Driving rules: your useful information for traveling peacefully on the roads of France

France is undoubtedly the most beautiful destination in Europe – or even the world – for a road trip.

You can never get enough! It all comes down to its vast size and numerous attractions.

If visiting a centuries-old castle in the morning, then tasting world-class wines in the afternoon, and ending the next day facing the snowy peaks of the Alps sounds appealing, then there’s no doubt: France is the right place!

So, if you’re planning a getaway across the country and have set your sights on a particular French region, here are some practical tips before you hit the miles on France’s highways and country roads…

Checklist before hitting the roads of France

There’s nothing worse than finding yourself in trouble in a foreign country! To maximize your chances and avoid your vacation in France turning into a disaster, make sure to:

Book a car of the right size

You might already envision yourself cruising through your French getaway in a large SUV, but let us stop you right there!

While the French highway network offers wide lanes where you can set the cruise control and relax, some small country roads in France are not always as easily accessible.

Many local roads, especially in mountainous regions, remote countryside, or the centers of medieval towns, are extremely narrow and often very winding. Choosing a large car instead of a small agile vehicle might complicate your stay in France significantly.

The same goes for many parking lots. You might have to squeeze between two other vehicles with very little space, not to mention the maximum height at the parking entrance!

Remember: in France, you drive on the right!

It’s crucial to keep this in mind!

Like most European countries, the French drive on the right. It might take some time to adjust to this change, especially if you’re coming from Australia or returning from a tour in Great Britain. Avoid driving when you’re tired to prevent mistakes.

Keep an eye on toll roads

If you’re not yet familiar with French toll highways, here’s the latest information.

France is a large country, and you’ll find many expressways and highways that allow you to travel from one region to another in no time. Unfortunately, they are often toll roads, and paying between 5 and 15 € at each passage can add up to a significant budget!

While it can sometimes be difficult to avoid them (toll roads are the fastest way to get from point A to point B), you might prefer taking national or departmental roads. They are not as well-maintained (or as wide!), but they are certainly more scenic.

Outline your itinerary

Do you love spontaneity? Do you adore going on adventures? So do we!

However, while it’s nice to leave room for the unexpected on an itinerary, it’s also wise to have a rough idea of your destination.

We recommend planning a few key stops along the way, while remaining free to include some last-minute visits!

Plan your overnight parking

If you’re staying in a hotel or rental that includes free or affordable parking, you’re in luck. Relax!

Otherwise, booking a parking spot is a wise precaution if you don’t want to spend half the night searching for an authorized spot not reserved for residents.

Contact your host in advance for advice, or do a quick internet search to find local garages in the cities where you’ll be stopping.

If there’s one thing we can certainly agree on, it’s that finding a parking spot is one of the most stressful activities of a road trip! So it’s best to avoid this inconvenience by planning ahead!

Essential equipment if you’re renting a car in France

Good preparation is key to the success of your road trip, so make sure to have:

– a paper map, in case the GPS or phone doesn’t work and you find yourself lost in the middle of nowhere. Some rental cars are equipped with satellite navigation, but keeping a paper map handy is still a good idea, or download one on your phone.

– yellow vests and a warning triangle in case of a breakdown are part of the mandatory equipment and will be provided in your rental car. In France, it’s also mandatory to have a breathalyzer in the vehicle, although there’s no specific fine if you don’t have one.

– an air quality certificate on your windshield will be required if you’re driving in certain cities, including Paris, Strasbourg and Marseille. If you’re renting your car in France (especially in one of these cities), this certificate will likely already be provided. If you’re picking up your car elsewhere in Europe and plan to cross the border, you’ll need to order the sticker in advance.

– it’s always good to have a small supply of water and snacks in case you break down in an isolated area. If you’re driving in France in winter, make sure to bring plenty of warm clothing too!

Finding inspiration for your itinerary

The land of baguettes and castles offers an endless choice of incredible sites to discover at your own pace. If you’re lacking inspiration for your next itinerary on the roads of France, why not:

1/ Climb the mountains on a route that takes you from bustling Toulouse to the majestic Pyrenees.

2/ Explore the beautiful Champagne region on the wine route (and wine tastings…)

3/ Walk (or drive) in the footsteps of one of France’s most famous figures on the epic Route Napoléon.

4/ Hop from one department to another in the Val-de-Loire region on a royal itinerary of France’s most Instagram-worthy castles.

If your nature-loving soul drives you to rent an electric vehicle for your French journey, discover the latest information on driving an electric car in France to know how to organize your trip smoothly.