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RAC reminds British drivers they must show clean air sticker in French cities

The Crit’Air vignette must be displayed to enter Paris, Rouen, Strasbourg, Lyon, and many other cities to avoid a €180 fine

British drivers taking their car across the Channel to France this summer have been reminded that they will need to display a clean air sticker if they plan to enter one of several cities, or face a fine of up to €180 (£154).

In a similar move to the clean air and ultra-low emission zones that have been introduced in the UK , France has more than 12 zones, including Paris and several others cities popular with UK tourists.

The RAC has warned all cars and motorbikes entering such zones across the Channel – even those from abroad – need to display a sticker, called a Crit’Air vignette , denoting their vehicle’s emissions.

Drivers need to apply via the official French government website before they leave home, as the stickers are not available locally, the motoring group warned.

The RAC said travellers also need to be aware that they may face restrictions on when they can drive into cities, depending upon their car’s emissions.

There are six categories in the Crit’Air vignette system, from green for the cleanest vehicles to dark grey for the dirtiest. The certificate you receive relates to the vehicle’s Euro emissions standards. Even those with a 100% electric car need to display the sticker.

Drivers heading to Paris, Rouen, Strasbourg, Toulouse, Montpellier, Lyon, Bordeaux, Grenoble, and several other cities, risk the fine if they don’t display one.

Those heading across the channel but staying away from the affected cities are not required to display one.

The plan is to eventually have a low emission zone in every urban area with a population greater than 150,000 people. They cost €4.61 including postage, for each vehicle, but drivers should allow several days for delivery.

RAC Europe spokesperson, Rod Dennis, said it’s vital anyone travelling to Europe checks whether they need an emissions-based windscreen sticke.

He said: “Every driver visiting a region covered by the Crit’Air scheme needs to ensure they’ve bought the right sticker for their vehicle before they leave the UK. Stickers correlate with the Euro emissions category of the vehicle they’re driving and are valid for the life of the vehicle.

“Anyone without the right sticker or driving a non-compliant car into a low-emissions zone, risks an on-the-spot fine.”

The €68 penalties are issued by local police officers in France , but next year camera-based enforcement will begin, meaning maximum fines will rise to a holiday budget-busting €750.

“As time goes on, the regulations also get stricter and within a few years all but zero-emission vehicles will be banned from some city centres,” said Dennis.

Not all vehicles are eligible. Cars registered before January 1997, and motorbikes and scooters registered before June 2000, are not, and cannot be driven at all where restrictions apply – causing a problem for owners of some classic motorbikes and cars.

Meanwhile, drivers visiting cities in other European countries, including Spain, Italy and Switzerland, are also advised to check whether they’re affected by any low emission zones before embarking on their trips.

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Driving in France: Where must you have a Crit'Air pollution sticker?

As clermont-ferrand becomes the latest city to require them, we look at the situation elsewhere in france.

Crit’Air stickers are required in more and more French urban areas Pic: Hadrian / Shutterstock

The RAC has warned British drivers heading off to France that they will need to have a Crit'Air sticker on their vehicle, or they risk a potential €180 fine.

There are now a number of cities covered by a zone à faibles émissions (ZFE, or low-emission zone).

These zones aim to limit air pollution in major cities by cutting down or excluding certain vehicles from entering.

Cars driving through them must possess a Crit’Air sticker to show how much pollution their vehicle produces.

The stickers must be purchased online prior to driving into France, and be visible on your vehicle. 

The introduction of these zones has been met with frustration from drivers and driving associations, however, who say they will restrict the activity of people who cannot afford newer, less-polluting vehicles.

For those planning on driving in France,  The Connexion has provided a recap of all the key points relating to the scheme. 

What are Crit’Air stickers? 

Crit’Air stickers are small vignettes that must be displayed on any vehicle in a ZFE. 

They show how polluting a vehicle is, with the vehicle being given a sticker with one of six levels on a sliding scale.

The scale goes from a ‘0’ (for 100% electric or hydrogen vehicles) up to a ‘5’ (for the most polluting vehicles).

They must be placed either on the bottom right-hand side of a car’s windscreen or on the fork between a motorbike’s handlebars. 

The type of Crit’Air sticker your vehicle has can limit or exclude entirely the vehicle from areas with a ZFE, depending on the area you are driving through. 

In some areas such as Paris, cars with the highest emissions (stickers with a level of 4 or 5) are excluded between the hours of 08:00 and 20:00, or banned completely, such as in Rouen.

The plan is eventually for only the cleanest vehicles (cars with a Crit’Air level of 0, 1, or 2) to be allowed in these urban areas, although there are currently no cities with such restrictions.

Petrol vehicles first registered before 1997, and diesel vehicles first registered before 2001 are ineligible for a Crit’Air sticker, and are de facto banned from ZFEs.

Read more: A guide to Crit’Air stickers in France

Who does it apply to? Are there any exemptions? 

Essentially all vehicles driving through a ZFE will need one, including residents of the area, residents living elsewhere in France passing through, and even tourists – there is a dedicated space on the website for drivers outside of France to order their vignette.

Even if you do not intend to stop and only wish to drive through a ZFE zone, your vehicle will still need a Crit’Air sticker.

The rule applies for both four-wheeled vehicles and motorbikes. 

The only exception, currently, is if a car is classed as ‘classic’ – over 30 years old and in possession of a carte grise ‘véhicule de collection’ for older vehicles – it does not require a Crit’Air sticker.

Read also: Do foreign cars need to obtain a Crit’Air sticker to drive in France?

Where have ZFEs been introduced? 

In July, Clermont-Ferrand became the latest city to use a ZFE, bringing the total number of cities where you need a Crit'Air sticker to eleven.

These are: 

Greater Paris: Vehicles with a Crit’Air level of 4 or 5 are banned between 08:00 and 20:00 – original plans to also introduce the rules to level 3 stickers have been pushed back, possibly until after the 2024 Olympic games in the city. 

Rouen: All vehicles with a Crit’Air level of 4 or 5 are banned from entering the ZFE. 

Strasbourg: Crit’Air level 5 vehicles are banned from driving in the city’s ZFE, with Crit’Air 4 (2024) and 3 (2025) bans set to follow. 

Lyon: The same rules apply for Lyon as in Strasbourg, including the future inclusion of bans to Crit’Air level 4 and 3 cars. 

Grenoble: A ZFE is in place, but bans will only come into effect from July 1, 2023, for Crit’Air level 5 vehicles, with Crit’Air level 4 vehicles to follow at a later date.

Marseille/Aix-en-Provence: Crit’Air level 5 vehicles are banned from the city centre and surrounding area of Marseille, with level 4 vehicles set to follow suit in September 2023. 

Nice: Cars of a Crit’Air level 5 are banned in the city centre, but motorcycles are not yet (but will be at a future date).

Reims: Crit’Air level 4 and 5 vehicles are already banned, and level 3 vehicles will be banned from 2024.

Montpellier: From January 1, 2023, petrol cars registered before 1997, and diesel cars registered before 2001 (i.e, those not applicable for a Crit’Air vignette) have been banned, but fines were not dished out until July 1, 2023, as the city was in the ‘educational period’ for the scheme. Bans to level 5 and 4 cars will be implemented at a later date. 

Toulouse: Cars with a level 4 or 5 are banned from the city’s ZFE, however, the city has introduced a “ZFE pass” which allows cars of this level to drive in the city for up to 52 days across a calendar year. Outside of the days when the pass is in use, cars must be kept in garages or private parking spaces, or not enter the city. 

You can find out more about – and order – a pass from the official site here .

St Etienne: Cars registered before 1997 are banned from driving within the ZFE, but a ban on cars with a Crit’Air level of 4 or 5 will not come into place until 2025. 

Clermont-Ferrand:  Cars registered before 1997 are banned from driving within the ZFE, but an 'educational period' is in place until 2024 meaning fines will not be given.

Recent changes, however, mean that only five of the current cities with a ZFE in place will be required to ban Crit'Air level 4 and 3 vehicles in 2024 and 2025 respectively (if not already done so). You can read about them below.

Read more:  Where in France are low-emission zone restrictions being eased?

Read also: Crit’Air: Older cars in Toulouse can bypass rules with attestation

What other cities will be introducing them? 

Eventually, all urban areas in France with a population of more than 150,000 people will have a ZFE implemented. 

You can see a map of the areas set to implement a ZFE zone by 2025, below. 

How can I get a Crit’Air sticker? 

You can apply for a sticker at the official site here . 

The site also offers a simulation to see what Crit’Air level a vehicle will fall under. 

If you are applying for a Crit’Air sticker from abroad, click the Véhicule immatriculé à l'étranger button to order a specific vignette for foreign vehicles.

The cost of the sticker is €3.11, and with postage, the total price will be either €3.72 for those within France or €4.61 for those outside. 

When applying, you will need information from your car’s registration, or if applying from abroad you will need to upload a photo or scan of your vehicle’s registration document. 

The time to receive your sticker can increase during busy periods, with authorities previously warning it could take up to three weeks for vignettes to be sent out. 

There are a number of scams relating to Crit’Air stickers in France, which drivers should be aware of – and the only place to order a sticker is through the official site. 

