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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

France - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in France due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

Incidents such as pickpocketing and phone snatchings occur frequently and can happen anywhere, especially in crowded areas such as airports, train stations, subway and train cars, and near tourist attractions.

Peaceful demonstrations and strikes in Paris and other cities throughout France occur regularly and can disrupt transportation. On rare occasions, demonstrations have included violence and property damage and police have responded with water cannons and tear gas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to France.

If you decide to travel to France:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and large crowded public venues.
• Avoid demonstrations and areas with significant police activity.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities including movement restrictions related to any ongoing police action.
• Find a safe location and shelter in place if unable to leave the vicinity of a demonstration.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for France.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

At least three months beyond date of departure from the Schengen area. The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.

Must have at least one blank page for stamps

Not required for stays under 90 days

10,000 Euros Max

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Paris 2 Avenue Gabriel 75008 Paris, France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22, enter zero “0” after the automated greeting Fax:  +(33)(1) 42-61-61-40 (Special Consular Services) [email protected]

Only the consular sections in Paris and Marseille are authorized to issue passports. The other offices provide limited services to U.S. citizens.

U.S. Consulate General Marseille Place Varian Fry 13286 Marseille Cedex 6 France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-47-54 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg 15, Avenue d'Alsace 67082 Strasbourg Cedex France Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-48-80 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 Fax: (33)(3) 88-24-06-95 [email protected]

When calling from within France, drop the country code and add a zero. For example: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 becomes 01-43-12-22-22.

Please note that the emergency after-hours telephone number for all U.S. posts in France is: +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22 . Ask to speak to the duty officer if you need emergency assistance after business hours.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information.

The Government of France does not recognize the 12-page U.S. emergency passport, issued by U.S. embassies and consulates overseas, as a valid travel document for visa-free entry into France. If traveling on this emergency passport, you may be refused boarding and/or entry by immigration officials and/or held at the airport until a return flight to the U.S. is available. Direct transit through France for another destination accepting an emergency passport may be permitted. You should check entry requirements of any other country of destination to make sure the emergency passport is accepted for entry.

You may enter the Schengen area, including France, for up to 90 days for tourist and business purposes without a visa.

Immigration officers may also request you show sufficient funds for your intended stay and a return airline ticket.

If you are traveling to France or Monaco for reasons other than business or tourism, such as employment (including diplomatic or official travel), study, or internship, you must obtain the appropriate French or Monegasque (Monaco) visa for that purpose before you leave the United States. You should be aware that it is nearly impossible to obtain or change visa status while in France.

All minors (under age 18) traveling without a parent or legal guardian and who are residents in France must have the written consent of at least one parent or legal guardian to leave France. The minor must travel with his or her own I.D., a copy of the parent/guardian’s I.D., and form number 15646*01, executed by the parent/guardian and available  here .

If you are transiting through France to South Africa, there are special requirements for minors. See  Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements for South Africa  for additional information.

Contact the  French Embassy  in Washington at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007, tel. (202) 944 6000, or one of the  French Consulates General  in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, or San Francisco for the most current visa information.

Special Note:  Overseas departments and territories of France (i.e. those not located in Europe) are not included in the Schengen Agreement. Please see Country Specific Information on  French Guiana ,  French Polynesia , and the  French West Indies  for entry and exit requirements. For other departments and territories, visit the  Embassy of France  website for the most current visa and entry requirement information for those areas.

Monaco:  For further information on entry requirements to Monaco, travelers may contact the  Embassy of the Principality of Monaco , 888 17th Street NW, Suite 500, Washington D.C. 20006, Tel: (202) 234-1530, Email:  [email protected] ; or the Consulate General of Monaco, 565 Fifth Avenue – 23rd floor, New York, NY 10017, Tel: (212) 286-0500, Email:  [email protected] .

Traveling Through Europe :  If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country. Please review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page.  We recommend that your passport have at least six months’ validity remaining.
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket . 
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of France.

Find information about  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

French authorities have spoken publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in Europe.

A counterterrorism law enacted in 2017 allows the government to prevent the circulation of individuals and to create zones of protection and security.

The French government has temporarily reestablished border controls at its borders with its Schengen neighbors and movement may be restricted in some areas. Border controls with the United Kingdom, including the Channel Tunnel crossing, have also been reestablished following Brexit.

The Government of France routinely conducts security and crisis management drills involving deployment of security forces, emergency services, and police to high profile areas that may be near popular tourist sites. U.S. citizens should be aware of the possibility of drills and should heed instructions of local authorities should they encounter them.

French police and military routinely patrol public spaces. You should expect security inspections (to include purses, bags, and backpacks) at the entrance to large public venues and businesses.

When traveling or living in France, you should:

• Be aware of your local security situation and take appropriate steps to bolster your personal security.
• Monitor media and local information sources like  France24 , Radio France International , The Local , and the Paris Travel Information webpage and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. 
• Address specific safety concerns to French law enforcement authorities who have responsibility for the safety and security of all residents and visitors to France.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Crime:  The majority of crimes directed against foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, involve pick-pocketing (passports, phones, cash, credit cards), vehicle and residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of theft.

Visitors to congested and popular tourist areas (e.g., museums, monuments, train stations, airports, and subways) should be particularly attentive to their surroundings. Rental cars are frequently targeted for break-ins when visitors exit their vehicles and leave valuables behind.

Crimes of opportunity are more likely to involve violence on the street late at night or when the victim resists. 

Exercise extra caution when out alone at night and/or consider traveling out at night with trusted companions.

While the incidence of sexual assault is statistically low, attacks do occur.

Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. The Embassy has assisted multiple victims who appear to have been targeted using these drugs.

Be cautious in bars and clubs where alcohol is served, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers, as they may have slipped drugs into the drink.  

There are high incidences of “smash and grab” robberies in economically depressed areas or on highly traveled thoroughfares such as roads to and from the airport. Thieves on foot or motorcycle will approach a vehicle that is stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach into the vehicle to grab a purse or other valuable item, and then flee. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.

See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Demonstrations  occur frequently.  They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Strikes can interfere with travel plans and increase expenses of traveling to France.

Demonstration organizers must obtain prior police approval, and police routinely oversee participants. In case of violence or property damage, French authorities may use chemical agents and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Alerts issued regarding demonstrations are posted on the  U.S. Mission’s website .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 (the European emergency number which has some English-speaking staff)  or 17 from a landline or cell phone and contact the U.S. Embassy Paris at +(33)(1) 43-12-22-22. French authorities do not generally speak English and communication may be difficult.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• provide a  list of local attorneys
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide the Paris Police Prefecture pamphlet in English
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport .
• provide you with information regarding victims’ assistance groups in France

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact  the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. French authorities will not routinely notify the Embassy unless you request them to do so. See our  webpage  for further information.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in France are severe.

Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 

In France and Monaco, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could land you immediately in jail.

Flying Drones:  The use of drones and drone footage in France is highly regulated. It is against the law in France to operate drones over public spaces (including museums, parks, streets) in urban areas and near airports, military bases, prisons, nuclear plants, and large gatherings such as outdoor concerts and parades. The privacy of individuals captured in drone footage is paramount. Violators can be arrested and subject to fines of up to 75,000 euros and/or one-year imprisonment. Review the  information sheet  provided by the French government concerning hobbyist drone flights.

You should contact the  Embassy of France  or one of  France's consulates  in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please see our  Customs Information .

There are strict regulations concerning temporary importation or exportation from France of items such as firearms, antiquities, medications, business equipment, merchandise samples, and other items.

French Foreign Legion:  U.S. citizens interested in joining the French Foreign Legion (FFL) should be aware that the cognitive and physical tests for acceptance are extremely challenging.

Ensure you have access to sufficient funds to return home should your candidature be refused.

Successful candidates report that the FFL provides a new identity and retains their U.S. passport during a long probation period. Lack of access to your passport can complicate routine or emergency travel.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

Human Rights Report  – see country reports

Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in France.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in France prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation and general infrastructure.

Visitors to France should expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation (subway, specifically), lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. Getting around French cities can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, though major tourist sites generally have better facilities.

Although the Paris Metro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. However, many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or sight- or hearing-disabled. Taxis are also a good mode of transportation.

The English-language  Paris Visitors Bureau and Explore France websites contains additional information specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. For further information, e-mail  U.S. Embassy Paris , U.S. Consulate General Marseille , or U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Dial 15 to connect to emergency medical services or dial 112 to reach an operator.

Ambulance services are widely available, though English is not widely spoken.

Medical care is comparable to that found in the United States.

Except for emergency services, you may be required to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Be sure to obtain a “Feuille de Soins” for later reimbursement from your health care provider.

You may be refused routine care under local law if you lack the ability to pay.

Foreigners with terminal illnesses may be denied treatment if treatment is available in their home country.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Hospital bills are not itemized.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the  government of France  to ensure the medication is legal in France.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Roads are generally comparable to those in the United States, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers.

Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear. Drivers should be prepared to make last-minute maneuvers.

Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets.

Bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and electric skateboards are prevalent on streets, crosswalks and sometimes sidewalks. They have legal priority and often do not respect traffic signals.

On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles. Service stations are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.

Highway toll stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.

Traffic Laws:  While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle in France, you should bring your own helmet. Though bicycles, scooters and electric skateboards must follow local traffic laws, or risk fines, they often do not do so and can pose a danger to drivers and pedestrians.  Many paths are clearly marked for this form of transportation in  larger cities.

Pedestrian accidents occur when a pedestrian steps out into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

Public Transportation:  Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is comparable to or better than that found in major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are found in all major French cities.

If you use any of France’s public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely, as it may be checked or required for exit. Children over four years of age must have a ticket.

Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks and passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines.  Failing to sign and date or enclose photo (when required) on a tourist pass (Paris Visite) makes the pass invalid and the holder subject to a fine.

Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.

Between cities, France has extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail connects the major cities in France. Many cities are also served by frequent air service. Traveling by train is safer than driving.

See our  road safety page  for more information. Visit the website of the  French National Tourist Office  for specific information on French driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance. See Embassy of France’s  driving in France  webpage for information on using U.S. driver’s licenses in France.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of France’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of France’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to France should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website  (select “broadcast warnings.”)

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.
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Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in France .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Entry Requirements for American Travelers to France

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Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

All U.S. and Canadian citizens, including infants, need a valid passport to enter France. Visas are not required for American and Canadian visitors staying in France for up to 90 days. For more information, contact your nearest French Consulate. See a list of local French consulates in the U.S.

It is mandatory in France to carry some form of identification at all times. If you lose your passport, the nearest U.S. Consulate will issue Americans a limited-validity replacement if travel is imminent, or a full-validity passport if further travel is not within two weeks. When in France, please carry a photocopy of your passport separately from your passport. The copy will facilitate issuance of a replacement ($75 fee for adults, $85 for children). The American Embassy in Paris is at 2, avenue Gabriel, tel. 01 43 12 22 22. The Passport Section is nearby at 4, avenue Gabriel (open 9a.m.-noon, Monday- Friday). There are other Consular Offices in Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Rennes, Strasbourg and Toulouse that provide assistance to American citizens.

Entering France : Travelers from countries outside the European Union (EU) must declare certain articles when entering France. Duty and import taxes are levied on items not for personal use that individually or collectively exceed 175€ in value. Certain categories of items for personal use (tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, perfumes, coffee and tea, etc.) may be brought in untaxed up to certain authorized amounts. The following are forbidden or subject to strict control: drugs, radioactive materials, firearms, endangered species, plants, ivory and food, meat and dairy products. Carry prescriptions to authenticate any controlled substances. “Monetary instruments” equal to more than 10,000€ (whether brought into or taken out of France) must be declared. When in doubt, consult the French Embassy , a French Consulate or the French Customs and Excise Service's “ Info Douanes Service ” in Paris at tel. 08 20 02 44 44 (8:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday to Friday)

Re-entering the U.S. : Returning U.S. citizens who have been away for 48 hours or more are allowed to bring back, once every 30 days, $800 worth of merchandise duty-free. You're charged a flat rate of duty on the next $1,000 worth of purchases, and any dollar amount beyond that is subject to duty at whatever rates apply. On mailed gifts, the duty-free limit is $200. Have your receipts or purchases handy to expedite the declaration process. Note: If you owe duty, you are required to pay upon your arrival in the United States, using cash, personal check, government or traveler's check, or money order; some locations also accept Visa or MasterCard.

BRINGING YOUR PETS TO FRANCE

Travelers may bring dogs, cats and ferrets into France. Each family is limited to five animals, which must have valid rabies vaccination certificates and be identifiable by a microchip or tattoo. For more information, including details about travel with pet rodents, reptiles, birds or other species, visit www.ambafrance-us.org or contact the French Embassy.

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COVID-19 : International travel

Mobilising on a weekly basis up to 6,000 members of the civil security service to carry out tests, border guards to check travellers’ health documents and internal security forces to oversee the isolation or quarantine measures decreed by the prefects, this mechanism was duly adjusted in response to the changing health conditions and Community regulations.

In light of the latest developments in the pandemic, the port health control system has been discontinued, pursuant to the law terminating the emergency measures instituted to combat the COVID-19 outbreak.

Accordingly, the rules previously applied to travellers to France no longer apply effective from 1 August 2022:

• Travellers are now exempt from any formalities prior to entry into France, be it in mainland France or overseas, and no longer required to present a health pass, regardless of the country or place of departure;
• Justification of travel (the “compelling reason”) is no longer required;
• Travellers are no longer required to present a sworn statement of non-contamination and an undertaking to undergo an antigen test or screening upon arrival in the country.

The same applies to travel between mainland France and each of the overseas territories. Similarly, the French authorities no longer require any justification for outgoing travel from France, be it from mainland France or overseas, or any exit clearance to travel to another country.

However, foreign countries may continue to apply specific entry measures and formalities.

As of February 16th 2023, all passengers traveling from China are no longer required to present a negative antigen or PCR test result dated less than 48 hours, or a sworn statement. Random screening on arrival is also discontinued.

It is still recommended to wear a single-use surgical mask on board the aircraft.

Passengers from China making a stopover in a different country to reach France are invited to check the conditions applicable to transits.

Click here  to find out more about Overseas Territories Travel.

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Travel Restrictions and Implementation of Public Health Measures at Borders - Press release issued by the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Ministry for Solidarity and Health (22 May 2020)

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To help control the spread of COVID-19, the Act of 11 May 2020 extending the state of health emergency provides for the possibility of putting specific health measures in place for travellers arriving in Metropolitan and Overseas France. The measure comes on top of the travel restrictions which came into force at our borders on 18 March and will remain in place until 15 June 2020.

The decrees implementing the Act of 11 May will be published and come into force on Saturday 23 May 2020. They create a legal framework which makes it possible to impose, by decision of the prefect and under judicial supervision, 14-day quarantine or isolation measures at home or in appropriate accommodation. This is a legal option, which nevertheless systematically applies to Overseas France, where there is a specific health situation, and to people arriving at our borders who show symptoms of being infected with COVID-19 during the health checks which will be put in place.

From Monday 25 May 2020, the Government is additionally putting in place a voluntary 14-day quarantine measure for travellers arriving from certain countries:

• For travellers arriving from outside the European area (all countries of the world except European Union member States, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland, Vatican City), the principle which remains in place today, and until further notice, is the border closure and therefore the ban on entry.

French nationals or permanent residents in France may, however, enjoy continued access to French territory, as may certain specific categories of people set out on the website of the Ministry of the Interior . In return, people are nevertheless asked to act responsibly by placing themselves in voluntary quarantine. On their arrival on French territory, those admitted who arrive from outside the European area will be provided with information about the conditions under which the voluntary quarantine can be carried out at their chosen address or, where applicable, in appropriate accommodation. Travellers are called upon to be civic-minded and demonstrate a sense of responsibility in putting this health precaution into practice.

• For travellers arriving from inside the European area (European Union member States, the United Kingdom, Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican City), the borders are not closed but are still subject to travel restrictions imposed as part of border controls coordinated with our partners. Some measures have been relaxed: in addition to French nationals or people with permanent residence in France, cross-border workers, international carriers, new categories of people are now permitted to enter France, in particular for family reasons (separated spouses, continued schooling, childcare, visiting dependent relatives) and for professional reasons (seasonal workers and European posted workers whose missions cannot be postponed) to contribute to the economic recovery. All the permitted categories feature on the Interior Ministry website. Moreover, to facilitate the smooth movement of traffic while ensuring implementation of the restrictions remaining in force until 15 June, border crossing points are gradually being reopened and permanent static checks are giving way to intermittent dynamic checks. Finally, we are working on a single, joint declaration with the border States.

