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Road Trips in France

France is a great destination for a road trip due to its diverse landscape, rich history, and cultural offerings. From the winding roads of the French Alps to the sun-drenched beaches of the Côte d'Azur, there is something for every type of traveler.

One of the biggest draws of France is its picturesque countryside. The rolling hills of Burgundy, the vineyards of Champagne, and the lush forests of the Ardennes are just a few of the many beautiful landscapes that can be discovered on a road trip. The roads themselves are well-maintained and offer stunning views, making for an enjoyable and memorable driving experience.

The cultural offerings of France are unmatched. From its bustling cities to its quaint villages, France is home to an abundance of world-renowned museums, galleries, and historical sites. In Paris, travelers can explore the Louvre Museum, the Musée d'Orsay, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, to name just a few of the city's many treasures. In the south, cities like Nice, Marseille, and Toulon are rich in history and offer a glimpse into the region's unique cultural heritage.

Food and wine are integral parts of French culture, and a road trip through the country provides ample opportunities to sample the local cuisine and wine. From traditional bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, France has a rich food culture that is not to be missed. Wine lovers can take a tour of the wine regions of Burgundy, Champagne, or Bordeaux, and sample some of the world's finest wines.

Another advantage of taking a road trip in France is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to stick to main roads and reach your destination quickly, or you can take the scenic route and explore the smaller villages and roads along the way. You can also plan your trip around your own interests and schedule, stopping for as long as you like in each location and taking detours to see what interests you.

Finally, road tripping in France is an affordable way to see the country. With relatively low gas prices, you can save money on transportation costs compared to other modes of travel, and the ability to bring your own food and drinks can also help to keep costs down. With a rental car, you have the freedom to explore the country at your own pace, making a road trip a cost-effective and enjoyable way to see France.

In conclusion, France is an excellent destination for a road trip, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, cultural offerings, and culinary delights. Whether you're interested in history, food and wine, or outdoor activities, France has something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for a road trip adventure.

Expect on your itinerary

Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Value Value
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Security Security

Best months to drive

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VII VIII IX X XI XII

Discover Road Trips in France

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France Road Trip France Road Trip

France Road Trip

4,190 km 61 km/h 28 days roadtrip
Col du Pillon & de la Croix Panoramic Road Col du Pillon & de la Croix Panoramic Road

Col du Pillon & de la Croix Panoramic Road

53 km 46 km/h 1 days scenic
Col Croix de Fer & Glandon Panoramic Road Col Croix de Fer & Glandon Panoramic Road

Col Croix de Fer & Glandon Panoramic Road

147 km 27 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de Telegraph & Galibier Panoramic Road Col de Telegraph & Galibier Panoramic Road

Col de Telegraph & Galibier Panoramic Road

71 km 44 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de l'Iseran Panoramic Road Col de l'Iseran Panoramic Road

Col de l'Iseran Panoramic Road

89 km 52 km/h 1 days scenic
Col d'Izoard & Col d'Agnel Panoramic Road Col d'Izoard & Col d'Agnel Panoramic Road

Col d'Izoard & Col d'Agnel Panoramic Road

79 km 42 km/h 1 days scenic
Cime de la Bonette Panoramic Road Cime de la Bonette Panoramic Road

Cime de la Bonette Panoramic Road

130 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Col D'Allos & Col de Champs Panoramic Road Col D'Allos & Col de Champs Panoramic Road

Col D'Allos & Col de Champs Panoramic Road

119 km 44 km/h 1 days scenic
Alps Road Trip Alps Road Trip

Alps Road Trip

2,236 km 54 km/h 14 days roadtrip
France Highlights Road Trip France Highlights Road Trip

France Highlights Road Trip

2,073 km 58 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Ocean to the Sea Road Trip Ocean to the Sea Road Trip

Ocean to the Sea Road Trip

1,149 km 70 km/h 6 days roadtrip
French Riviera Road Trip French Riviera Road Trip

French Riviera Road Trip

148 km 25 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Loire Castles Road Trip Loire Castles Road Trip