Read also: Why you need to remain vigilant about Crit’Air fine texts in France

Read also: How do I get a French Crit’Air sticker for foreign classic car?

What do people think of the scheme? 

Whilst the aim of the scheme is to limit any polluting cars in major French cities, a number of criticisms over the scheme’s harshness on drivers have been raised. 

The Fédération Française des Motards en Colère , who represent motorcyclists, say their vehicles only produce a tiny fraction of overall pollution on city roads, and should not be included in the scheme. 

A petition calling for the ban of ZFEs in France has racked up almost 250,000 signatures, calling the zones an “ecological heresy”, saying it will “scrap millions of cars still in working condition,” across the country. 

Despite the general dissatisfaction by drivers, others believe the need for eco-friendly policies outweighs the inconveniences of the zones. 

“You have to keep up with the times, there's a lot of pollution. Everyone has to play the game, so for me the stickers are a positive thing and a very good idea," said a shopkeeper from Toulon on BFMTV about the new implementation of the zone in the city. 

Read also: Low-emission zones are a bad idea, say French greens

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Driving in France

A car is probably the best way to explore France in total freedom. From motorways to departmental roads and country lanes, the French road network is very dense. However, traveling by car in France needs some requirements.

Documents for Driving in France

You may be asked to produce your documents at any time. Make sure that they are in order and readily available to avoid the risk of a police fine or even having your car taken away. You will need:

• A valid full (not provisional) driving licence
• A vehicle registration document (V5c) - the original not a copy, called "carte grise" (grey card) in France
• A motor insurance certificate
• Passport(s)

If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive.

When you are driving in France, a GB sticker needs to be clearly displayed on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates' (number-plates that show a circle of 12 stars on a blue background).

What you need to take in your car when driving in France

• A warning triangle and a fluorescent safety vest . If your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident, you must give warning to approaching traffic. Drivers must position the warning triangle on the road surface immediately upon exiting the vehicle at a distance of at least 30 meters from it or from the obstacle in question.
• A breathalyser . Anyone failing to produce a breathalyser when requested will receive an on the spot fine of €11.The official announcement states that one unused, certified breathalyser must be produced showing the French certification mark NF. Carrying two single-use breathalysers will ensure that if one is used or damaged, you will still have a spare to produce.

Speed camera alerts

Devices capable of detecting speed cameras are forbidden when driving in France. This includes products or devices able to warn or inform of the location of speed cameras e.g. Satnav or GPS systems capable of showing speed camera sites as Points of Interest.

Speed limits

Unless otherwise signposted and on dry roads

• 130 km/h (80 mph) on toll motorways
• 110 km/h (68 mph) on dual carriageways and motorways without tolls
• 80 km/h (50 mph) on other roads
• 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns. Town name starts the limit, a bar through the town name is the derestriction sign

On wet roads

110 km/h (68 mph) on toll motorways

100 km/h (62 mph) on dual carriageways and motorways without tolls

On motorways in foggy conditions, when visibility is less than 50 m, the speed is limited at 50km/h (31 mph)

Driving in France with a caravan

• If the weight of the trailer exceeds that of the car, the speed limits are lower: 65 km/h (40 mph) if the excess is less than 30%, or 45km/h (28 mph) if the excess is more than 30%.

Please note

• During the first 3 years after passing your test, you must not exceed: 80 km/h (50 mph) on roads, 100 km/h (62 mph) on urban motorways and 110 km/h (68 mph) on motorways.
• On motorways there is a minimum speed limit of 80 km/h (50 mph) for vehicles travelling in the left lane (ie outside lane).

Minimum age for driving in France is 18 for a car and a motorcycle over 125cc and 15 for a motorcycle under 125cc. France has very strict drink driving laws. You are allowed a maximum of 0.5mg/ml of alcohol per litre in your blood , compared to 0.8mg/ml in the UK. Drivers who test positive for a substance classified as a narcotic face up to two years imprisonment and a €4,500 fine. During the first 3 years after passing your test, the limit is 0.2mg/ml, which means 0 unite of alcohol.

Alcohol penalties:

• 0.8mg/litre blood: you will have to go to court; maximum fine: 4.500€
• 0.5 and 0.8mg /litre blood: standard fine: 135€

Speeding penalties :

• 50km/h (31 mph): you will have to go to court; maximum fine: 1.500€
• 40km/h (25 mph): you will have to go to court; maximum fine: 750€
• 30km/h (19 mph): you will have to go to court; maximum fine: 135€

Mobile penalties

It is illegal to use a mobile phone behind the wheel, regardless of whether it is operated with a hands free kit. On-the-spot fines of up to €135 could be issued.

Driving in France with children

Children under 10 must be in the back seat and must use a proper restraint system appropriate to their weight, which means a child seat if they are between 9 to 15kg. Over this weight they can use a seat belt with a booster seat.

Driving in France requires adjusting the beam pattern to suit driving on the right so that the dipped beam doesn't dazzle oncoming drivers.

Motorcycles over 125cc must use dipped headlights during the day at all times.

• Travelling in France
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Find out more:

• French Motorway Website (External link)
• Route Planner (External link)

Practical info

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Accidents or breakdown.

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Speed limit & speed cameras, you & your car in france, latest posts.

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Drive-France

Driving in France

Serge Mouraret / Getty Images

France is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the world, let alone Western Europe. Fortunately, the country has a very good road system that accommodates all the visitors, with more road coverage than any other country in the European Union.

France has a total of 965,916 kilometers (600,192 miles) of local, secondary, main roads, and motorways.​ While many travelers like using local public transportation and the fast trains the country offers, others prefer renting a vehicle to move around with a bit more freedom and mobility.

Driving Requirements

Adults 18 and above can drive in France. Driver's licenses issued in one of the European Economic Area (EEA) states are valid indefinitely, while licenses from outside of Europe are acceptable for up to one year in France. Bring passports for all people in the car, car insurance documents, the car's registration certificate , and your M.O.T. certificate (for cars over three years old, proving the vehicle meets environmental and road safety standards).

Check with your insurance company regarding whether you will be fully covered while driving in France, and bring their phone number with you. When you rent a car, insurance should be included; make sure you and anyone planning to drive the car is properly insured.

In France, it is required to carry breathalyzers in your car, although the law isn’t enforced and there is no penalty for drivers caught without a breathalyzer. If you have an accident, by law you and all passengers must put on a high-visibility vest before exiting the car.

Checklist for Driving in France

• Driver's license (required)
• Proof of insurance (required)
• Breathalyzer (required)
• Safety vest (required)

Rules of the Road

• Following signs : Look for destination signs rather than road numbers if you can. As there are so many authorities involved in road management, the road you are on can change from an ‘N’ road to a ‘D’ road without warning, and also change its number.
• Developed areas : Give way to traffic coming from the right ( priorit é   à  droite) even when it's unclear (such as at complicated intersections without signs). Do not use a horn unless it is an emergency.
• Handling roundabouts : Drive with caution. If you see the signs Vous n’avez pas la priorit é or C é dez le passage you must yield to the traffic already   on the roundabout which has priority. If there are no signs, traffic entering the roundabout has priority.
• Gas stations : Use a map app to find the station closest to you, and pay by the liter in euros. Many cars require diesel fuel versus gasoline ( petrol ). Avoid buying fuel which is a type of red diesel sold to farmers.
• Cell phones : The only phone legal to use while driving is completely hands-free and doesn't require a headphone. If you are caught using a mobile phone while driving, you are liable to an on-the-spot fine, and penalty points if you have a French driving license. 
• Children and car seats : Children under 13 must be in car seats or wearing seat belts appropriate for their age and height. Babies and infants about a year old or under should always be positioned in rear-facing car seats. 
• Seat belts : They must be worn all the time by both adults and children in the front and back seats. Rear passengers can only travel without seat belts in the back of older cars in which they are not fitted.
• Alcohol : France has strict laws—the permitted alcohol blood level for drivers is very low, at 0.02 percent blood alcohol content. Penalties including imprisonment can be serious for drivers pulled over. French gendarmes (police) can stop you randomly to check your papers and carry out the test for alcohol. 
• In case of an emergency : Dial 15 from a French mobile phone if the accident is serious—for the ambulance service ( Service d'Aide Médical d'Urgence, Medical Emergency Aid Service ). On a non-French phone, call 112. Mention your exact location and the circumstance of the incident. Call 18 for the French fire brigade ( les pompiers ), also trained to deal with medical emergencies. They are often the first to arrive in case of road injuries, and in rural areas, they will probably arrive the fastest and provide an ambulance service.

Road Numbers

Roads in France are diverse, with everything from major highways to single-lane roads in the rural areas. Get familiar with the different types of roads so you'll feel comfortable on your journey.

• A roads (as in A6) are motorways, called autoroutes in France.
• N roads are national strategic truck routes.
• D roads are departmental (county) roads. They range from busy local routes and former national routes now downgraded (make sure you have an up-to-date map with the new road numbers) to tiny country lanes.
• France also displays a European road number. French numbers are in white on a red background; European numbers are white on a green background.
• The word péage at the bottom of the sign indicates a toll road ahead.
• You may see direction signs with the word Bis . These are holiday routes along less crowded roads. So if you see Bis Strasbourg , this is an alternative route avoiding main roads. They will probably be slower, but there will be less truck traffic, and you may avoid traffic jams.