In health terms, given the similar epidemiological situations in European States and the coordination of crisis management measures, there will be no requirement for people arriving on French territory from countries in the European area to go into a 14-day quarantine period.

However, for travellers arriving from European countries whose authorities have decided, in an uncoordinated fashion, to apply 14-day quarantine measures to travellers entering their territory from European countries, a voluntary 14-day quarantine period will be reciprocally requested. For example, from Monday 25 May onwards, travellers arriving from Spain, on flights only, will be asked to go into voluntary quarantine, because Spain imposed a quarantine system on 15 May for travellers arriving in Spain by plane. This applies to travellers of Spanish, French and all other nationalities. Likewise, travellers arriving from the United Kingdom, whatever their nationality, will be asked to go into a 14-day quarantine period when the British 14-day quarantine measure, announced this evening, actually comes into force.

The following people will be exempt from voluntary quarantine, except if they show symptoms :

• people in transit to another country;
• crew members and people operating passenger and cargo flights, or travelling as passengers to their departure point;
• international freight transporters;
• coach and train drivers and crew;
• crew members and people operating merchant and fishing vessels;
• foreign health professionals helping fight COVID-19;
• staff of diplomatic and consular missions and of international organizations with headquarters or offices in France, as well as their spouses and children;
• French and foreign domestic security or defence forces personnel returning from missions, or on mission, staff of the judicial authority carrying out its work, and government officials posted abroad or returning from missions, as well as their spouses and children;
• cross-border workers;
• people with compelling family reasons (travel justified for the purpose of transferring custody of or having access or staying access to a child; continued schooling; urgent assistance to a loved one; the funeral of a close relative);
• people allowed to enter France for economic reasons if they are staying for less than five days. The quarantine conditions applicable to seasonal and posted workers permitted to enter are set out in the directive of 20 May 2020.

In order to make their journey, travellers will have to provide the following documents, available on the website of the Ministry of the Interior :

• an international travel declaration;
• a sworn statement certifying that the traveller shows no symptoms of being infected with COVID-19.

France is also continuing its efforts to increase coordination with its European partners, in particular its border countries. We ask the States in the European area to give priority to quarantine measures not applying to travellers arriving from inside the European area. We are also promoting coordinated health measures at the European area’s external borders, with the aim of arriving in the coming weeks at a harmonized list of third countries where the active spread of the virus has been observed, and for which increased and coordinated health measures may be implemented.

Press service of the Ministry of the Interior: service-presse at interieur.gouv.fr / 01.40.07.22.22 Press service of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs: presse.dcp at diplomatie.gouv.fr / 01.43.17.57.57 Press service of the Ministry for Solidarity and Health: sec.presse.solidarites-sante at sante.gouv.fr / 01.40.56.60.65

Travel and Covid-19: Answers to your questions

The entry, exit, and transit requirements for each country may differ greatly. We invite you to check all travel requirements (Covid-19 test, vaccines,...) for the countries through which you are due to transit directly on TravelDoc .

Check the type of test to be performed and its validity period

Check the approved vaccines and their validity requirements

For all other destinations, please review the travel requirements for your flight on  TravelDoc .

If you are traveling to or from an international destination and have a connection in Metropolitan France, you must meet the conditions imposed by your destination country.

Please check  TravelDoc for the latest information regarding your travel requirements.

The TravelDoc website provides the latest information on travel requirements around the world. Visit TravelDoc

If you are not vaccinated, please make sure to check the travel documents required for your trip on TravelDoc , as rules of entry and exit vary from country to country.  For flight to/from France, no test or vaccine is required.

The free and time-saving "Ready to Fly" service allows you to upload all the required health documents for your travel before you arrive at the airport. If your booking is eligible for this service, you will receive an e-mail prompting you to upload your documents to our online platform a few days before your scheduled flight. You can download or print your boarding pass with “Ready to Fly” printed on it after your documents have been checked and approved. You will receive a notification with instructions if you are missing a document or if a document is incomplete.  Learn more .

You can reschedule your flight if you test positive for Covid-19 in the days leading up to your trip if you get in touch with our customer service team before your scheduled departure date.

Covid-19 tests

The validity period for Covid-19 tests is short: usually a few days before departure or arrival depending on the country. Visit TravelDoc to find out when to get tested before you travel. For more information on all domestic flights within France and flights to/from Corsica, please visit our FAQ on the health pass in France. Visit TravelDoc

In most cases, the validity of a Covid-19 test is calculated based on: 

• The time and date of collection
• The time and date of departure of the first flight of your trip.

 However, exceptions are possible. Some countries calculate validity in days, not hours, or flight arrival rather than departure. Please visit TravelDoc to view the latest validity requirements for your trip.

  Traveling on a connecting flight?

Please refer to the above information to calculate your test’s validity period. If different validity periods are required for each flight in your booking, the shortest validity period applies from the start of your trip. Visit  TravelDoc

The type of Covid-19 test required varies by country. Visit TravelDoc to find out which test you will need to take before you travel. For more information on all domestic flights within France and flights to/from Corsica, please visit our FAQ on the health pass in France. Visit TravelDoc

Testing requirements for children depend on the destination country. Please consult TravelDoc to find out if your child needs to be tested for your trip. Visit TravelDoc

Some countries require a test certificate in digital or printed format, which may include a QR code. This certificate may be different from the result sent by your lab. Visit TravelDoc to verify which document to show at the airport. Visit TravelDoc

Some countries accept a test certificate in English, others require it to be translated into the official language. See TravelDoc for more information. Visit TravelDoc

Vaccines against Covid-19

Some countries exempt vaccinated travelers from having to show a negative Covid-19 test. Check with TravelDoc to see if this applies to you. Remember to check the validity requirements, the type of vaccine allowed and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry into the country. Visit TravelDoc

Some countries exempt vaccinated travelers from quarantine upon arrival. Check with TravelDoc to see if this applies to you. Be sure to check the validity requirements, the type of vaccine allowed and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry. Visit TravelDoc

Authorized vaccines vary from country to country, as do their validity conditions and the minimum time required between the last injection and entry into the country. In addition, some countries require all travelers, even those who have been vaccinated, to take a Covid-19 test or to observe a quarantine upon arrival. See TravelDoc for more information. Visit TravelDoc

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France Itinerary

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Discover the best of French life with this spectacular France itinerary. Start your trip in beautiful Paris and let the train carry you down to the sunny Mediterranean, while cruising through hillside vineyards and endless lavender fields. Reserve a seat on France's TGV high-speed train for fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. Or take it easy and explore the French countryside with RET regional trains, one charming village at a time. When traveling with a Eurail Pass , you simply can't miss out on la belle France .

Itinerary in short

Cities visited in this trip:.

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner.

For this itinerary we recommend:

• Eurail pass: France
• Travel days:  7 days within 1 month

Most of the high-speed trains in France, like the TGV and some InterCités, require reservations. These reservations are not included in your Eurail Pass. Make sure to book your seats in advance, there are limited seats available for Eurail Pass holders. It's also possible to avoid reservations all together, simply by taking regional trains . 

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Paris, France

Paris is known as the city of love, and what a lovely place it is! Take a stroll underneath the famous Eiffel Tower and have a glass of wine on the banks of the Seine river. You can do some fancy shopping on the Champs Élysées by day and visit the magnificent Paris Opera by night. The city is a haven for culture vultures, who could spend days exploring the wonderful collection of the Louvre museum . Make sure to visit the art district of Montmartre , where famous painters like Picasso, Dalí, and Van Gogh used to work. Here you'll also find the pristine white Sacré-Coeur Basilica , the second most famous church in Paris, after the hunchback's hideout - the Notre Dame .

From Paris to Versailles

Travel time:

Gare Montparnasse

Versailles, France

Versailles-Chantiers

For splendor with a capital S, visit the magnificent Palace of Versailles . A symbol of flamboyance, it was the royal palace for two centuries right up to the French Revolution. Take a stroll around the Versailles Gardens to follow in the footsteps of Louis XIV, the infamous Sun King. Inside the palace, you’ll find extravagance in every room. Don’t miss out on the Royal Apartments and the fabulous Mirror Hall (Galerie des Glaces). Visit the Hall of the Battles (Galerie des Batailles) to see France’s military history in paintings and in sculptures.

From Paris to Mont St. Michel

Reservation needed:

Reservation required

Rennes, France

Gare de Rennes

Mont St. Michel, France

Mont St. Michel

Mont Saint-Michel, France

An hour out of Rennes, just off the coast of Normandy, you'll find the tiny island of Mont Saint-Michel. It is dominated by the monastery from which it draws its name and was an important place of pilgrimage in medieval times. These days, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the major tourist attractions in France. For centuries, you could only reach the island when the tide was low, but these days a bridge connects the town to the mainland. Take a regional train from Rennes to get to Mont Saint-Michel.

From Mont St. Michel to Bordeaux

Nantes, france.

Gare de Nantes

Bordeaux, France

Gare de Bordeaux-St. Jean

The port city of Bordeaux is France’s uncontested wine capital. You’ll find many luscious vineyards and charming chateaux in the region, which have been producing wine since Roman times. If you're interested in a wine tour , by foot or by bike, beautiful Bordeaux is the perfect place for it! The city itself is rich in architectural highlights from all periods. Climb to the top of the bell tower next to Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-André) for a stunning view of the city. In the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux you can find a large collection of masterpieces by famous European painters.

From Bordeaux to Carcassonne

Carcassonne, france.

Gare de Carcassonne

On your way to the sunny Mediterranean, hop off the train in Carcassonne for a sight you'll never forget. The town's medieval citadel will make you believe you’ve stepped out of a time machine. Take a walk through history and visit the Chateau Comtal and the gothic Basilica of Saint-Nazaire . Stand in front of the impressive Narbonne Gate where the centuries look down upon you.

From Carcassonne to Nice

Marseille, france.

Gare de Marseille-Saint-Charles

Nice, France

The city of Nice is located on the Mediterranean coast near the Italian border. It’s one of the most popular tourist cities in France, second only to Paris. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze on the Promenade des Anglais and work on your tan on Nice’s beautiful beaches. Only twenty minutes away from Nice you’ll find the tiny city-state of Monaco . Take a daytrip there to see the yachts in the marina and the Lamborghinis in the streets. If you’re feeling lucky, you can place a bet at the famous Monte Carlo casino.

From Nice to Lyon

Avignon, france.

Gare d’Avignon Centre

Lyon, France

Lyon Part-Dieu

If you’re making your way back to Paris, the city of Lyon is the perfect stopover. For centuries now, Lyon has been known as the gastronomical capital of France. Go to a bouchon , a typical Lyonnais restaurant, to taste authentic local cuisine and have a glass of Beaujolais wine. In Lyon's bustling center, you’ll find plenty of interesting sights. Have a look inside the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and observe the city from the top of Fourviere hill. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, visit the Parc de la Tete d’Or , one of the most beautiful parks in France.

Experience France with the Eurail France Pass!  

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Best French Road Trips – 12 Amazing France Road Trip Ideas

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

France by Car

If you have wheels, wanderlust, and some free time, there’s nothing like a road trip to make you appreciate the diversity of the country at a more relaxed pace. A road trip in France ticks all the boxes of epic drives, amazing food, friendly people, beautiful culture, and some of Europe’s most gorgeous sights. Plus, French road trips are fun!

From the Alps to the French Riviera, from the Atlantic Ocean to cute medieval villages inland, France by car means unforgettable routes that will plunge you straight into the country’s heart and soul.

We’ve taken many road trips through France, and you can find more France road trip ideas here . For this post, however, we asked other experienced travelers and friends to help us complete the list of the very best road trips in France, so if you are looking to plan a France road trip, where’s what and where we recommend.

Plan your Trip to France

After traveling consistently for over 10 years, we’ve come to trust and rely on a few websites to help us find the best deals on flights, transportation, and accommodation.

Transportation:   Omio  is the first place we check when searching for cheap flights. It searches hundreds of sites for the best fare and includes both standard and budget airlines. We use Omio or Trainline to book our train tickets; both sites are good, with lots of information in English.

Accommodation:   Booking.com  offers savings on hotels, furnished apartments, and villas in 80,000 destinations worldwide. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets.

Car Rental: Discover Cars is a great site because it takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, etc., and more, and makes the comparison of prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work.

Travel Insurance:  We never travel abroad without a travel insurance policy because it’s not worth the risk! We use and trust  Safety Wing , which we’ve used since its launch. Safety Wing is marketed as insurance for nomads, but you can use it also for short trips. Since April 2019, Safety Wing covers COVID-19 and unexpected quarantines for new policies too!

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30 Ideas for an Unforgettable Road Trip in France

If you are looking for an epic road trip, France has it all to make you happy. Here’s an ultimate guide to the best road trips in France, suitable for all types of travelers. These phenomenal France road trip itineraries can be easily combined, shortened, or extended.

1. Alsace Wine Route

• Duration: 6 days
• Suggested route: Mulhouse – Colmar – Strasbourg
• Region covered: Grand Est
• Best for: sightseeing, small towns, nature, landscapes, French wine

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the oldest and most famous wine routes in France. This France road trip itinerary from Mulhouse to Strasbourg takes 6 days, and it is the perfect road trip for those who love pretty small towns, picturesque landscapes, and wine – Click here to rent a car in Mulhouse

This French road trip starts in Mulhouse , where you will book a hotel for one night. Hotel Bristol is super central and comfortable, and it has secure parking at a small extra cost.

Stroll around Mulhouse’s Old Town with beautiful architecture. Mulhouse has two great museums, La Cité de l’Automobile and La Cité du Train . Depending on your interests and the time available in Mulhouse, visit one museum or both.

From Mulhouse, drive to Colmar and book a hotel for three nights. The James Boutique Hotel is central and with beautiful and cozy rooms and common spaces.

Take the time to explore Colmar’s pretty streets and historical sights; Colmar is the most beautiful town in Alsace! In Colmar, the Museum of Alsatian Wines is an excellent introduction to the wines of Alsace .

Use Colmar as a base to explore the beautiful town of Kaysersberg on day 3 and the towns of Riquewihr plus Eguisheim on day 4, combining sightseeing with wine tastings. Riquewihr and Eguisheim are very small, so if you start early in the morning, you can also squeeze in a short hike through the surrounding vineyards.

On day 5, drive from Colmar to Strasbourg , where you will spend your last two nights of this road trip France. For this last stop, we recommend the Hotel Cathédrale , with incredible views over the Strasbourg Cathedral and public parking available nearby.

Before arriving in Strasbourg , stop at the impressive Château de Haut-Koenisgsbourg , one of the best castles in France . Then in Strasbourg , use this Strasbourg itinerary for two days which covers the city’s main sights.

OTHER FRENCH ROAD TRIP IDEAS NEARBY

• Best of Alsace Road Trip

2. Paris to Nice Road Trip

• Duration: 7 to 10 days
• Suggested route: Paris – Lyon – Valence – Avignon – Marseille – Nice
• Region covered: Ile-de-France, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: sightseeing, food, and wine

This road trip from Paris to South of France is one of the best road trips France has to offer to admire its diversity of landscapes and cities. It takes ten days, and it is an ideal road trip for those who love history, architecture, food, and good wine – Click here to rent a car in Paris

Arrive in Paris and book a hotel for three nights. The Handsome Hotel by Elegancia  is super comfortable and is situated close to the main sights. Spend four days in Paris , dedicating one of these days to visiting Versailles .

From Paris, drive to Beaune , where you will spend one night. On the way, you can visit Auxerre , which is a beautiful Burgundian village with some wonderful historic sights. For a night in Beaune, book at the Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa located in a beautiful historical building in the center of Beaune.

Continue south to Lyon , where you are going to sleep for one night. Hotel de l’Abbaye  is an authentic spot, intimate, and full of charms. In Lyon , take the time to visit the Old Town and its famous Traboules and climb up to Fourvière Hill for some fresh air and great views.

From Lyon, drive to Avignon in Provence. Spend one day in Avignon visiting the Palace of the Popes and other sights, and tasting the local cuisine. Hotel Central is a great option for your night in Avignon.

From Avignon, continue south to Marseille , where we recommend spending at least two days. For your time in Marseille, have a look at this  Marseille 2-day itinerary   and pick the sights and activities you like most. The hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port has the perfect location for your visit to Marseille.

