Why Rent a Car at Paris Orly Airport?

Paris Orly Airport (ORY) is the second-largest airport serving Paris and a major hub for domestic and European flights. Renting a car directly at the airport allows travellers to  begin their journey immediately without navigating central Paris first.

Airport pickup is particularly useful for travellers who plan to:

  • drive directly to destinations outside Paris

  • begin a road trip across southern or central France

  • avoid public transport transfers into the city

  • access a wider selection of vehicles

Orly Airport is located approximately 13 kilometres south of central Paris, making it closer to the city than Charles de Gaulle Airport. Driving to central districts typically takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

For travellers heading towards the Loire Valley, Burgundy, or southern France, renting a car at Orly can be a convenient starting point.

If you plan to stay in central Paris before driving, a city-centre pickup location may be more practical. See our Paris city car rental page for comparison.

Where Are the Rental Desks Located?

Paris Orly Airport consists of two main terminals: Orly 1-2-3 and Orly 4, connected by internal transport systems.

Rental desks are located within or near the arrivals areas.

Orly 1-2-3

Most rental companies operate desks in the arrival hall, with vehicle pickup typically located in nearby airport car parks.

Orly 4

Rental services are also available in Orly 4, with vehicles either:

  • parked in designated airport parking areas

  • located nearby within walking distance

Some lower-cost providers may operate from off-airport locations, offering shuttle transfers between the terminal and their vehicle collection sites.

Before arrival, travellers should confirm:

  • exact pickup location

  • whether shuttle service is required

Available Car Rental Companies at Paris Orly Airport

Paris Orly Airport hosts both international and domestic car rental providers.

Common suppliers include:

  • Sixt – modern fleet with strong airport presence

  • Hertz – wide range of vehicles and flexible rental options

  • Europcar – extensive coverage across French airports

  • Avis – reliable fleet with multiple categories

  • Budget – cost-effective options for short rentals

  • Enterprise – strong customer service and flexible policies

  • Rent A Car – French provider with regional presence

  • ADA – local operator offering competitive pricing

Airport locations typically offer a broader range of vehicles compared to city branches.

Comparing suppliers helps evaluate daily pricing, fuel policy, deposit requirements, insurance coverage, pickup convenience.

Popular Car Types at Paris Orly Airport

Orly Airport provides access to a wide range of vehicle categories.

Economy & Compact Cars

Ideal for short stays and city driving. Common models include:

  • Renault Clio

  • Peugeot 208

  • Toyota Yaris

  • Fiat 500

These are typically the most affordable and easiest to park.

Intermediate & Family Cars

Suitable for longer trips across France. Popular models include:

  • Peugeot 308

  • Volkswagen Golf

  • Ford Focus

They provide better comfort for motorway driving.

SUVs & Crossovers
Recommended for longer journeys or travellers needing additional space. Common models:

  • Nissan Qashqai

  • Hyundai Tucson

  • Kia Sportage

Automatic Vehicles
Automatic vehicles are available but less common than manual vehicles. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel periods.

7–9 Seater Vans
Available for families or group travel, with better availability at airport locations compared to city branches.

Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles are increasingly available at Orly, particularly from major providers. Charging infrastructure is well developed in Paris and along major highways.

Popular models include:

  • Renault Zoe

  • Peugeot e-208

  • Tesla Model 3

Rental Prices at Paris Orly Airport

Car rental prices at Orly Airport vary depending on season, demand, and vehicle type.

Indicative daily price ranges:

  • Economy cars: €25–€55 per day

  • Intermediate cars: €40–€80 per day

  • SUVs: €55–€110 per day

  • 7–9 seater vans: €90–€170 per day

Automatic vehicles typically cost 15-30% more than manual options.

Prices tend to increase during:

  • summer holiday season (July–August)

  • Christmas and New Year

  • Easter holidays

  • major events in Paris

Booking in advance helps secure better pricing and vehicle availability. Airport rentals may include additional concession or facility fees.

Seasonal Demand at Paris Orly Airport

Orly Airport serves a mix of domestic, European, and leisure travel routes, which influences rental demand.

Peak periods include:

  • summer holiday travel

  • school holiday periods

  • weekend leisure travel

During peak times:

  • vehicle availability may become limited

  • prices increase across most categories

  • automatic cars and vans may sell out early

Off-season months generally offer better availability and lower prices.

Pickup & Return Process at ORY

Pickup

After arrival:

  1. Proceed to the rental desk in your terminal.

  2. Present your driving license, passport or ID, and credit card.

  3. Sign the rental agreement.

  4. Follow directions to the vehicle collection area.

Before leaving, inspect the vehicle and ensure any damage is recorded.

Return

When returning your vehicle:

  1. Follow signs for ‘Car Rental Return’ at Orly Airport.

  2. Park in your provider’s designated return area.

  3. Complete the return inspection.

For off-site providers, return the vehicle to the designated facility and use the shuttle service to reach the terminal.

Allow extra time during peak periods for return procedures.

Driving from Paris Orly Airport

Orly Airport provides convenient access to major routes leading out of Paris.

Key connections include:

  • A6 – motorway toward southern France and Lyon

  • A10 – route toward the Loire Valley and Bordeaux

  • N7 – direct connection toward central Paris

These routes make Orly a convenient starting point for travellers heading south or west of Paris.

Traffic congestion can increase during peak hours, particularly on routes entering the city.

Paris Orly Airport Car Rental FAQs

Is Orly Airport better than Charles de Gaulle for car rental?

Orly is closer to central Paris and may be more convenient for travellers heading south. Charles de Gaulle offers a larger selection of vehicles due to its size.

How far is Orly Airport from central Paris?

Orly airport is approximately 13km from central Paris. Driving usually takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Are car rental desks open late at Orly?

Many providers operate extended hours, though not all are 24-hour. Late-night pickup policies vary.

Is shuttle pickup for rental cars common at Orly?

Some low-cost providers use shuttle services. Major companies usually operate on-site desks.

Do I need an International Driving Permit in France?

EU licenses are valid. Some non-EU travellers may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Can I return my rental car outside office hours at Paris Orly airport?

Many providers offer after-hours return options with key drop facilities.

Is it easy to drive from Orly Airport?

Yes. Orly provides direct access to major highways, making it easy to begin a road trip without entering central Paris.