Loire Castles Road Trip

335 km 51 km/h 5 days roadtrip
Provence Road Trip Provence Road Trip

Provence Road Trip

890 km 44 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Alsace Wine Route Alsace Wine Route

Alsace Wine Route

157 km 40 km/h 1 days scenic
Marvelous Oise Road Trip Marvelous Oise Road Trip

Marvelous Oise Road Trip

177 km 50 km/h 2 days scenic
Normandy Landing Beaches Road Trip Normandy Landing Beaches Road Trip

Normandy Landing Beaches Road Trip

230 km 40 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip

Bay of Mont Saint Michel Road Trip

197 km 45 km/h 2 days scenic
Land of Stones Panoramic Road Land of Stones Panoramic Road

Land of Stones Panoramic Road

106 km 44 km/h 1 days scenic
Cathar Castles Road Trip Cathar Castles Road Trip

Cathar Castles Road Trip

227 km 45 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Bayonne to Saint Jean Pied de Port Scenic Drive Bayonne to Saint Jean Pied de Port Scenic Drive

Bayonne to Saint Jean Pied de Port Scenic Drive

122 km 36 km/h 1 days scenic
Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette Road Trip Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette Road Trip

Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette Road Trip

223 km 49 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Luberon N.P. Road Trip Luberon N.P. Road Trip

Luberon N.P. Road Trip

156 km 40 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive

Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive

129 km 46 km/h 1 days scenic
Nice Getaway Scenic Drive Nice Getaway Scenic Drive

Nice Getaway Scenic Drive

72 km 33 km/h 2 days scenic
Rural Corsica Road Trip Rural Corsica Road Trip

Rural Corsica Road Trip

365 km 43 km/h 3 days roadtrip
North Alps Road Trip North Alps Road Trip

North Alps Road Trip

373 km 50 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Saint Tropez to Marseille Road Trip Saint Tropez to Marseille Road Trip

Saint Tropez to Marseille Road Trip

204 km 30 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Along Loire to Brittany Road Trip Along Loire to Brittany Road Trip

Along Loire to Brittany Road Trip

1,616 km 63 km/h 10 days roadtrip
Cuneo to Ventimiglia Panoramic Road Cuneo to Ventimiglia Panoramic Road

Cuneo to Ventimiglia Panoramic Road

103 km 36 km/h 1 days scenic
Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive

Alabaster Coast Scenic Drive

205 km 35 km/h 1 days scenic
Emerald Coast Road Trip Emerald Coast Road Trip

Emerald Coast Road Trip

171 km 32 km/h 2 days scenic
Morbihan Bay Road Trip Morbihan Bay Road Trip

Morbihan Bay Road Trip

203 km 30 km/h 1 days scenic
Across the Dordogne Scenic Drive Across the Dordogne Scenic Drive

Across the Dordogne Scenic Drive

126 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip

Eastern Pyrenees Road Trip

156 km 52 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Chartreuse N.P. Scenic Drive Chartreuse N.P. Scenic Drive

Chartreuse N.P. Scenic Drive

97 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Ardeche Scenic Drive Ardeche Scenic Drive

Ardeche Scenic Drive

84 km 39 km/h 1 days scenic
Mercantur N.P. Road Trip Mercantur N.P. Road Trip

Mercantur N.P. Road Trip

186 km 43 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Col de la Forclaz Panoramic Road Col de la Forclaz Panoramic Road

Col de la Forclaz Panoramic Road

44 km 47 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road

Col de la Colombiere Panoramic Road

42 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road

Col de l'Arpettaz Panoramic Road

50 km 43 km/h 1 days scenic
Col des Saisies Panoramic Road Col des Saisies Panoramic Road

Col des Saisies Panoramic Road

33 km 44 km/h 1 days scenic
Cormet de Roselend Panoramic Road Cormet de Roselend Panoramic Road

Cormet de Roselend Panoramic Road

49 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de la Madeleine Panoramic Road Col de la Madeleine Panoramic Road

Col de la Madeleine Panoramic Road

64 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Col du Montgenevre Panoramic Road Col du Montgenevre Panoramic Road

