Find your perfect car hire at Rodez Airport
Located in the southwest of France, Rodez-Marcillac Airport, also known as 'Rodez-Monsservin' and 'Rodez-Aveyron', is an increasingly popular destination with a fast-growing number of international flights.
The airport is in the centre of the Aveyron Department, close to the the small town of Rodez and is also a great place to begin a road trip around the nearby Tarn and Tarn et Garonne Departments.
This beautiful region is rich in history and scenic beauty with hilltop villages, river valleys and steep gorges. It is also the home of several international exports including the blue-veined Roquefort cheese and Laguiole knives.
If you are planning a road trip in Southwest France, our friendly Avis team at Rodez Airport is on hand to offer advice and provide the perfect rental car for your trip and make your car hire journey a smooth one.
Where to find Avis at Rodez Airport
You’ll find our Avis counter at Rodez Airport in the arrivals hall of the terminal building. The rental car park is located short walk from the terminal entrance.
How to get from Rodez Airport to the centre of Rodez by car
From your Avis pick-up point at Rodez Airport, the town centre is just a 15-minute drive away – follow signs for ‘Centre Ville’.
Things to do in Rodez
Rodez is steeped in history with a plenty of cultural interest. Beyond its museums, churches and picturesque streets, Rodez is a charming town serving as the capital of the Aveyron department.
Rodez Cathedral dating back to the 13th century, sits high above the town affording great views of the surrounding area. The impressive 15th century Bishop’s Palace is also worth a visit.
Despite a small population, the city boasts three museums dedicated to art and archaeology. The 13th century Layoule-sous-Rodez bridge crosses the the Aveyron river in the city.
Visitors also appreciate Rodez for its distinctive south-west French cuisine. Local dishes like aligot, a rich potato and cheese dish or braised mutton tripe are served in the town’s restaurants. A central market showcases the region’s freshly grown produce, meat, and cheeses.
Recommended day trips from Rodez Airport
Rodez is in the middle of a triangle formed by three major cities - Toulouse, Montpellier and Lyon - but the region also offers plenty of smaller destinations to explore for a day trip or more.
Cordes-Sur-Ciel
On a hill above the clouds, the stunning settlement of Cordes-Sur-Ciel is a 1hr 15min drive along the N88 across the border in the neighbouring department of the Tarn and is officially classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
St Antonin-Noble-Val
At the foot of the dramatic Aveyron Gorge in the Tarn-et-Garonne Department St-Antonin-Noble-Val featured in the film Charlotte Grey. Popular for kayaking and hiking, this historic riverside town has a thriving open-air market every Sunday. St-Antonin-Noble-Val is a 1hr 20min drive from Rodez Airport along the D1.
Estaing
Just 40min north on the D988, this tiny hamlet is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Set in a mountainous region, it’s a photo opportunity waiting to happen with its 15th century Château d’Estaing seemingly floating over the village.
Montpellier
Just under a 2hr drive on the A75, the bustling city of Montpellier is nestled along the Mediterranean coast. Full of students, shopping, and nightlife, it’s a change of pace from the laidback, sleepy towns of the Aveyron region. Beautiful squares and nearby beaches, such as Espiguette and Maguelone, make it worth a visit.
Cahors
A 90min drive west on the D911, Cahors is a sizeable town known for its wine, but also a beautifully restored 14th century bridge called Pont Valentré. Cahors’ medieval streets, numerous cafes, lively market, and impressive monuments make for a colourful day trip from Rodez.
Is it worth hiring a car in Rodez?
While there is plenty to see for a day or two in the city of Rodez, with your Avis rental from Rodez Airport, the south-west of France is just waiting to be discovered, and all you have to do is drive.
Tips for driving in Rodez
Hiring a car is a popular and easy way to explore the south-west of France. If you have not driven in this part of the world before, we’d advise familiarising yourself with the road rules for driving in France before you travel.
Be aware that as in the rest of mainland Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road here. The Aveyron is one of the more rural regions of France and it’s easy to head off the beaten track so you may find GPS a helpful option.