The last stop of this road trip through France is Nice , where you can use this list of the best things to do in Nice  to visit the city. Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges is a great option and comes with the best view of Nice, over the Baie des Anges.

3. Normandy Road Trip

• Duration: 5 days
• Suggested route: Paris –Rouen – Etretat – Honfleur – Cabourg
• Region covered: Normandy
• Best for: history, small towns, seaside resorts

This 5-day Normandy road trip is a good combination of history, sightseeing, and relaxing walks. This France roadtrip through Normandy starts from Paris and covers some of the most beautiful sights in the Normandy region – Click here to rent a car in Paris

The first stop of this road trip from Paris is  Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden. Then, in the afternoon, head to Les Andelys to explore this picturesque town and the Château Gaillard , one of the best castles in Normandy . This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century under the rule of King Richard the Lionheart, is located on the top of a high cliff, and it dominates one of the meanders of the Seine Valley.

After exploring Les Andelys, drive to  Rouen , where you will spend the next two nights. For your stay in Rouen, book at the  Best Western Plus Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert , a central hotel inspired by the French poet born and raised in this city.

The second day is dedicated to visiting Rouen , which boasts the best Medieval center in all of France and an impressive Gothic cathedral.

On the third day, drive from Rouen to Étretat through the beautiful Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine. On the way, stop at Jumièges Abbey to visit the ruins of this magnificent building. In the afternoon, visit Étretat , a picturesque town on the Alabaster Coast and world-famous for its impressive chalky cliffs. For a unique stay in Étretat,  Domaine Saint Clair – Le Donjon  is an excellent option, located 500m from the beach.

Day 4 of this Normandy road trip explores Honfleur . This pretty coastal town on the Seine’s estuary is one of Normandy’s top places to visit . For your night in Honfleur, book at  Villa du Cèdre , a property full of charm with a garden and swimming pool.

The last day of this French road trip explores two of the most beautiful seaside resorts of the Côte Fleurie: Deauville  and  Cabourg . Both towns are well known for their beautiful sandy beaches and Belle Époque villas.

OTHER FRANCE ROAD TRIP IDEAS NEARBY

• Normandy WW2 Sites
• Brittany Road Trip
• Road Trip in Northern France from Paris
• Road Trip from Calais to Paris

4. Champagne Road Trip

• Duration: 4 days
• Suggested route: Paris –Reims – Epernay – Troyes – Provins
• Regions covered: Grand-Est, Ile-de-France
• Best for: history, small towns, champagne wine

This Champagne road trip is another beautiful roadtrip France has to offer. It explores the historical region of Champagne , well known for its rolling hills, historical sites, and sparkling wine with the same name. This France road trip itinerary is a good combination of sightseeing, beautiful landscapes, and (of course) champagne – Click here to rent a car in Paris

On day one, drive from Paris to Reims. On the way, do a short stop at  La Ferté sous Jouarre . This small town, and more precisely, its abbey, hosts two wonderful Merovingian crypts from the 7th century listed as Historical Monuments.

Dedicate the rest of the day to exploring Reims , the capital of Champagne, with many historical gems to visit. The city is well known for its Gothic cathedral, the coronation place for most of the Kings of France. For your night in Reims, we recommend the  Domaine Les Crayères , a mythical property in the city nestled in seven hectares of park, 300m from Pommery Champagne House. Once the car is well parked, you can explore the best champagne houses in Reims .

Day two of this road trip through the Champagne region explores Epernay and its surroundings. Epernay is best known as the main “warehouse” for champagne wines – here are the best champagne houses in Epernay . Not far from Epernay, there’s the Abbey of Hautvillers , where Dom Perignon is buried. Dom Perignon (1638-1715) was a Benedictine monk credited with the revolutionary champagne method, which transforms a still wine (without bubbles) into sparkling wine.

Leave Epernay direction to Troyes and stop at  Château d’Etoges for the night. This lovely château-hotel in the heart of the vineyards of Champagne has individually decorated rooms with period furniture and magnificent grounds.

On the third day of this Champagne road trip visit Troyes . This city was one of France’s most important fair towns during medieval times, a center for hosiery and cloth making. Stroll around the Old Town and admire its beautiful architecture of half-timbered houses.

After exploring Troyes, drive west to Provins, where you will spend one night. For your stay in Provins, book at  Demeure des Vieux Bains ,  a stunning historical property with comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens.

During the last day of this French road trip, explore  Provins , another medieval fair town. Provins is well-known for its Medieval festival (yearly, in June) and its underground city, a vast network of tunnels and passages from the 13th century that connected all the houses.

5. Cathar Country Road Trip

• Duration: 5 to 6 days
• Suggested route: Carcassonne – Cucugnan – Narbonne – Carcassonne
• Regions covered: Occitanie
• Best for: history, medieval châteaux, small towns

This Cathar Country road trip from Carcassone in Southern France takes five to six days and is the best road trip in France for those who love history, Medieval castles, and small towns. For the history of the Cathar and a complete description of the Cathar sites, check out the road trip’s detailed itinerary – Click here to rent a car in Carcassone

Arrive at Carcassone and book a hotel for two nights. Mercure Carcassonne La Cité  is super comfortable and has a refreshing swimming pool. The hotel also boasts amazing views of the walled citadel from the garden and some rooms.

Take a day to explore the medieval Cité de Carcassonne , one of the most important Cathar sites and one of the main targets during the first Cathar Crusade in 1209.

Day 2 of this road trip France visits the charming Medieval town of Mirepoix , and Château de Monségur , where the last Cathars who did not surrender were burnt alive. Spend the night at the  Logis Auberge du Vigneron , in Cucugnan , with fabulous views of the surrounding valley.

On day 3, visit Château de Peyrepertuse and Château de Quéribus , two fabulous hilltop fortresses and Cathar sites. Then drive to Fontjoncouse , a gorgeous oh-so typical French village in the heart of the Aude department conveniently located close to the next Cathar sites. Book a room (or a full cottage) for one night at   Le Petit Clos , a charming guesthouse with a swimming pool, terrace, and garden.

The next day of this roadtrip France visits Fontfroide Abbey and the Medieval village of Lagrasse with the Benedictine Abbey of St Mary of Orbieu . Both abbeys had an important role in the Cathar crusades, and they are interesting to visit.

On the last day of this Cathar road trip, drive to Minerve, a pretty medieval village where you can see a replica of one of the catapults used by the Crusaders. Then, visit Châteaux de Lastours , one of the best castles in Southern France , before driving back to Carcassonne. Châteaux de Lastours is an ensemble of four Cathar castles with a spectacular setting at the top of a rocky spur.

6. Route des Grands Crus, Bourgogne

• Suggested route: Beaune – Vougeot – Dijon
• Regions covered: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
• Best for: sightseeing, landscapes, small towns, food, and wine.

The Route des Grands Crus is one of the best road trips in France for wine lovers. This Burgundy road trip from Beaune to Dijon takes four days and is an ideal road trip for those who enjoy small towns and beautiful landscapes – Click here to rent a car in Beaune

Arrive at Beaune the day before and book a hotel for 2 nights. Château de Challanges , a gorgeous 19th-century country house set in 7 hectares, is perfect for a relaxing stay.

Take a day to explore Medieval Beaune, the capital of wines of Burgundy. Be sure to cover Les Hospices de Beaune , a jewel of Burgundian architecture, and La Maison des Climats to learn more about the (wine) climats of Burgundy.

From Beaune, drive to Vougeot , where you will spend one night. For something special, book at  Château de Gilly , a 14th-16th century château with moats, French-style gardens, and a dining room with a magnificent vaulted ceiling.

On the way to Vougeot, stop at Nuits-Saint-Georges , a lively small town with a long history of wine-making. Visit the town, and perhaps a domain or two for some wine tastings.

In the afternoon, visit the Abbey of Cîteaux , the founder of the Cistercian order in France. It was its abbot who spotted the best kind of soils and selected certain grape varieties, improving the quality of the wines.

On day 3, visit the Château Clos de Vougeot , a must of any Burgundy wine route. In the 14th century, the monks of the Abbey of Cîteaux built the first walls separating vineyards, known as  clos , contributing like this to the promotion of the wines of the region. Clos de Vougeot was the first clos built by the monks, and the visit reveals the winemaking genius of the monks in the Middle Ages.

In the afternoon, drive to Gevrey-Chambertin , a small village home to nine Burgundy Grands Crus, perfect for a stroll and some wine tastings. Then, drive to Dijon, where you will spend one night. The  Grand Hotel La Cloche Dijon  is a good option, conveniently located close to all the main attractions.

On the last day of this French road trip, visit Dijon , the historical capital of Burgundy. Dijon was home to the Dukes of Burgundy, and as such, it has an interesting cultural and architectural heritage. Follow the owl trail, which takes you to Dijon’s main sights, like the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne , built in the 14th-15th centuries.

OTHER ROAD TRIP FRANCE IDEAS NEARBY

• Road Trip Lyon to Annecy

7. Road Trip through the Jura, Eastern France

• Suggested route: Paris – Baume-les-Messieurs – Château-Chalon – Dole
• Best for: landscapes, small towns, hiking

This road trip through the Jura takes four days, and it is the ideal road trip for those who love nature and good food & wine. This Jura road trip covers the region of the lakes and waterfalls of the Jura (a department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in Eastern France), and is one of the best road trips from Paris for nature lovers – Click here to rent a car in Paris

From Paris, drive to Baume-Les-Messieurs , a picturesque village in the heart of a blind valley. Take a stroll to explore the village and its main sights, and then head to the Cascade des Tufs , one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Jura.

For the first night, book a hotel in one of the villages nearby. La Maison du Lac Chalain , in Doucier, is a good option, and it has an excellent restaurant perfect for tasting the regional cuisine.

The second day is dedicated to exploring some of the best lakes and waterfalls of the Jura. The hike to the Belvédère des 4 lacs and Pic de l’Aigle (12 Km) is one of the area’s main highlights. If you start the day early, you can also hike to the Cascades du Hérisson , a beautiful 4 km trail that links many waterfalls.

Then drive to Château-Chalon , another pretty village in the Jura, where you are going to spend the night. Les Relais des Abbesses is a beautiful, historical property in the heart of the village, and it has a terrasse with magnificent views over the Jurassic plateau.

Spend the morning of the third day visiting Château-Chalon , one of the villages with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France.’ In the afternoon, head to Dole, which was the capital of the County of Burgundy until its annexation to the Kingdom of France.

Dole is a picturesque city bordered by the Doubs River, a city of canals and interesting architecture from the 16th century. Dole’s Old Town is a confusion of alleyways edged by Renaissance homes with turrets and courtyards. Book a night at Hotel de la Cloche , a charming property with an excellent location for exploring the city on the last day of this road trip.

• French Alps Road Trip from Annecy to Chamonix

8. Loire Valley Road Trip from Nantes

• Suggested route: Nantes – Saumur – Amboise – Angers
• Regions covered: Pays de la Loire and Centre Val de Loire
• Best for: Renaissance châteaux, small towns, French wine

This Loire Valley road trip from Nantes Airport takes five days and visits some of the best Loire Valley Castles . This itinerary through the Loire Valley is one of the best French road trips for history and architecture lovers – Click here to rent a car at Nantes Airport

Arrive at Nantes Airport and drive about 90 minutes to Saumur , where you will book a hotel for two nights. Hotel St. Pierre is super comfortable, has a great historical feel, and is situated right on the main square. Dine at Michelin-starred Le Gambetta to treat yourself to an amazing French meal.

From Saumur, drive to Château d’Usse (the castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty) with a stop at Château Miniere for a walk among the vines and some wine tasting on the way. The sumptuous and artistic gardens at Château Villandry are also a must-see and easily accessible from Saumur.

Continue east along the Loire Valley to Amboise for two nights. Hotel Le Manoir St. Thomas is a great choice of hotel and even features a suit of armor to guard the lobby. Amboise is home to the Royal Château d’Amboise and the Clos Luce , where Da Vinci spent the final years of his life.

From Amboise, drive to the Loire Valley’s most iconic chateaux: Château Chenonceau and Château Chambord . Enjoy dinner in Blois , followed by the exciting light show after dark at Château Royal de Blois .

On the return to Nantes Airport, break up the more than 3-hour drive with a stop in Angers to see the Apocalypse Tapestries at Château d’Angers . Château d’Angers resembles a menacing fortress rather than an elegant château and is an excellent counterpoint to the other places visited during this Loire Valley Itinerary.

By Jennifer (aka Dr. J) | Sidewalk Safari

• Road Trip Castles of the Loire Valley

9. West Coast of France Road Trip

• Duration: 10 days
• Suggested route: Etretat – Ile de Ré – Bordeaux – Biarritz
• Regions covered: Normandy and Nouvelle Aquitaine
• Best for: architecture, sightseeing, nature, and landscapes

Stunning landscapes, old cities, and historically important places are all part of a road trip along the west coast of France. Whether you camp or stay in hotels, this France roadtrip will be epic.

Start this road trip through France’s western coast in Étretat , known for its huge chalk cliffs. Enjoy a breathtaking walk on the cliffs and finish off with a delicious seafood dish in one of the seafront restaurants of this pleasant village.

The next stop is the WW2 beaches of D-day , such as Utah Beach and Omaha Beach. Visiting this place will leave an everlasting impression. The last stop in Normandy is Mont Saint-Michel , the Medieval abbey that speaks to anyone’s imagination. It is built on a rock in the sea and can only be reached by a bridge during high tide. For a magical experience, book a night in one of the hotels inside Mont Saint-Michel .

This road trip through the west coast skips the region of Brittany. The next stop of this itinerary is the island of Ile-de-Ré in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine.

Ile-de-Ré is a fantastic small Island, right off the coast, reachable by a toll bridge. The island is known for oysters, the local drink Pinot, salt production, and the lighthouse watching over its rugged coastline. Rent a bike, as this is the main way of transport on the island.

After 1 or 2 days visiting Bordeaux , continue your journey to Arcachon and Dune du Pilat . This dune is the highest and biggest sand dune in Europe! Walking across it will give you the feeling of being in a desert. Enjoy the sunset on top of the dune while watching over the Bassin of Arcachon. A moment you’ll never forget.

End this west coast of France road trip with a visit to Biarritz , close to the Spanish border, and go surf in the Atlantic waters.

By Hellen | the Global Wizards

BEST ROAD TRIP FRANCE IDEAS NEARBY

• Basque Country Road Trip
• Road Trip from Bordeaux to Biarritz
• Road Trip Dordogne

10. Gorges du Verdon Road Trip

• Duration: 3 days
• Suggested route: Aix-en-Provence – Valensole – Verdon Natural Regional Park
• Regions covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: nature and landscapes

If you are looking for South of France road trips, you will love this itinerary from Aix-en-Provence to the Verdon Natural Regional Park , which is considered one of the most scenic drives in France – Click here to rent a car in Aix-en-Provence

Did you know that there was a Grand Canyon in France? Yep. Well, it’s not as big as the one in the US, but when you get there, you’ll have the same feeling. It’s called the Gorges du Verdon , and it’s a stunning rocky landscape with towering cliffs, where a turquoise-green river meanders at the bottom.

To start this Gorges du Verdon road trip , you can drive from Aix-en-Provence or any nearby major cities: Marseille, Nice, or even Cannes. The trip takes three days to complete, with one day in Valensole and the lavender fields, one day driving around the different lakes, and one day driving the epic road on top of the Gorges du Verdon. Here are the major stops on this trip:

– Valensole is famous for its lavender fields , which bloom from the end of June to the end of July. Valensole is a cute little village where you can spend the night after exploring the fields around.

– Esparron de Verdon , and Lac Quinson de Verdon , are two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the main lake in the area and the perfect place to stop for a while and relax on the beach.

– Gorges du Verdon is the main attraction around here, France’s Grand Canyon. Drive on top of the gorges on an epic scenic route ( Route des Crêtes ), and enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes in France.

– Sillans la Cascade . Before you leave, check out this secret waterfall, it is absolutely worth the trip!

One of the best places to establish your home base while exploring the area is the village of Valensole, for the ultimate traditional French experience. The bed & breakfast Les Terrasses de Valensole is exceptional.

