Brimming with fascinating history, Poitiers is an absolute gem to explore. While inside the city boundaries there are a plethora of things to see and do, venture beyond them and you’ll be met with other vibrant cities and lively towns. Simply collect your Avis hire car from Poitiers Biard Airport and begin your journey. 

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The medieval town of Poitiers is nestled on the west coast of France, surrounded by a region that’s also brimming with fascinating history. To take it all in collect your Avis hire car from Poitiers Biard Airport, just 15 minutes’ drive from the centre of town.

Sat on the top of a vast promontory between the Boivre and Clain valleys, Poitiers has stunning scenery and plenty of charm. Its winding streets, central gardens and ancient buildings offer plenty of sight-seeing options. If you just want to sit back and relax, the Place d'Armes, the small square in front of the Town Hall, is lined with outdoor cafes, perfect for watching the world go by.

Of course, Poitiers lays claim to many stunning historic buildings, including one of the earliest and most prestigious universities in France. Other notable places to visit are the Baptistry of St John, which dates back to the fourth century, and the Notre Dame la Grande, one of the most famous churches in Europe, built during the reign of Eleanor in the 12th century.

From Poitiers Biard Airport, the historic and delightful town of Poitiers is awaiting for your arrival.

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.
 

Poitiers makes for an excellent starting point to begin your discovery of France’s handsome west coast. With your Avis rental car, it couldn’t be easier to see all that it has to offer on a memorable road trip.

La Rochelle

Nicknamed La Ville Blanche (the White City), the beauty of La Rochelle is easy to see in an instant with its limestone buildings sparkling in the sunshine. Just a 90-minute drive west of Poitiers, La Rochelle was one of France’s principal seaports between the 14th and 17th centuries. Two medieval towers dominate the entrance of the harbour, one of many distinctive features of the town, also including the covered shopping arcades and a village-like fisherman’s quarter.

Orléans

A two-hour drive north of Poitiers along the A10, the historic gem of Orléans is overflowing with elegance and history. This medieval town is as sophisticated as it is ancient and it boasts one of the most famous castles in France: the Château Royal de Chambord. This is an absolute must-see sight, but with its incredible Renaissance architecture, it’s hard to ignore. As is the town’s connections to heroine Joan of Arc, who having liberated Orléans in the 15th century, is greatly commemorated here. Once you’ve taken in the historical sites, enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the Loire river, which passes through the town.

With the ease and comfort of your Avis hire car, western France is yours to discover. Don't forget to familiarise yourself with common French road rules before you set off.