Best car hire companies in Marseille, France (2025 guide)
Marseille is a vibrant port city in southern France, with a wealth of attractions, from its historic Old Port to the stunning Calanques National Park.
The city is fairly compact but to explore its surrounding regions at your own pace, hiring a car is an excellent option.
With numerous car hire companies operating in Marseille, choosing the right one can be daunting.
In this guide, we provide an overview of some of the best car hire companies in Marseille, highlighting their offerings and services to assist you in making an informed decision.
Why we recommend DiscoverCars for car hire in Marseille
DiscoverCars.com is a reputable car rental comparison platform that aggregates deals from various car hire companies, allowing you to compare prices, vehicle options, and customer reviews in one place.
This simplifies the process of finding the best car hire deal tailored to your needs. There’s loads of different options to filter cars and find the best one which meets your needs.
The platform offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, flexible booking options, and 24/7 customer support to assist with any queries or issues that may arise during your rental period.
We always use DiscoverCars because its seamless and cost-effective, and takes the hassle out of comparing car hire companies in Marseille.
Best car hire companies in Marseille
Sixt – highest rated car hire company in Marseille
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Premium seekers and those needing high-end vehicles
- Company rating: 8.5 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Luxury cars, SUVs, economy models, electric cars
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station and the city centre)
Sixt is the premium choice for travellers seeking high-end vehicles and excellent service.
The company is renowned for its luxury fleet, which includes prestigious brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This makes Sixt an ideal choice for business travellers or those wanting to indulge in a bit of comfort and style during their trip.
While Sixt is one of the pricier options, it’s rating is one of the highest out of all the car rentals in Marseille.
Mileage is capped at 250km per day, so if you think you’ll do more than this then you may want to opt for a provider with unlimited miles.
The rental process is straightforward, and their staff are known for being helpful and professional.
For those who prioritise quality and a seamless experience, Sixt is hard to beat.
Hertz – best premium car hire company in Marseille
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Frequent travellers and families needing a variety of options
- Company rating: 8.3 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Compact, SUVs, vans
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station and a bit outside of the city centre)
Hertz is a fantastic option for families and frequent travellers who value a wide selection of vehicles.
Known for its reliability, Hertz offers a comprehensive range of cars, from compact vehicles perfect for navigating narrow city streets to spacious SUVs and vans for larger groups.
Hertz also offers additional perks such as child seats and GPS systems for added convenience.
The company has a strong reputation for transparent pricing and excellent customer service, making it a dependable choice for all kinds of trips. It’s an international company with name recognition, so might be preferred by some as opposed to a local company.
Avis – best car hire company for electric cars
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Travellers seeking reliability and a variety of vehicle options
- Company rating: 8.2 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Economy, SUVs, luxury models, electric cars
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station and a bit outside of the city centre)
Avis combines reliability with a wide range of vehicles, making it a popular choice for travellers.
Whether you’re after an economy car for a budget-friendly trip or a luxury model for added comfort, Avis ensures a seamless rental experience.
With well-maintained vehicles and an efficient booking system, the company is known for its punctuality and helpful staff.
Avis is slightly more expensive compared to budget-focused providers, but its focus on quality and customer satisfaction makes it worth the cost.
Their loyalty programme also offers frequent renters the chance to earn rewards, adding to the value.
Europcar – best car company for range of vehicles
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Those seeking a wide selection of vehicles and premium service
- Company rating: 8.0 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Economy to luxury vehicles
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station and a bit outside of the city centre)
Europcar stands out for its extensive fleet and premium service.
The company offers vehicles ranging from economy cars to luxury sedans, catering to all types of travellers.
Europcar’s competitive pricing and user-friendly online booking system make it a top choice for tourists and business travellers alike.
Europcar also offers flexible rental terms, including one-way rentals, which is perfect for travellers exploring multiple destinations – road trip round the south of France?
Known for its clean and well-maintained vehicles, Europcar ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for quality and convenience.
Budget – best car hire company for low deposits
- Price range: ££
- Best suited for: Budget-conscious travellers prioritising affordability
- Company rating: 8.2 (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Compact cars, family vehicles, electric cars
- Locations in Marseille: 2 (including Marseille Provence Airport and Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station)
When we checked, Budget was slightly cheaper than our top price range companies but still pricier compared to others.
Its fleet includes compact cars and family-friendly vehicles, perfect for exploring Marseille affordably. Despite its focus on affordability, Budget ensures reliable service and a straightforward rental process.
The company offers various add-ons, such as GPS devices and child seats, to enhance your driving experience.
Budget has convenient pick-up locations across Marseille, including the airport and city centre.
While it may not offer luxury vehicles, Budget provides good value for money, making it a great option for those prioritising savings.
Thrifty – best car hire for
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Budget-conscious families and groups
- Company rating: 8.1 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Compact cars, family vehicles
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station, and locations outside of Marseille)
Thrifty’s fleet includes compact cars and larger vehicles, ensuring comfort and affordability.
Known for its straightforward rental policies, Thrifty is a dependable choice for travellers wanting a hassle-free experience.
With convenient pick-up and drop-off locations in Marseille, Thrifty makes it easy to get on the road quickly.
The company also offers a loyalty programme, allowing repeat customers to enjoy discounts and other perks.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended holiday, Thrifty provides reliable service at competitive rates.