By Kevin |  Kevmrc

• Lavender Fields in Provence Road Trip
• Route Napoleon Road Trip
• Luberon Road Trip
• The Ultimate Provence Road Trip

11. Gorges du Tarn Road Trip

• Suggested route: Millau – La Malène – Florac
• Regions covered: Occitanie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
• Best for:  nature, landscapes, and small towns

Les Gorges du Tarn is another beautiful south of France road trip. This 4-day itinerary will take you through The Causses, and The Cévennes , a region that offers the ultimate scenery for an amazing French road trip, from deep gorges with hairpin bends to wide-open pastoral landscapes. Because of its uniqueness, the region has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List.

This road trip in France starts and ends in Millau . On the first day, visit the world’s tallest bridge – Millau Viaduct –, and the tiny village of Payre . Stay the first night in Millau and use the evening to explore this beautiful Medieval city. Hotel des Causses in Millau is comfortable, central, and has an on-site restaurant.

The next day head to the heart of the Gorges du Tarn . The road (D809, D907, and D907bis) follows the bends of the River Tarn, which has cut deeply into the cliffs forming this stunning canyon. You’ll be passing through lots of lovely villages along the Tarn.

At Les Vignes, take the D46 road to Point Sublime , from where you will have the most breathtaking view over the canyon. Go back to Les Vignes and follow the road towards La Malène . On the way, stop at Pas de Soucy for some more amazing views.

You can stay the second night at La Malène. The Hotel Le Manoir de Montesquiou is a beautiful and historical building with a great location in the middle of the Gorge area.

On day 3, head to Sainte-Enimie – a postcard beautiful village. On the way, you can stop at Saint-Chélly-du-Tarn . After Sainte-Enimie, continue to Florac , where you can spend the third night. Grand Hotel du Parc has a perfect and relaxing setting in the Cévennes National Park.

The next day take D16 and D63 to the famous cave Aven Armand. You’ll be crossing Causse Méjean , a plateau with a totally different landscape from the canyons. After the cave, stop at the nearby Medieval Farm to learn more about the local traditions in this area ( Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois ).

Afterward, continue to Meyrueis on D986. When you arrive at Meyrueis, take D996 to Le Rozier. Follow the road along the canyon on La Jonte River – Gorges de la Jonte . Stop at Le Rozier and Peyrelau – two lovely places where the La Jonte River flows into the Tarn River. Afterward, continue to Millau, the end of this road trip.

By Daniela | Ipanema Travels

12. French Riviera Road Trip

• Duration: 7-10 days
• Suggested route: Cannes – Antibes – Nice – Monaco
• Best for: landscapes, and sightseeing

This French Riviera road trip from Cannes follows one of the best drive routes through France, with the French Riviera coastline being dotted with picturesque towns and pristine coves along the way – Click here to rent a car in Cannes

One of the best starting points for this France road trip along the Côte d’Azur is Cannes , a city filled with glitz and glamour that will make you feel as though you’ve arrived in the French Riviera in style! Book one night or two in the Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes soaking up the atmosphere and visiting Cannes’ top sights before moving on towards Nice.

On your way to Nice, you might want to stop off in Antibes . This is a lovely place to unwind after the buzz of Cannes, and you can enjoy a relaxing lunch and spend your afternoon at the Picasso Museum . If you want to hike the Cap d’Antibes and spend an extra day on the beach, consider staying a night in Antibes itself.

Next, you’ll drive to Nice , where you can explore the city’s narrow streets, bustling markets, and ochre-colored architecture. For your stay in Nice, book at Hotel Locarno , which has an excellent location 200 m from the beach and offers the best breakfast ever.

After spending 2 days in Nice and around, you can drive on to Monaco , stopping off at the medieval village of Eze and perhaps Villefranche-sur-Mer . You can then choose whether you want to stay in Monaco for a chic casino break or move on to Menton , a small foodie town on the French /Italian border.

The distances between the destinations are relatively short, so you can easily tick off two places in one day. We would suggest spending at least seven days on this French Riviera road trip, but of course, you can spend much longer delving into this stunning French region.

By Chrisoula | Historic European Castles

OTHER FRANCE ROAD TRIPS NEARBY

• Road Trip Southern France
• Road Trip Route du Mimosa

And there you have it, our favorite road trips in France to inspire your next trip. Check out our Road Trips category for the detailed itineraries and more French road trip ideas.

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Logistical Tips for Driving in France

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

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Rent the smallest car you can.

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

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

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

Book your rental car for your France road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

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

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

Always carry cash… just in case. 

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

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

Plan your parking in advance.

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

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

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

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

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

Strongly consider purchasing extra insurance.

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

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

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

Get a quote to insure your France road trip today!

Not all gas stations are self-service.

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

An International Driver’s Permit isn’t required. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pack toilet paper.

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

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

Brush up on your French.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pack a picnic on travel days.

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

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

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

Don’t change locations every day.

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

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

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

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

Focus primarily on smaller towns & natural attractions.

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

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

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

The slow pace is part of the fun.

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

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

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

I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Write down where you go.

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

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

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

Alsace Wine Route

From Arzo of Arzo Travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Driving Distance

170km or 105 miles.

Recommended Road Trip Length

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

Marseilles to Nice

From Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

235 km or 146 miles.

Suggested Road Trip Length

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

The Champagne Route

From Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

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

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

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

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

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

The best months to visit are between May and October.

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

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

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

The Opal Coast

From Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Paris to Normandy Road Trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The French Alps from Chamonix

From Whitney of Designs for Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

130 miles, 210 kilometers.

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

Gorges du Verdon + Valensole Plateau Road Trip

From Elisa of France Bucket List

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

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

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

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

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

270 km, 168 miles.  

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

Bordeaux + France’s West Coast

From Kat of Wandering Bird

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calais to the Pyrenees Loop

From Jenny of TraveLynn Family

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

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

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

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

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

The French Alps From Grenoble

From Sasha of The Alternative Travel Guide

149  km / 92 miles.

Recommended Trip Length

Gorges du Tarn

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

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

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

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

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

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

215 km or 135 miles.

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

Cannes to Saint-Tropez

From Elena of Passion for Hospitality

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

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

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

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

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

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

85 kilometers / 53 Miles 

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

Toulouse to Andorra Loop

From Ucman of BrownBoyTravels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

120 miles or 190 kilometers.

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

Brittany Road Trip in France

From Victoria of Guide Your Travel

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

Montpellier to Toulouse Loop

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

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

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

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

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About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

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

Thanks so much. Very useful

Happy to help!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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France travel advice

Latest updates: Health – Travel health notice for 2024 Summer Olympics added

Last updated: June 6, 2024 10:51 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, france - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in France due to the elevated threat of terrorism.

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"Attack emergency" alert

On March 24, 2024, the Prime Minister of France raised the security threat level within the “Vigipirate” plan to “urgence attentat” (“attack emergency”). This is the highest level in the Vigipirate plan, a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places. The decision was made following a terrorist attack in Moscow claimed by the Islamic State.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly alert during public gatherings and demonstrations.

If you are in France:

• expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence at the border and in public places
• monitor local media for the most recent information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Vigipirate plan – Government of France (in French)

Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Olympic Games will take place in Paris from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8, 2024.

Public events will take place across France starting on May 8 and will continue until the opening ceremony.

If you plan to travel to France during this time, plan your travel accordingly.

During the Olympic Games, especially in Paris, you should expect:

• an increased presence of security forces
• major disruptions to traffic and movement
• large crowds and public gatherings

Useful links

• Games-related information and advice for Canadians
• Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 – official site

Commemorative ceremony for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings

The Commemorative Ceremony for the 80th anniversary of the Normandy Landings will be held in France on June 6, 2024.

If you are in Normandy or plan to travel there during the 80th anniversary of the Landings:

• exercise caution
• avoid unauthorized demonstrations and large gatherings
• monitor local media to stay informed of the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities

D-Day 80 - Veterans Affairs Canada

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.

Vigipirate plan

The Vigipirate plan is a set of measures established by the French government to prepare and protect the French population, infrastructure and institutions in the event of an attack. The aim is also to allow rapid deployment of intervention measures if necessary.

As part of this plan, the government maintains a 3-level public alert system for terrorism. Changes in the threat level are communicated online and through local and national media.

Operation sentinelle

Operation Sentinelle allows the deployment of military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Enhanced security measures have been deployed in various strategic locations, including:

• transport hubs
• public places
• tourist locations, especially in Paris

Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris.

Attacks can occur anywhere. Terrorists may target:

• government buildings and those of local authorities
• schools/universities
• places of worship
• places dedicated to culture, such as exhibition galleries, museums, concert halls and theatres
• airports, railway stations and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, monuments, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

While in France:

• always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations
• Information on the terrorist threat in France - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• How to react in case of a terrorist attack - Government of France (in French)
• Social media accounts of the Ministry of the Interior - Ministry of the Interior (in French)
• Vigipirate  – General secretary of defense and national security (in French)

Petty crime

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, and purse and mobile phone snatching are common.

Thieves are very skilled. They often act in groups and are often minors. They may use various techniques to divert your attention and steal your belongings.

Thieves are mainly active in large cities and busy places, such as:

• the main tourist sites
• department stores
• restaurants and patios
• hotel lobbies
• public transport, in particular the Paris metro and the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) lines linking the capital to its surroundings

Violent crimes

Violent crimes are rarer, but still occur.

Tourists are sometimes victims of violent attacks by groups of young people who want to rob them. These attacks usually occur :

• around major tourist attractions
• near railway stations
• on trains of the Île-de-France regional express network (RER) connecting the capital to its surroundings

Assaults can also occur outside night-time establishments and in more isolated areas at night.

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and coastal areas. Burglars sometimes target houses or holiday rental apartments.

• be vigilant, particularly when approached by strangers
• ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
• limit the use of mobile phones on public transportation and in crowded areas to ensure you remain aware of your surroundings and to avoid attracting attention
• don’t keep your credit, debit cards and cash in the same place
• never leave your bags unsupervised
• choose well-secured accommodation and make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Theft of parked cars or their contents is particularly common on beach roads in the south of France and at highway rest stops throughout the country, especially during the summer, when there is a high number of travellers.

• Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
• Use secure parking facilities
• Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles, as rented vehicles are a target of choice

Drivers are often tricked into stopping their cars by thieves who either obstruct the road or distract the driver by flashing their headlights. They may also pretend that you have a flat tire or even puncture a tire themselves. Once the vehicle is stopped, the thieves seize the opportunity to steal a bag or other valuable objects.

• Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway
• Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights, as bags are often snatched from the front passenger seat by thieves travelling on scooters
• Keep windows closed and doors locked at all times

Victims of crime

If you’re a victim of theft, go to the nearest police station to report the crime. Keep a copy of your theft report, as you will need it if you wish to make a claim to your insurer. If the incident takes place in the metro, a metro officer can direct you to the nearest police station.

You can complete an online pre-complaint for certain types of minor crime, such as property theft, before going to the police station. This may speed up the process once you get there.

• Prevention advice for tourists - Préfecture de police de Paris
• Online pre-complaint - Ministry of the Interior (in French)

Bomb threats

Since October 2023, there have been a number of bomb threats sent to public places across France.

Bomb threats and hoaxes can target any location, including:

• tourist areas
• shopping centres
• transportation hubs
• government facilities
• religious institutions

If you are in an area targeted by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities including evacuation orders.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if other people are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transaction on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently. They are usually planned as permission from the local authorities is required. However, unauthorized and spontaneous demonstrations also take place.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Radical activists and vandals have a history of using aggressive and violent tactics during demonstrations in order to cause damage and provoke a strong response from the police. They sometimes throw stones, smoke grenades, bottles and other debris at rallies. The police normally respond with tear gas to disperse the crowds.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport. These strikes can sometimes complicate travel and disrupt public services.

• Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans
• In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination

Swimming, boating and water safety

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Always obey warning flags at beaches.

The main warning flags used in France are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming is allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, swim with precautions
• Red: dangerous waters, swimming is prohibited
• Purple: contaminated waters or presence of dangerous aquatic species, swimming is prohibited

In autumn and winter, be cautious when walking on the shore, as waves can be unpredictable, breaking further than expected and causing strong undertows.

• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Recreational boating

If you are planning to go boating:

• know the capacity of your boat (people and weight) and don’t exceed it
• know the navigation rules
• follow safe practices for all activities on the water: personal watercraft, water-skiing and towed devices, diving or swimming, fishing, etc.
• equip your boat with a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency
• be prepared for emergencies

Search and rescue missions in France are carried out by the Regional Operational Surveillance and Rescue Centres (CROSS). In case of emergency, contact the centre on VHF radio channel 16 or by dialling 196.

• Surveillance and rescue at sea - Ministry of the Sea (in French)
• Water safety abroad

Mountain activities

Mountain activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well prepared. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach some villages and ski centres. Roads may become impassable. There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal.

If you intend to go hiking, mountaineering or skiing:

• never do so alone and do not part with your hiking companions
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be doing it before setting out
• Information on mountain conditions - Association nationale pour l'étude de la neige et des avalanches (ANENA) (in French)
• Specialised mountain units - Gendarmerie nationale (in French)
• Avalanche forecasts and warnings - European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS)

Road safety

French roads are well maintained.

Drive carefully and respect the Highway Code.

Public transportation

Urban and intercity public transportation is reliable. When using these types of transport, make sure you validate your ticket and keep it until the end of your journey. The authorities carry out regular random checks and you may be fined if you do not have a validated ticket.

There is a problem of illegal taxis in Paris airports and train stations. These scammers charge much higher rates than the official ones.

• Ignore direct solicitations when leaving the airport or train station
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ride-sharing app
• Don’t share a taxi with strangers

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the French authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

France is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Temporary border controls

The French government has reintroduced internal border controls at certain ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering France, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Long-stay or residency visa: required for stays longer than 90 days Work permit: required Student visa: required for stays longer than 90 days

More information on Visas - Government of France

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

• Children and travel

To leave France, any child under the age of 18 who normally resides in France must be accompanied by at least one parent. Children travelling without at least one parent must be in possession of:

• an authorization to leave the country signed by one of the parents
• a photocopy of the signing parent’s identification
• More information on the authorization to leave the country - French administration services
• More about travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics – France - 6 June, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent and available throughout the country. Up-front payment may be required.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and France are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in France to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and France authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identity checks

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in France.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence, passport or a copy of it.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following documents, in case of loss or seizure:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver’s licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Concealing your face in public places

In France, it’s illegal to cover your face in public places, including international airport arrivals areas.

Offenders risk a very high fine. There is no exemption for tourists or for religious reasons.

• Identity checks - French administration services
• Concealment of the face in public places - French administration services

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in France.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of France, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and France.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in France, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the French court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in France to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in France.

You should carry an International Driving Permit. You can drive with your Canadian licence for up to 1 year. If you stay in France, you will have to exchange your Canadian licence for a French licence.

Numerous roadside cameras have been installed to help enforce traffic regulations. You could receive heavy fines if you do not obey the speed limit or the Highway Code. Local authorities may also confiscate your driver’s licence.

Fines must generally be paid within 3 days. They may be increased in case of delay of payment.

A reflective vest and warning triangle are mandatory in all vehicles.

From November 1 to March 31, winter tires or chains are compulsory in some cities and regions in mountainous areas.

Priority to the right

The “priority to the right” system is in effect in France. Drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections, even on secondary roads. This is often a surprise to foreign drivers and results in accidents.

In general, traffic in a roundabout has priority over vehicles trying to enter it. Priority switches to vehicles from the left.

Low-emission zones

Some cities and territories have put in place low emission zones to reduce air pollution.

Access to these zones is restricted to vehicles that meet certain environmental standards. You may need to get a permit to drive in these areas.

• More information about road travel in France - European Commission
• Obligations to equip vehicles in winter - French administration services (in French)
• Air quality certificates: Crit'Air - Ministry of Ecological Transition (in French)

The currency of France is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous areas, which can cause fatal accidents. If you intend to ski or climb, find out about the weather and safety conditions and follow the advice given.

• Familiarise yourself with the avalanche risk levels - French administration services

There is a risk of seasonal flooding, particularly in areas along major rivers and streams. Flooding can hamper overland travel and the provision of essential services.

The French government has a flood forecasting service called Vigicrues.

• Exercise caution
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts

Flooding risk - Vigicrues

Forest and maquis fires

Forest and maquis fires often occur in summer, particularly on the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

There is a ban on smoking in woods and forests during high forest fire risk periods as defined by the prefecture. This ban applies equally to areas situated within 200m of wooded areas.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

  Forest weather – Météo France (in French)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Dial 17 to connect to the police.