Col du Montgenevre Panoramic Road

32 km 43 km/h 1 days scenic
Col de Braus & Col de Turini Panoramic Road Col de Braus & Col de Turini Panoramic Road

Col de Braus & Col de Turini Panoramic Road

107 km 40 km/h 1 days scenic
French Alps Road Trip French Alps Road Trip

French Alps Road Trip

1,452 km 51 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Colle Piccolo San Bernardo Panoramic Road Colle Piccolo San Bernardo Panoramic Road

Colle Piccolo San Bernardo Panoramic Road

56 km 43 km/h 1 days scenic
French Pyrenees Road Trip French Pyrenees Road Trip

French Pyrenees Road Trip

800 km 43 km/h 6 days roadtrip
Champagne Road Trip Champagne Road Trip

Champagne Road Trip

118 km 37 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Normandy Road Trip Normandy Road Trip

Normandy Road Trip

894 km 51 km/h 7 days scenic
Brittany Road Trip Brittany Road Trip

Brittany Road Trip

986 km 44 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Dordogne Road Trip Dordogne Road Trip

Dordogne Road Trip

940 km 62 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Burgundy Road Trip Burgundy Road Trip

Burgundy Road Trip

484 km 54 km/h 3 days roadtrip
South West France Road Trip South West France Road Trip

South West France Road Trip

2,130 km 67 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Corsica Road Trip Corsica Road Trip

Corsica Road Trip

560 km 50 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Route Napoleon Sud Route Napoleon Sud

Route Napoleon Sud

547 km 63 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Cuneo Loop Road Trip Cuneo Loop Road Trip

Cuneo Loop Road Trip

241 km 42 km/h 2 days roadtrip
French Shores of Rhine Scenic Drive French Shores of Rhine Scenic Drive

French Shores of Rhine Scenic Drive

128 km 57 km/h 1 days scenic
Ardennes Scenic Drive Ardennes Scenic Drive

Ardennes Scenic Drive

154 km 38 km/h 1 days scenic
Morvan Road Trip Morvan Road Trip

Morvan Road Trip

278 km 43 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Land of the Ch'tis Road Trip Land of the Ch'tis Road Trip

Land of the Ch'tis Road Trip

374 km 49 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Pink Granite Coast Road Trip Pink Granite Coast Road Trip

Pink Granite Coast Road Trip

184 km 35 km/h 2 days scenic
Quimper Getaway Scenic Drive Quimper Getaway Scenic Drive

Quimper Getaway Scenic Drive

214 km 32 km/h 2 days scenic
Loire Estuary Road Trip Loire Estuary Road Trip

Loire Estuary Road Trip

200 km 31 km/h 2 days scenic
Homeland of Cognac Road Trip Homeland of Cognac Road Trip

Homeland of Cognac Road Trip

353 km 41 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Vezere Valley Panoramic Road Vezere Valley Panoramic Road

Vezere Valley Panoramic Road

77 km 40 km/h 1 days scenic
Saint Emilion Scenic Drive Saint Emilion Scenic Drive

Saint Emilion Scenic Drive

181 km 48 km/h 1 days scenic
Cantal Mountains Road Trip Cantal Mountains Road Trip

Cantal Mountains Road Trip

213 km 46 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road

Bay of Arcachon Panoramic Road

104 km 38 km/h 1 days scenic
Le Rouergue Road Trip Le Rouergue Road Trip

Le Rouergue Road Trip

197 km 53 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Across Occitania Scenic Drive Across Occitania Scenic Drive

Across Occitania Scenic Drive

168 km 42 km/h 1 days scenic
From the Seaside to Carcassonne Road Trip From the Seaside to Carcassonne Road Trip

From the Seaside to Carcassonne Road Trip

208 km 47 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Pyrenees N.P. Panoramic Road Pyrenees N.P. Panoramic Road

Pyrenees N.P. Panoramic Road

327 km 41 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Oloron Sainte Marie to Auch Road Trip Oloron Sainte Marie to Auch Road Trip

