Car Hire at Aix Les Bains Train Station

UK licence holders can drive in France with their full UK licence until 31 December 2024 under post-Brexit arrangements. From 2025, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your UK licence. You can obtain an IDP from the AA or RAC for around £5.50. The minimum driving age is 18, but most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21, with a young driver surcharge of approximately €25-35 per day for those under 25.

The A41 autoroute connecting Aix Les Bains to Chambéry and Grenoble has toll stations. Payment is accepted by card, cash, or the Télépéage electronic device. If you are renting, ask your hire company about adding a télépéage tag — rental companies typically charge €10-15 per trip plus daily rental of around €3-5. For occasional use, paying at the toll booth with a credit card is simpler and avoids the rental overhead. Tolls from Aix Les Bains to Chambéry cost approximately €5-8.

Yes — from 1 November to 31 March, snow chains or winter tyres are legally required on roads in Savoie department when conditions dictate (signposted). The D913 around Lake Bourget is generally clear, but routes into the nearby Alps (such as towards Albertville or the Chartreuse) can require chains. Most rental companies in the region offer winter tyres on request — confirm when booking. Snow chain hire is approximately €15-25 per day if not included. Failure to carry them when required results in fines of up to €135.

The majority of French hire cars run on diesel (gazole), though petrol (unleaded 95/98) vehicles are also common. Always verify your hire car's fuel type before leaving the rental depot. Around Aix Les Bains, petrol stations are plentiful along the A41 corridor and the D913 lakeside road. The town centre has several stations including Total and Shell, many with attendant service. Note that some rural stations close on Sundays, so fill up before weekend trips. Remember: French fuel prices average €1.70-1.85 per litre for diesel.

Street parking in central Aix Les Bains costs approximately €1-2 per hour, with controlled parking zones operating Monday to Saturday 09:00-12:00 and 14:00-19:00. Free parking is available on the northern side of Lake Bourget at spots like Le Bourget-du-Lac. Car parks near the spa district charge €2-4 for short stays. Note that parking directly beside Lake Bourget is limited to designated areas — roadside parking on the D913 is prohibited in many stretches. Blue badge holders can park for free in most municipal car parks.