French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, La Réunion, Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon

South Region

Région Occitanie

Rhône-Alpes Region

American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Samoa, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Wallis and Futuna

Consular assistance - France

Please call the consulates before visiting them.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to France, in Paris, and follow the instructions

Consular assistance - Wallis and Futuna

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to New Zealand, in Wellington, and follow the instructions.

At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Travel recommendations
• The taste of travel
• Tips & tricks
• Travel experiences

How to plan the perfect France road trip: itineraries, accommodation & budget

Embarking on a France road trip is an adventure that will take you through the country’s history and to breathtaking panoramas as well as culinary treasures. From the grandeur of Paris to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, from the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the rolling vineyards of Burgundy, France unfolds like a fairytale.

I put together four road trip itineraries for you to explore. This guide is your compass for unexpected experiences and moments of pure escapism on French roads. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip and see some of the best places in France.

The best time for your road trip in France

The diversity of the French climates opens up a variety of possibilities each season, shaping unique experiences across the country. Whether you're looking for the promise of spring, the exuberance of summer, or the shimmering colors of fall, each time of the year has its own magic.

• Spring (March-May): As nature awakens, the country roads are dotted with flowers. Spring is indeed the perfect time to travel through the Loire Valley and see its castles during a week-long road trip in France. It is also a great time for a journey on the wine route in Burgundy, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Summer (June–August): The high season attracts crowds to the beaches and tourist towns. To avoid the influx, opt for a road trip to less traveled regions like Brittany. Also think about the perched villages of Provence during a trip in France, where the lavender fields are in full bloom.
• Autumn (September–November): Enjoy the flamboyant colors and bountiful harvests on an autumnal France road trip. This is the perfect time to explore the Burgundy wine route or for a culinary adventure in the Dordogne with local events and mild temperatures.
• Winter (December–February): Although it may be cold, it is a good time to visit the Christmas markets in Strasbourg or for an excursion to the Alps when snowy landscapes and ski resorts beckon.

Away from the hustle and bustle of summer, the Côte d'Azur reveals itself fully at the end of spring and the beginning of autumn. For those with less time, a road trip to the south of France in five days promises an immersion in the azure blue of the Mediterranean. In addition, the picturesque landscapes of Provence and the unique architecture of the villages of the Riviera await.

Plan your budget for an unforgettable road trip in France

Budgeting wisely is essential for a successful trip. If you’re planning a road trip in France for 7 days, you should expect the following:

Car rental: €532 (about $568) on average for 7 days*

Mid-range double hotel room: €250 (about $266) on average per night in Paris* and €129 (about $137) on average in Marseille *.

Hostel: €124 (about $132) per night on average in Paris* and €53 (about $56) on average in Lyon*

Gas: approx. €75 (about $80) to cover 370 km (229 miles) based on a cost of €6.85 per gallon in May 2024, according to numbeo.com .

*These prices are based on data collected by KAYAK comparing hundreds of accommodation and car rental websites.

The budget for the 7-day road trip in the South of France suggested below is therefore around €1,510 (about $1,600) for two people (including the 7 nights in a double hotel room, car rental and gas), or roughly €750 ($800) per person.

For explorers considering doing a 2-week France road trip double these estimates. This way you can add more stops and explore even further! Adjustments, such as alternative accommodations or optimized itineraries, can also extend your adventure without adding too much to the budget. Want an extra long getaway? Consider booking a car rental for a month as prices are often decreasing when you book for a longer period.

How to get to France?

At the moment you can only get direct flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Nice Côte d’Azur from the US. Round trip flights from NYC to Paris cost on average $794 and you can count $1070 for a round trip flight from LAX to Paris.

If you are already in Europe you can also fly into Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux, Nantes, or Strasbourg. From these airports, you can get your road trip rental car or take public transport to the starting point of your France road trip.

The right car for your France road trip

Choosing the right type of rental car for your France road trip is an important step. To zip between vineyards or across villages, a compact city car is enough. On the other hand, if traveling long stretches on the highway or for groups, a spacious sedan or SUV is essential.

Make sure your choice includes GPS, important for easy navigating from one point of interest to another.

A sunny road trip in the south of France

The scents of lavender, terraced vineyards, and the song of cicadas guide you on this road trip to the south of France, promising wonder and discovery at every turn.

Day 1 – Marseille: Mediterranean soul (1 night)

Immerse yourself in the excitement that is Marseille with a visit to the MUCEM Museum and a stroll through the historic Panier district. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for a breathtaking view of the city.

Where to stay in Marseille: Hermes Hotel is ideally located near the Old Port, offering modern rooms with balconies to admire the sunset over the city.

Day 2 – Cassis: Charm & coves (1 night)

Distance from Marseille: 22 km (13 miles), 30 min drive

Discover Cassis, a jewel between cliffs and crystal clear waters. Stroll around the port, enjoy an artisanal ice cream, and go by boat to explore the famous creeks and coves.

Where to stay in Cassis: Choose the Hotel Le Golfe for its picturesque atmosphere and perfect location very close to the port and the beach.

Day 3 – Saint-Tropez: Chic meets tradition (1 night)

Distance from Cassis: 146 km (90 miles), approx. 2.5 hours drive

Saint-Tropez has the charm of a Provençal village with a touch of glamor. Visit the Annonciade museum, stroll around the Place des Lices, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the port.

Where to stay in Saint-Tropez: Hotel Les Palmiers lies hidden in a quiet alley and is an intimate address that has preserved the original Saint-Tropez spirit.

Day 4 – Nice: Art at the Riviera (1 night)

Distance from Saint-Tropez: 110 km (68 miles), approx. 2 hours drive

In Nice, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, explore old Nice and its colorful markets and don't miss the panorama from the Colline du Château park.

Where to stay in Nice: Hotel Le Negresco is the emblem of the city and offers a historic and luxurious waterfront experience. Hotel Nice Côte d’Azur offers a cheaper but comfortable alternative in the city center.

Day 5 – Monaco: Royal brilliance (1 night)

Distance from Nice: 21 km (13 miles), 30 min drive

Monaco amazes with the Prince's Palace, the exotic garden, and its famous casino. Taste luxury life in the principality and admire the yachts in the harbor.

Where to stay in Monaco: The Fairmont Monte Carlo offers an unforgettable experience with views over the Formula 1 circuit and the Mediterranean.

Day 6 – Menton: Serenity & lemons (1 night)

Distance from Monaco: 13 km (8 miles), 20 min drive

Menton, the pearl of France, invites you with lush gardens, peaceful beaches, and the Jean Cocteau museum.

Where to stay in Menton: The Napoleon Hotel with its contemporary art and sea-facing location is an oasis of tranquility.

Day 7 – Grasse: Scent of Provence (1 night)

Distance from Menton: 60 km (37 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

End this road trip in France in Grasse, the city of perfume. Visit its perfumeries, the international perfume museum, and stroll through its streets steeped in history.

Where to stay in Grasse: The B&B Lou Candelou , nestled in the Grasse countryside, promises a fragrant and authentic end to your stay.

To fully appreciate each moment, don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track. Even small roads can offer breathtaking panoramas and authentic encounters. Take the time to stop at a small cellar for a wine tasting or at a farm for a picnic with local products. It’s in these spontaneous moments that the true beauty of a France road trip is revealed.

Between ocean and sea: a road trip on France's west coast

The French Atlantic coast, nicknamed Côte d’Argent (Silver Coast), offers kilometers of beaches, historic towns, and unforgettable gastronomy, promising an escape rich in discovery and relaxation.

Day 1 – Nantes: The city of a thousand facets (1 night)

Start this road trip on the west coast of France in Nantes, a city where history meets innovation. Visit the Machines of the Island, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and stroll through the Jardin des Plantes.

Where to stay in Nantes: The Hotel Voltaire Opera in the heart of Nantes is recommended for comfort, affordable prices, and as a perfect location for urban explorers.

Day 2 – La Baule: seaside chic (1 night)

Distance from Nantes: 80 km (50 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

La Baule welcomes you with one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Enjoy a stroll along the seafront, a sailing session or a fresh seafood tasting.

Where to stay in La Baule: The Adonis La Baule is ideal for its location near the beach and its amenities, ensuring comfort for all travelers.

Day 3 – Vannes: Jewel of Brittany (1 night)

Distance from La Baule: 80 km (50 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

Explore Vannes with its medieval ramparts, charming port, and the vibrant market on Place des Lices. Finally, don’t miss a visit to the Vannes Aquarium, a fascinating window to Breton marine life.

Where to stay in Vannes: The Golfe Hotel is known for its view of the gulf and easy access to the historic center. It is perfect for a relaxing night during your France road trip.

Day 4 – Quiberon: Nature & terroir (1 night)

Distance from Vannes: 45 km (28 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

In Quiberon, walk over the wild peninsula, visit the local curing workshops, and admire a sunset over the Côte Sauvage. You also have to take a break in a traditional creperie to taste Breton pancakes thus rounding up your experience of local culture.

Where to stay in Quiberon: The Europa Hotel offers sea views and a wellness area as well as a relaxing and unforgettable experience.

Day 5 – Concarneau: The fortified city (1 night)

Distance from Quiberon: 150 km (93 miles), approx. 2.5 hours drive

Concarneau enchants with the Ville Close (a walled town), maritime museums, and beautiful walks along the quays. Don’t forget to savor the local specialties at one of the many waterfront restaurants. The freshly caught seafood promises a memorable culinary experience in the right setting!

Where to stay in Concarneau: The Citotel De France Et D'europe offers a friendly atmosphere and is an ideal location for exploring the fortified city.

Day 6 – Brest: Ocean adventure (1 night)

Distance from Concarneau: 100 km (62 miles), approx. 1.5 hours drive

Then discover Brest with its rich naval history, the famous Océanopolis aquarium, and the panoramic view you get from the cable car.

Where to stay in Brest: The Hôtel Oceania Brest Centre is popular because it is central and comfortable - ideal for a stopover!

Day 7 – Saint-Malo: Privateers & great horizons (1 night)

Distance from Brest: 250 km (155 miles), approx. 3.5 hours drive

Finally, end this road trip in France in Saint-Malo with its historic ramparts, vast beaches, and tasty local cuisine.

Where to stay in Saint-Malo: The Hotel Ambassadors is a luxurious choice by the sea and has elegant, maritime rooms.

My advice for this route is to follow the rhythm of the tides. In Brittany and Normandy, coastal landscapes are radically transformed by the tides. Plan your journeys accordingly to discover hidden treasures like islands accessible only at low tide or spectacular views of cliffs revealed at high tide.

A charming 3-day road trip from Paris

Leave the hustle and bustle of the French capital behind to embrace the tranquility of the surrounding rural landscapes and rich heritage - all within a few hours' drive.

Day 1 – Versailles: Royal splendors (1 night)

Just a short distance from Paris , Versailles dazzles with its incredible castle and impeccable gardens. Explore the royal apartments, lose yourself in a maze of groves, and admire the almost sparkling Hall of Mirrors.

Where to stay in Versailles: Hotel Le Versailles offers an elegant and peaceful setting, a few steps from the castle. It is perfect for extending the royal experience into your dreams.

Day 2 – Giverny: brushes & petals (1 night)

Distance from Versailles: 65 km (40 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

The soul of Monet awaits in Giverny. Visit his colorful house and gardens that seem straight out of his paintings. The water lily pond and the Japanese bridge are must-sees for art and nature lovers.

Where to stay in Giverny: La Dime de Giverny is a charming guest house and is recommended for its picturesque atmosphere and garden where time seems to stand still.

Day 3 – Chartres: Gothic lights (1 night)

Distance from Giverny: 75 km (46 miles), approx. 1 hour drive

A reasonable distance from Giverny, Chartres offers a journey through time thanks to the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture. The town itself is a hidden treasure with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.

Where to stay in Chartres: The Best Western Premier Grand Monarque Hotel & Spa offers luxury and comfort with an ideal location for exploring the city and the majestic cathedral.

Road trip in the footsteps of the Cathars

Go on an unforgettable road trip in the southwest of France. Follow the path of the castles and fortresses of the Cathar Country. This historic route winds through the hills and valleys of Languedoc-Roussillon, rich in legends and history.

Day 1 – Carcassonne: the fortified city (1 night)

Immerse yourself in the history of Carcassonne. Its medieval ramparts and imposing citadel are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the towers and bastions and learn about the legend of Lady Carcas before tasting local dishes at a traditional inn.

Where to stay in Carcassonne: Choose the Hotel de la Cité , an enchanting castle located in the heart of the citadel. It has a historic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the ramparts.

Day 2 – Albi: The Red City (1 night)

Distance from Carcassonne: 106 km (66 miles), approx. 1.5 hours drive

Admire the beauty of Albi, nicknamed the Red City for its terracotta bricks. Visit the majestic Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec museum before you stroll along the banks of the Tarn.

Where to stay in Albi: The Hotel Alchimy is located in a restored art-deco building. It offers modern comfort, an excellent restaurant, and is close to the main sights of the city.

Day 3 – Cordes-sur-Ciel: celestial village (1 night)

Distance from Albi: 25 km (15 miles), 30 min drive

Finally, ascend to the sky by visiting Cordes-sur-Ciel, a hilltop village that seems to float above the clouds. Discover the artisan workshops, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Where to stay in Cordes-sur-Ciel: The Maison Bakéa is a medieval residence. It welcomes you to a setting steeped in history and has inviting rooms that have retained their old-world charm.

Disclaimer: The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

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France train guide — how to travel france by train.

How to travel France by train—tips for buying French train tickets and advice for navigating France by rail.

Transportation

It doesn’t get much better than zooming through the French countryside at 200mph. In fact, when it comes to train travel, France is one of the best-connected countries in Europe and you can easily reach many of Europe’s great cities from Paris.

But, like all things French, their rail network can be a little confusing so we’re here to help. In this France Train Guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about traveling France by train—from navigating the system to buying train tickets for the cheapest price.

How To Buy Train Tickets in France

Buying French train tickets is generally easy but there are a few quirks that you’ll come across when booking—keep reading and we’ll walk you through the process.

Let’s first take a look at where and when to buy tickets for the best price…

Quick Note On Electronic Train Tickets And Reliable Mobile Data

Most train tickets in France (and Europe) are electronic so having reliable high-speed data for your phone is important—luckily, getting high-speed data in France is simple and affordable. Here are a few articles I’ve written to help you get set up:

• Guide To Mobile Data Plans and Smartphone Phones in Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  France

Where To Buy France Train Tickets For France

So there are a handful of websites/methods for buying French train tickets and each has its own quirks. Let’s take a look at the various options:

Omio  is a search engine that lets you compare and book trains anywhere in Europe. It lets you easily book tickets with your credit card at essentially the same prices as France’s Railways website.

Additionally,  Omio  searches routes for multiple rail services across Europe so it’s great for international trips (since it can easily combine rail journeys of multiple countries). Omio also gives you the option to print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Omio App.

TrainLine  is another third-party booking site that connects directly to the French National Rail Network and other European networks. Trainline also accepts international credit card payments and lets you print your own tickets or have eTickets sent to the Tranline App.

SNCF (National French Railways)

The website for the official French Railways is  en.oui.sncf . The main problem with this site is that it often tries to redirect you to RailEurope.com—which is SNCF’s official North American partner. Unfortunately, Rail Europe rarely finds the cheapest fares so you have to actively try to keep the site from redirecting you. And trying to book through the official SNCF website can be equally as difficult because it can be plagued with translation issues and sometimes they reject foreign credit cards.

Perosanlly, I’d stick with Omio .

A few years ago the French National Railways created a new low-budget train line called Ouigo . It basically connects Paris with a handful of popular French destinations.

Some Ouigo trains leave from stations outside Paris so it takes a little under an hour by regional train to get there from central Paris. However, some trains do leave from central Paris. There are a few other restrictions (like limited luggage) but the fares can be crazy cheap. Booking websites like Omio will include Ouigo in their results so you don’t have to search Ouigo’s website to find/buy its tickets.

The Eurostar is the train that connects Paris and London. You can usually book this journey on other websites but we’ve found it best to book directly from the Eurostar site for the best prices.

At The Station

Of course, you can buy any French train ticket from any train station — either from a ticket window or an automated machine (you’ll need a Chip & PIN credit card to buy from the machines). You can buy tickets in advance from train stations as well.