Using Highways (Autoroutes)

There are tolls on nearly all motorways (called autoroutes) in France. The only exceptions to this are where the autoroute has been created from an already existing road, and around major towns and cities.

You take a ticket as you enter the motorway from a machine, and pay when you exit the motorway. At some motorway péages , there will be no person at the booth. Many autoroute exit machines accept credit and debit cards. If you're paying by cash, check the ticket you pick up at the entrance to the motorway, as some will have the price at various exits printed on the ticket.

If you don't want to pay by credit card (which is more expensive once you've taken charges and exchange rates into consideration) make sure you have change. When you get to the exit, put your card into the machine, and it will tell you how much to pay. If you're paying by cash and only have notes, the machine will give you change. It will also have a button for a receipt (a reçu ) if you need one.

If you regularly drive in France or are taking a long journey, Sanef France has extended the Liber-t automated French tolls payment service to U.K. motorists. Go on to the U.K. Sanef site to enroll. You can then pass through the gates with the sign of a large orange ‘t’ on a black background. If you’re alone and in a right-hand drive car, it does save you from either leaning over or getting out to pay the toll and holding up what might be a queue of irate drivers in a hurry. It will cost you a little more in upfront fees, but it may be worth it.

Busy Times on French Roads

The busiest time of the year is the summer, which runs from around July 14 when the schools start their summer holidays to around September 4 (when the schools open). Other school holidays when you can expect more traffic on the roads include the last week of February and the first week of March, Easter , and from the end of April to the second week of May.

Public holidays when the roads are busy include April 1, May 1, May 8, May 9, May 20, July 14 , August 15, November 1, November 11, December 25, and January 1.

If You Are in a Road Accident in France

If your car is immobilized on the road or partly on the road due to a breakdown or an accident, you must set up a red warning triangle at a suitable distance behind the vehicle, so approaching traffic will know there is a hazard.

You will be asked to fill in a constat amiable (friendly declaration) by the driver of any French car involved. If you can, call your insurance company at once on your mobile phone. They may be able to put you in contact with a local French insurance representative. If there are any injuries involved, even if it is not your fault, you must stay with the car until the police arrive.

Renting a Car

There are car rental companies all over the country, in major and small cities and at airports. All the big names have a presence in France. If you're planning a longer stay, then consider the very good-value Renault Eurodrive Buy-Back Car Leasing Scheme . Most cars are stick shift, so specify if you would like an automatic transmissions car.

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• Driving in France

Everything you need to know before driving in France

• Explore France ►
• France in brief
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A guide to the roads and motorways of France

• COVID .  Covid vaccination is recommended for all potentially "at risk" people, notably the elderly (over 60s). Masks may remain recommended  or obligatory in some places, notably hospitals, doctors' surgeries and some other places. Visitors are recommended to  carry a Covid vaccination status attestation (vaccination certificate on paper or on mobile phone). UK NHS or EU covid attestations are accepted,
• Summer 2024 - PARIS OLYMPICS . . The Olympic Games are being held in and around Paris from 26 July to 11 August 2024. Drivers are particularly advised to avoid the Paris area during this period.
• Driving license . Drivers from the UK,  EU countries, Switzerland,and EEA countries. Your national drivers license is valid in France for tourism travel up to twelve months, and for students studying in France for the duration of their student visa. Drivers with licenses from other countries must have a valid national license PLUS either an official translation into French or an IDP ( International Drivers Permit) ), which can be obtained ► here . An IDP is recommended, though not required, for drivers with a license issued in the USA (though it is required in some other parts of Europe).
• Low Emission Zones - A growing number of French cities, including all big cities, now have ZFE's – LEZ Low Emission Zones – from which more polluting vehicles are excluded... as are all vehicles not showing an air-quality sticker, known as a Crit'Air badge. Among cties concerned is Rouen, which is right on the route for many drivers heading south from Calais or Dieppe. Currently access to Rouen, or through Rouen, is forbidden to vehicles classed Crit'Air 4 or 5 - essentially diesels older than 2006 and petrol cars from before 1997. Crit'Air stickers for French or foreign registered vehicles can be obtained online from the French Government Website (in English) and cost €4.76. Visit the site to apply for your sticker. Even if you have an electric vehicle, you must display a Crit'Air sticker to drive into or through any city with a low emission zone - or face a fine.

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY...... AVOID THE BUSIEST WEEKENDS Summer 2024

Official traffic density forecasts:.

MOTORWAYS OR NOT ?

►french motorways:, principal signs on french motorway toll gates:  .

• X -  Red cross : closed -

2024 Motorway tolls in France  - 

► free motorways and routes avoiding tolls .

• ►  toll-free route to Southwest France and northern Spain ►   toll-free route the Alps and the Mediterranean

• two thirds of the section on the A16 - A28 route between Calais and Rouen
• the A 84 from Caen to Rennes
• 275 km of the A20 from Vierzon to just south of Brive la Gaillarde (the longest stretch of free motorway in France, and the main Paris-Toulouse route).
• 340 km of the A75 motorway between Clermont Ferrand and Beziers - an alternate route for people driving to Languedoc and the Spanish border. Note however the Millau viaduct has a toll ( Toll prices ). Mountain motorway not recommended for caravans or in winter.
• the motorway between Dunkerque and Lille .
• Most urban and suburban autoroutes in France are also free; and even when they are not, it makes more sense to pay the toll and avoid miles of traffic lights and congestion.
• Main arterial roads west of Rennes, in Brittany
• The N 10 from Poitiers to Bordeaux . See map of routes through France.

► TRUNK ROADS  - arterial roads:

Road numbering in france.

Avoiding main roads in France

"bison futé" and driving on the byways of france.

"Routes bis"

► avoiding paris, night driving in france, ►hgv restrictions in france, ► petrol (gas) stations in france, fuel prices in france :, ev (electric vehicle) recharging in france :, ► overnight stops., driving in france -  maps.

► South from Calais - best routes to the south of France

► Real time  map   showing traffic congestion and hazards on French roads. Zoom in.

  ► French motorways map

► Southwest :  A10 Tours - Bordeaux - E5

► Southeast :  A26  via Reims - E17, E15

► East - West :   E19 - E44 from Belgium

►  to SW France and N Spain

►   to the Alps and the Mediterranean

► Driving in Spain

New speed cameras.  

• January 1st, New year's day
• Easter Monday (though not Good Friday except in Alsace),
• May 1st, Labour Day, Fête du Travail
• May 8th, Armistice Day
• Ascension Thursday
• July 14th, Bastille Day, Fête Nationale
• August 15th, French August bank holiday
• November 1st, Toussaint, All Saints' Day
• November 11th, Armistice, first world war.
• Christmas (though not Boxing Day)
• Driving in Spain
• Driving in Britain for foreign visitors
• Driving in Quebec (and Canada)
• Driving in the USA  

15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)

Chock full of storybook-worthy villages, beautiful castles, and incredibly epic and diverse nature–from the Alps to the beaches of the Riviera to the lavender fields of Provence and the cliffs of Etretat and beyond–it’s not hard to understand why taking a France road trip tops so many bucket lists around the world.

Throw in excellent roads, a great travel infrastructure, and enough exciting places to see that you could spend a lifetime traversing it without turning over every stone, there’s no doubt that a road trip through France is an amazing way to see the country.

We’ve rounded up the best France road trip itinerary ideas here, covering all corners of the country–plus included important France driving tips you’ll need to know before setting off!

Table of Contents

Logistical Tips for Driving in France

Other france road trip tips, 15 of the best road trips in france.

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Rent the smallest car you can.

Especially if you’re coming from the USA like us, you’ll likely find French roads–especially in small villages and in the countryside–are smaller than what you’re used to.

Save on gas, rental costs, and stress while driving in France by renting the smallest car you can manage to fit yourselves and your belongings into.

We recommend searching for your (tiny) rental car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Book your rental car for your France road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

Like the rest of Europe, manual cars are the norm in France.

If you only drive automatic, you’ll absolutely be able to find a car to rent for your France road trip… but be prepared to plan ahead (especially if you’re traveling during the busy season when the cars get reserved quickly), and to pay extra fees for the privilege.

Always carry cash… just in case. 

While you can generally pay tolls (and they are pricey–budget accordingly!) with a Visa or Mastercard in France, you never know when you’re going to need cash for gas or small restaurants.

When taking a driving in France, it’s best to always have some Euros with you–and don’t forget to carry small coins for bathroom fees!

Plan your parking in advance.

This especially applies overnight–ie, look for hotels that include parking or have a plan for parking listed–but also during day trips. 

For example, our trip to Cassis would have been much easier if we had researched the parking situation beforehand and paid to reserve a spot in one of the parking garages in town.

For hotels, we use Booking.com and ideally look for places using the “free parking onsite” filter.

Depending on where you are going during your road trip in France, though, free parking may not be possible–in that case, carefully check and see what hotels have reasonably-priced parking nearby.

