours surcharges.
• Opt for manual transmission unless you truly need automatic — it can add €10–€20/day.
• Refuel yourself before return — rental stations often charge inflated fuel fees.

Driving Tips for a Smooth Start

The A1 is your main artery into Paris — but watch for tolls (péages) and aggressive lane merges. French drivers expect assertiveness at roundabouts and a strict respect for lane discipline. Speed cameras are frequent, especially near school zones and exits.

Use Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates. CDG sits just outside the Paris ZFE (low-emission zone), but parts of the city may require a Crit’Air sticker — something to consider if you're driving into central arrondissements. Stick to major routes and you’ll be fine.

Return & After-hours Drop-off

Returning your rental car at Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, FR is straightforward. Simply follow “Location de Voitures” signs to your rental company’s return bay — often marked in yellow near the same parking level where you picked up. Most returns happen at Terminal 2 car parks, with 24-hour drop-boxes available.

If returning outside business hours, be sure to fill the tank and place the keys in the designated secure slot. Always photograph the dashboard (fuel & mileage) and the car’s exterior before leaving. This protects you in the event of damage disputes. Some companies send email confirmations within hours.

Alternatives to Wheels

If you’re not up for driving, CDG still connects you well. The RER B train whisks you to central Paris in under 40 minutes. Several coach lines (Le Bus Direct, RoissyBus) serve key districts. Rideshare services like Uber are widely available and operate from designated pick-up zones. For comfort and door-to-door service, private transfer vans can be pre-booked — perfect after a long-haul flight.

Sample 3-Day Road-Trip Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore Giverny (Monet’s Garden), drive through Rouen’s medieval centre
• Day 2: Head to Honfleur, sample seafood at the harbour, sunset at Deauville beach
• Day 3: Château de Chantilly + equestrian museum, return via Senlis

Hidden Corners & Local Gems

Beyond the tourist trail, the outskirts of CDG hide a few treasures worth exploring by car:

• Parc de la Poudrerie: A former gunpowder factory turned forest park — ideal for a jet-lag-clearing stroll.
• Saint-Denis Basilica: Final resting place of French royalty, less visited than Notre-Dame yet just as stirring.
• Survilliers Market: On Saturdays, browse local cheese, charcuterie and handmade goods with zero tourist markup.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

1. Not booking ahead — especially during summer or Paris Fashion Week
2. Overlooking licence requirements (some agencies enforce IDP rules)
3. Skipping the car inspection photos — vital for damage claims
4. Not budgeting for tolls or fuel surcharges
5. Assuming all cars have automatic transmission
6. Forgetting to ask about mileage limits
7. Misunderstanding return location signs (CDG signage can be tricky)
8. Missing fuel top-up before return — very costly mistake

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent at CDG?

It depends on your home country. EU licences are fine. Non-EU travellers (e.g. from the US, Australia) are advised to carry an IDP alongside their home licence.

Is parking in Paris difficult?

Yes — particularly in central districts. Stick to paid underground car parks or park outside the périphérique and use public transport for city sightseeing.

Can I return the car to a different airport?

Many companies offer one-way rentals to Orly, Lyon, or even Nice — but fees apply. Always confirm this at booking time.

What’s the speed limit in France?

Typically 130 km/h on motorways, 80–90 km/h on rural roads, and 50 km/h in towns unless posted otherwise.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Renting a car at Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, FR is your gateway to freedom, flexibility, and French charm off the beaten path. Whether you're weaving through Normandy or heading south to Provence, driving from Charles De Gaulle (Roissy) Airport, FR to city centre or beyond is a rewarding experience. If you’ve got tips, questions, or favourite stops, drop a comment below — and don’t forget to subscribe for more travel-savvy guides.