HOW TO COLLECT YOUR FRENCH TRAIN TICKETS

Tickets purchased online can be collected in a few different ways. Most times you’re given multiple methods of collecting your tickets:

• Electronic Tickets:  You can usually have tickets sent to your phone/tablet. For example, tickets bought via Omio will be sent to your Omio app. You can also have tickets sent to your email. Then you simply show it to the conductor on the train when they check your tickets.
• Print-At-Home Tickets:  You can print tickets at home and show them to the conductor on the train when he checks tickets.
• Also, you’ll need a Chip & PIN card to collect from the automated machines but you can use a swipe card at the ticket window. However, at other times you only need the booking reference number.
• Mailed Tickets: Some services will mail you physical tickets but this is often a slow process. We suggest avoiding this and sticking to the other options.

Do You Need To Buy French Train Tickets In Advance?

France has a number of different train services so it can be a little confusing to know what tickets should be purchased early and which can be bought whenever. We’ll break it down below.

High-Speed TGV Trains — Buy Early As Possible

Yes – book early. Tickets for France’s TGV high-speed trains are available to purchase around 90 days in advance. Booking these early will get you the cheapest tickets and prices will generally continue to rise as the departure date approaches. For example, a day-of ticket can cost well over €100 but that same one bought weeks early might only cost €30.

International Trains — Buy Early As Possible

There are a few separate train services that connect France to other countries. These are high-speed trains so the same rules about booking early apply to these tickets as well.

• TGV Lyria: High-speed trains that connect France and Switzerland.
• THALYS: High-speed trains that connect Paris with Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands.
• Inter-City Express (ICE): High-speed trains that connect France and Germany.
• Eurostar: High-speed trains that connect Paris and London.

Intercité Trains (IC) — Buy A Little Early

Intercité trains are fast trains but not as quick as the TGV trains. They usually also connect shorter distances and the trains aren’t quite as nice as the TGV. These tickets can also be purchased in advance for a discount.

Regional/Local Trains — Buy Whenever

France has a number of slow trains that connect suburban and regional areas. TER (regional trains that connect smaller towns with regional hubs),  Transilien (connects suburban Paris), and RER (also connects suburban Paris). These tickets are priced by distance traveled so you don’t need to buy them in advance — simply purchase them at the station right before departure.

Don’t forget to validate your ticket before you get on the train or you’ll be fined.

How To Use Your French Train Tickets

On  high-speed trains , your ticket is only good for the specific time stated on your ticket. You’ll also be given an assigned seat. You don’t need a validate your ticket because your seat is reserved (but they might check your ID on the train). NOTE: Your ticket will show the car and seat number so make sure you’re in the right car (the trains are clearly marked).

On  regional/local trains , you might have a physical ticket. Make sure to validate (i.e. stamp) your ticket in the validation boxes on the platform before you get on the train. They’re sometimes hard to find so watch what the locals are doing. If you forget to validate, seek out the conductor right away and have him stamp it — if you wait until he comes around you might be given a fine.

Regional trains won’t have seat reservations so just sit anywhere.

Once you’re on the train the conductor will eventually walk through the aisles to check tickets.

HOW TO MAKE RAIL PASS RESERVATIONS

High-speed trains require you to make a reservation when using a Eurail pass — the reservation costs €10-€30/seat for domestic travel and international trains can charge anywhere from €35-€89/seat (depending on destination). As you can see, those international train reservations can be wildly expensive — in fact, the reservation fee is often more expensive than buying a separate ticket.

You must make the reservation before you get on the train. There are a few ways to make reservations:

• Make Reservations Online:   Omio  lets you book your reservation online through their platform. Simply look for a button that says “I Have A Railpass” and follow the prompts.
• Make Reservations At The Train Station:  You can simply go to the train station and book your reservation from the customer service desk or self-service kiosks. You can book it weeks in advance or you can do it the day you depart. We suggest using the kiosks because the ticket window can take forever.

More Tips For Riding Trains In France

Here are a few general tips about train travel in France.

Study The Departures Board

You’ll find your train platform via the departure board at the train station. Don’t worry if you don’t see your train right away because they often only display trains departing within the next 10-20 minutes.

However, do pay attention as sometimes the platform can change last minute.

Know Train Station Names

Most large cities have multiple train stations (Paris has seven) so this often creates confusion. Double-check to make sure you have the right station—especially when booking your ticket.

Self-Service Machines Are In English

Don’t worry if you don’t speak French because the ticket machines (and train station signs) are all in English. Most customer service workers also speak some English.

Cheap Tickets Are Non-Refundable

One downside to cheap tickets is that they’re non-refundable and can’t be changed.

Pack A Picnic

You’re allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on trains. It’s great for those long train rides.

No Luggage Restrictions

There aren’t any weight limits on luggage and you can bring as much as you want (well, as much as you can carry). Simply bring it on and store it above your head, behind your seat, or in the luggage racks in each car.

Making Connections

Your rail journey might require you to change trains along the route. Don’t worry if there are only a few minutes between trains because switching trains is usually fairly quick and easy—it’s not like flying where you need an hour-long layover.

Get To The Train Station Early

Train stations are usually fairly easy to navigate but they can be a little confusing. There isn’t any security that you have to go through (except for Eurostar and THALYS trains) but it doesn’t hurt to arrive about 20 minutes early.

First Class vs Second Class Tickets

First Class tickets normally cost 1.5x the Second Class rate. Second Class is perfectly comfortable but First Class seats are a bit bigger and it’s quieter. Other than that, there isn’t much more of a difference.

Use A Credit Card With A Chip

Automated ticket kiosks require a card with a Chip & PIN so make sure you know your PIN code.

Rail Strikes

France is well-known for train strikes. They always give ample warning before going on strike and they still run some trains, but it’s something to pay attention to.

Read More Of My Articles On Budget Travel in France

• Paris Travel Guide:  Tips For Visiting Paris
• How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance : Travel insurance will help cover those non-refundable train tickets if something goes wrong during your trip.
• Packing List For Europe Travel : Tips on packing light (which makes train travel much easier).
• The Best eSIM Data Plans For France: My guide to the cheapest prepaid eSIM data plans for your trip to France.
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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We are flying on one ticket on United from Denver to Paris France with a layover in O'Hare. I plan to check our bags all the way through so as not to be bothered shlepping them through the airport.

Thanks a lot in advance for any information.

11 replies to this topic

No, you won't go through passport control in O'Hare on the way to France.

United should check your passport at some point to verify its validity.

If this is all on United they will Che k your passport in Denver when you check in. In Chicago just walk from gate to gate. Depending what dates you get it could be up to 10 or 15 minute walk. That’s it. Bags will be checked through.

Assuming the return journey is the reverse route, that's when you need time in Chicago O'Hare. On the outward journey, luggage should be checked through all the way, and other checks beyond security at O'hare are minimal, and just at the gate.

Have a great trip, enjoy Paris.

Thanks, SWT. We actually return on IcelandAir from Geneva to KEF to Denver. And I've been through KEF enough times to know what to expect there :-(.

Regarding United lounges at ORD, if you're flying business class to Paris you'll have access to the Polaris Lounge. Otherwise, if you have access to regular United lounges through membership etc, the one in the C concourse is the better than the others.

I just did this last week - your luggage will be checked straight through and you will not have to deal with it at ORD.

There is a way to change terminals from a domestic terminal to the international terminal (T5) and stay airside - avoiding TSA clearance in Chicago.

This was a huge time saver and a tremendous convenience not having to go through TSA again.

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France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries

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Your Complete French Road Trip Planner

Ahhh, France. A country so eclectic and beguiling, it is the most visited nation on the planet . A French road trip is the best way to explore the wonderful diversity and beautiful landscapes of this country.

A road trip in France showcases the dramatic landscapes, historic cities, abundant UNESCO sites and some of the most picture-perfect villages in Europe, like no other way to travel does.

As you road trip through France, you’ll find yourself stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like chateaux hunting, hiking in some of Europe’s highest peaks, kayaking and wild swimming in crystal clear rivers, and sampling the wonderful gastronomy across the country.

In this France travel guide you’ll find a round-up of all the best road trips in France by region, with France travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share our unmissable French road trip itineraries.

Getting to France

Flying in and opting for car rental in France is a great choice, especially as France has so many easily accessible international airports, the perfect starting point for many of our road trip itineraries.

You can fly in to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Toulouse, Bordeaux and many other French cities to start your trip. We recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Driving to France from UK

If you’re planning to drive to from the UK to France , then you’ll find everything you need to know, including the best, fastest and cheapest routes, as well as driving tips, in our driving to France from UK guide .

Are you planning to rent a car in France? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy . We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Best Time to Take a French Road Trip

December to february.

The winter months can be very cold throughout France, even in the south of the country and rain is quite common at this time of year.  But, the roads and cities will be quiet and less crowded, although not all attractions will be open.

March to May

Spring is a wonderful time to visit France, with temperatures warming up across the country. Markets increase in size, restaurants start preparing different dishes and the countryside is glorious. You’ll still find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

June and July are busier months to roadtrip France , with perfect temperatures for camping and outdoor activities. June is probably the best month, as schools have yet to break up across Europe and the family rush to the coasts has not yet started.

August brings the French annual holiday when many businesses close for the duration. If you’re planning on road tripping in tourist areas, then this won’t affect you too much, and you’ll have perfect holiday weather.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for French road trips , especially in the south of France. The coast will be quieter but if you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy an Indian summer amongst the grape harvest and changing fall colors of the countryside.

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Road Trip France Planner by Region

France is such a diverse country, it can be hard to decide where to take a road trip, especially if you want to see the less traveled in France for a more authentic experience.

Whether you like coasts, mountains or rolling countryside, historic cities, elegant palaces, or wild landscapes, you’ll find your perfect road trip here, and there’s no dount that you’ll be ticking plenty off your France bucket list !

A road trip to France is an easy win for most Europeans and Brits, who are on the same continent, or just a hop across the English Channel.

For everyone else, Paris makes a great place to start any France road trip itinerary. Book with Skyscanner and fly in, pick up a rental car, or even a campervan, and you can be anywhere in the country within a day – that’s the beauty of a  voyage en voitre , or road trip in French!

France Road Trip Map by Region

Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes

A huge region, the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes stretches from the volcanoes and plateau of the Massif Central in the west to the highest point of the French Alps in eastern France, offering some of the best roads in France, with spectacular scenery, rugged landscapes, and historic cities.

Divided by the mighty Rhone river, and with the center of the region being the vibrant foodie city of Lyon, there is great diversity here and four distinct climates. The further south you head, the more you will notice the flora, fauna, and climate taking on a Mediterranean feel.

A UNESCO Road Trip

Lyon – clermont-ferrand – le-puy-en-valey – saint-etienne.

• Distance 370km
• Duration 7 days
• Drive Time 5 hours

Start in the fabulous city of Lyon, the capital of the Rhone region. The historic heart, Vieux-Lyon, stretches across the base of Fourviere Hill and its grand basilica.

There are lots of things to do in Lyon , eating is one of the best! As you stroll the medieval streets and iconic traboules (or hidden passageways), stop in Lyon’s traditional restaurants, known as bouchons , and get up close to Renaissance facades and buildings that boast over a thousand years of history.

Next on your Auvergne road trip is one of France’s oldest cities, Clermont-Ferrand, known for its string of volcanoes called the Chaine des Puys. The dormant volcano Puy de Dome is one of the highest and has been a tectonic hotspot on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2018.

In the city itself, don’t miss the jewel of Notre-Dame-du-Port Basilica and the highly distinctive black lava stone Gothic Cathedral.

In Le-Puy-en-Valey, visit the imposing cathedral, the silhouette of which stands proud on the slopes of Mount Anis. The building, celebrated for housing the enigmatic Black Madonna, and one of the most beautiful cloisters in Europe, is a key monument of Romanesque art.

Finally, around Saint-Etienne, a UNESCO Design City, the site at Firminy hosts Le Corbusier’s largest European work. Visit the four buildings featured on the architectural walk, including the famous Maison de la Culture, where you can trace the legacy left by modern architecture.

Not far from Lyon, pay a visit to the Tourette Convent, the last great building by Le Corbusier in France, which will be a fitting end to your UNESCO road trip.

Road trip here if you like…

• Mountains – if outdoor activities are your thing, start  hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc  from Chamonix at the foot of the country’s easternmost mountains, explore the medium-high extinct volcanoes of the Massif Central, or take a road trip on the Route des Grandes Alpes .
• Gastronomic delights – There’s  so much to do in Lyon , not only one of the most beautiful cities in France, it is the food city of this gastronomic country. Regional dishes are influenced by the mountains and tend to be hearty and wholesome. 
• Water sports – with Lake Geneva, Lake Annecy, and Lac de Bourget in the region, summer sailing, wind-surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking are on the doorstep.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting France . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comte

This beautiful region of France is famous for its rich history and viniculture. Sometimes abbreviated to BFC, this area is around a five to six hour drive from Calais on the A26, and just a few hours from Paris, making it a great option if you’re short on time. 

Part of this area is the old historic region of Burgundy, once the heartland of France and known for its wines, such as Beaujolais and Chablis.

BFC is sparsely populated and sees relatively little tourist footfall, making this cross-country road trip a joy for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. The route takes you through a mix of low agricultural lands to the fabulous mountains and lakes of the Jura.

RELATED POST: Off The Beaten Path France – 8 Unique Places

The Jura Route des Lacs

Dijon – marigny – thoirette.

• Distance 350km
• Duration 3-5 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

Start in the beautiful historic city of Dijon, surrounded by the Cote d’Or vineyards where over 3,000 winemakers produce their world-famous wines in the heart of ancient Burgundy.

The UNESCO old center of Dijon is packed with half-timbered medieval houses and elegant Renaissance buildings. Make sure to try the wines from the region, and Dijon’s other claim to fame, Dijon mustard.

Head south to off-the-beaten-track Marigny for the deep navy and turquoise lakes of the Jura Massif, where you can explore museums, regional crafts, and local gastronomy, as well as remote places, natural sites, and plenty of waterfalls.

You might want to get in the water too, there are twenty lakes to choose from!

• Great gastronomy  – the home of the unique Vin Jaune, Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, Comte cheese, and Dijon mustard is a powerhouse of French cooking, particularly where the use of wine is required!
• Atmospheric historic cities – Beaune and Dijon are just two gorgeous cities in this region, packed with history, Gothic and medieval architecture with a typical French ambiance.
• Breathtaking castles – there are well over thirty well-preserved chateaux in the northern half of this region, you’ll see them literally on every bend in the road!

The rugged peninsula of western France, Bretagne, is an ideal place for a one or two week northern France road trip itinerary.

With Rennes, the capital of the region, being just an hour’s drive from St Malo, it is literally a hop over the channel and the perfect place for a road trip from the UK to France .

With a wild and dramatic coastline and an undiscovered feel beyond the well-known tourist spots, this western France road trip offers a shared Celtic culture, ancient mysticism, and every type of beach imaginable!

Brittany Coast to Coast

Saint-malo – brest – quimper – vannes – rennes.

• Distance 540km
• Duration 10 days
• Drive Time 6 hour

The peninsula of Brittany lends itself to a jaunt around its coast, enjoying the superb seafood and friendly nature of the locals.

Start in historic St Malo before taking in the endless sightseeing opportunities of the peninsula’s varied 1600km long coastline. 

There’s a beach here for your taste, from secluded coves and surfing hotspots to long white stretches, dramatic cliffs, and rocky outcrops.

Around Perros-Guirec is the Cote de Granit Rose with its pink beaches, one of the most interesting coastlines in France, and across to the west is the Finistere coast with its huge beaches and quaint fishing villages.

If you want to dip into every cove, explore every interesting finger of land that protrudes into the sea, and visit all the charming towns and villages en route, then allow at least two weeks for this magical road trip.

• Beautiful gardens – also known as the Garden Coast, Brittany has some of the best gardens in France. From English-style cottage gardens to exotics, there’s something here for every green-fingered visitor.
• Delicious cider – Brittany is the cider country of France. With more than 600 apple varieties grown in the region, there’s a cider to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Customs and tradition – the pan-Celtic tradition is very evident here; the Breton language is spoken with pride and widespread cultural festivals celebrate Celtic music and dance.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Centre-Val de Loire

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Chateaux of the Loire

Orleans – blois – tours – angers – nantes.

The enchanting chateaux and picturesque towns of the Loire Valley make this historic region the perfect place to take a 10 day road trip in France.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Delicious white wines – Touraine, Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, Sancerre, and Valencay are just some of the well-known whites produced in this region. Take a vineyard tour and make sure to enjoy a wine tasting afterward!
• Historic cities – from gracious Orleans to Gothic Blois and Tours with its beautiful old town, the cities of this region are must-sees.
• Bird watching – La Brenne Natural Park is the hidden gem of Centre-Val de Loire. To the south of the region, this huge park containing over a thousand lakes is a wetland paradise for birders. 