Oloron Sainte Marie to Auch Road Trip

210 km 44 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Vichy & Cluny Road Trip Vichy & Cluny Road Trip

Vichy & Cluny Road Trip

266 km 44 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive

Annecy Getaway Scenic Drive

164 km 40 km/h 1 days scenic
Central Alps Road Trip Central Alps Road Trip

Central Alps Road Trip

237 km 52 km/h 2 days roadtrip
Col du Colombier Panoramic Road Col du Colombier Panoramic Road

Col du Colombier Panoramic Road

60 km 45 km/h 1 days scenic
Sparkling like Champagne Panorama Route Sparkling like Champagne Panorama Route

Sparkling like Champagne Panorama Route

145 km 39 km/h 1 days scenic
Troyes Getaway Scenic Drive Troyes Getaway Scenic Drive

Troyes Getaway Scenic Drive

203 km 46 km/h 1 days scenic
Burgundy Wine Road Burgundy Wine Road

Burgundy Wine Road

71 km 27 km/h 1 days scenic
Dijon Getaway Dijon Getaway

Dijon Getaway

169 km 50 km/h 1 days scenic
Haut-Jura Scenic Drive Haut-Jura Scenic Drive

Haut-Jura Scenic Drive

88 km 53 km/h 1 days scenic
Nancy Getaway Scenic Drive Nancy Getaway Scenic Drive

Nancy Getaway Scenic Drive

202 km 51 km/h 1 days scenic
Medoc Scenic Drive Medoc Scenic Drive

Medoc Scenic Drive

205 km 48 km/h 1 days scenic
Clermont Ferrand Getaway Scenic Drive Clermont Ferrand Getaway Scenic Drive

Clermont Ferrand Getaway Scenic Drive

175 km 35 km/h 1 days scenic
The Dombes Scenic Drive The Dombes Scenic Drive

The Dombes Scenic Drive

134 km 39 km/h 1 days scenic
Col du Granier Panoramic Road Col du Granier Panoramic Road

Col du Granier Panoramic Road

37 km 41 km/h 1 days scenic
Colle della Maddalena Panoramic Road Colle della Maddalena Panoramic Road

Colle della Maddalena Panoramic Road

48 km 51 km/h 1 days scenic
Fontainebleau Forest Panoramic Road Fontainebleau Forest Panoramic Road

Fontainebleau Forest Panoramic Road

80 km 37 km/h 1 days scenic
Somme Bay Scenic Drive Somme Bay Scenic Drive

Somme Bay Scenic Drive

154 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Le Mans Getaway Scenic Drive Le Mans Getaway Scenic Drive

Le Mans Getaway Scenic Drive

119 km 45 km/h 1 days scenic
Orleans Getaway Scenic Drive Orleans Getaway Scenic Drive

Orleans Getaway Scenic Drive

99 km 49 km/h 1 days scenic
Along the Dore Panoramic Road Along the Dore Panoramic Road

Along the Dore Panoramic Road

216 km 39 km/h 1 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights in France

Travellers who choose France as their holiday destination often start from the very capital, which is Paris. A great showcase of stylish architecture, elegant restaurants, and top-notch European landmarks, Paris will be ideal for a variety of tourists. When in the capital, try visiting such places as Montmartre, River Seine, Jardin des Plantes, or the Louvre.

Northern France is a true treasure trove of attractions for holidaymakers who seek a variety of stimuli. For the finest cathedrals, direct your steps to Picardy – with the most interesting examples located in Laon, Beauvais, and Amiens. In Normandy, you’ll be taken aback by the most interesting examples of French trading cities, such as Cherbourg, Le Havre, or Dieppe.

In the region of Alsace and Lorraine, you should definitely consider a trip to the former French capital of Nancy, Mets with its interesting art gallery, and Vardun to learn more on the important events that took place during World War I.

While in Champagne and the Ardennes, you can take a trip around the most well-known and popular champagne houses. Travel to Troyes and take a long stroll around its romantic, cobbled streets, visit  Charleville-Mézières to see the annual puppet festival, and take a trip to Langres to experience a more laid-back ambiance. For even a more relaxed atmosphere of the most popular French seaside resorts, you should definitely consider heading for Marseille, La Ciotat, Grimaud, and La Garde Freinet located in the region of Côte d’Azur.