A hotel that is an extra 20 Euros/night may end up being an excellent deal if there’s inexpensive parking nearby!

Strongly consider purchasing extra insurance.

Driving on unfamiliar roads in a foreign country is always going to be an exercise in risk-taking.

While driving in France is typically perfectly safe, if you’re not used to driving in congested urban environments or driving abroad, we’d recommend that you strongly consider purchasing additional CDW (collision damage) insurance for your vehicle–though going through the rental agency is often the most expensive place you can buy this coverage.

Check first to see if your credit card covers it (and in France specifically–not just in your home country), and if they don’t, some insurance policies do.

Get a quote to insure your France road trip today!

Not all gas stations are self-service.

We’ve come across both self-service and attendant-provided gas stations in France–when you pull up to get gas, take a quick look around to see what the other drivers are doing before jumping out of your car!

An International Driver’s Permit isn’t required. 

Unlike in Italy, an International Driver’s Permit isn’t required to rent a car or drive in France (though you do, of course, need to be licensed to drive–for example, driver’s licenses from our home country of the USA are valid for driving in France as a tourist).

However, if your license is written in something other than English or French, or you just want to make any potential communication easier, you may want to consider getting one anyway.

Your life will be easier if you buy a French SIM card.  

This assumes your phone is unlocked, of course, but seriously: getting a local SIM card before taking off on your road trip in France will make your life so much easier!

Having access to everything from a GPS to restaurant reviews is a huge benefit of traveling in the modern age, and bringing those tools along with you as you explore France by car is a fantastic idea.

You can absolutely purchase a local SIM card once you arrive, but if you want to get everything set up before you go, you can also purchase a France SIM card at home in advance.

Pack toilet paper.

Rest stops along highways in France will generally have toilets, but toilet paper is far from guaranteed–best to bring your own just in case.

I usually carry a pack of these with me in my purse when I travel, and they’ve come in handy more than once when driving in France.

Brush up on your French.

Ubiquitous advice for traveling in France, I know, and not exclusive to a road trip in France, but I promise that at least being able to ask for (and follow) simple driving directions in French–not to mention reading basic road signs–will make your France road trip much better!

The first rule of road trips in France: leave room for spontaneity!

One of the best things about taking a road trip in France is that no matter how carefully you plan, no matter how much research you do, you’re still bound to show up in the country and be blown away by something you had never heard of before.

So, just roll with it… and leave room for new discoveries.

I’m a big planner myself, so I get the urge to organize every. last. detail. 

… But during our own trips exploring France by car, I’m also so glad that we randomly decided to spend extra time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, that we gave Port Miou a chance when we saw photos of how lovely it was, that we delayed our departure from Annecy because its market was coming to town, and that we ended up cutting Roussillon from our Luberon Valley trip because we simply weren’t ready to say goodbye to Goult.

In other words: sketch an outline of your days and nights, yes, but be open to changes. Those stops may just end up being some of your favorite stops during your France road trip!

Pay attention to market days (and show up early).

Visiting local markets in all of France’s adorable villages is one of my favorite parts of taking a road trip in France: with a car, there’s no need to worry about managing train times or having to skip the tiniest villages.

If at all possible, aim to visit towns on their market days. Depending on the town, this is generally one, two, or three times a week. Many villages have a small daily market, with larger markets on certain days–those are the ones to aim for.

Also: show up early! Early in the morning is the absolute best time to visit markets on your France road trip. You’ll get to experience both the smallest crowds and also have your pick of the best products before they potentially sell out for the day.

Pack a picnic on travel days.

All those markets full of delicious bread, cheese, meat, and produce that you pass each day? Those are your future lunch!

Double up on practical purchases and fun experiences in France by using market days to stock up on picnic materials to use during your days spent driving in France.

Rest stops in France are plentiful along the highways (look for the signs for “aires”), and are generally very clean and well-stocked, with some even including restaurants.

Don’t change locations every day.

Packing your bags, checking in and out of a hotel, loading the car, unloading the car… all of these things may not seem like much, but by the fifth or sixth day in a row, you’ll be incredibly tired of doing it.

These kinds of transitions eat up way more of each day of your France road trip than the estimated driving time between whatever two towns you’re visiting–so do yourself a favor and limit the number of times you swap lodging.

Instead, set up a series of bases for at least a few days each, and use your rental car to take day trips from there.

For example, we used Avignon as a base to visit the Luberon Valley and Alpilles, and Aix-en-Provence as a base to visit Cassis!

Focus primarily on smaller towns & natural attractions.

Don’t get me wrong–we adore France’s cities, but places like Paris, Lyon, and Nice don’t require a car to visit–quite the opposite. A car is a hindrance there!

One of our France driving tips is to focus on the smaller towns, beautiful countryside, dramatic castles, and endless natural highlights (beaches, lakes, mountains–you choose!) that make up this incredibly diverse and beautiful country.

If you hope to include any of France’s major cities as part of your itinerary, we recommend visiting them at the beginning or end of your trip and only renting your car when you’re ready to leave and head to smaller towns.

The slow pace is part of the fun.

Often, the best memories from a trip are the ones where you let go of the long wish list of towns and villages you hope to see, the markets you want to visit, and the tourist sights you can’t miss and just. breathe.

I learn this again virtually every time I go to France: some of my best memories in the country are of the day we did literally nothing but walk around Colmar and admire how beautiful it was, the day we lounged in Paris’ Luxembourg Gardens all afternoon, the days we’ve sat at outdoor cafes for hours because the sunshine and people-watching felt too good to leave behind, and the long, leisurely lunch we ate in Goult .

Each and every one of those memories is something we exchanged for missing out on a piece of sightseeing or photo-taking or research we had planned to do–something that seemed important at the time.

I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Write down where you go.

Sure, no one is going to forget visiting Nice or Aix-en-Provence… but that tiny town with the cute fruit stand you passed through that one afternoon? Yeah, that name will fade almost immediately.

You’ll want to remember the names of all the small villages you visited, pretty beaches you swam at, cozy restaurants you ate at, and hiking trails you conquered long after your France road trip is finished, so write them down as you go!

Jeremy loves to star the places we visit on Google maps, and I keep my own record in my One Line a Day journal that I’ve been keeping daily for years (and highly recommend!).

Alsace Wine Route

From Arzo of Arzo Travels

A  fun road trip to take is from Strasbourg to Colmar (or the other way around) which is also known as the Alsace Wine Route .

Especially in the summer months (or early fall), it is a beautiful drive with scenic window views and many beautiful towns, villages, and cities along the way.

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the most famous road trips in France and besides being a beautiful place, it has a lot about…well, you guessed it, wine. 

Start your trip in Strasbourg (which is not officially part of the Alsace wine route), the beautiful main city in the region, and explore what it has to offer, including lots of half-timbered houses and many medieval buildings, and then plan in time for stops like Obernai, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.

These are all beautiful little villages, though Riquewihr is probably the prettiest of all. 

Then it is time to end your tour in Colmar where you can end your road trip and explore one of the cutest towns in the country.

If you are a wine drinker, you can visit the vineyards along the way and try out some of the local wines in the wineries or restaurants. They are supposed to be some of the best wines in the country!

Driving Distance

170km or 105 miles.

Recommended Road Trip Length

3 days is the absolute minimum for this road trip. 4 or 5 days are the better options if you do not want to rush and like to do some wine tasting.

Marseilles to Nice

From Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

After exploring Marseilles , why not head eastwards along the gorgeous coastal road to Nice? The drive is best done at a leisurely pace over a few days so you can savor the delights of Provence and the Cȏte d’Azur. 

The coastal road has many spectacular views and the first is as you leave Marseilles. Les Calanques are dramatic, sheer-sided coastal inlets that have been carved through the limestone and they can be found between Marseilles, Cassis , and La Ciotat. 

A little further on you will be tempted by the seven beautiful sandy beaches of La Croix Valmer.

The first main stop is St Tropez, a favorite with the international jet-set in the sixties. It is still popular for its beaches and nightlife. Those ‘in the know’ explore Port Grimaud- the Crêpes au Chocolat (chocolate pancakes) and cider are worth sampling. 

Cannes is another famous city, loved by the super-rich and known for its international film festival. Antibes lies close to Nice and is a delightful old town with ramparts and once Picasso’s home. 

There will be many other detours inland to make to Domaines (wineries) to sample the area’s superb rosé and villages like Maximin-Le-Sainte- Baume with its famous basilica and Grasse (north of Cannes) is world-famous for its perfume industry. 

St Paul de Vence is loved by painters and writers. When you arrive in Nice, you will be able to park the car and leave it, as there is a large traffic-free zone in the center.

235 km or 146 miles.

Suggested Road Trip Length

It takes around 3 hours to drive between Marseille and Nice but if you really want to enjoy the area explore Marseille, Nice and a few towns between I suggest you spend around 4 to 5 days on this South of France road trip.

The Champagne Route

From Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

Without a doubt, France’s Champagne Route is one of the most popular driving tours in the country.

When driving the  Champagne Route of France there are several routes to consider, including Massif Saint Thiery Route the northern route starting from Reims, Marne Valley Route from Epernay, and the Cote des Blancs Route from the south of Epernay. There are also others, or you can mix and match to create your own France road trip route!