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip.

Grand Est borders Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, and a small part of Switzerland so it’s not surprising that this region has multicultural influences.

Grand Est is one of the most accessible regions if you’re taking a France road trip from Calais, a four hour drive will take you to the heart of the rolling Aube, and in six hours you can be in  Strasbourg , the capital of the region and home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

Previously known as Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine, the region is home to typical French countryside with an eclectic mix of vineyards, the low-lying Vosges mountains, and some of the prettiest small towns in France, found along the Alsace wine route.

In some less-visited and remote wooded parts of the Vosges, lynx, boar, and wolves can still be found in the wild, making the rich nature and biodiversity of the area of particular interest.

RELATED POST: Europe Road Trip – 16 Incredible Routes

Route Touristique du Champagne

Reims – trigny – epernay – cumieres – essoyes.

• Distance 285km
• Drive Time 5 hour

The whole of the Champagne Route stretches for around 700km across the departments of Marne, Aube, and Aisne, with eight marked trails to authentic villages, ancient monasteries, imposing châteaux and churches, and of course, vineyards!

This bit of the route takes you from Reims and its world-renowned champagne houses to the massif of Saint-Thierry where you can enjoy beautiful views from Trigny, a flower-filled village with medieval ramparts.

Visit the Verzenay lighthouse, which watches over a rolling swathe of vineyards and now houses the Musée de la Vigne, where you can learn about the history of champagne before driving on to Epernay, and its famous champagne houses of Moet & Chandon, Perrier Jouet and Pol Roger.

From Cumieres, embark on the Champagne Vallee boat to discover the vineyards along the water in the Marne valley. 

Further south on the Côte des Blancs road, admire the panoramic view of the vineyards from Mont Aimé and enjoy the charms of the pretty village of Oger. 

In Aube around Bar-sur-Seine, with its half-timbered houses, make a stop at Essoyes where Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir lived for a few years, and visit one of the 28 champagne cellars in the area.

• Champagne – of course! This champagne road trip is perfect for lovers of bubbles!
• Medieval   cathedrals – Grand Est is home to some of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, many are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• War history – the Verdun & Argonne battlefields and war graves cemeteries of WWI can be found in the region, along with the WWII Maginot Line forts. The Surrender Room in Reims is where German forces capitulated to Eisenhower in May 1945, bringing an end to the long war.
• Accessible hiking  – easier on the heart and lungs, the hiking routes of the Vosges are a pleasure. With stunning rolling scenery and trails to take you through historic villages and make the most of the views, hiking in the Vosges is a real highlight. 

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Hauts-de-France

This is is the most northerly region of France and home to the port city of Calais, meaning it’s on the doorstep of the UK and a perfect French road trip destination for those wishing to nip across the Channel for a weekend from the UK, or for anyone looking for a few beach days on a longer trip in Paris. 

Not a major tourist region, the area is known for the battlefields of World War I, most notably the Somme, a four month battle in which over a million people lost their lives, and many people come here for the memorials and war sites.

But there is more to see in this part of France, including the incredible beaches, elegant resort towns, and pretty fishing villages dotted along the unspoiled and beautiful Cote d’Opale, or Opal Coast.  

Explore the Opal Coast

Calais – boulogne-sur-mer – le touquet – etaples – montreuil – abbeville.

• Distance 144km
• Duration 3 days
• Drive Time 2 hour

From Calais, head south and visit Cap Blanc-Nez (cape white nose), opposite the white cliffs of Dover, and Cap Griz-Nez, (cape grey nose), the closest point in France to England. Both headlands offer fine views across the channel and coast and some great walking opportunities.

Boulogne is the largest fishing port in France and is home to all things sea! Visit the excellent Nausicca Aquarium, full of fascinating displays, interactive exhibits, and sea life, before visiting the historic old town and port, where you can join an organized tour. 

Le Touquet is the jewel of the coast, known as Paris-Plage because this is traditionally where Parisians came for their long August break. Nowadays, it’s a lively resort known for its fantastic beach, water sports, and nightlife, including clubs and casinos.

Don’t miss the lighthouse, La Phare de la Canche, which rewards you with breathtaking views if you’re happy to climb the 274 steps to get to the viewing platform at the top!

Stop at the peaceful nature park of Baie de Canche, situated east of Étaples-Sur-Mer, a protected area of 45 hectares teeming with wildlife, before heading to Abbeville.

The capital of maritime Picardy and your final stop, Abbeville is a beautiful city and boasts rich historical monuments including the flamboyant Gothic style Saint-Vulfran collegiate church, with its magnificent carved facade.

• Mining history – much of the infrastructure in the northern parts of the region has been shaped by mining, a now redundant industry in this part of France. Visit the UNESCO listed Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin for a fascinating insight into the industry and a miner’s life in the pits.
• Beautiful belfries –  tall and often ornate clock towers attached to civic buildings, belfries are common in the region and were built to symbolize the power of the local alderman and councillors. The Belfries of Belgium and France is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles of architecture.
• Battlefield tours  – the battles of Flanders, the Somme, Vimy, and Ypres were all fought on the soil of the Hauts-de France by French, British, Canadian, Australian, and African troops. The memorials and cemeteries marking these battles make for moving visits.

France Road Trip Essentials

Lonely Planet France

France driving essentials

France SIM card

UPF 50 travel sun hat

France beaux villages guide

universal adaptor + USB

Ile-de-France

Ile-de-France is the small region surrounding the beautiful city of Paris. Surrounded by cities and forests that prospered from the patronage of the Kings of France, the area is rich in royal history, elegant palaces, and medieval towns. 

A four hour drive from Calais and on the doorstep for those flying in, it is perhaps not the first destination road trippers think of, but it is the ideal opportunity to combine a five day trip to Paris with a road trip to see the best bits of this compact region.

A Road Trip Around Paris

Chantilly – provins – fontainebleau – versailles – saint-denis.

• Distance 275km
• Duration 5 days
• Drive Time 4 hour

Start in Chantilly, a town obsessed with horses, and join the Parisians at the elegant Chantilly racetrack, home of the French Derby (or Prix du Jockey Club).  

Head along the pretty country roads to Fontainebleau forest for a spot of activity. Once the hunting grounds of French kings, and home to a beautiful palace, the area is dotted with massive boulders that attract anyone wanting to try bouldering. 

If hiking is more your thing, there are more than 500km of marked trails in the forest, with the 25 Bosses Trail being the most well-known. This challenging day hike will reward you with incredible views of the surrounding area. 

If you prefer to see it from the air, then hitch a ride on a hot air balloon, a popular way to see the forest.

From here, drive to the UNESCO site of historic Provins, a fortified city full of medieval half-timbered houses and cobbled streets inside the well-preserved ramparts. Built to accommodate an annual fair linking northern Europe with the Mediterranean, most of the buildings here are still in their original form.

Versailles is a once-in-a-lifetime visit and you must book online in advance as it can take five hours to queue in the summer if you don’t have a ticket. This shining, golden Baroque palace was once home to the Kings of France and spreads over 800 acres.

The inside is full of gold leaf, pink marble, and other finishes so opulent it almost hurts the eye. The formal gardens are beautifully symmetrical and soothing, with thousands of trees and water features – the perfect place for a picnic.

From Versailles, head north-east to the beautiful Basilica of Saint-Denis, one of the most important religious buildings in Ile-de-France. The first Gothic cathedral was built at the exact spot where Saint-Denis, the patron saint of Paris and France was buried.

• Iconic cities – although driving in and around Paris is to be avoided at all costs, you can stay outside Paris and get the train in, just follow this perfect  Paris one day trip itinerary  to see top sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame in one of the most cultured cities in Europe .
• Theme parks –  meet all your favorite characters at Disneyland Paris , just three and a half hours from Calais and an hour from Paris.
• Modern architecture – there are four Le Corbusier villas in Ile-de-France. Villa Savoye is in Poissy and Villa La Roche, Villa Jeanneret, and Immeuble Molitor are wonderful hidden gems in Paris.

Normandy borders the English Channel and is easily accessible from all the channel ports, the furthest being St Malo around a three to four hour drive. Le Havre is in the region itself and a perfect arrival port popular with UK road trippers, as well as being close to pretty Honfleur.

The whole region was a significant medieval empire and controlled much of England and Wales, leaving a rich history for visitors to explore on a Normandy road trip.

The three huge attractions of Rouen cathedral, the Bayeux Tapestry, and Mont Saint-Michel are the must-sees of the region. Along with the pretty fishing port of Honfleur and the D-Day beaches, this region has much to recommend and is one of the best road trip destinations in France.

The World War II Sites of Normandy

Benouville – ouistreham – arromanches – colleville-sur-mer – bayeaux.

• Distance 180km
• Drive Time 3 hour

You could visit the key places on this tour in a day, but to the sites justice and spend time at the memorials, you need three to five days.  

Start at Benouville, just north of Caen, for Pegasus Bridge and its museum, the site of a daring landing by gliders of the British 6th Airborne Division in shortly before the sea invasion.

From here, it’s a short hop to Ouistreham to visit Le Grand Bunker, part of the German Atlantic Wall defenses, and the German Battery to the north. 

Heading west, you’ll find the landing beaches of Sword (British and French), Juno (Canadian), Gold (British), and Omaha and Utah (American). Each has a number of visitor sites to be explored.

At Arromanches, watch an educational film at the 360-degree cinema on top of the cliff before you descend into the town itself and visit the Landing Museum built near the site of the Mulberry Harbours, which were constructed to aid the Allies in getting supplies ashore. 

As you continue west, don’t miss the German Gun Battery at Longues, before arriving at the atmospheric American Cemetery at Colville, where you can hear the Last Post daily at 5pm.

From Utah beach, skirt back to Bayeaux, home of the British and Commonwealth Cemetery and Battle of Normandy Museum (and of course, that famous tapestry).

RELATED POST: Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

• Medieval heritage – Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, is chock full of medieval architecture and history. The Bayeux Tapestry, telling the story of the Norman invasion of England in 1066 is on glorious display in the town of the same name.
• Gorgeous gardens – if you are a gardener or painter, then there is no better garden in the whole of France than Giverny, Claude Monet’s country home and garden. Gloriously and unashamedly colorful, this beautiful place has provided inspiration to generations of gardeners and painters alike.
• Impressionist art – known as the birthplace of impressionism after Monet took inspiration in Le Havre and painted ‘ Impression, soleil levant ‘ (‘Impression, sunrise’) in 1872. Normandy houses two major collections and has no fewer than fifteen museums dedicated to impressionist art and history.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

One of our personal favorites for a France road trip holiday, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region of France. From the ports of Caen or Cherbourg, the capital Bordeaux is a good seven to eight hour drive, making the region an ideal destination for a two or three weeks holiday. 

This region in the southwest of France is incredibly varied, from the mountains of the Pyrenees and the gently meandering Dordogne valley, to the almost continuous beach of the long Landes coastline. There’s also great French wine heritage here, along with classic gastronomy which uses the abundance of high-quality ingredients grown and produced in the region.

Pine forests, vineyards, elegant resorts and rustic villages shape this space, along with great regional food and wine which give life and color to a seriously enjoyable region of France.

RELATED POST: A Seven Day Pyrenees Hiking Tour

The Best of the Dordogne

Bordeaux – bergerac – la roque-gageac – sarlat-la-caneda – rocamadour – perigueux.

• Distance 380km
• Duration 5-7 days

Staring in the magnificent city of Bordeaux , known as the wine capital of the world, follow the Dordogne to beautiful Bergerac, a historic city, whose narrow streets are lined with fine houses and filled with blooms and quirky art installations.

Of course, you’ll also find a statue of Bergerac’s most famous son, Cyrano de Bergerac. A French soldier remembered chiefly for fighting many duels often over the size of his nose! 

From here, head for the medieval village of La Roque-Gageac, the gateway to the Valley of the Five Chateaux, home to five impressive castles, including Chateau Beynac and Chateau Castelnaud. You’ll also find the stunning Gardens of Marqueyssac hanging on the cliffs above the village.

Head east for the gorgeous town of Sarlat, deep in the wooded hills of the Dordogne. With cobbled streets and Gothic mansions galore, Sarlat makes a great base to explore locally and enjoy some of the fantastic gastronomy of the region.  

Cross into Occitanie for Rocamadour, home to the cheese of the same name, and the Gouffre de Padirac, two of the must-see attractions in the area which can be visited in a day if you’re pushed for time.

Allow a full day to explore the final stop of  Perigueux, making sure to visit the Saint-Front Cathedral, the quays, and the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum.

• Mountains  – the eastern Pyrenees are to the south of the region and beyond the towns and cities provide amazing cycling and hiking opportunities, including this seven day Pyrenees hiking tour . 
• Beaches – there are hundreds of miles of soft golden beaches along the coast. Stretching from the glamorous resort of Biarritz in the south to La Rochelle in the north, only interrupted by the river Garonne and the Arcachon Basin. If you like sand, head for the largest sand dune in Europe, Dune du Pilat, with an incredible view of the blue, turquoise and green crystal clear waters of the Arcachon basin. 
• Surfing –  people come here to surf the huge Atlantic rollers coming in from the Bay of Biscay and there is an annual world surf competition held in Lacanau-Ocean. If you can’t stand up, get a body board, or just spend hours deciding whether to float over the next wave or power under it.   

Occitanie (previously known as Languedoc) makes up almost one-half of the south of France and is a region of huge contrast. A solid ten to eleven hour drive from Caen, Occitanie makes a good destination if you have a couple of weeks to travel or, as part of a longer trip.

We think it’s worth the drive time for the atmosphere, history, and beauty you will find in this region. 

From the sun-drenched Herault of the deep south and the Mediterranean coast to the wild and raw beauty of the Cevennes and the majesty of the Pyrenees, the landscape and climate differ greatly.

This is a busy part of France, home to Carcassonne, Lourdes, and the Pont du Gard. These three top the busiest tourist destinations in Europe list and are best visited outside of July and August.

RELATED POST: The Best Wild Swimming in France

Beaches & Mountains of the Languedoc

Montpellier – sete – agde – beziers – carcassonne – gorge d’heric – pezenas – saint-guilhem-le-désert.

Start in the growing city of Monpellier and head south along the coast to the pretty fishing port and the seaside resort of Sete, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Etang de Thau salt lake on the other.

The main canal running through the Sete city center is lined with bars and restaurants offering fish and seafood delicacies. Make sure to try a tielle, a local specialty comprising of octopus cooked in olive oil, tomato, and red wine and baked in pastry.

The salt lake Etang de Thau is sandwiched between vineyards and natural scrubland and is the ideal place to learn more about what the area is famous for – shellfish, and in particular oysters. There are a number of oyster farms open for visits where you can learn about the farming process.  

Agde, just along the coast, is famous for its black volcanic sand beaches which are unique to the region. La Grande Conque is one such beach, a small bay carved into the coast and a great place to while away the day sunbathing and swimming.

Your next stop is the beautiful town of Beziers, home to the Fonserannes Locks, the famous staircase of nine locks on the Canal du Midi, which allow boats to be raised 21.5m over a distance of 300m. You can hire a bike here and cycle along the canal towpath, for a peaceful afternoon ride.

Head west and inland for the iconic city of Carcassonne. The beautifully renovated citadel, La Cite, is a must-see in this area of France. Vast and imposing, it towers above the Aude and ‘new’ Carcassonne and feels a little Dinsneyesque inside, with lots of touristy (and expensive) bars and restaurants.

From here, if you have more time, you can head into the Pyrenees if you want to hike, kayak, and see the religious castles the area is famous for. 

Otherwise, the magnificent Gorge d’Heric is next up, with hiking and wild swimming opportunities in abundance. This dramatic gorge, in the heart of the Haut Languedoc nature reserve, is home to the river Heric as it rushes down from the Massif de Caroux.

You can walk up the Gorge for around 5km, or hike and rock climb the Caroux if you want something a bit more challenging. All the way up the gorge are massive boulders and private natural swimming pools, filled with clear turquoise waters and wonderful for a cooling dip on a hot summer’s day.

From here, pretty Pezenas calls, with its Friday wine festivals through summer, local craft shops, and weekly farmers market. A perfect place to stop for a few days and catch your breath, before taking in the Pont du Diable, perfect for a spot of cliff-jumping and paddle boarding.

