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Car hire at Saumur Gare SNCF
Arriving in Saumur by train puts you close to the heart of the Loire Valley, where historic chateaux and renowned vineyards make the region worth exploring. The best way to discover the area? A rental car pre-booked at Saumur Gare SNCF. This enables you to complete the pickup process quickly and move ahead with your plans of visiting the Chateau de Saumur, a medieval castle overlooking the Loire, known for its distinctive towers and panoramic views. You can then continue into the surrounding wine country, where vineyards and smaller villages offer a quieter side of the Loire Valley.
VIP Cars is an online platform that lets you compare deals from top suppliers serving Saumur Gare SNCF in one place. You can browse through economy cars, spacious SUVs, or even luxury cars for added comfort and style - all at affordable price and with flexible rental durations making it easy to find the right vehicle for your Saumur trip. July to August is the best time to visit, so book your vehicle in advance for better deals and vehicle choices.
Best road trips from Saumur
Saumur's presence in the heart of the Loire Valley makes it an excellent base for exploring some of western France's most historic towns, vineyards, and UNESCO-listed landmarks. Here are the best road trip ideas that you can consider when visiting Saumur.
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Fontevraud-l'Abbaye
Distance: ~16 km Drive Time: 20 minutes A short drive from Saumur, Fontevraud-l'Abbaye is home to the magnificent Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, one of Europe's largest monastic complexes. The route passes through the peaceful countryside of the Loire Valley, making it an ideal half-day excursion.
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Chinon
Distance: ~35 km Drive Time: 40 minutes Known for its medieval fortress, charming old town, and celebrated vineyards, Chinon is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. The drive follows picturesque country roads lined with vineyards and quaint villages.
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Angers
Distance: ~65 km Drive Time: 1 hour The vibrant city of Angers offers a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Visit the impressive Château d'Angers, stroll through the historic centre, or relax at one of the city's cafes after a comfortable drive from Saumur.
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Tours
Distance: ~75 km Drive Time: 1 - 1.5 hours Often regarded as the gateway to the Loire Valley, Tours is famous for its lively squares, elegant architecture, museums, and riverside atmosphere. It's also a convenient starting point for exploring several of the region's iconic châteaux.
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Château de Villandry
Distance: ~65 km Drive Time: 1 hour Renowned for its spectacular Renaissance gardens, Château de Villandry is one of the Loire Valley's most visited castles. The scenic drive from Saumur offers beautiful countryside views, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination itself.
VIP Cars' tip for renting a car at Saumur Gare SNCF
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Book a one-way rental for added flexibility
Consider booking a one-way rental if you are planning to explore multiple destinations without having to drive back to Saumur. You can return your vehicle at a different location, such as Tours, Angers, Nantes, or Paris, depending on the supplier's availability.
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Be prepared for toll roads
Many scenic routes around Saumur, including roads along the Loire River are toll free. However, if you are planning longer drives on motorways such as the A85, you will encounter toll booths (péages). We recommend that you check with your supplier how toll charges will be calculated so you have a clear picture of toll payments.
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Follow local driving rules
In France, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Make sure you always look for the posted signs, especially in town centres and roundabouts. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited, so strictly avoid doing it.
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Know the speed limits
Unless road signs indicate otherwise, the general speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on most two-way roads, 110 km/h on dual carriageways, and 130 km/h on motorways in normal weather conditions. Speed cameras are common throughout France, so always follow posted limits.