If you only want to visit some of the major towns you can start from Troyes and head to Epernay, then onto Reims.

There are many small towns and villages around the Champagne region to visit.  The routes will take you past beautiful chateaux, quaint villages, churches, and many champagne houses.

The major champagne houses such as Mercier and Moet Chandon can be found in Epernay and in Reims you can visit Veuve Clicquot, Mumm, Taittinger and many smaller boutique champagnes houses as well.

The best months to visit are between May and October.

The Champagne region is easy to travel to from Paris.  The journey from Paris to Reims is only 45 minutes and from Paris to Epernay 1 hour 10 minutes.

The distance from Troyes to Epernay is 112 km or 70 miles, and Epernay to Reims is 29 km or 16 miles.

You can visit either town on a day trip and visit some of the Champagne Houses within walking distance of the train station.  The ideal time to enjoy all that the Champagne region has to offer is between 5 – 7 days.

The Opal Coast

From Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Paris to Normandy Road Trip

The following Paris to Normandy road trip is ideal for those looking to escape the city for a few days to a natural and verdant environment.

From Paris, go north to Mont Saint Michel (4-hour drive), where you should stay for at least 1 night. Consider taking the toll-free road which adds 30 minutes to your driving time, but gives you the chance to drive through Normandy’s charming villages and countryside. 

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, walk, bike, or take public transportation to the island that is Mont Saint Michel. When visiting Mont Saint Michel during low tide, go onto the island, grab a spot along the high stone wall and witness the rising of the tide as the sea surrounds the island, isolating it from the mainland.

The next day, drive east to Étretat. Consider spending half a day to a full day here.

While Giverny may have been home to impressionist painters, Étretat was their inspiration. Étretat sits on the Normandy coast and is home to where grayish-white limestone cliffs meet the untamed blue sea. The cliff tops are paved with dirt paths and staircases making them accessible for walking, hiking, and sight-seeing.

On your way back to Paris from Étretat, stop in Honfleur to aimlessly walk through the port and old town. The various architectures are beautiful in their own right: the medieval old town and the port with its tightly packed, vertical, colorful buildings. When you’ve finished exploring Honfleur, it’s an estimated 2.5-hours drive to Paris.

This road trip from Paris through Normandy and back can be comfortably done in 3 days. 

The French Alps from Chamonix

From Whitney of Designs for Travel

One of the most incredible road trips in France is through the Frech Alps.  With the beautiful green mountains (or white in the snowy season), aqua blue lakes, and quaint chalets, the Frech Alps is one of the most picturesque areas in Europe. 

This Frech Alps road trip is a loop that starts and ends in the popular adventure town of Chamonix.  The closest major airport is Geneva, Switzerland.

Start in Chamonix, a beautiful resort town at the base of Mont Blanc.  It’s one of the best places to ski in the winter, but I recommend taking this trip in the summer, where you can take a gondola to the top, and enjoy the panoramic views and do some hiking. 

The next stop on this road trip is 1 hour and 20 minutes west, to the gorgeous alpine town of Annecy .  The pristine lake, river, cobbled old town, pastel cottages, and medieval chateau make Annecy a must-see town in the Alps. 

From here, head east to Le Grand Bornand, another beautiful alpine resort town.  Drive back to Chamonix for a raclette dinner, which is sure to be a favorite meal.

After visiting France, if you have more time, you can drive south to Italy to continue your road trip.

130 miles, 210 kilometers.

This road trip itinerary can easily be done in 3 days and if you have more time, a week is even better!

Gorges du Verdon + Valensole Plateau Road Trip

From Elisa of France Bucket List

This 2-day road trip in Southern France covers the Verdon National Park and some of the best  lavender fields in Provence . This French road trip starts in the city of Aix-en-Provence, and it takes two days. Aix-en-Provence is the quintessential Provencal city with many interesting things to see and do. Ideally, take one day or two to visit Aix-en-Provence before hitting the road.

From Aix-en-Provence, drive to Valensole, a pretty small town world-known for its lavender fields. Enjoy these never-ending seas of ‘blue gold’- it is not only beautiful to see, but it also smells very good!

Back to the road, drive to the Verdon National Park and stop at Esparron de Verdon and Lac Quinson de Verdon, two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. At Lac de Quinson, you can rent a kayak or an electric road and explore the Gorges du Verdon from the water.

Spend the night at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque hilltop village with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France’.

Day two visits Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. This is the main lake in the area, and the perfect place to relax on the beach and have a picnic with a view. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Aiguines, which is less touristy than Moustiers and with a more local atmosphere.  Have an alfresco dinner in one of the two restaurants on the main square before driving back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for the last night of this road trip.

270 km, 168 miles.  

This road trip lasts two days. Add one or two more days if you want to visit Aix-en-Provence.

Bordeaux + France’s West Coast

From Kat of Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for a mixture of beautiful sandy beaches, cities, and dramatic scenery, head for the west coast of France. 

You can begin your trip almost anywhere along the coast, but let’s start in the major hub of Bordeaux. Here you can hire a car or camper van and set off on your adventure, but take a day or two first to explore this beautiful city.

If you only have one day, focus your time on the Cathedral and the mirror pool (you’ll need to wake up very early to nab photos here without the crowds).

Once you leave the city, you have some choices to make. Do you want wine, sea, or one of the most incredible natural wonders you’ve ever seen?

Bordeaux is surrounded by vineyards and they are all worth visiting. If you’re  touring France in a motorhome , you can even stay overnight at many of the vineyards (no worrying about drinking and driving!)

If you want to be wowed, head to Arcachon and the jaw-dropping Dune du Pilat. This natural wonder is the largest sand dune in Europe, standing at around 106m high and runs for nearly 3km. Walking up it is not for the faint-hearted!

Lastly, if you want to see more of the beautiful Atlantic coastline, head up to Île de Ré. This stunning island has some beautiful beaches and is a great place to witness the incredible sunsets you find on the French coast. 

From Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré (past Bordeaux), this driving trip in France is 276 km or 172 miles.

You can drive from Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré in under 3 hours if traffic is clear.

However, we recommend at least a day in Bordeaux, a day near the dune and Arcachon, and a day on Ile de Re, so allow at least 3/ 4 days for your trip. 

Calais to the Pyrenees Loop

From Jenny of TraveLynn Family

For those located in the UK, Calais is an obvious starting point for a France road trip as it’s a short crossing from Kent, either on the ferry or Eurotunnel. This Calais to the Pyrenees road trip  itinerary does a big loop down to the Pyrenees via the Auvergne and Perpignan, then back up again via Bayonne, Île d’Oléron, and the Loire Valley, returning to Calais.

Between each stop is about 4 to 5 hours of driving, although do note that this is along tolled roads (which can add up, but they are very efficient).

Staying at campsites, this summer itinerary steers away from main tourist sites and explores the French countryside, rather than the cities. It is advisable to take a bike to explore each stop further using the many cycle lanes and marked tracks. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit , as there are lots of opportunities for a dip to cool off after a day of exploring.

From the peaceful wooded valleys of the Auvergne to the Catalan charm of the Western Mediterranean; the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees to the fashionable beaches of the Basque country; and the idyllic fishing villages of Ile d’Oléron to the chateaux of the Loire Valley steeped in history; each stop is notably distinct from the other, providing a true cross-section of cultures and landscapes across the French countryside.

2005 miles 0r 3225 kilometers (using toll roads).

The French Alps From Grenoble

From Sasha of The Alternative Travel Guide

149  km / 92 miles.

Recommended Trip Length

Gorges du Tarn

Gorges du Tarn  offers one of the most scenic landscapes in Southern France, which makes it the perfect destination for a road trip. This loop road trip will take you along the rivers Tarn and La Jonte in the Causses and Cévennes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The trip starts and ends in Millau, a sleepy Medieval town, famous for the tallest bridge in the world – the Millau Viaduct. After visiting the bridge, head to the hamlet of Peyre, which is literally glued to the rocks – a fine example of the so-called ‘ troglodyte ’ villages. The area abounds in this type of dwellings, where the backside is carved into the rocks and only the façade is at street level.

After Peyre, head upstream the Tarn all the way to Florac. The dramatic gorge, cut by the Tarn, is dotted with a string of cute little villages and hamlets: Les Vignes, La Malène, Hauterives, Saint-Chély-du-Tarn, Sainte-Enimie, Prades, Castelbouc, Ispagnac.

At Les Vignes make a detour (11 km/ 7 miles) to Point Sublime for the most breathtaking views of the gorge. At La Malène, you can take a boat tour on the Tarn with the famous flat-bottom boats of Les Bateliers.

Another village that deserves more attention is Sainte-Enimie. Together with Peyre, it’s included on the official list of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

From Florac, take D16 across Causse Méjean and visit the incredible cave, Aven Armand. Afterward, take D986 to Meyrueis and continue downstream La Jonte, following D996 and Gorges de la Jonte. The last stop on this road trip, before you return to Millau, are the twin towns of Le Rozier and Peyreleau.

215 km or 135 miles.

Although you can cover the whole distance in one day, I highly recommend that you do this in at least 3 or 4 days. The best time to do the trip is in the summer – between June and September, as in the low season as most places will be closed.

