In the heart of France lies Limoges, a city famous throughout the world for its stunning porcelain. Proud of its longstanding traditions and culture, this lively city has many museums to explore and historic buildings to admire. Collect your Avis rental car from Limoges Train Station to discover this legendary centre and the stunning French countryside beyond.

Limoges Train Station is the perfect place to start your road trip. Pick up the keys to your Avis rental car and explore France’s Limousin region at your own pace. Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.

We make car rental easy because we know you can’t wait to feel the freedom of the road and get the very most out of your stay. Wherever your travels take you, the keys to your chosen vehicle are waiting for you.

Limoges Train Station is located in the city centre, conveniently close to many top attractions. Historically, Limoges reached the peak of its opulence in the Middle Ages thanks to its large abbey and fortifications. Later, during the French Revolution, many religious edifices were destroyed – including the abbey.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, a host of modern buildings were constructed, though vestiges of the city’s former self are still on display. The Cathédrale St-Étienne, a Gallo-Roman theatre, the 10th-century Crypt of St Martial, and centuries-old bridges are sights not to miss.

The Musée des Beaux Arts is housed in an 18th-century bishop’s palace and is a top attraction alongside the Musée National Adrien Dubouché, home to a sensational ceramics display. The city’s botanical gardens, Jardin de l’Évêché, are full of natural beauty and provide stunning views of the Vienne River, which meanders through the city.

The cuisine of Limoges is closely linked to the local agriculture of the Limousin region. Pink apples are a star product, as well as high-quality beef, veal, pork and lamb.

In the 19th century, the city became famous for the industrialisation of its porcelain, which is still made in the region today.
 

As the capital of the Limousin region, Limoges is perfectly positioned for road trips. Quaint towns and major historical sights are all easily reached by car.

Oradour-sur-Glane

Drive for just 25 minutes up the D9 and arrive at Oradour-sur-Glane, a chilling testament to the atrocities of war. The Centre de la mémoire d’Oradour memorial was built here to commemorate the victims and inform people of the war crimes committed in the town during World War II.

Bellac

Drive 45 minutes north on the N147 to reach this tiny, sleepy medieval town. Featuring the Paroisse de Bellac, alongside a cathedral overlooking the town, a 13th-century stone bridge arching across the Vincou river and medieval ramparts, it will feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat

Travel 30 minutes east along the D941 to the town of Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat. The town’s 12th-century church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, became a pilgrimage point. It was visited by Louis XIV’s mother – Anne of Austria – who thanked the saint for her son’s birth. Don’t miss the Musée Gay-Lussac, which focuses on the life of the 19th-century scientist.

Your Avis car rental from Limoges Station awaits … Buckle up to discover the treasures of central France.

Which side of the road?
In France, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

·         Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device. Do not use headphones or earpieces

·         Bus lanes are reserved exclusively for buses, taxis and bicycles

·         In towns and rural areas, on minor roads and where there is no clear indication of right of way, it may be prudent to give way to traffic coming from the right (“priorité a droite”)

·         It is recommended that drivers use dipped headlights at all times

Speed limits

All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailer:

·         Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)

·         4-lane expressways (rural areas): 110 km/h (68 mph)

·         Rural areas: 80 km/h (50 mph)

·         Motorways: 130 km/h (80 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Be aware of changes to speed limits displayed on road signs due to adverse weather conditions

Child safety / Seatbelt laws

·         It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt

·         Children weighing up to 9 kg must travel in a rear-facing car seat, in the back of the car only

·         Children aged under 10 and weighing less than 36 kg must be seated in appropriate child restraint

Please note – It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

If you want to learn more about driving in Limoges, see the full France Road Rules guide.

Do I need a hire car in Limoges?
While the centre of Limoges is compact, hiring a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace as well as visit places in the surrounding areas or take day trips to nearby towns.

What are some must-see attractions in Limoges?

Limoges is famous for its porcelain production, so a visit to the National Porcelain Museum is a must. Other popular attractions include Limoges Cathedral, the Jardin de l’Évêché botanical garden and the Musée des Beaux Arts.

What are some day trips from Limoges?

The nearby town of Saint-Junien is famous for its leather industry and has a pretty medieval old town to explore. Additionally, the city of Bordeaux is under three hours’ drive away and well worth a day trip.

When is the best time of year to visit Limoges?

Arguably the best time of year would be during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. If you enjoy cultural events and outdoor festivals, visiting in summer can be just as enticing.