France is also about adventures around Corsica where the landscapes and panoramas will take your breath away. Travel to such emblematic cities as Bastia, Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio, or Propriano. The interesting attractions galore will soothe the hearts of the most demanding globetrotters.

Suggested Road Trips in France

France: car rental, traffic rules, and roads

Before starting your journey around the beautiful France, you have to choose an appropriate rental car and insurance type that will grant your passengers full safety. All of the major French cities and main airports can boast a number of car rental companies where you’ll find a wide choice of interesting vehicles that will suit your most demanding needs.

While travelling around French roads, it's vital to remember to observe the speed limits. These are: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 50-90 km/h in rural areas, and 110-130 km/h on motorways.

In France, you need to have your dipped headlights on when travelling at night. During the day, motorists use them only in case of adverse weather conditions. 

Fortunately, France can boast impeccable road sections that are as flat as a table. However, there are a number of toll roads where you’ll be supposed to pay a certain amount of money for travelling around the French highways. The payment is dependent on the car type and the distance that you’d like to cover.

Drinking and driving is heavily penalised in France. The same pertains to driving and talking on your mobile phone as well as speeding. 

Documents and car equipment

While driving around France, you should always carry the following documents: driver's licence, vehicle registration documents, and a passport or an ID. At any moment during a road check, the motorists can be asked to show one of the above-mentioned documents.

The law requires that each driver has the following car equipment: a warning triangle, reflective vests for the driver and all passengers, and a set of spare bulbs, and anti-burglary protection. Moreover, it's best to carry a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a breathalyser.

Parking in France

In most cities, you'll find a few parking options. These include free parking spaces, paid parking lots, metered spots, and street parking - take your pick! There are also special stopping areas on motorways where you can take a break and stretch your legs.

When taking a Road Trip in France

When taking a road trip in France, it's important to be aware of the following:

By being aware of these factors, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in France.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in France

The best time of year for taking a road trip in France depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. Here are a few factors to consider:

Ultimately, the best time for a road trip in France depends on your interests and travel goals. Whether you're looking for sun, snow, or a chance to taste the wine, France offers something for everyone throughout the year.

How expensive is a Road Trip in France

The cost of a road trip in France can vary greatly depending on your travel style, preferences, and budget. However, generally speaking, France can be an expensive destination, particularly when it comes to accommodations and dining.

For a budget traveler, the average cost per day could be around €50-€100 per person, assuming you stay in budget accommodations like hostels or camping sites, cook your own meals, and limit your activities to free or low-cost options.

For mid-range travelers, you can expect to spend around €100-€200 per day per person. This would include staying in mid-range hotels or vacation rentals, dining out in local restaurants, and participating in some paid activities like guided tours or excursions.

If you are looking for luxury travel, the cost can easily exceed €300 per day per person, including staying in high-end hotels or resorts, dining at fine restaurants, and indulging in exclusive experiences.

When it comes to renting a car in France, the cost can range from around €30-€100 per day for a budget car, up to €200 or more per day for a luxury or specialty vehicle. You'll also need to factor in the cost of fuel, which can vary depending on the vehicle and the current gas prices.

Other costs to consider when planning a road trip in France include tolls, parking fees, and admission fees for attractions and activities. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to budget accordingly.

Overall, while France may be an expensive destination, the rich culture, history, and natural beauty make it a worthwhile trip for those who are willing to spend a little extra. It's also possible to save money by traveling during the shoulder season (spring or autumn) and by taking advantage of budget-friendly options like camping or cooking your own meals.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in France

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that I recommend for a road trip in France:

These guidebooks and road maps should provide you with all the information you need to plan and execute a successful road trip in France.

Good Reads before taking a Road Trip in France

Here are some good reads that can help you prepare for a road trip in France:

These books will not only entertain and inform you but also provide insights into French culture, history, and cuisine, helping you to better appreciate and enjoy your road trip in France.

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