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Road Genius makes it easy to find great car hire offers at Bordeaux Airport (BOD). Compare prices and book in one place. Simple. Pick on-airport or off-airport pickup, compare manual vs automatic and SUV options and check 24-hour return and one-way hire availability. Ideal for drives to Bordeaux city centre, Saint-Émilion, Arcachon and the Médoc, with details on fuel policies and estimated travel times before you book.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal Building | • Immediate access after arrival • All major hire companies present • Convenient returns before flights |
• Longer waits during busy times • Often higher rates than off-airport • Limited space during busy times |
| Hire Centre | • Larger vehicle selection • More space for inspections • Dedicated customer service |
• May require shuttle from terminal • Pickup and return can take longer • Less convenient in bad weather |
| Off-Airport Options | • Sometimes lower rates • Less crowded service • May offer unique vehicle options |
• Require transportation from airport • Limited hours compared to on-site • Less convenient for early/late flights |
On average, car rentals at Bordeaux Airport cost around €52 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from €19 per day.
Peak season = plan ahead. In Bordeaux, summer and the Sep-Oct wine harvest see higher prices. Compare early and stay flexible with dates and pickup times. Mid-week pickups often come out cheaper.
Compare on-airport vs off-airport. Off-airport locations around BOD can be cheaper and less crowded. Factor in shuttle time when you compare the total pickup experience.
Go manual/economy. If you’re comfortable, manual cars are typically 15-20% cheaper. Economy models save on both hire rate and fuel. Choose diesel if you’ll do long drives to places like Dordogne or Arcachon.
Check weekly vs daily rates. For 5+ day trips, a 7-day rate can beat paying per-day.
Refuel on D106 before returning. Most hires are full-to-full. Topping up near the airport avoids premium refuelling charges.
Skip paid extras, watch one-way fees. Use your phone for GPS. If your route allows, returning to the same location can avoid one-way fees that are often 40-100€.
| Type | Info | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Car Parks | • Short-term (P0, P1, P2) • Long-term (P4) • Express drop-off areas |
• Short-term closest to terminal • Pre-booking often discounted |
| Traffic Rules | • Right priority unless indicated • Mandatory headlights in poor visibility • Very low alcohol limit for new drivers (0.2 g/l) |
• Different from many countries • Strictly enforced • Significant fines for violations |
| Toll Systems | • Most highways (A10, A62, A63) are tolled • Cash and credit cards accepted • Automatic toll badges available |
• Keep receipts for hire car returns • Factor toll costs into budget • Express lanes for badge holders |
| Speed Limits | • 50 km/h in urban areas • 80/90 km/h on rural roads • 130 km/h on highways (110 in rain) |
• Speed cameras common • Limits strictly enforced • Speed limit signs clearly posted |
Get a hire car so you can easily:
Bordeaux City Centre – 12 km, A631/Rocade
Saint-Émilion – 50 km, A89, D243
Arcachon – 65 km, A63, A660
Médoc Wine Route – 45 km, D2
How long does the hire pickup process take at Bordeaux Airport?
You can expect it to take 15-30 minutes, but it can be longer, around 45-60 minutes, during busy times like summer weekends and holidays. You can make the process faster by having all your documents ready.
Are there 24-hour pickup and return options?
Some major hire companies stay open longer or can arrange a late-night pickup for you, which may cost extra. You can return your car after hours using a key drop box.
What documents are required to hire a car?
You need to show a valid driver's licence, a credit card in your name and your passport or ID. You might also need an International Driving Permit, depending on which country issued your licence and its language. You must have one if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet. Some companies will only rent to you if you've had your licence for at least 1-2 years.
Is there a shuttle service to the hire car area?
Most hire companies have desks in the terminal and park their vehicles nearby. Some off-airport companies offer shuttle services, which usually run every 15-20 minutes.
Can I return my hire car to a different location?
Yes, you can do a one-way hire. Popular options are dropping your car off in Bordeaux city centre, Toulouse Airport or Biarritz. Companies usually charge an extra fee for this, about 40-100€ depending on the distance.
What fuel policy is typically used?
Most hire companies use a 'full-to-full' policy. This means you need to return the car with a full tank of fuel, the same as when you picked it up. You can find fuel stations near the airport on the D106 road.
Are child seats available and what is the cost?
You can book child seats in advance and they cost about 8-12€ per day. The companies cap the daily rate. We strongly recommend booking in advance, as they might not have any seats available if you just walk in.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Most companies will hold your booking for 2-3 hours after your flight was meant to arrive. If your flight is delayed by a lot, you should contact the company directly. When you book, giving them your flight number helps them track delays.
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