Cannes to Saint-Tropez

From Elena of Passion for Hospitality

The Côte d’Azur, or the French Riviera , is one of the most breathtaking coastlines, lined with picturesque cosmopolitan coastal towns and villages, golden beaches, rich nature scenes, the southeast corner of France has been blessed by natural beauty.

Driving from Cannes to St. Tropez is definitely a good way for those seeking to discover the gems of the French Riviera while enjoying a relaxed hustle-free little trip. 

To get the most out of the road-trip make sure to start early in the morning from Cannes. The first stop is Theoule-sur-Mer, a small medieval town located on the Golfe de La Napoule. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay La Pointe de l’Aiguille or grab a delicious coffee and croissant before departing for the next destination, the resort town of St. Raphael.

We recommend enjoying lunch by the harbor’s restaurants and later, losing yourself around the narrow streets of the colorful old town. The last stop before reaching St. Tropez, where an overnight stop is recommended, is Saint Maxime, a quiet small village which landscape has inspired and continues to do so for many artists and writers.

Depending on your budget there are many different accommodations options, from simple cozy apartments by the beach, to luxurious resorts. 

Alongside the coastal road, there are many little spots scattered, where drivers could take a quick stop to admire the dazzling views, take a few photographs or stretch their legs. 

85 kilometers / 53 Miles 

It is an hour and a half car trip from one city to the other. With the short and one overnight stop, we recommend 2 days enough for this trip.

Toulouse to Andorra Loop

From Ucman of BrownBoyTravels

The tiny sovereign state of Andorra is a mere 190km from Toulouse and makes a perfect road trip back and forth which can be easily done over a weekend. 

Leaving Toulouse in the early morning, you will head in the southwestern direction to the highway. If you want a more scenic route head to Lacroix-Falgarde. The small rural roads will eventually lead you towards the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees appear shortly and the midi- Pyrenees towns and villages take over.

They are perfect for a coffee break or if you are going slowly, for a lunch break. These quaint little villages and towns offer a great insight into the southern french style of life. The streets are neatly trimmed and the everblooming shadow of Pyrenees mountain range dominates everything ever so lovingly.

The drive here is quite easy and simple but that changes significantly when you reach the mountain range. The roads become narrow and the sharp turns take over. The elevation also increases quite dramatically, make sure to take a break to pop your ears. 

The drive is really beautiful here especially in winter with the snow but also quite dangerous, black snow is a real threat here so drive with caution. 

If you drive fast you can cover this entire distance from Toulouse to Andorra La Vella in 3-4 hours but I’d recommend taking a day and going slow to enjoy the scenery. (Make sure to bring your passport although most of the time there are no border checks).

It is quite easy to drive around in Andorra from the ski slopes of Encamp to the quaint little town of Ordino or if you just want a relaxed weekend the beautiful spas of Andorra la Vella. If you like shopping, Andorra offers duty-free shopping , there something for everyone here.

The road trip to Andorra from Toulouse is a memorable and easy France driving trip.

120 miles or 190 kilometers.

2-3 days is enough to enjoy this France road trip itinerary.

Brittany Road Trip in France

From Victoria of Guide Your Travel

This driving route will be between 800 and 100 kilometres, 500 – 620 miles.

Montpellier to Toulouse Loop

Finally, you should head 100 km to Toulouse. Toulouse is nicknamed “la Ville Rose” – the pink city – because so many of the buildings are made from pinkish bricks. Important sites to visit are Basilique Saint-Sernin, the largest romanesque church in Europe. It also has more relics in the crypt than any other church in France, many of which are from Charlemagne (9th century).

You should also spend time at Place du Capitole and the square in front of it. Some parts of the building date back to the 12th century. It has beautiful frescos and offers tours.

Montpellier – Carcassonne – Toulouse is 245 km or 150 miles.

It would take about 3 hours to drive this France road trip route straight through without stopping. However, to truly enjoy each location, I would give yourself a minimum of 5 days.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)”

hello 🙂 just finished reading your ” escape clause” and i found some great tips so just like to thank you for that first of all. I’m planning on travelling to France by car from west Yorkshire in the UK for a 10 day holiday in total, we would start of by a 5 hour drive to dover then get the ferry crossing to Calais and carry on from there. we will have a 3 year old and a 1 year old too with us so we want to see plenty of beaches and coastal scenery. i wondered if you could maybe point us in the right direction on places to visit/stay ( ideally 2 different locations on family friendly campsites with lodges or tents) and go off on day trips from there if that makes sense 🙂 look forward to hearing back from you guys iain

Hi Iain! Unfortunately, we haven’t had a chance to spend much time in northwestern France (we were supposed to this year, but alas, 2020 had other plans). I can tell you our personal wish list in that general corner of France, though, includes all the major hits: Etretat, Le Havre, Honfleur, Lille, Rouen, and if you get that far south, of course, Mont Saint-Michel. Etretat is ideal for the coastal scenery you mentioned!

Wish we had more detail to offer, but there are some stunning places up that way!

Staggering beauty here Kate. Wow. France surprises me with its range. Definitely a worthy spot for a serious road trip. Fabulous images guys!

thank you for this! we are planning visit in aug/sept 2022 x 21d staring our in paris and heading toward bordeaux, the sw coast, basque, french pyrenees, and andorra. Wasn’t sure how to finish up the loop back to paris but I would love to incorporate provence. I also love your focus on gorges! I just started following you on IG and will look out for more inspiration!

Thanks so much, Leigh! Sounds like an incredible trip.

We’re toying with a trip to Basque Country and/or Bordeaux ourselves this spring–it never stops being difficult to narrow down our options!

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

Very good coverage of driving tours in France. One suggestion for drivers I don’t recall was mentioned. After you pick up your car rental stop somewhere and invest in materials to clean your windshield. We have driven thousands of miles on many car trips and estimate that most of the time gas stations don’t have squeegees, sponges, paper towels, or even water available. Well worth the small cost. France is a large agricultural country and bugs abound.

Thanks so much. Very useful

Happy to help!

Hello Kate. I am planning my trip to France. It is our first trip to France. We will fly from New York to Paris and we want to explore France as much as we can within 9 days. We want to rent car and use train if we need. My plan is to start from Paris and go to other nice places including small towns/villages and end up in south and fly back to US from other south city. We need your advice please. Thank you in advance.

With 9 days, the first thing I’d do is narrow down what general region of France you want to visit, as you can access a wide variety of beautiful small towns in that time!

Normandy and Provence are both popular regions for first-time visitors to France, though it sounds like you’re most likely wanting Provence. For Normandy, you might drive right from Paris, and for Provence, you’d likely want to take a train to Aix-en-Provence and then pick up a car. This itinerary covers Provence: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/south-of-france-itinerary/

If you want to stick very close to Paris, consider the Loire Valley.

Other options could include the Bordeaux area (we love St. Emilion: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/saint-emilion-france/ ) or Burgundy ( https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-dijon-france/ ).

You obviously can’t cover all of that, but narrowing down where you want to go will be the first step. France has lifetimes worth of villages to explore. 🙂

If you’re wanting to fly home from the south of France, you’ll want to look at flights from Bordeaux (in the west) or Nice, Marseille, Lyon, or Toulouse (in the east).

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France by Car – Guide to Driving in France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Driving in France as a Tourist

So you are planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to France and are wondering how to get around efficiently, all while seeing the beautiful country at your own pace. Naturally, touring France by car is a fantastic option for transportation in France .

In this guide to driving in France as a tourist, you will learn how to drive in France, and we will cover everything you’ll need to know, including driving requirements, common rules and regulations, and more. This guide to France by car also comes with a driving in France checklist, so we are sure you don’t forget anything!

Driving In France Guide – Table of Contents:

• Driving in France requirements
• Renting a car in France
• Driving in France checklist
• Roads in France
• Toll roads in France (Péages)
• Villages Etapes
• Driving in Paris
• French Crit Air (pollution stickers for France)
• French road signs and French traffic signs
• Rules of the Road in France
• Car accidents in France

1. Driving in France Requirements

If you plan on traveling to France by car, you need to be aware that there are certain requirements before getting behind the wheel. The following are the documents that you must have with you at all times and other requirements for legally driving in France.

• Valid Driver’s License
• Current registration and proof of purchase (if driving your own vehicle): When driving your own car, a valid driver’s license, as well as registration or proof of ownership, is required to be with you at all times in the car.
• Valid Passport: a passport is required for both the driver as well as any other people in the car.
• Valid Car Insurance: For car rentals in France, double-check your contract and agreement that this has been included in the paperwork or is in the car and is up to date.
• All drivers must be 18 years of age in order to drive in France. Even student drivers with a permit and with an adult are not allowed.
• Towing: If you intend on towing anything behind your primary vehicle when traveling to France by car, ensure that you have all the proper licensing documentation from the country of origin. This includes a sticker on the license plate from your country that matches the plate on your car.

2. Renting a Car in France

Car hire in France is a fantastic choice to tour France on your own. You can book through sites such as DiscoverCars.com . This site is great because it takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work.

