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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

I II III IV V VI
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
Combe Laval Scenic Drive Combe Laval Scenic Drive
Combe Laval Scenic Drive
41 km 42 km/h 1 days scenic
Roman Provence Road Trip Roman Provence Road Trip
Roman Provence Road Trip
178 km 49 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
Cevennes Scenic Drive Cevennes Scenic Drive
Cevennes Scenic Drive
143 km 45 km/h 2 days scenic
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
Livradois-Forez Scenic Drive Livradois-Forez Scenic Drive
Livradois-Forez Scenic Drive
162 km 58 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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