Keddy by Europcar railway – best budget car hire in Marseille
- Price range: £
- Best suited for: Budget-friendly travellers seeking quality
- Company rating: 8.1 – very good (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Economy to mid-sized cars
- Locations in Marseille: 2 (including Marseille Provence Airport and Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station)
Keddy provides budget-friendly options backed by Europcar’s trusted reputation.
It’s an excellent pick for those wanting quality at a lower price. One of Keddy’s standout features is its frequent promotions and discounts, which make renting even more affordable.
They also offer flexible rental terms, including one-way rentals, making them a great choice for travellers planning to explore beyond Marseille.
With a focus on efficiency and affordability, Keddy is ideal for travellers who don’t want to compromise on reliability.
The company offers a range of vehicles, from economy models to mid-sized cars, ensuring something for everyone.
Keddy’s transparent pricing and no-nonsense approach make it a practical choice for short-term rentals.
Dollar – best car hire company for flexible pick-up / drop-off locations
- Price range: £££
- Best suited for: Cost-conscious travellers looking for basic transport
- Company rating: 7.9 – average (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Small cars, comfortable mid-sized models
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport, Marseille-Saint-Charles Railway Station, just outside the city centre and locations outside of Marseille)
Dollar’s simple offerings make it ideal for quick trips and short-term hires.
Dollar’s straightforward policies and competitive pricing appeal to those looking for a no-frills option.
With a range of small cars and comfortable mid-sized models, Dollar caters to solo travellers and small groups.
Mileage is limited to 250km a day, so you may want to choose another car hire company if you think you’ll go over this.
While it may not offer luxury options, Dollar ensures you get a dependable vehicle at an affordable price.
Key’n Go by Goldcar – best zero excess car hire company in Marseille
- Price range: ££
- Best suited for: Tourists valuing quick service
- Company rating: 7.6 – average (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Economy options, SUVs
- Locations in Marseille: 4 (including Marseille Provence Airport and the city centre)
Key’n Go offers fast pick-up and return, perfect for travellers on tight schedules. The company’s focus on simplicity and speed makes it an excellent choice for short-term hires.
It offers zero excess, so you won’t pay anything if the vehicle is damaged or stolen (within the policy coverage).
Mileage is limited to 200km per day, so you may want choose a different car hire company if you think you’ll go over this.
While the fleet primarily includes economy options, the vehicles are reliable and well-maintained.
Goldcar – best budget car hire company with zero excess
- Price range: £
- Best suited for: Tourists looking for the lowest cost options
- Company rating: 7.7 – average (from DiscoverCars.com)
- Cars available: Economy, SUVs, electric cars
- Locations in Marseille: 1 (Marseille Provence Airport)
Goldcar is the go-to for budget travellers. While it lacks premium options, it offers basic economy cars at the lowest prices.
Goldcar’s simplicity and affordability make it a popular choice for short-term rentals.
The company is known for its transparent pricing and easy online booking system, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Mileage is limited to 200km per day, so consider a different car hire company if you think you’ll go over this.
It offers zero excess, which means you won’t pay anything if the vehicle is damaged or stolen (within the policy limits).
Despite its budget focus, the vehicles are well-maintained and reliable. For those prioritising cost above all else, Goldcar is a practical option.
Frequently asked questions about car hire in Marseille
How old do you need to be to hire a car in Marseille?
You’ll need to be over 18. Most car hire companies will charge a premium if you’re below 25, so make sure you put your age in when doing a comparison on DiscoverCars.
Can I hire a car in Marseille with a UK driving licence?
Yes, France recognises all foreign driving licences as long as they are written in French or English, and you’ve had your licence more than two years. It also needs to have at least one year’s validity left on it.
If you’re planning on driving in France for longer than six months, you may need to exchange your driving license for a French one.
Remember to carry your driving licence with you at all times!
What documents do I need to rent a car in Marseille?
Typically, you’ll need a valid driving licence, a passport or national ID, and a credit card in your name for the deposit. Some companies might also ask for proof of insurance or a recent utility bill for address verification – check with your car hire company.
Is insurance included in the rental price?
Basic insurance is generally included with your rental, but the level of cover can vary between companies. It’s important to check what’s covered and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed. Always review the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unexpected fees.
Can I rent a car for a one-way journey?
Yes, many car hire companies in Marseille offer one-way rentals. This option allows you to pick up your vehicle at one location (like Marseille Provence Airport) and return it at another location in the South of France, which can be very convenient if you’re planning a multi-destination trip.
What is the fuel policy?
Most companies operate on a full-to-full basis, meaning you’ll receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it in the same condition. Some companies may offer pre-paid fuel options. You’ll typically pay more with a pre-paid full option than if you hired on a full-to-full basis.
Tips for hiring a car in Marseille
Book early: Car hire prices in Marseille can spike during peak seasons. Reserving your vehicle early can save you a lot.
Check insurance coverage: Understand what’s included in the rental price and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed. Check out the options above for zero excess car hire too.
Inspect the vehicle: Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the car for any existing damage and report it to avoid unexpected charges. Take lots of photos of any damage, including scratches and dings.
Understand fuel policies: Some companies require you to return the car with a full tank, while others may charge for refuelling. And, make sure you know what fuel it is!
Hiring a car in Marseille gives you the freedom to explore this beautiful city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a variety of providers catering to different needs and budgets, you’re sure to find the perfect option for your trip. Enjoy your holiday!