We have written a dedicated article about renting a car in France , with all the information and our best tips for car hire in France.

So you’ve got wheels; now what?

3. Driving in France Checklist

If you are going to visit France by car, several items are required, by law, to have in your vehicle at all times. By not having them, you are subject to some extremely hefty fines.

Driving In France Kit:

• Headlamp Converters (headlamp beam deflectors)
• Highly Visual Reflective Vests (one for each passenger)
• Warning Triangle
• Spare Bulbs
• Two “NF Certified” Breathalyzers
• Extra pair of glasses (for those that wear glasses regularly)

Apart from the car essentials required by law, there are some road trip essentials you should never leave behind, like a spare tire, an empty fuel can, or a car charger. If you want to make sure that you have everything included in the France driving checklist, you can purchase a ready-to-go Driving In France Kit.

4. Roads in France

Knowing the different kinds of roads in France can make a huge difference in the comfort, ease, and stress of driving.

Roads Labeled:

» A: These are ‘Autoroutes.’ Other countries call them motorways or interstates. An example of this in France is the A8.

» N: The ‘N’ stands for ‘National Strategic Truck Routes.’ These roads are good alternatives to toll roads and Autoroutes, but you can expect them to take longer than the motorways.

» D: A ‘D’ road is a county (Departmental) road. ‘D’ roads can be anything from tiny little roads to busy streets that once were national routes.  If the latter is the case, they will have received new street numbers, so a current map is vital to understanding where you are driving.

»  Road Numbers: It can sometimes be confusing if you see multiple numbers on a road sign. French road numbers will be white on a red background.  European road numbers are white on a green background.  Oftentimes, both will be listed, especially if the road leads from France to another European destination.

» Péage: This means Toll Road Ahead

» Bis: Oftentimes, there will be alternative routes posted with the word ‘Bis’ and a destination. For example, you may see ‘Bis Lyon.’  This is the equivalent of the British ‘Holiday Route,’ which is simply a secondary or alternative option to the main motorway.  These will often have less traffic or are to avoid traffic jams.

5. Toll Roads in France (Péages)

When driving in France, while there is no vignette required, you can expect a toll on almost all Autoroutes. The signs ( péages) are well marked, and you will know when you approach a new toll.

You will typically come to a toll plaza that has machines in each lane where you will take a ticket stating where your toll starts.

You pay for the toll when you exit the motorway to either an attendant or another automatic machine that takes credit and debit cards.

In addition to the toll roads, you may also encounter tunnels or bridges that also require a toll. For most of these, you will pay before entering.

For further information regarding French toll roads, you can learn more here .

TIP: this really useful tool estimates the costs of the fuel and tolls for traveling from A to B in France (you can change the price/liter).

6. Villages Etapes

Village Etape  is a quality label in France that could be translated as “Stopover Villages.” The concept is very simple: located less than 5 minutes from a national road or a free motorway, the Villages Etapes offer all the shops and services necessary for your breaks on the road in a much more picturesque atmosphere.

Read more about the Villages Etape – where they are and what they offer –, and make your French road trips more enjoyable by planning your breaks around them.

7. Driving in Paris

While driving to France is great for exploring the countryside, it is recommended not to bring a car into the French capital.

Paris has a great public transportation infrastructure, making car hire pointless. For example, the traffic in Paris can be overwhelming for tourist drivers. The highway that encircles Paris is the la Périphérique, and there is almost no way to avoid it when driving into the city.  It becomes quite hectic when you need to exit (on the far right out of 4 lanes) but simultaneously needing to head the car merging (also on your right!), all while keeping a careful eye on the 70 km/hr speed limit!

Once IN the city, driving is still quite stressful, and then finding parking in the city is also extremely difficult. Even if you are lucky to find street parking available, you have to pay to use most of them.

Therefore, take advantage of the great public transportation in Paris and ditch the car. If driving your own vehicle, there are many easy and affordable parks and rides outside of the city – for example, Disneyland Paris. Simply park at the lot, pay the fee, and take public transportation into the city.

If you need a rental car after your time in Paris, there are plenty of agencies with locations on the outskirts of the city (to avoid city driving), or rent a car at the airport (also on the outskirts). We recommend doing this at the end of your time in Paris, just before heading off to your other destinations.

TIP: Book ahead of time with DiscoverCars.com to get the best prices .

Gas/fuel Stations in Paris

While there are several gas stations along the circular ring road (périphérique) when entering Paris, they can be harder to find in the actual city. If you are planning to drive to France, it is also best to fuel up outside of Paris, as prices tend to be cheaper away from the city.

You can use a Gas Finder App or even Google Maps to help figure out the best routing option for fueling up.

Watching Out for Cyclists and Pedestrians

When driving in Paris or anywhere in France, remember to give pedestrians the right of way and to always be on the lookout in busy locations.

Cyclists don’t always follow traffic laws. You may find them cruising in between lanes and dodging in and out of cars. People walking sometimes run out into the street, despite the signs telling them to wait, so just be vigilant and patient.

8. French Crit Air (pollution stickers for France)

Many EU countries have emission laws in regard to driving, and France is no exception. Since 2016 vehicular access to certain cities /areas has been governed by the requirement to display a valid French Crit Air – Air Quality Certificate clearly visible on your windshield.

These areas have been designated “low emission zones” and can be permanent (ZCR or “Zone à Circulation Restreinte”) or temporary (ZPA or “Zone de la Protection de l’Air”).

The main cities /areas where this applies currently are Paris, Grand Paris, Rouen, Montpelier, Grand Reims, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Marseille, Strasbourg, Toulouse, and Nice .

Basically, diesel vehicles made before 2006 are not allowed in these areas at all. Other vehicles should display the appropriate certificate (which you can apply for here ).

The French Crit Air sticker is mandatory in low-emissions zones for mobility (LEZ-m) and during periods when the traffic is differentiated. Signs will be posted in the restricted areas and will include the time of the ban.

You can easily get the French Crit Air sticker online a few days before driving in France. For vehicles caught without the proper sticker, expect a fine.

Some rental car agencies will help you obtain these, others you will need to order one ahead of time yourself. Speak to your car rental company to know if you will need to get one on your own.

For more information as well as to obtain a sticker, click here .

9. Rules for Driving in France

French Traffic Signs

When driving in a new country, you must familiarize yourself with the local roadway rules and signs. While many of the French traffic signs can be easy enough to figure out, such as the “warning” signs, others are not as intuitive, like the signs stating who has priority when and where or those with French words on them (if you don’t speak French).

Luckily, most French traffic signs are the same as you will find throughout the rest of the EU, so if you are driving elsewhere, you may not need to learn too many extras.

TIP: Here is a complete visual list of driving in France road signs to learn before you start driving.

10. Rules of the Road in France

Rules for driving in France are pretty common and typical among other EU countries’ driving regulations. However, make sure you’ve read through the following so you understand if you need to take further actions to ensure you are within the law.

»  Seatbelts: ALL passengers are legally required to be belted. In fact, it is the driver who can be ticketed and fined for passengers not wearing seat belts.

»  Infants and Car Seats: All babies and infants are required to be in proper car seats. If under the age of one, it must be rear-facing.

»  Children Under 13: Please make sure that all children under 13 either have the correct car seats or booster seats for their age and height or belt adjusters. Also, children under 13 are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat.

» Drinking: France is extremely strict about drinking and driving. The blood-alcohol level can only be below 0.02%, which for many people is even just one drink! Serious penalties, such as extremely high fines, license revoked, and even jail, are all things you don’t want to have to deal with on your trip to France.

» Driving With Headlights On: While it is only compulsory for motorcycles to have headlights on at all times while driving, it is strongly encouraged for all drivers to have low beams on while driving both during the day and at night, especially when on country roads.

Keeping high beams on when approaching oncoming traffic can also result in tickets and/or fines.

» Right of Way To the Right: Like most European countries, whoever is approaching on the right has the right of way unless otherwise noted. When in doubt, give the right of way! For example, when driving on a neighborhood road, any roads to the right of you have the right of way over you. While there are certain street signs to indicate who has the right of way (see the above section and recommended links), you may also see a sign stating “Vous n’avez pas la priorité, “ which means you do not have the priority. This is a perfect example of making sure you have reviewed and understood all of the above road signs so that you follow the laws of the local country.

» Driving in Kilometers: For most countries, this is not an issue, but if you are coming from a country that uses miles instead of kilometers, just make a mental note and start looking at conversions to familiarize yourself with the difference. For example, 50 kilometers/hr is 31 miles/ hr, which is what you will find on many highways. Most Autoroutes have a speed limit of 130 km/hr, which is roughly 80 mph. Speed limits can change depending on current driving conditions, so it is essential to be paying attention to the signs.

» French Roundabout Rules: Roundabouts are found all over Europe, but for foreigners, they can be confusing and scary. Just remember that you must head to the traffic already in the roundabout before entering. Use your signal only to indicate when exiting.

» Driving in France: Left or right? Many people ask how to drive in France (which way), and the answer is that they drive on the right, like most mainland EU countries. This also means that when entering a roundabout, the traffic will go clockwise.

11. Car Accidents in France

Nobody likes to envision a car accident or breaking down while on their trip. However, it is still important to know exactly what to do if something should happen.

