Hire a car in Cannes and discover Boulevard de la Croisette, gourmet restaurants and chic shopping. While it may be best known internationally for its film festival, Cannes welcomes visitors year-round, thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, sparkling coastline and quaint old town. Whether you decide to visit for the culture, shopping or culinary prowess, Cannes will leave a lasting impression.

First on your list should be Boulevard de la Croisette, Cannes’ iconic palm-tree lined boulevard that stretches for about 3 km along the Mediterranean Sea. Park up where you like and stroll along the seafront, then head to Marché Forville to sample some local produce for lunch – and don’t miss out on trying the freshly caught oysters.

Walk off lunch in Le Suquet, Cannes’ oldest neighbourhood that dates back to Roman times and take in the fabulous views of the Bay of Cannes, then shop ‘till you drop along Rue d’Antibes. As the sun starts to dip, get behind the wheel of your hire car and head to nearby Palm Beach to contemplate an unforgettable sunset with the sea and the city in the distance.

Book an Avis car rental in Cannes and choose from a great range of vehicles. Whether you plan to travel as a couple or with friends and family, we have a wide variety of vehicles available, including compact city cars, family saloons and SUVs that are perfect for longer journeys along the French Riviera and beyond.

Which side of the road?
In France, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

• Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device. Do not use headphones or earpieces
• Bus lanes are reserved exclusively for buses, taxis and bicycles

• In towns and rural areas, on minor roads and where there is no clear indication of right of way, it may be prudent to give way to traffic coming from the right (“priorité a droite”)
• It is recommended that drivers use dipped headlights at all times

Speed limits

All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailer:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• 4-lane expressways (rural areas): 110 km/h (68 mph)

• Rural areas: 80 km/h (50 mph)
• Motorways: 130 km/h (80 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Be aware of changes to speed limits displayed on road signs due to adverse weather conditions

Child safety/Seatbelt laws

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children weighing up to 9 kg must travel in a rear-facing car seat, in the back of the car only

• Children aged under 10 and weighing less than 36 kg must be seated in appropriate child restraint

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

If you want to learn more about driving in Paris, see the full France Road Rules guide.

From star-studded partying in Saint Tropez to lazy days getting sun kissed on the beach to soaking up history and culture in Antibes, discover incredible experiences on the doorstep of Cannes in your hire car.

Saint Tropez

Saint Tropez is glitzy, glamorous and seductive. The warm Mediterranean sun and bright blue skies complement the pristine sandy beaches Brigitte Bardot once frequented. Mingle with the rich and famous, explore elegant cobblestone streets, luxury shops and galleries, and savour gourmet delights in the restaurants and cafes overlooking the French Riviera.

Antibes

Straddling the French Riviera between Nice and Cannes, discover memorable sights and culture in the old town of Antibes. Once a haven to artists such as Monet and Picasso, lose yourself amid narrow streets and honey-hued historical buildings adorned with brightly coloured shutters or browse traditional handicraft stalls and sample local produce in the bustling markets.

Nice

At the foothills of the Maritime Alps, park up in Nice to soak up the beauty of this quintessential French Riviera town. Home to dreamy pastel-coloured buildings, shimmering seascapes and a vibrant Old Town, open-air markets, lively cafes and historical monuments abound.

When is the best time of year to visit Cannes?

May to September is arguably the best time of year to visit Cannes and the French Riviera. During this time, you can expect long sunny days and beautiful turquoise waters. January is the coldest month, but you can still expect sunshine and mild temperatures. Visit in late May to mix with the glitterati at Cannes Film Festival.

Is it expensive to rent a car in Cannes?

Avis offers a wide range of vehicles to suit all budgets in Cannes. Check out what’s available online to get the best deals.

Is it worth hiring a car in Cannes?

Hiring a car in Cannes means you can be sure to enjoy everything Cannes and south of France have to offer, from the culture and shopping to the beaches and nature beyond.

Can I pick up my hire car in Cannes and return it to a different location?

You can enjoy convenient one-way car hire with Avis. Let us know your desired pick-up location and drop-off location in advance and we’ll ensure a quick and seamless experience no matter where you want to go.

Travelling with children? We’ve got you covered, with our spacious people carriers and a tailored range of car seats, perfect for any family holiday. Discover all the extras you need to get the most from your venture.