I've read as many posts as I could find about car rental pickup locations in Paris and still feel like I need some good advice from you Fodorites. We are heading towards Belgium from Paris midday on Saturday May 14th but do not want to go to CDG for pickup; Gare du Nord makes the most sense looking at a map of Paris. I'm open to picking up at Gare de Lyon if that really is easier. Any advice from those with experience driving in these areas would be greatly appreciated.

You shouldn't have any problems leaving from Gare du Nord. It's only a short drive through the 18th to pick up the ring road off of Rue de la Chapelle.

Thanks Robert, I'll be jumping on the A1 (I believe) and if you've done it, I can do it!!! I can't wait to see Paris and beyond!!

One more endorsement for gare du nord. It is pretty much the same as gare de lyon. It is true CDG would put you closer to Belgium, but if the city is more convenient, gare du nord is fine

I would make sure that the rental agency has an office in the station [we happen to use Europcar]. They are downstairs at the left end of the station, and the garage is right there.

Coming out of the garage, you want to proceed in an easterly direction, over the tracks and then left.

Thank you jpie and RonZ. I know that autoeurope has an agency (or whoever they contract with has one) there so I think I'm good that way. We might even do a dry run to find out (without luggage) just where the agency is located. I tend to be a cautious but not fearful person, yet if you read some of the posts about driving out of Paris...ya just don't know what to think. Thanks for your comments.