Car Hire La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a seaside town in France which is part of the Charente Maritime department. La Rochelle overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of Biscay in an extremely pretty setting. As La Rochelle is on the west coast of France it gets a lot of tourism from the UK and there are daily flights which go between La Rochelle and London Stansted. 

We have put together below some useful information for you when looking to drive in the area.
 

Airports near La Rochelle:

1. La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport (LRH): The nearest airport to La Rochelle is La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport, which is located about 2.5 kilometers (approximately 1.5 miles) northwest of the town center. This airport primarily serves domestic flights within France and a few international destinations. It's the most convenient airport for travelers visiting La Rochelle.

2. Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE): Nantes Atlantique Airport is the largest airport in the region and is located approximately 150 kilometers (about 93 miles) north of La Rochelle. It offers a wider range of domestic and international flight options.

3. Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD): Bordeaux Airport is located approximately 185 kilometers (about 115 miles) south of La Rochelle. It is a major international airport in the region, providing access to a wide range of destinations.

Driving in La Rochelle:

• Road Signs: Road signs in France follow standard international symbols and are generally easy to understand. Signs are in French, but many major signs also include English translations.

• Types of Roads: La Rochelle and the surrounding region have a variety of road types, including local roads within the town, highways, and scenic coastal roads. The road network is generally well-maintained.

• Traffic: Traffic in La Rochelle can vary depending on the time of year. During the summer months, especially in July and August, the town can become quite busy as tourists flock to the area. Traffic congestion is more common in the town center and near popular tourist spots. It's advisable to plan your travel times accordingly and be prepared for some traffic in peak seasons.

La Rochelle itself is a charming town with a relatively compact city center, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, having a car can be convenient for exploring the surrounding areas, including the nearby Île de Ré, known for its beautiful beaches and quaint villages. The coastal roads in the region offer scenic drives, and road signage is generally clear. Major routes are well-marked, and GPS or navigation apps can be useful for getting around. Parking options are available in the town center, but it can get busy during peak tourist seasons, so it's a good idea to plan for parking in advance.