• Put on your safety vest from your driving kit .
• Set up the red warning triangle (also in your driving kit). Give enough distance for oncoming cars to become aware that a car is on the side of the road or there is an oncoming accident.
• If in an emergency or car accident, dial 15 on French lines or 112 on international phones
• ‘Constat Amiable’ (Friendly Declaration): If you were in an accident, you’ll fill out the ‘Constat Amiable’ form. At this time, it is advisable to call your insurance company to ensure that all information needed from the scene is obtained.  No matter the accident, make sure you have all names, vehicle registration numbers, insurance information, and contact information.
• For any injuries with any party involved, everyone must remain on the scene until the police arrive.

Before starting your French road trip, we recommend downloading the free app SOS autoroute . Thanks to geolocalisation, SOS autoroute will connect you quickly to the nearest security station to report an emergency or an unusual event.

We hope that this guide to driving in France as a tourist was useful to you. By now, we are sure you know the best tips for driving in France, and you are ready for your first trip to France by car. Bon voyage!

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7 top road trips to see the best of France

Dec 17, 2023 • 6 min read

Experience the best bits of France with these classic French driving routes © Justin Paget / Getty Images

France’s winding cobbled lanes and tree-lined rural roadways offer a straight shot into the heart of the country. Incredible countryside vistas merge into unique and highly wanderable villages, castles and coastlines that will etch your journey into your memories.

Grab a set of wheels and hit the road to embrace the best of this magnificent country. Here is a starter kit of fantastic road trips in France – drive on the right and embark on your own perfect French adventure.

1. Wine villages in Burgundy

Best road trip for wine and architecture Chablis–Beaune; 200km (124 miles), allow 2-3 days

Begin this wine journey in Chablis in the département of Yonne , leaving ample time to taste the seven grands crus (premium vineyards) of this well-known winemaking region. Then connect up with the exquisite Route des Grands Crus , which links many of central Burgundy’s most acclaimed vineyards.

You’ll meander through the vine-carpeted countryside from Gevrey-Chambertin to Puligny-Montrachet , exploring some of the most storied vineyards in the world. Enjoy detours into venerable wine-growing villages whose melodious names – engraved on labels or whispered during a romantic dinner – make oenophiles swoon. 

Pair your wine tasting with some of the country’s most memorable Romanesque architecture – for example, the grand Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun – and you’ll uplift both body and soul.

Planning tip:  When in Beaune , the town around which the vineyards circle, don’t miss the magnificent Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices de Beaune in the old city, with its exquisite 15th-century altar painting by Rogier van der Weyden.

2. Castles of the Loire Valley

Best road trip for grand châteaux Chinon–Chambord; 189km (118 miles), allow 2-3 days

The extravagant castles along France’s longest river have been the backdrop for royal intrigue for centuries. From warring medieval potentates to the kings and queens of Renaissance France, a parade of powerful men and women has left its mark on the lush Loire Valley.

This drive links up France’s most magnificent collection of castles, ranging from austere medieval fortresses such as Château de Langeais to ostentatious royal pleasure palaces such as Chambord .

Detour:  You can stop along the way and rent a bike to cycle when the weather is fair – don’t miss the graceful arches of Château de Chenonceau reflected in the Cher River near Tours.

3. Across the French Alps

Best road trip for dramatic scenery and family adventures Annecy–St Véran; 363km (225 miles), one week

France’s section of the Alps provides an incomparable setting for a summer road trip (from mid-June to mid-September, when mountain passes are snow-free). This Alpine drive combines awesome splendor with the charms of time-worn mountain culture.

Curve through the heart of the French Alps from Annecy , perhaps France’s prettiest lakeside city, to the slopes of 4808m (15,774ft) Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak. Then head over the high mountain pass of Col de l’Iseran to reach Bonneval-sur-Arc, a charming Alpine village, and St Véran – France's highest village.

Planning tip:  Amongst all these high points, take regular breaks to hike, mountain bike, white-water raft and ride vertigo-inducing cable cars.

4. Dordogne villages and markets

Best road trip for food and fortifications Monpazier–Domme; 96km (60 miles), 1-2 days

The Dordogne holds two special distinctions – it's the home of many of France's top culinary delights, as well as being a land of fortified villages. Serenity may reign now, but during the Middle Ages, the area was often a battleground because the Dordogne River marked an important strategic frontier between English and French forces during the Hundred Years War.

The region’s châteaux and defensive walls remain – most distinctive of all are bastide towns such as Monpazier, encircled by fortified walls and protected by sturdy ramparts. Each village has a central market square, so if you time your drive right, you can hit a weekly market and sample the local specialties.

Sarlat-la-Canéda is famous for its market, but small villages such as Issigeac are sleeper hits. Over in the village of St Cyprien, you can indulge in another of the Dordogne’s great gastronomic gems – the perle noire of the Périgord, aka the black truffle. Wrap up with a turn along the windy road leading up to amazing panoramic views at Domme.

5. The D-Day Beaches

Best road trip for WWII history Caen–Utah Beach; 142km (88 miles), 1-2 days

On this drive through Normandy , you’ll explore the events of D-Day, when Allied troops stormed ashore to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation in 1944. From war museums to landing beaches, it’s a fascinating and sobering experience. Before you hop in the car, spend some time at the Caen-Normandie Mémorial to get a full D-Day overview.

Several driving routes through the region connect the main battle sites. Look for signs for "D-Day-Le Choc" in the American sectors and "Overlord-l’Assaut" in the British and Canadian sectors.

Planning tip:  Maps of the D-Day beaches are widely available, and local tourist offices have created a helpful e-booklet outlining it all.

6. South of France and the Côte d'Azur

Best road trip for stunning coastline Cannes–Monaco; 62km (39 miles), one day minimum

Cruising the  Côte d'Azur is as dazzling and chic as road trips get. From glamorous Cannes to lively  Nice via the corkscrew turns of the Corniches, then on to the millionaire's playground of Monaco , this is a drive you'll remember forever. Filmmakers, writers, celebrities and artists have all had their hearts stolen by this glittering stretch of coastline – by the end of this trip, you'll understand why.

Aim to avoid the July and August high season when the roads are jammed. If you want more of the south, Provence offers an embarrassment of road trips – from the charming hilltop-perched villages of the Luberon to Arles and the Camargue with its salt flats and flamingos.

7. Breton coast loop

Best for rugged Celtic coastlines and fine seafood St Malo–Vannes; 642km (399 miles), one week

Devote a week to this sea-salty drive to fully experience the region's serene coastal towns, dramatic storm-lashed headlands and the world’s greatest concentration of megalithic sites.

Start at fortified St Malo and loop the entire coast of Brittany , standing on the precipice of the cliffs of the Pointe du Raz , walking through the profusion of prehistoric megalithic sites at Carnac, and wrapping up with a trip to the foodie paradise that is medieval Vannes.

Top tip for driving in France

France's toll road autoroutes are seductive shortcuts, but be aware that the scenery is much more magnificent on the smaller roads and the highways are packed with large trucks and virtually invisible speed-trap cameras. You'll have a gentler, more rewarding drive off the toll routes. 

The Via Michelin website  gives you the cost of routes with or without using toll roads. 

This article was first published September 2020 and updated December 2023

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There’s unlimited rail travel across France this summer for less than £50 – but not for everyone

The wheels are rolling for young people to explore the best of the gallic nation, article bookmarked.

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France have announced the launch of a nationwide rail pass this summer for unlimited rail travel at just €49 (£42) a month.

The unlimited travel will apply to all journeys taken on the country’s TER and Intercity trains , however, French transport minister Patrice Vergriete confirmed that only those age 27 or younger will be eligible for the discounted pass.

High-speed TGV trains and travel in France ’s most populous region, Ile-de-France – home of the capital, Paris – are both excluded from the rail offer and require an additional ticket.

The new pass is expected to go on sale in June.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that “those under 27 can travel by train unlimitedly in France” on  X/Twitter . He added that the rail pass “becomes reality this summer” and asked: “Where would you go?”

The passes will be available to buy through SNCF Connect from June for young people to travel around France.

Vergriete said the Ministry of Transport estimates 700,000 young people will benefit from the low-cost travel using the rail pass this summer.

In 2020 and 2021, a summer rail pass temporarily existed for young people under 27 to travel in France for €29 (£24.87) a month.

The rail pass for 2024 is based on a similar scheme in Germany by the national operator Deutsche Bahn that runs without an age limit. The Deutschland Ticket allows travel by all means of local public transport for €49 per month.

Funding 80 per cent of measures to introduce the pass is expected to cost the government around €15 million, with individual regions responsible for footing the remaining 20 per cent of the bill.

The decision to introduce an age cap to the national rail pass and exclude the Ile-de-France area was met with disappointment from several of the French regions.

Criticism from the Hauts-de-France region said that though the rail pass was “favourable”, the Minister for Transport “lacked ambition” by introducing a discounted pass only for young people.

The president of the Normandy region, Hervé Morin, said: “If there must be a rail pass, it must be national and apply to the entire French network and must not exclude the Ile-de-France network through which most young people inexorably pass when going to another region by train.”

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