Ready to take on the French roads? Follow our guide to find out how and where to rent a VW Combi van in France.
The legendary VW Combi van is much more than a means of transport, it’s a legend. A symbol of pure freedom and exploration, it embodies the very idea of the road trip. Since 1950, this dream car has stood the test of time, adapting to travelers and establishing itself as the ideal road companion.
And that’s just as well, because our beautiful Hexagon offers a breathtaking array of must-see places, spectacular landscapes and villages steeped in Art and History. Discover our guide to renting a VW Combi van in France. All that’s left to do is set up your road map and playlist with your hair blowing in the wind.
How to choose a VW Combi van?
Renting a VW Combi van lets you criss-cross France at the wheel of the idol of an entire historical era. The choice of model depends on your budget and your needs. Fun colors, friendly looks and toy-like allure: here’s an overview of all Volkswagen Combi models.
Rent a VW Combi van in France with Yescapa
Vintage VW Combis T1 to T3
Photo credit: Wikipedia – André ALLIOT
The first VW Combi van, named T1 or Split, is a hippie myth and built on the same platform as the Beetle. Its hallmark is its round headlamps. Its basic design is marked by the two-tone V-shaped relief on the front. And let’s not forget the folding windshield and double side doors.
This VW Combi van is available in a number of sparkling, glazed versions, and can accommodate up to nine people. Its modest equipment is clearly aimed at young people in search of freedom, attracted by nomadism rather than comfort. Inside, you’ll find the bare essentials: sofa bed, fold-down table, storage compartments and checkered fabrics, water tank and retractable roof.
When Volkswagen dusted off its VW Combi van and released the T2, the design was revisited. Nicknamed the Bay Window because of its integral windshield, the large V on the grille and the butterfly windshield evaporate. The van now boasts a spare wheel, an extra trunk, a higher roof, a closet, a large bed, a folding table and a bench seat in some versions.
The T3, or Vanangon, still retains the rear engine and, although much squarer, a design close to the original lines.
Nostalgic, grown-up and not afraid of rudimentary comfort? We recommend renting a VW Combi van in versions T1 to T3. Their retro charm will put you in a good mood and put smiles on the faces of passers-by. Indeed, since the T4 was put on wheels in the 1990s, the vehicle has moved away from its original design.
The new VW Combi vans T4 to T6
Photo credit: Wikipedia – Nachoman-au
The latest models are not uninteresting. However, they are not yet considered collector’s items, nor do they offer much comfort to the melancholic. Renting a new-generation VW Combi van takes you away from the freedom-loving, pacifist lifestyle. On the other hand, elegance and sobriety are still the order of the day, and it will take you anywhere without neglecting comfort.
The T4 marks a turning point: the engine moves to the front and the layout changes. The T5 boasts modern finishes and added comfort. The T6 is the ultimate version, very comfortable and modern. And maybe, in the near future, you’ll even be able to rent a VW Combi van… electric.
Where can I rent a VW Combi van in France?
To rent a VW Combi van in France, the best way is to book your rental online. Whether you choose a private booking platform or a traditional rental agency, each has its own advantages.
- Van rental agencies: They are present in most regions. They have pick-up and drop-off points so you can travel from point A to point B without bringing your vehicle back to the same place. Many specialize in the rental of the legendary Combi;
- van rental platforms between private individuals: These allow you to rent a VW Combi van at a generally lower price than those offered by agencies. On the other hand, they require greater care. It’s essential to find out all you can about the rental company and the condition of the vehicle. Fortunately, there are a number of highly reliable and professional rental sites in France. Take Yescapa, for example. The search process is simple and fun. Enter the area where you’d like to rent your vehicle, set your preferences and compare offers.
Rent a VW Combi van in France with Yescapa
How much does it cost to rent a VW Combi van in France?
When you decide to rent a VW Combi van, you’re paying more for the legend than for the comfort. But that’s part of the charm and part of the game. As a rough guide, you should expect to pay between €100 and €150 per day, depending on the model.
Of course, prices vary according to the type of VW Combi van and the distance covered. In addition to prices, pay attention to additional services such as the extra charge per kilometer, insurance and assistance.
Rent a VW Combi van in France with Yescapa
Where to travel by VW Combi van from France?
Photo credit: Shutterstock – GEORGE STAMATIS
Renting a VW Combi van will influence your itinerary. Don’t expect to be on the freeway if you opt for an older model. These vintage vehicles – even those with low mileage – are more suited to slow travel. In other words, travel on the secondary network, punctuated by frequent breaks.
But isn’t that the whole point? France offers a host of fabulous itineraries for a road trip. Here are just a few examples:
- A wine road-trip: Alsace’s Wine Route is a must. It takes you through magnificent vineyards and several picturesque Alsatian villages. But other wine routes are also memorable: along the Rhône, in Provence, Languedoc, Bordeaux or Burgundy;
- Historical road trip: From the D-Day beaches to the legendary Breton coast, via the Châteaux de la Loire, this is a journey steeped in history;
- Napoleonic road-trip: For a journey between sea and mountains, in the Provencal hinterland and at the foot of the Alps, follow the mythical Route de Napoléon;
- A sun-drenched road-trip: Drive through the Camargue, push on to the roads of Provence and then cross over to Corsica. A vitamin D-packed autotour;
- Oceanic Road-Trip: An itinerary of calm and tranquillity, following the rhythm of the seascapes of the Côte d’Argent or the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes.