Prêt à partir? Use the search form above to find your ideal voiture de location in France. Select your pick-up location (from major hubs like Paris CDG Airport, Paris Gare du Nord rail station, or city offices in Nice, Lyon, Marseille, etc.), choose your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see real-time offers from dozens of rental companies across France from budget-friendly compacts to roomy SUVs and vans. Filter by car type, price, or supplier to compare deals easily. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals allow you to reserve now, pay later at pick-up, and include free cancellation if your plans change. Lock in a great France car rental deal today, and you’ll be all set to roam from the Eiffel Tower to the French Riviera without a hitch. With your ride confirmed through AirportVanRental, you can focus on planning which vineyard, castle, or boulangerie to visit next, knowing your transportation is sorted.
Introduction: Bienvenue to France a country of iconic cities, charming villages, vineyards, and seacoasts best explored with the freedom of your own wheels. Having a rental car in France lets you experience everything from the boulevards of Paris and the chateaux of the Loire Valley to the lavender fields of Provence and the sunny Riviera beaches, all on your schedule. With AirportVanRental as your trusted global OTA partner, you can quickly compare top suppliers and find the perfect car at a fantastique price. Ditch the rigid train timetables and tour buses instead, savor a picnic under the Eiffel Tower, detour to a Champagne vineyard, or linger in a hilltop village at sunset. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in France. We’ve packed it with money-saving deals, local driving tips, and road trip inspiration so you can book with confidence and hit la route prepared. Whether you’re flying into Paris Charles de Gaulle, planning a coastal drive in Normandy, or embarking on a culinary tour of Bordeaux, we’ll help you find the ideal vehicle easily and affordably. Préparez-vous to explore France on your own terms, with extra euros saved for that next café stop!
Our France Car Rental Advantages (USPs)
Why book your France car hire with AirportVanRental? We specialize in getting you the best wheels for your European adventure, partnering with all major brands (and trusted local agencies) to ensure an easy, affordable experience. Here are some benefits we offer for car rentals in France:
Top France Car Rental Deals
Economy Car from €25/day. Example: Renault Clio or similar (5-door, manual). A fuel-efficient little car perfect for city sightseeing and narrow village lanes. Why so cheap? High competition at Paris airports and major cities keeps economy prices low, especially in off-peak months. Ideal for couples or solo travelers packing light; it’s easy to park in tight spots (think Montmartre streets or medieval town centers) and sips fuel on those day trips from Paris.
Convertible from €50/day. Example: Peugeot 308 Cabriolet or similar. Perfect for summer cruising! Drop the top and enjoy a scenic drive along the Côte d’Azur or through Provence’s lavender fields with the sun and wind enhancing every mile. Convertibles are popular in France’s warmer months, and if you book in advance you can snag surprisingly affordable rates. There’s nothing like driving a cabrio on the *Corniche roads above Nice, ocean glistening below.
Midsize SUV from €40/day. Example: Nissan Qashqai or similar (automatic). A versatile choice for families or groups up to 5. Plenty of cargo space for luggage or wine cases, and comfortable for longer hauls (say, Paris to Bordeaux or Geneva to Chamonix). With available GPS and modern safety features, SUVs are a smart pick year-round from navigating Alpine roads in winter to touring Normandy’s countryside in spring.
Minivan (7-Passenger) from €65/day. Example: Renault Grand Scénic or Peugeot 5008 or similar. Ideal for larger families or groups exploring France together. Load up everyone kids, grandparents, and all for a journey to Disneyland Paris or a road trip through the Loire Valley castles. Ample seating and sliding doors make sightseeing stops easy. (Pro tip: splitting the cost among 6 or 7 travelers often makes a minivan one of the cheapest per-person options, and you all stay together versus renting multiple cars.)
Note: “From” rates are based on rentals in major hubs like Paris (CDG Airport or downtown) during low season. Prices may be higher in smaller towns (e.g. in rural Provence or Corsica) or during peak periods (summer July–August, holiday weeks). Always search with your exact pick-up location and dates to see up-to-date rates. We update this list frequently to reflect current deals and seasonal specials, so check back for the latest offers.
Driving in France: What to Know
Driving in France can be incredibly rewarding you’ll experience everything from bustling city boulevards to quiet country lanes. To help you stay safe and stress-free on French roads, here’s a guide to key driving tips, rules, and local quirks to be aware of:
Traffic & Rush Hours: In large cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, traffic can be very heavy during rush hour. Weekday peak times around Paris are roughly 7–10 AM and 5–8 PM. Expect slow-going on the Paris périphérique (ring road) and major arteries if possible, plan city driving during off-peak hours. Similarly, in summer months, the Autoroutes (A-roads) leading to vacation regions get crowded. The first Saturday in August is famously “Black Saturday” in France traffic jams nationwide as locals head south. If you’re traveling then, consider driving very early or late in the day, or breaking up your trip. Patience is key when traffic builds up (the French even have a word for big jams: bouchons, literally “corks”!). Use navigation apps for real-time traffic info; they might route you via scenic backroads (a bonus adventure).
City Driving & Parking: French city centers can be a maze of narrow one-way streets, and parking is often scarce. Paris driving is particularly challenging streets may suddenly change name or direction, scooters weave between cars, and lane markings can be minimal on historic avenues. If you’re not used to dense city driving, go slow and consider using GPS. Parking in Paris and other big cities tends to be expensive and limited: curbside spots often use pay-and-display machines (€4+ per hour in central Paris), and many areas are resident-permit-only. Public parking garages (indicated by “P” signs) can cost ~€20–€40 per day in city centers. An insider tip: if you’re staying in a city like Paris, you might pick up your rental after your urban stay. Many visitors enjoy Paris by foot/transit, then rent a car when leaving to explore the countryside. If you do drive in Paris, watch out for bus lanes (voies bus) cameras will ticket unauthorized vehicles, and be extra cautious at the giant Place de l’Étoile roundabout at Arc de Triomphe (12 avenues merging in one circular frenzy priority is given to cars entering from the right, a rare case of old rule still in effect!). Other cities like Bordeaux or Nice have historic centers with pedestrian zones or access restrictions heed the signs “Accès Limité” or “Zone Pietonne,” as entering forbidden streets could result in fines captured by camera. When parking curbside, always check signage for street cleaning nights or market days when parking is prohibited. In many towns, it’s common to use “Blue Zone” parking with a cardboard disk (available at tobacconists) display the disk with your arrival time to use free timed parking in designated areas.
Tolls (Péages): Major French highways (Autoroutes, marked with A and a number) often have tolls. These are indicated by signs saying Péage before you enter. Unlike some countries’ electronic systems, in France you typically take a ticket from a machine when you enter a toll road and pay when you exit (or at periodic toll plazas). Tolls can add up for example, driving from Paris to Nice might cost €50+ in tolls. You can pay at toll booths with cash (coins/notes) or credit card (look for lanes with a blue credit card icon). Tip: Most foreign credit cards work fine, but have a Visa/MasterCard ready American Express is not accepted at many tolls. There are also automated Télépéage lanes (marked with a yellow “t” for people with subscription transponders); as a visitor without a tag, avoid those lanes or you’ll have no way to pay. If you accidentally enter one and the barrier doesn’t lift, don’t panic an attendant will come or you can press the intercom for help. Some rental companies offer a toll tag rental, but it’s usually not necessary unless you’ll be doing extensive highway driving. One more thing: around cities like Paris, Automated Speed Cameras on autoroutes will ticket speeding, and tickets can be mailed to the rental car agency. So stick to the limits even if the road is wide open (we know a 130 km/h autoroute can be tempting!).
“Priorité à Droite” (Priority to the Right): A unique French traffic rule: at many intersections without stop or yield signs, you must yield to vehicles coming from your right. This is especially common in smaller towns or rural crossroads even if you’re on what seems the main road, a car approaching from a little side street on your right may have the right-of-way unless you see a yellow diamond sign (which indicates you have priority on a priority road). When in doubt, slow down at uncontrolled intersections and be prepared to yield to the right. Most modern roundabouts in France do follow the standard rule of yielding to traffic already in the circle (signs will say “Vous n’avez pas la priorité” if you must yield entering). But a few old traffic circles still operate on the opposite rule (e.g. Place de l’Étoile at Arc de Triomphe in Paris, where incoming traffic has priority as noted above). Keep an eye out for yield (Cédez le passage) and stop (STOP) signs, and remember: if no sign, yield to the right.
Rules of the Road: In France, you drive on the right-hand side (same as North America). Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 10 must use appropriate child seats or boosters (rentable from your car provider). Mobile phone use while driving is illegal unless completely hands-free even holding a phone on speaker is against the law. France has strict DUI laws: the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (even lower, 0.02%, for new drivers under 3 years of license). That’s roughly one small glass of wine best to avoid alcohol entirely if you’re driving, as enforcement is strict and penalties are severe (fines, license suspension, possible jail for higher levels). Headlights: By law, you must use low-beam headlights in tunnels (there’s always a sign reminding you “Allumez vos feux”). It’s also required to have your lights on in rain or poor visibility during daytime. Outside cities, many French drivers use the flashing of headlights as a signal (e.g. to warn of a speed trap ahead, or to thank you for yielding); it’s a common custom but not official, so interpret flashes carefully. On multilane highways, keep to the right except to pass slower traffic on right, pass on the left. Passing on the right is illegal and dangerous. Use your turn signals (indicators) liberally especially entering/exiting roundabouts and changing lanes French drivers appreciate clear intentions. Lastly, note that France requires some safety equipment in every car: a reflective vest and warning triangle (your rental will have these). It’s also technically required to carry a breathalyzer kit in the car, though there’s no fine for not having one (the old law was never strictly enforced and was essentially dropped).
Fueling Up: Fuel in France is sold by the liter, and unleaded gasoline is “Sans Plomb” (95 or 98 octane, 95 is standard) while diesel is “Gazole”. Many rental cars, especially larger ones, run on diesel check the fuel type before you fill up! Gasoline prices in France tend to be around €1.70–€1.90 per liter (equivalent to about $6.50–$7.50 per gallon) as of 2025. Diesel is slightly cheaper than petrol per liter. Fuel is pricier along the autoroutes (service plazas can be €0.10–€0.20 more per liter), so for better prices, consider exiting into a town. Most stations are self-service; big ones take credit cards at the pump (ensure your card has a chip & PIN though many now accept chip+signature too). Some rural or after-hours pumps require a chip PIN card; if yours doesn’t work, you might need to find a staffed station. It’s customary (and required by rental agreements) to return your car with a full tank to avoid hefty refueling charges. Plan to stop at a station near your drop-off location. For example, near CDG Airport there are gas stations in Roissy and Tremblay-en-France just outside the airport zone perfect for topping up before returning the car. Save your fuel receipt as proof in case there’s any question on fuel level. Pro Tip: The words “Sans Plomb 95” (or E10) and “Gazole” are what you’ll see on pumps double-check you’re using the right fuel type for your car (mis-fueling a diesel with petrol or vice versa can ruin a trip fast).
Roads & Signage: France’s road network is extensive and generally well-maintained. Autoroutes (A) are high-speed highways, often toll, with speed limits of 130 km/h (about 80 mph) in dry weather (reduced to 110 km/h in rain). Routes Nationales (N or RN) are national highways, usually free, with speed limits around 80–90 km/h on open roads. Routes Départementales (D) are local roads these can range from wide secondary roads to narrow country lanes. Speed limits changed recently on many secondary roads: the general rural limit is 80 km/h (50 mph) on two-lane roads without a divider (some may still show 90 km/h if specifically posted). In towns/cities, it’s 50 km/h (31 mph) by default, but many city centers are now 30 km/h zones for safety watch for signs upon entry. French road signs use international symbols for the most part easy to understand. One noteworthy sign: a yellow diamond ◆ means “priority road” (you don’t yield to right) and a struck-through diamond means end of priority. Directional signs are color-coded: blue signs for Autoroutes, green for other major routes, white for local roads, and brown tourist signs pointing toward attractions. If you’re heading to a city center, follow signs for “Centre Ville.” And if you see “Rappel” under a speed limit sign, it means “reminder” of the current limit.
Low Emission Zones: To reduce pollution, France has introduced Crit’Air low-emission stickers in certain cities. Paris, Lyon, Marseille and others require vehicles to display a Crit’Air vignette (1 through 5 rating based on emissions) to enter on specific days or in general. Rental cars registered in France should already have a Crit’Air sticker if applicable typically they’re newer vehicles with good ratings (Crit’Air 1 or 2, allowed in the zones). If you plan to drive into central Paris on weekdays, ensure your rental has this sticker most do. During severe pollution episodes, restrictions may kick in (e.g. only certain sticker numbers allowed). It’s unlikely to affect short-term visitors significantly, but it’s good to know if you see signs about “Circulation Différenciée.” When renting, you can ask if the car is Crit’Air compliant for big cities again, most modern rentals are.
Roundabouts: France loves roundabouts (ronds-points) they’re everywhere. The rule now is standard: cars already in the roundabout have priority; yield to traffic coming from your left in the circle, and then enter when safe. Use your right-turn signal as you prepare to exit the roundabout (and signal left if you’re going around more than 180° inside the roundabout). One quirk: at some older traffic circles, especially in Paris, the opposite priority rule exists (as mentioned, Place de l’Étoile Arc de Triomphe being the famous example where incoming traffic yields to no one). But nearly all modern roundabouts (you’ll know because they have yield signs for entering traffic) use the normal yield-on-entry rule. If you encounter a sign “Cédez le passage” at a circle you yield entering. If none, assume priorité à droite might technically apply for incoming traffic (rare). When driving rural France, you’ll often hit charming mini-roundabouts at village centers slow down and enjoy the décor (many are beautified with flowers or art). They’re generally straightforward and keep traffic calm.
Driving in Winter: If your French travels are in winter (roughly November to March) and include mountainous areas (Alps, Pyrenees, Massif Central, Vosges), be prepared for snow conditions. France has a law now in certain mountain regions that requires winter tires or snow chains during winter months (typically Nov 1 Mar 31 in specified departments). Rental cars in those regions should be equipped accordingly if not, agencies can provide chains. Check if your itinerary crosses mountain passes; some high passes (cols) close entirely in winter. Highways and main roads are plowed regularly, but a sudden snowfall can still disrupt travel. If you plan to ski in the Alps, consider renting an SUV or requesting winter tires. Always slow down on snowy/icy roads, use gentle braking, and leave extra distance. Black ice (verglas) can be a hazard on cold mornings. In the Alps, you might see flashing sign warnings for snow or requirements to put chains on (“chaînes obligatoires”) heed them for your safety. On the upside, sunny winter days can offer gorgeous drives think snow-dusted vineyards in Champagne or the stark beauty of Provence’s olive groves in January. Just be flexible with plans if weather is severe. And note: in ski resort areas, many cars will have ski racks available if you need one request ahead if hitting the slopes.
Emergency & Roadside Assistance: The emergency number Europe-wide (including France) is 112 (you can call it from any mobile phone for police, ambulance, or fire). In France, you can also directly dial 17 for police, 15 for medical, 18 for fire but 112 works for all and has English-speaking operators available. If you have a breakdown on a highway, French motorways have orange emergency phone boxes at regular intervals these connect you to the autoroute’s official roadside assistance. Use them if possible instead of calling a tow truck directly, as only authorized service can operate on toll roads. If you have to pull over, remember to put on the reflective safety vest (before exiting the vehicle) and place the warning triangle about 30 meters behind your car to warn other drivers. Most rentals include 24/7 roadside assistance keep the rental agency’s emergency number handy (it’ll be on your contract or key fob). They can dispatch help if you get a flat tire, mechanical issue, or if you run out of fuel (it happens). Rest areas (aires de service) on autoroutes are generally safe and have facilities if you need a break some even have play areas, cafes, and free Wi-Fi. Finally, always drive with caution and enjoy the journey in France the road trip can be as memorable as the destination, especially when you’re well-prepared.
Road Trip Ideas from France
One of the greatest perks of renting a car in France is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. From coastal highways to mountain routes, the country offers diverse scenery and cultural stops at every turn. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as starting points and customize as you like):
Highlights: Start your journey heading west from Paris (~80 km) to Giverny, where you can visit Claude Monet’s house and the famous water lily gardens that inspired his paintings. It’s a peaceful first stop before continuing into Normandy. Next, drive about 180 km to Caen, the lively city that was central in William the Conqueror’s time here you can tour the Caen Memorial Museum for a powerful overview of World War II. From Caen, pivot north to the D-Day Beaches (roughly 15–40 km away depending on the sector). Park at Omaha Beach in Colleville and walk along the sands where Allied forces landed on June 6, 1944; pay respects at the poignant American Cemetery nearby. In the town of Bayeux, just inland, don’t miss seeing the Bayeux Tapestry an embroidered 70-meter panorama of the 1066 Norman conquest (talk about history coming alive!). As you drive west along the coast, you can stop at quaint fishing villages like Port-en-Bessin for fresh Normandy oysters or at Arromanches to see remnants of the wartime Mulberry Harbor. Continue your journey into Brittany, aiming for the iconic Mont Saint-Michel the fairytale-like abbey perched on a tidal island (park on the mainland lots and take the shuttle or walk the causeway). Mont Saint-Michel is roughly 120 km (about 2 hours) from Bayeux. Time your visit if you can to catch the tide either rushing in or out the sight of the mount surrounded completely by water (or mudflats) is unforgettable. If you have extra time, extend into Brittany by visiting the walled port city of Saint-Malo (another 55 km west) known for its corsair pirate history and sea views. Or drive south to Rennes (the Brittany capital) before looping back.
Pro Tip: Weather in Normandy and Brittany can be unpredictable bring layers and a rain jacket even in summer. The D-Day sites are best experienced with some context: consider downloading an audio tour or timing your visit to join a short guided tour at Omaha Beach or Pointe du Hoc. Many museums and memorials open by 9-10 AM; arriving early beats the crowds, especially in June around D-Day anniversary dates. As for Mont Saint-Michel, it gets very busy mid-day. Aim to arrive in late afternoon or stay overnight nearby that way you can wander the abbey in the evening when the day-trippers have left, and even see the monastery lit up after dark. Lastly, be sure to taste the local specialties on this route: Normandy’s apple cider and camembert cheese, Brittany’s buttery crêpes and galettes (savory buckwheat pancakes). A road trip isn’t just about sights it’s about flavors too!
Highlights: Begin in Marseille, France’s historic port city on the Mediterranean. Pick up your car after exploring the Vieux Port and perhaps sampling bouillabaisse. From Marseille, drive 100 km north to Avignon, the medieval city of popes. Park outside the old walls and walk in to see the Palais des Papes and the famous “Pont d’Avignon” bridge. Avignon makes a great base to explore Provence’s interior. Next, venture into the Provençal countryside a tapestry of vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields (in bloom late June through July). Head east toward the Luberon region (about 40 km from Avignon) and hop between enchanting hilltop villages: Gordes, with its stone houses cascading down the hillside; Roussillon, renowned for its red-ochre cliffs and colorful façades; and Lourmarin, where winding lanes lead to art galleries and cafes (author Peter Mayle’s inspiration). Each village is only 10–20 km apart, and driving between them offers postcard scenes at every turn. As you continue east, consider a stop in Aix-en-Provence (if you loop slightly south, about 70 km from Gordes) to stroll its elegant boulevards once walked by Cézanne. Or drive through the Verdon region for a glimpse of the stunning Gorges du Verdon (France’s “Grand Canyon”) if time allows the turquoise Verdon River is a bit north but a spectacular detour for nature lovers. Finally, aim toward the French Riviera: as you approach Nice (roughly 150 km from the Luberon area), you can choose the coastal route via Cannes and Antibes for sea views. Nice itself offers a mix of beachy relaxation and old-town charm stroll the Promenade des Anglais and enjoy some salade niçoise. If you have extra days, use Nice as a hub: drive out to Monaco (20 km northeast, a beautiful cliffside corniche drive) or down the coast to Saint-Tropez (though note in high summer, traffic to St-Tropez can be intense).
Pro Tip: Provence’s smaller D roads can be narrow and winding don’t rush. The joy is in meandering. Summer is high season; if traveling in July/August, start your days early to find parking in popular villages (by late morning, Gordes’ tiny lots fill up). Many towns have market days (e.g., L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue on Sundays, Apt on Saturdays) fantastic for local produce and crafts, but plan for crowds or visit on non-market days for easier driving. In the Côte d’Azur, weekdays usually see slightly less traffic than weekends on coastal routes. Also, consider the “Moyenne Corniche” road vs. the low coast road when driving between Nice and Monaco it’s a bit above the coast and offers incredible panoramic viewpoints (like the Vista Palace view near Èze village). Lastly, Provence and the Riviera are famous for rosé wine if you’re a wine lover, a car allows you to stop at wineries (Châteauneuf-du-Pape near Avignon, or Côtes de Provence domains en route to Nice). Just designate a driver or sip lightly if you’ll be driving after a dégustation. Santé!
Highlights: Experience France’s majestic Alps and crystal-clear lakes on this circular route. Start in Lyon (or fly into Geneva, just across the border in Switzerland a common gateway to the Alps, about 150 km from Lyon). From Lyon, drive 140 km to Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps” for its canals. Park and explore Annecy’s gorgeous old town and lakeside promenade the view of Lac d’Annecy against mountain backdrops is pure eye-candy. You can even rent a paddleboat if time permits. Next, head 100 km northeast to Chamonix, via scenic mountain highways. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an alpine town famed as the gateway to Western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc (4,810 m). Ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car up to 3,842 m for jaw-dropping views of snow-covered peaks and glaciers on a clear day you can see into Switzerland and Italy from the top. Back on the ground, Chamonix is great for alpine food (try a hearty raclette or fondue) and outdoorsy vibe. From Chamonix, drive through the Arve Valley and over to Grenoble (about 220 km via the Autoroute, or take a slower but stunning route through Megève and along Route Napoléon). Grenoble, nestled at the foot of several mountain ranges, is known as the “Capital of the Alps.” Take the Grenoble “bubbles” cable car up to the Bastille fort for a panorama of the city and surrounding peaks. The final leg is 110 km from Grenoble back to Lyon, passing through the Rhône Valley. Lyon itself is worth a stop if you haven’t visited it’s France’s culinary capital and has a beautiful old town.
Pro Tip: Alpine driving is generally easiest in summer and early fall all the passes are open and the weather is mild. If you’re doing this route in winter, make sure your rental has winter tires and carry chains; snow can impact routes like the Mont Blanc area, and some smaller mountain passes might close. Also, plan your Mont Blanc cable car for early morning if possible; lines can be long by mid-day, and afternoons sometimes bring clouds that obscure the view. Acrophobes beware: the cable car is thrillingly steep! For a unique add-on, from Chamonix you can actually drive through the Mont Blanc Tunnel into Italy (Courmayeur) in about 30 minutes just note the tunnel toll is around €60 round-trip. Back in France, consider timing your drive from Chamonix so you can pause in the town of Albertville, host of the 1992 Winter Olympics, or in Chambéry, which has an interesting old town and castle. Fuel up before heading into high mountains gas stations in small mountain towns can be sparse. Lastly, for foodies: Alpine cheese is king. Pick up some Beaufort or Tomme de Savoie cheese and a fresh baguette for a perfect road trip picnic by a lake. Bon voyage!
Quick-Reference Info Box: France Car Rental at a Glance
Popular Car Types: Small Economy cars (e.g. Renault Clio), Compact hatchbacks (e.g. VW Golf), Family Sedans & Wagons (e.g. Peugeot 508 SW), SUVs (e.g. Nissan Qashqai), 7-9 seater Vans (e.g. Renault Trafic). Automatics available but manuals are common book early for automatics. Choose a mini for city ease, an SUV or van for family comfort on longer trips.
Cheapest Rental Rates: Off-peak daily rates from ~€25/day for economy cars (typically found in Paris or big cities during low season). Average mid-size car ~€40–50/day. Prices rise in summer (July-August high season, holidays) especially in resort areas like Nice or Corsica. Pro Tip: Book 4–8 weeks in advance for the best rates, and try weekend rentals (Fri-Mon) which often have promos.
Airports & Hubs:Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) largest selection, many international brands; Paris Orly (ORY) another big Paris airport; Nice Airport (NCE) major for Riviera; Lyon (LYS) gateway to Alps and Burgundy; Marseille (MRS) Provence hub. Also popular: Bordeaux (BOD), Toulouse (TLS), Geneva (GVA, just over Swiss border but has a French sector). Train station pickups in cities (e.g. Paris Gare du Nord, Avignon TGV) are convenient for city-center rentals. Virtually every medium city (Strasbourg, Nantes, etc.) has rental offices we cover 300+ locations in France.
Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road. Overtake on the left. On multi-lane highways, keep right except to pass stay out of the far left lane unless actively passing, as faster cars will flash lights to signal they want to overtake. Steering wheel on the left in French cars.
Speed Limits: 130 km/h (80 mph) on Autoroutes (lowered to 110 km/h in rain, 50 km/h in heavy fog). 110 km/h on divided expressways without tolls. 80 km/h (50 mph) on two-lane roads outside towns (recently standardized, though some signed at 90). 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas (often 30 km/h in city centers or residential zones watch for signs). Speed Cameras are widespread adhere to posted limits. Fines can be mailed to the rental company (who will forward to you with an admin fee), so don’t speed, especially near towns.
Fuel Type: Unleaded “Sans Plomb” (95 or 98) or Diesel “Gazole”. Many rentals are diesel confirm before refueling. Fuel is sold per liter. Price: ~€1.70/L for petrol, €1.60/L for diesel (fluctuates). Credit cards accepted at most pumps; some unattended stations require chip & PIN. Remember to fill up before returning full-to-full policy standard.
Tolls: Extensive toll highways (péages). Take a ticket and pay by cash or card at exit. Costs vary (e.g. ~€20 from Paris to Normandy, ~€50 Paris to Nice). No general road vignette needed. Tips: Carry some Euros for small exits, avoid lanes marked “télépéage” (reserved for electronic tags) if you don’t have one. For Alpine travel, note Mont Blanc Tunnel (France-Italy) and Millau Viaduct have separate tolls.
Parking Costs: Varies by city. Paris: ~€4/hour street parking (max 2h in many areas), €25-€40/day in central garages. Smaller cities: €1-€2/hour or free in outskirts. Almost all towns have paid parking zones in center on weekdays. Look for blue street lines or signs “Payant”. Many villages have free public lots just outside historic centers use those and walk 5 minutes. Beware of tow-away zones (signed “Stationnement Interdit” or yellow curb markings) French police do tow/impound in cities for illegal parking or if blocking driveways.
Rental Requirements: Valid driver’s license (held ≥1 year; if not in English/French, get an IDP). Minimum age usually 21 with surcharge under 25. Credit card in main driver’s name required for deposit (amount blocked equal to excess + fuel). Passport or ID needed at pickup. Most rentals include basic insurance; consider excess coverage. Additional drivers should be present to show license (and may incur a fee, though some companies include 1 extra driver free).
Best Time to Rent/Drive:Spring (April–June) wonderful driving weather, blooming landscapes, moderate demand (except around Easter). Fall (Sep–Oct) grape harvest season, stunning autumn colors, fewer tourists, often best rates. Summer gorgeous but high tourist traffic (esp. late July/Aug), book cars and hotels early. Winter off-peak except Christmas/New Year; cheapest rates, but mountain regions have snow (ski season can actually spike demand in Alps). Cities are quieter for driving in August (Parisians on holiday) but countryside roads, especially heading south, are busiest then.
Navigation: We recommend using a GPS or smartphone map app. Google Maps, Waze, etc. work well (download offline maps in case of patchy signal in rural/mountain areas). Road signage is generally excellent directions often list town names rather than route numbers, so know key towns on your path. Example: driving from Lyon to Geneva, signs will say “Genève” rather than highway numbers. Having a paper map or Michelin Road Atlas as backup can be helpful for an overview and in case of tech failure. In remote areas (e.g. national parks, deep rural regions) phone signals can drop offline maps or a dash-mounted GPS unit shine there.
Emergency Info: Dial 112 from any mobile for emergencies (multi-language European emergency number). For non-urgent roadside help on autoroutes, use the orange emergency call boxes it connects to motorway assistance who will dispatch help to your location. If you have an incident, put on your reflective vest and set the warning triangle 30m behind your car. In case of breakdown, most rentals have 24/7 assistance call the number provided. Police in France are “Gendarmerie” (rural/highway) or “Police Nationale” (urban). It’s wise to keep the rental agreement and car papers (usually in the glovebox) with you; you may be asked for “les papiers du véhicule” at checkpoints (especially near borders). Stay safe, follow local laws, and enjoy the journey bon voyage!
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum rental age in France is generally 21 years old. However, drivers aged 21–24 will typically pay a “young driver” surcharge (around €25–€30 per day) and may be limited to certain vehicle categories. All major rental companies in France rent to age 25+ with no surcharge, and some will rent to 19-20 year olds under special conditions or smaller local cars. Always check the terms if you’re under 25, expect an extra fee and make sure you have a credit card in the driver’s name. Note that you must have held your license for at least 1 year (often 2 years for higher categories or younger renters). So a 23-year-old with a license obtained at 18 should be okay (with a fee), but a newly licensed 21-year-old might not. When booking with AirportVanRental, we’ll clearly display any young driver fees in advance so there are no surprises.
Maybe it depends on your home license. If your driver’s license is issued in the EU or UK, or in a country with a license in French or English, you do not need an IDP. For example, a UK, Canadian, or Australian license is generally accepted on its own. If your license is in another language/script (say, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, etc.), it’s highly recommended (and effectively required by most rental companies) to carry an International Driving Permit or an official translation along with your original license. An IDP is basically a translated supplement to your license. U.S. travelers: technically, an American license (English) is accepted in France, but many travelers still get an IDP as a precaution it’s inexpensive and some rental counters may ask for it alongside your passport just to be thorough. Also, if you plan to drive into neighboring countries like Spain, Italy or Switzerland, having an IDP can ease any language issues if you’re stopped by authorities. In summary: Carry your home license and passport, and get an IDP if your license isn’t in a widely understood language. Better safe than sorry, especially for non-EU visitors. Remember, an IDP is only valid with the original license you must have both.
Rental companies will offer optional insurances at pickup (or you can often add them in advance through AirportVanRental for better rates): • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) This isn’t insurance per se, but a waiver that limits your financial responsibility if the car is damaged or stolen. With CDW, the rental company agrees not to charge you the full vehicle cost, only up to a deductible (often €800–€1,500 on economy cars, more for luxury) depending on the car. Without CDW, you’d theoretically be liable for the entire value of the car. In France, most rentals include a basic CDW with an excess (deductible). You can choose to upgrade to “Super CDW” or full coverage to reduce that excess to near €0. It costs extra per day but gives peace of mind you can drop the keys off worry-free. • Theft Protection (TP) Often bundled with CDW, it covers the car if it’s stolen, again usually with a deductible. • Supplemental Liability Sometimes offered to increase your third-party liability coverage (if you want higher limits, though in EU it’s usually sufficiently high already by law). • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) Covers you and your passengers’ medical bills in case of an accident. If you have travel medical insurance or health insurance that covers you abroad, you might not need this. In summary, you must have at least the included liability, and we strongly recommend having CDW with as low a deductible as you can reasonably afford. Many travelers opt for the full coverage package so a scratch or fender-bender doesn’t cost them hundreds. One tip: some credit cards (like Visa or MasterCard high-tier cards) offer rental car damage coverage if you decline the rental company’s CDW. This can save money, but make sure France isn’t excluded (some cards exclude certain countries or high-end cars). And know that if you rely on a credit card, the rental agency will put a large hold (often the full value of car) on your card and you’ll have to pay for any damage upfront and claim it back from the card later. If that sounds like a hassle, just take the CDW. Rest assured, when booking with us, you’ll see what’s included and can add coverages in advance to streamline pickup. Driving in France is a joy proper insurance just ensures it’s a stress-free joy.
Yes, many French highways are toll roads (called autoroutes with “Péage” signs). You’ll encounter tolls especially on routes radiating from Paris and major north-south and east-west corridors. Payment is straightforward: when you enter a tolled section, you either take a ticket or the entry point records your vehicle. When you exit, you stop at a toll booth. Ways to pay: • Credit/Debit Card: Easiest method insert your card (Visa/Mastercard) in the machine, it’ll charge the toll amount. No PIN usually needed for toll machines. (Make sure your card isn’t one that requires PIN for all transactions). This is widely used by tourists. • Cash: Choose a lane with a green arrow (or a person icon) there will be a machine (or attendant at big plazas) to take euro coins/notes and give change. Some smaller exits might be exact-change only late at night, so keep a few €1 and €2 coins handy just in case. • Télépéage (Auto toll tag): Some rentals might come with a toll transponder device (often not standard, but could be offered for a fee). If you have one, you can use the fast “T” lanes and the tolls will be billed to you later with an added small service fee. If you don’t have a transponder, avoid lanes signed with just a white “t” on orange those are exclusively for tag holders. If you accidentally go through a tag lane without one and the barrier doesn’t open, don’t reverse (dangerous) press the intercom button and explain “Je suis un étranger pas de badge” (I’m a foreigner, no tag); an operator will usually open and direct you to pay the toll after. Also note, speed limit at toll plazas is 30 km/h or less slow down to safely pass through. A typical toll from Paris to Lyon might run ~€35; smaller stretches €3–€10. Plan toll costs into your budget (we include known toll estimates in our reservation info if available). Finally, don’t avoid toll roads out of fear sometimes they save hours of driving. If you’re on a leisurely tour, scenic D roads are wonderful, but if you need to cover big distance, autoroutes are efficient. The rental car itself doesn’t need any special prep for tolls (unlike say in Italy where you need a vignette for some countries France has none, just pay-as-you-go). One more tip: If you’re approaching Spain or Italy, those countries have their own toll systems (Spain similar ticket system, Italy too). If you drop the car in France after visiting those, any toll bills should’ve been paid on the road, except London-style congestion charges or speeding fines which can come later. For French tolls, you won’t get a bill mailed you pay during the trip. So keep some euros or a credit card ready and enjoy France’s excellent autoroutes when you need them.
Yes! One of the great things about renting a car in France is the ease of driving across European borders there are no routine border checkpoints between most neighboring countries (EU/Schengen zone). So you can absolutely take your French rental on a Euro road trip. Popular excursions include driving into Spain (e.g. from Nice to Barcelona or through the Pyrenees), heading into Italy (the French Riviera to Tuscany is a gorgeous drive), visiting Switzerland (Geneva is right on the border, and many drive from France to ski Swiss Alps), Belgium and Luxembourg (north of Champagne/Alsace), or even Germany. Rental companies generally allow travel to Western European countries without issue the car’s insurance/green card typically covers it. Important: If you plan to drop off in another country (one-way international rental), that usually incurs a hefty drop fee. For example, picking up in Paris and dropping in Rome is possible but expect a substantial surcharge (hundreds of euros potentially). Within Western Europe, driving across borders on a round trip is fine and unlimited. Just inform the rental agent at pickup which countries you intend to visit they’ll make sure the paperwork (and any required safety kit differences) are in order. A few countries may be restricted or require permission (for instance, some companies restrict taking cars into Eastern Europe or certain countries due to theft risk or insurance limits e.g. driving into Poland or Croatia might need prior approval, and typically luxury cars aren’t allowed into Italy’s southern regions, etc.). But for France’s neighbors and common tourist routes, you’re free to roam. We’ve had many renters do grand tours like Paris->Belgium->Netherlands or Provence->Italy. Also note, some countries (Switzerland, Austria) require a highway vignette sticker for driving on their motorways if you pop into Switzerland, you’ll need to buy a CHF 40 vignette at the border or gas station (valid for the year). Italy and Spain have tolls but no sticker required. Another tip: ensure you have any necessary equipment for other countries e.g. in Switzerland you need a vignette as mentioned; in Italy, you’re required to have a reflective vest too (your French rental’s vest covers that). And if you go to London (UK) with a car unlikely from France by rental due to ferries and left-side driving, but if so, you’d need to pay the congestion charge in London and consider that not all French rentals have permission to go to UK, check with the company. But within mainland Western Europe drive on! No permission slips needed in most cases. Just remember to abide by each country’s traffic laws (speed limits change at borders, alcohol limits differ, etc.). Unlimited mileage on the rental means you won’t be charged extra for racking up kilometers through multiple countries go for that multi-country adventure!
Yes, it’s standard in France (and most of Europe) to return your rental car with a full tank of fuel, as it will be given to you full. This is often called the “full-to-full” policy. If you don’t, the rental company will fill it and charge a steep per-liter price plus a service fee definitely something to avoid. Fuel prices in France are notably higher than in the US. As of recent data, unleaded petrol (Sans Plomb 95) is roughly €1.65–€1.80 per liter, and diesel (Gazole) about €1.55–€1.70 per liter. That translates to around $6.50+ per US gallon. Prices fluctuate with global oil markets and even weekly, and can vary by region often a bit more around Paris and the Riviera, a bit less in some rural areas or near large supermarkets (supermarket gas stations like Carrefour or Leclerc often are cheapest). Before returning, plan a stop at a nearby station. If you’re dropping at an airport, use your GPS/Google Maps to find gas stations in the vicinity e.g. “station service près de CDG”. Fill up as close as possible to the drop-off location. Keep the receipt just in case the agent asks (uncommon, but occasionally they might if the gauge is just barely at Full you can show you just filled). Many rentals now also offer a pre-paid fuel option where you pay for a full tank at pickup and return empty but unless you know you’ll use the entire tank and come in on fumes, it’s usually not cost-effective (they don’t refund unused fuel). So we suggest sticking with full-to-full. Also, note fuel types: if your car says “Diesel” on the fuel cap or key tag, be sure to fill with Gazole, as mentioned. Putting the wrong fuel can be a very expensive mistake and rentals often won’t cover damage from mis-fueling. The pumps in France are sized such that a diesel nozzle is larger (won’t fit in a petrol car’s neck easily) and petrol nozzles are smaller (which unfortunately can fit into diesel tanks), so double-check before squeezing that handle. Fun fact: Many French stations are unattended on Sundays or late nights you’ll pay by card at the pump. If your card doesn’t work, look for a station on a major highway or attached to a large supermarket, as those are more likely staffed in daytime. In summary: fuel up, use the correct type, and return full. It’s part of the routine perhaps wrap it into your schedule as a final chance to grab a snack for the road and relish a last bit of driving in France!
Yes, one-way rentals within France are very common and generally easy to arrange. France is a large country, and many travelers do itineraries like Paris to Nice, Bordeaux to Paris, or Lyon to Marseille without looping back. Rental companies typically allow it as long as they have offices in both locations. The good news: one-way within France often comes with either no drop fee or a relatively small one. For example, picking up in Paris and dropping in Nice might incur a modest fee (maybe €50–€100) or sometimes none at all if there’s high demand both ways. We at AirportVanRental will show any one-way fee upfront when you search with different drop-off so you know the cost. Some routes (like Paris CDG to downtown Paris, or between popular southern cities) have no fee because cars need rebalancing anyway. Note: If you’re dropping at a small town far from the pickup city, a fee is more likely. One-ways save you the time and fuel of backtracking many travelers find it worth any extra cost. Just be sure to select the correct drop-off city when booking; deciding to change drop locations last-minute can be pricey if not pre-arranged. Also, confirm the drop-off procedure: in big cities like Paris, after-hours drop (like on a Sunday when offices may be closed) could involve parking at a partner garage and leaving keys in a box. Plan for office hours if possible to avoid confusion. One more tip: Cross-border one-ways (picking up in France, dropping in another country) are a different story as mentioned above, those usually have high fees due to the logistics of returning the vehicle to France. It can be done (e.g. Paris to Barcelona drop-off), but compare costs sometimes it’s cheaper to return in France near the border and take a train for the last leg. Within France though, go ahead and road-trip freely from region to region. Whether you drive from the Atlantic coast to Provence or from the Alps to Normandy, a one-way rental lets you maximize your trip without circling back.
Manual (stick-shift) cars are the norm in France, especially for economy and compact categories but automatics are increasingly available. If you prefer or need an automatic transmission, you can absolutely rent one, just be sure to specifically book a car class that is listed as automatic. On our search, use the filters or look for phrases like “Auto” or specific models known to be automatic. Examples: a category might say “Intermediate VW Passat or similar Automatic”. Automatics in France tend to be in higher demand from foreign travelers, so they can be priced slightly higher and may sell out faster in peak season. The good news is most major suppliers (Hertz, Europcar, Avis, etc.) now stock plenty of automatics in tourist areas. If you show up without a reservation hoping for an automatic, you might be out of luck so reserve in advance. Also note, rental agencies treat transmission as a feature they guarantee car category, not always exact model, but if you book “automatic”, they’ll give you an automatic in that class at least. If you can drive stick, you’ll have more choices and often lower prices, but don’t feel you must if you’re not comfortable French roads include some hilly villages and tight parking where stick can be tricky if you’re not used to it. One extra tip: many smaller automatics in Europe are actually automated manual transmissions (sometimes called semi-automatic) they function as an automatic (no clutch pedal), but might feel a bit different in shift patterns. Don’t worry, you drive them just like any automatic. Premium categories (BMW, Mercedes, minivans) are usually true automatics. In summary: Yes, you can rent an automatic in France easily through AirportVanRental just book it early. And when you pick up, if for some reason you’re offered a manual instead (“We have a new Peugeot but it’s manual, would you like to swap?”), don’t be shy to insist on the automatic you reserved they’ll honor it, or upgrade you if an auto in your class isn’t available. Bon route!
Driving in downtown Paris (or Lyon, Marseille, etc.) can be challenging for newcomers. Paris has heavy traffic, complex one-way systems, and scarce parking so if your trip is only within Paris city, you likely don’t need a car (Paris has an excellent Metro, buses, and is very walkable). In fact, many visitors choose to enjoy Paris on foot/public transit, then rent a car when leaving the city for other regions. That said, if you plan to stay in outer arrondissements or make day trips to Versailles, Giverny, Disneyland Paris, etc., a car can be handy even during a Paris stay. The key is to know your itinerary. Within city centers, often it’s easier and cheaper to not drive daily. But for exploring beyond city limits, a car shines. Driving in Paris isn’t impossible millions do it but expect congestion and assertive drivers. Patience and a good GPS are vital. Also note: Paris has been reducing lanes and adding bus/bike lanes; be cautious to stay out of those restricted lanes (they’re usually marked with solid white lines and “BUS” on the pavement). Other cities: Driving in cities like Nice or Bordeaux is a bit easier than Paris, but they also have tram lines and pedestrian zones to watch for. Marseille has aggressive traffic in some areas. Generally, if you’re only “city hopping” via train, you might rent only on days you want to do countryside. But if you like flexibility, you can keep a car even during city stops perhaps book hotels with parking. One strategy is to park at a commuter lot or hotel on the outskirts and use public transport into the old town. For example, in Paris some people stay or park near the périphérique (ring road) and take the Metro in, avoiding inner-city driving. To sum up: If mainly visiting a big city, you can skip the car for that portion. If planning to explore regions, definitely rent. You can mix and match that’s why one-way rentals or picking up mid-trip is popular. AirportVanRental makes it easy to find downtown pick-up locations too, so you could, for instance, spend a week in Paris car-free, then pick up a car near the Champs-Élysées and head out on the road. Ultimately, France’s appeal is as much its provinces as its cities and for those, a car is unbeatable. We’re here to support whatever approach gets you the best trip!
Beyond the obvious big attractions (Paris’s Eiffel Tower, the French Riviera beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, etc.), having a car opens up a treasure trove of destinations that are hard to get to by train or tour. A few favorites to consider: • Loire Valley Châteaux: With a car, you can castle-hop visit Château de Chambord, Chenonceau, and Villandry’s gardens all in a day or two. Trains won’t connect all these easily. • Giverny: Monet’s Gardens (mentioned in the road trip) reachable by train+bus, but so much easier by car, and you can combine it with a scenic drive along the Seine valley or onward to Rouen. • Verdon Gorge: In Provence, the Gorges du Verdon often called Europe’s Grand Canyon is stunning but totally inaccessible without a car. Drive the loop around the rim, stop in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village, and maybe rent a kayak in the emerald lake at the gorge’s end. • Dordogne Valley: The southwest has medieval gems like Sarlat-la-Canéda, La Roque-Gageac (village clinging to a cliff), and prehistoric cave art at Lascaux. A car is essential to explore this picturesque region of rivers and cliff-top castles. • Brittany’s Coast: Drive to Pointe du Raz (the “Land’s End” of France) for dramatic Atlantic views, or to Carnac to see fields of ancient standing stones (France’s mini Stonehenge). Public transit there is minimal. • Champagne Route: If you enjoy bubbly, a car lets you pop between Champagne houses in Épernay and Reims, and also venture into pretty vineyard hills in between, like around Hautvillers (Dom Pérignon’s abbey). Try doing that by train! • The Auvergne Volcanoes: In central France, Auvergne has a chain of extinct volcano peaks (Chaîne des Puys, a UNESCO site). You can drive scenic routes like the D941 and hike up Puy de Dôme or take a panoramic train up. The region’s pastoral beauty and spa towns (Vichy, Le Mont-Dore) fly under the radar reachable only by car. All these spots (and many more) become easily accessible with a car. France packs a lot of diverse landscapes alpine, coastal, plains, forests into one country. With your own wheels, you can truly choose your own adventure, stopping at quaint villages or photo ops at will. We encourage you to venture beyond the main highways sometimes the small D roads yield the most delightful surprises, like an impromptu farmers’ market or a hidden waterfall. That’s the beauty of exploring France by car: the journey is filled with potential detours that turn into memories. Drive safe and profitez bien (enjoy)!