February 01, 2024

Six Nations Championship: Navigating France and Italy

The Six Nations Championship is not just an international sport event, but the opportunity for some real authentic experiences across the heart of central Europe. Outside the British Isles, the Six Nations Championship takes place within both Italy and France. Attracting both rugby fans and ambitious tourists alike, there isn’t a sight not worth seeing across these countries. You may however be looking to experience as much of the championships as possible and are travelling between mainland and the UK. Whilst flights may seem like the most direct route, changes in flight practices may encourage car by ferries.

If you are looking to travel domestically in the UK area, we can even offer an Ireland car hire, Scotland car hire and Wales car hire!

How to navigate the Six Nations Championship

If you’re unfamiliar with France and Italy, it’s no wonder so many tourists limit what they can see within the confines of the main cities. It is therefore why we emphasise the extent to what can be done within these countries, so long as you’re willing to go out and see it. If you are travelling for the Six Nations Championship, then there is no better time to venture into these countries outside of the hosted stadiums and hopefully we can give you some ideas on what to expect and see.

Italy

Rome

Italy needs no introduction, the prominence of its very history is enough to convince anyone to see what it has to offer. Conveniently enough, the Italian home games all take place in the Stadio Olimpico of Rome. England and Scotland will face off against Italy, starting the 3^{rd of} February and finishing the 9^th of March. Being just outside the centre of Rome leaves for perfect access to any parts of the city; landmarks being at the heart of the city and endless amounts of Italian food in the surrounding area (there’s a reason why some call Italy the food capital of Europe).

If you’re landing in Rome via plane, you’ll likely arrive through Ciampino Airport. Whilst it does provide easy access to the stadium, the rest of Rome is quite the distance away. Our car hire near Ciampino Airport will be able to take you across the entire city and beyond.

France

Depending on which stadiums of the French home games you’re planning on visiting, there are many different routes available if you’re looking to travel between cities. A full drive from one end of France to the other will only take about 9 hours in a single drive, comparatively short when you consider all the major locations you pass through – even Paris if you follow that route! That route will of course take you through all the stadiums where the games are held, being 3 in total and although they often featuring separate matches going on at different times, information regarding the cities may give you some ideas on how to improve your visit.

Marseille

Marseille is one of the southern-most cities in France, located just west of Monaco. Being one of the largest cities in France, it has had an extensive role as being a centre for Mediterranean trade and shipping, dating back to the Romans! The rugby game will be held in the Stade Vélodrome against Ireland. Of course, if you’re expecting to travel within Marseille our low deposit car hire can quickly and easily get you around.

Although if it’s landmarks, you’re looking to visit, the Notre-Dame de la Garde is on a scale fitting for such a large city. Not to be confused with the Notre-Dame of Paris; it is of comparable heritage albeit with, some more modernist revisions such as the neo-byzantine style. If you’re willing to venture into the depths of the church there is a vast crypt built beneath which houses some of the more decorative artifacts, all of this with the free entry makes it a worthwhile short stop.

Lyon

Located almost directly north of Marseille, the distance to Lyon which makes for an easy journey. The stadium to host France and England would be the Groupama stadium. However, if you are arriving by plane to the nearest airport, the distance between both may cause an inconvenience in moving between. Naturally, we can provide a car hire at Lyon Airport.

If you’re looking for some interesting sights in Lyon other than a church – Musee Du Cinema et de la Miniature (Museum of Miniatures and Cinema) is based around pop culture displays and work. A perfect place to travel as a family. Featuring replicas and props from movies such as Harry Potter and Terminator – in terms of “interesting” this certainly has the variety. There are of course the miniature movie sets that accurately portray their big screen counterparts.

Lille

The last host for the Six Nations Championship is Lille, a northern French city on the Belgium border. Hosted at the Decathlon Arena, it is one of the largest arenas in France, suitable for a game against Italy. If you’ve opted to drive from Lyon to Lille, you may have even passed through Paris on the way! They’ll be ample room for you to explore the city and its tourist destinations, even if you flew in Lille-lesquin airport there’s still the opportunity to explore.

If you’re looking to end your road trip on a peaceful note, the Zoo de Lille may be the best way to top of the day. Priced at just 6 euros, it’s the perfect stop for a group. Although not on the scale of some major enclosures, it nonetheless has some exotic creatures.

What to Expect From Travelling the Six Nations Championship

Both France and Italy being in the EU are naturally subject to very similar road laws. As with many EU countries drivers are expected to carry certain items not typically needed in the UK. These include:

• Reflective jackets
• Warning triangle (in the event of emergency)
• Snow chains when legally required.

However, there isn’t a need to worry about where to get these things, as if your hire with Indigo all cars will be supplied with the necessary items, even winter tyres when necessary.

If you’re coming from the UK, then the only items you’ll need are:

• Valid driving license
• Proof of ID
• Motor insurance certificate / V5 registration document

What we can do

Even if you aren’t planning on a country-crossing road trip and are only travelling locally, regardless, Indigo is capable of providing the transportation necessary. With our services available, there is sure to be something suitable for your individual needs:

• Debit Card Car Hire
• No Deposit Car Hire
• Young Driver Car Hire
• Senior Driver Car Hire

Understandably, you may be unsure on what is most suitable for – our team is more than happy to clarify and support you! Otherwise, you’re free to send an email on [email protected] or contact us at 0113 880 0748.