Paris to Normandy - car rental or train?
 

We will be traveling from Paris to Normandy on June 27th for a one night stay in Bayeux before leaving for Marseille by TGV on June 29th. Would it be better to take the train into Caen and rent a car locally, or does it make more sense to rent a car in Paris?<BR><BR>I'm concerned about driving a car in Paris.<BR><BR>Any advise would be greatly appreciated.<BR><BR>

If driving in Paris worries you, take the train. It's a short and pleasant ride to Caen (about 2.5 hours, if memory serves me), and the car rental agencies are right there at the station. Then it's only 20 minutes to Bayeux.

Cheryl:<BR><BR>Although I haven't personally driven in Paris, after spending 10 days there I don't think I'd want to. Lots of traffic etc.<BR><BR>People I know who HAVE driven in/out of Paris say "Never again"-I'd go with the train idea which I think you would get much more enjoyment out of!<BR><BR>Bon Voyage!!!

Cheryl,<BR><BR>I had exactly the same question a few weeks ago and due to the info. I received, we made the decision to take the train from Paris and rent a car in Caen. <BR><BR>It was very easy to make the arrangements through Auto Europe (800/223-5555) and the pick-up is right at the train station. <BR><BR>You can also book/purchase your tickets from Paris to Caen through the SNCF website. The English version is<BR>http://www.ter-sncf.com/uk/Default_uk.htm<BR><BR>Just click on the Caen spot and go from there. <BR><BR>Good luck. Enjoy!<BR><BR>Lisa

What excellent suggestions. We will definately rent a car from Caen as a result of all of your advice.<BR><BR>Thanks so much.

We just got back from France. We took the train from Dijon to Paris and picked up a car (Autoeurope) at Gare de Lyon. There was so much traffic that we had to go slowly thus giving us a chance to read the signs. HOWEVER, unbeknownst to us May 8th was a BIG holiday (that part we knew), but we didn't realize the French don't take just that day off - they take a couple of days before and/or after THE holiday also. It took us 1 1/2 hrs. (not a typo) to go 33kms. What a nightmare!!! Most drivers were good, and courteous as well. Alternates merged just about all the time. I had looked into taking the train from Paris, but the auto pick-up places were not open on the holiday, so we had no choice but to get the car in Paris.

Cheryl, I believe that AutoEurope car rental agency has a 3 day minimum rental period in France. Does anyone know of an agency that rents for 1 or 2 days? GOOD LUCK, Mike

Cheryl,<BR>I'd avoid driving in Paris if at all possible! Take the train and leave the driving to the locals. Normandy is beautiful and awe-inspiring. Have a great trip!

I am now in this same situation. I want to rent a car in Caen to tour Normandy but just for a day. Advice?

Julie: You should be able to arrange a 1-day rental through Avis - there's an office right in the Caen train station.

Julie, I took the train from Paris to Caen in September 2002. I rented a car there for three days. You might have trouble getting a good deal for a single-day rental; I rented via Autoeurope.com for the minimum three-day rental. Note that Autoeurope advertises one location as &quot;downtown Caen&quot; but the address is the same as the train station - there are several car rental offices right across the street from the station, which is very near downtown. Check the majors to find the best rates...<BR><BR>You will probably be able to drop the car after closing time by parking it in front of the agency office on the street (assuming you can find a spot) and dropping the keys in their drop box. I did this with Europcar (whom I rented from via AutoEurope). Just be careful you check for the condition of the car (scratches, dents, etc.) *before* you take the car - they are picky about that. There's a gas station near the station - ask the car rental agent to tell you where it is.<BR><BR>Andrew<BR>

Which Paris train station did you use to go to Caen? Is there one at the airport or do you have to go into Paris?

Just booked a car through Budget for one day. Not a great rate but who cares.

I took the train from Gare Saint Lazare in Paris to Caen. I don't know of another way to get to Caen without transferring via Saint Lazare. Perhaps one of the shuttle busses from the airport will drop you at Saint Lazare? Always a taxi...<BR><BR>Have you considered flying to Caen from Paris? It might cost a little more but could save you hours.<BR><BR>Andrew<BR>

Whatever decision you make about renting the car be sure to do it from the US--much cheaper than doing it in France. Also, just a comment about flying--it could not save any time by the time you get to the airport (early for security).

We drove from CDG to Bayeux this past May. You get on the &quot;Peripherique&quot; and actually skirt Paris proper. If you are not driving in ther heart of the &quot;rush houtr&quot; it is not bad driving at all.<BR><BR>A few things:<BR>-If you need an automatic you must reserve one in advance. We do not drive a straight stick car and I believe you should check if your auto agency in Caen can provide one.<BR>-A car is valuable in Normandy. Your stay is so short, however,you probably are better off using the train.<BR>-Do not miss the American Cemetery at Normandy Beach.<BR><BR>Good luck.