A few miles away from the Devil’s Bridge is Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, nestled in the heart of the Herault Gorges and a major stop for pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostela in north-west Spain. The centerpiece of the village is the Gellone Abbey, a 1200-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked in the corner of the main square.

RELATED POST: South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

• Wild swimming – the gorges of the region have some of the best  wild swimming  and canyoning in France. Tucked into the Montagne Noire or the midi-Pyrenees, the water is crystal clear and refreshing.
• Outdoor adventures – head for the Gard and Lozere departments where you’ll find nature at its finest. Winding rivers like the Tarn are superb for kayaking and often have small river beaches and swimming holes, with perfectly placed rocky ledges to jump from. The Cevennes National Park offers great hiking in a wild and natural environment.
• Religious history – The Aude and Ariege have a strong Cathar history and you can see remnants everywhere. Follow the Route of the Cathars through fortified hilltops, castles, villages, and towns for a fascinating insight into a religion that shaped this part of France for centuries.

Pays de la Loire

The Pays de la Loire is a region of north-western France that adjoins the region of Centre-Val de Loire. Both regions share many characteristics including the Loire Valley and large numbers of famous chateaux.

One difference is the long Atlantic coastline of the Pays de la Loire known as the Vendee, a very popular UK tourist destination due to its proximity to the eastern channel ports, and enjoyed for its gentle waves, sandy beaches, and quintessential sea-side resorts.  

An easy three to four hours from Caen to Nantes places you in the heart of this region, with the Loire Valley to the east and the beaches of the Vendee to the west.  

RELATED POST: The Best Campervan Destinations in France

The Coast of the Vendee

Nantes – saint-gilles-croix-de-vie – les sables-d’olonne – la tranche-sur-mer – la rochelle.

Starting in increasingly popular Nantes, home to the Les Machines de L’ile, this west coast road trip is more about the relaxed coastal resorts than cities.

Make for Saint Gilles-Croix-de Vie, stopping at Sallertaine on the route, to explore the peaceful canals of the Marais Breton in an open canoe.

Once in Saint-Gilles, enjoy the chic and lively ambiance, as well as superb sardines, caught locally and on your plate within a few hours.

On the Côte de Lumière or Coast of Light, the coastal resorts here enjoy 2400 hours of sun every year, making this a perfect place to relax on a sun lounger for a few days.

Continue south to Les Sables-d’Olonne, the point of departure for the Vendee Globe round-the-world sailing race. A popular seaside resort, it has a superb sandy beach and a pretty seafront promenade plus a casino and golf course to keep you busy.

Next up is La Tranche-sur-Mer, known as ‘little California’ because of its exceptional sunshine hours and 13km of sandy beaches.

With an authentic vibe and lively family atmosphere, this is a great stop for teenagers, with lots of water sports on offer, as well as free concerts and street entertainment in the evenings in summer.

Your final stop is the historic sea town of La Rochelle, a laid-back resort town with a well-deserved reputation for great seafood, and the best old port on the French Atlantic.

Spend a day meandering around the charming town before exploring the maritime museum and aquarium.

• Bucket and spade holidays – perfect for family holidays, the Vendee is lined with some of the best French holiday parks offering fantastic facilities. Kids love the beaches for perfect sand-castle building and gentle waves.
• Theme parks – the Puy du Fou historic theme park has  over 1,5 million visitors a year and is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of France, and perfect for a day out if you are traveling with kids.
• Beautiful chateaux – one of the main attractions of the region, the chateaux of the Loire Valley are world famous.

Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur

A favorite of many, this region, often abbreviated to PACA, covers a large and diverse area. From the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to the French Alps, and from the river Rhone to the Italian border, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is the furthest of France’s regions from the UK.

It takes a whopping eight hours of driving from Paris and twelve to thirteen hours from Calais, making the journey a road trip to the south of France in its own right.

For the glamorous and fashionable resorts of the French Riviera, the lavender fields and whitewashed towns of Provence, and the off-the-beaten-path wilderness of the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, those driving hours are so worth it.

The sun-baked landscapes, beautiful hilltop towns and villages, abundant local produce, and delicious wines just add to the attraction. 

The Route Napoleon

Grenoble – laffrey – la mure – corps – col bayard – gap – sisteron – digne – castellane – saint-vallier-de-thiey – grasse – antibes.

• Distance 314km
• Drive Time 8 hour

The most picturesque south of France road trip, the historic Route Napoleon begins in the Auvergne-Rhone- Alpes region.

The road trip starts (or ends, as the route starts at the coast, but can be road tripped either way) in Grenoble, the route follows the footsteps of the famous General on his return from exile in Elba, as he headed north for Waterloo.

Inaugurated in 1932, you will see statues of the Imperial French Eagle marking the way, along what is now (mainly) the N85.

The road is really spectacular, with switchbacks, sweeping bends, and challenging mountain stretches making it one of the best road trips in France.

Peaking at 1246m at Col Bayard before passing into Provence and the towns of historic Sisteron, beautiful Digne, and fragrant Grasse, you’ll also pass the stunning Gorge du Verdon and the beautiful lavender fields of the Valensole plateau.

From Castellane to Grasse, the views to the coast from the road are spectacular, across lush green slopes dotted with magnificent villas, to the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean, just one of the reasons to start in Grenoble and head south. 

This route smells heavenly too – the scent of hot pine sap and the essential oils of regional herbs being warmed by the sun is the fragrance of southern France.

RELATED POST: Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip

• Glitz and glamour – St Tropez is one of the most famous Cote d’Azur holiday resorts. People on Riviera road trips flock to the vieux port where the rich and famous berth their mega-yachts, and enjoy the honeyed stone buildings and pretty squares of a slightly more relaxed and authentic St Tropez. If you want more, head to Monaco, Nice or Cannes, or one of the ridiculously opulent villas which open their doors to the public. 
• Iconic Lavender – field upon field and row upon row of beautiful and fragrant lavender carpets  Provence  in June and July. Go early in the day for the best photo opportunities.
• Local produce – experience a marchés hebdomadaires ( farmers market). Most towns have a weekly market where you will find fresh bread, wonderful fruit and vegetables, pungent cheeses, meaty saucisson sausage, fat olives, and pretty much any other fresh food stuff you might want to buy. 

France Country Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in France.

• Search for affordable flights to France with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in France with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in France with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in France with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries from UK to France Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in France

Road trips in France are usually pleasurable, thanks to their extensive and well-maintained autoroute network, and generally good local roads. French drivers can be impatient and are dreadful tailgaters and really, really dislike being overtaken, but, c’est la vie, this is France!

Whether your road tripping France in a campervan , car, or motorbike, follow these tips for driving safely and legally;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from France.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• You must carry at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of your vehicle and must put it on before you get out in an emergency or breakdown situation. You must also carry a warning triangle.
• You may require a Crit’Air sticker which is placed in the windscreen of your vehicle to provide a visible way to identify the level of emissions produced. If you’re renting a vehicle, the Crit’Air sticker should already be on display in the windscreen. Find out more and purchase Crit’Air stickers from the official certificat-air.gouv.fr website.
• On 1 November 2021 the Loi Montage II or ‘mountain law II’ came into force in 48 French mountainous departments within the Alpes, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrénées, and Vosges regions. Anyone traveling in a car or motorhome or through one of these areas between 1 November and 31 March will be obliged to fit four approved winter tires or carry at least two snow chains or socks in the vehicle.
• French motorways are privately managed and you’re not allowed to request your own assistance company to attend to you if you break down. If you do break down use the orange emergency telephones that are situated every 2km along French motorways to call the police or the official breakdown service operating in that area or dial the emergency services on 112. You will be towed to a safe designated area where you can make onward arrangements for your own breakdown insurer to assist you if you have it. Otherwise, the towing company will be able to provide support or signpost you. 
• You do not need to carry a breathalyzer, the law requiring that you do has been repealed.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your French road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.

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'Secret VIP paths' through the airport, Porsche courtesy cars and food with 'zero faults': Travel experts pit Air France's 'La Premiere' first-class cabin against its new business class on flights to New York and Dubai

• The head-to-head test is courtesy of travel site The Points Guy 
• The first-class flight is on a Boeing 777 and the business-class trip on an A350
• What do YOU think of Air France's top cabins? Vote in our poll... 
• READ MORE: Map reveals Caribbean is the globe's No.1 destination for a cruise

Secret VIP paths through the airport, Porsche courtesy cars that take passengers to the aircraft, giant armchair-style seats and caviar nibbles.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, from The Points Guy , reveals in a spellbinding video what it’s like to travel from Paris to Dubai in Air France ’s top-tier first-class cabin – La Premiere.

And it’s quite something.

In the YouTube video , his colleague Liam Spencer offers an intriguing comparison, with a review of Air France ’s newest business-class seat on an A350 flight to New York.

He declares that it’s one of the best business-class flights he’s ever taken. And he knows a thing or two about business-class flights. Read on for the full verdicts and watch the trailer video – presented above.

BUSINESS CLASS – PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT TO NEWARK LIBERTY INTERNATIONAL. TYPICAL COST ONE-WAY - £3,404/$4,351

Liam told MailOnline Travel that overall, his Air France business-class experience was ‘great’.

And right from the get-go.

He said: ‘The business check-in was pretty swanky, the lounge had tons of seating and food options, and overall was a perfect place to relax before a flight.’

Onboard, Air France continued to impress, with his seat a substantial slice of real estate.

Liam continued: ‘I had a lovely big window seat with a lot of space to myself.

‘The seat itself was very comfy and had a lovely, fresh blue design to it. I had a ton of space and a super-wide seat, adjustable armrest, and a super-convenient, modern tablet, which is designed for ordering food, changing the seat and controlling the entertainment.

‘My space came with an adjustable reading light and vanity mirror, which were lovely additions. I also received some very nice headphones and a lovely glass of Champagne, which is always a very nice touch. My entertainment screen was absolutely huge and very responsive.’

In addition, Liam received ‘a soft, large, fluffy pillow… a soft duvet’ and a ‘nice’ amenity kit with ‘a sleep mask, flight socks, pen, eco-friendly toothbrush, moisturiser and Clarins beauty balm’.

Air France also nailed the food and drink offering.

Liam said: ‘Air France passengers can order their meal before the flight. The menu had many options to choose from. The way the food was displayed made the dining experience feel more like a first-class experience than a business-class experience. Additionally, the food itself was delicious with zero faults.’

The Points Guy travel guru then tested the seat in bed mode and found it was ‘super comfortable’.

And in conclusion?

Liam said: ‘A great business-class flight, right up there with the best business-class flights I have ever taken. Really competing with the likes of Qatar’s Qsuite in terms of luxury, space, food – it really had it all.’

FIRST CLASS - PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT TO DUBAI. TYPICAL COST ONE-WAY - £4,443/$5,680

Nicky revealed that he was ‘blown away’ by Air France’s La Premiere experience.

It all began with an exceptional welcome.

He told MailOnline Travel: ‘I received such a special welcome at the door. They took me straight to the La Premiere entrance. Checking in was one of the most seamless and stunning experiences I have had.

‘The lounge really blew me away. It had chic lighting and even a Sisley Spa. It had everything you could want with a quiet and exclusive atmosphere. Once my flight was ready to board, I was directed to a private Porsche, ready to take me straight to the aircraft.’

Once onboard, Nicky continued to be delighted.

He said: ‘The ground experience was amazing, but the seating was truly next level.

‘There is just one row of first-class La Premiere, with giant armchair-styled seats. I just couldn’t believe how much space there was.

‘The seats fold out into huge, wide, full-flat beds. My seat also came with a curtain that closed off my section, floor to ceiling, so it feels incredibly private when shut off.

‘The seat also came with a large sturdy table and a massive screen for a range of entertainment.

‘One feature that I really loved was a gorgeous lamp that featured the hippocampe seahorse, the motif of Air France. These small touches add an extra touch of class that you don’t usually find on a normal flight.

‘Furthermore, the seat included an additional privacy divider, fluffy pillow, very chic slippers, and a signature red, Air France blanket.’

What about the amenity kit? Luxury? You bet.

Nicky said: ‘La Premier passengers are also given a beautiful kit, which included an eye mask, pen, earplugs, comb, and a variety of Sisley products. I also received some lovely pyjamas.’

The food and drink offering, meanwhile, was mouthwatering.

Nicky continued: ‘With La Premiere, it is dine on demand, so you can choose to dine whenever you want. There was such a huge range of options from caviar to Champagne, and from soup to cheese, salads, and desserts. I tried as much as I could. I ate super-luxe dishes, including caviar to start my meal, which made the experience very special. This dining experience was heaven. The food was delicious and super luxurious.’

Was the seat dreamy in lie-flat mode?

Nicky said: ‘This was one of the most wide, comfortable, and spacious beds in the sky. With a soft mattress underneath, fully flat, and amazing.’

And in conclusion? We’re guessing it’s a thumbs up…

Nicky confirmed: ‘I was so blown away by this experience. The ground experience in Paris was next level, the lounge was chic, the food was amazing and there were tons of quirks that made the experience so special for me.

‘Features like the Sisley lounge and the Porsche to the plane were next level. On the flight, the service was also so friendly, so fun and absolutely top-notch from all the crew I encountered.’

For more from The Points Guy visit thepointsguy.com/uk-travel . For more from Nicky visit his Instagram account - www.instagram.com/nickykelvin . Liam posts on Instagram to this profile - www.instagram.com/liam_spencer .

Watch CBS News

World War II veterans travel to France to commemorate 80th anniversary of D-Day

Updated on: June 1, 2024 / 9:10 PM EDT / CBS/AP

More than 60 veterans of World War II took off Friday from Dallas to France, where they will take part in ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

The group ranges from 96 to 107 years old, according to American Airlines, which is flying them first to Paris. The flight is one of several that are taking veterans to France for the commemoration.

The group will take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at Suresnes American Cemetery, visit the Eiffel Tower and join in a daily ceremony known as le Ravivage de la Flamme, which honors fallen French service members at the Arc de triomphe.

They then head to the Normandy region for events that include wreath-laying ceremonies on Omaha and Utah Beaches, two of the landing sites for the Allied forces.

Almost 160,000 Allied troops, 73,000 from the United States, landed at Normandy on June 6, 1944, in a massive amphibious operation designed to break through heavily fortified German defenses and begin the liberation of Western Europe.

A total of 4,415 Allied troops were killed on D-Day itself, according to the Necrology Project , including about 2,500 Americans. More than 5,000 were wounded.

The group traveling from Dallas includes six Medal of Honor recipients from wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Vietnam who wish to honor the World War II veterans.

There are also two Rosie the Riveters, representing women who worked in factories and shipyards during the war.

Hundreds of thousands of military women from Allied nations also worked in crucial noncombat roles such as codebreakers, ship plotters, radar operators and cartographers.

There are various ceremonies to commemorate the day in France and to thank veterans, some of whom will make the long trans-Atlantic journey despite advanced age, fatigue and physical difficulties.

"We will never forget. And we have to tell them," Philippe Étienne, chairman of commemoration organizer Liberation Mission, told The Associated Press.

Meanwhile, with only approximately 100,000 American World War II veterans still alive, the National World War II Museum in New Orleans is working to preserve their memories.

To reach new generations, the museum sends course programs to schools across the country, and has immersive exhibits like one about the Pacific War.  

"I think that story is vital for them in the future," Michael Arvites, a teacher at Holy Cross High School in New Orleans, told CBS News. "In a world that is ever changing, that has threats that are new, and some threats that are old."  

Steve Ellis served on an invasion landing craft in the Pacific during World War II, and recently shared his stories with seniors from Holy Cross High.

"That first time in combat, do you remember being nervous, or do you feel like your training had prepared you for that moment, or what were your feelings going into that?" one student asked.

"For me, and I think most of my contemporaries, when we're in combat, no — not nervous at all, just doing our jobs," Ellis responded.

— Barry Petersen contributed to this report. 

• World War II

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The 8 most spectacular train journeys in France

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

Traveling across France by train might be the ideal way to take in its glorious scenery © iandresr / Getty Images

Chugging past rolling hills full of heritage vineyards, cutting through spectacular mountainous backcountry, or zipping along the coastline of the Mediterranean: there’s no better way to experience the beauty and bounty of  France than from the window seat of a train. 

The superb rail network in la République makes it easy to explore the far corners of this rich, varied country. We’ve chosen the following journeys because they offer scenic beauty, keep up a vintage heritage or are just plain fabulous. All aboard for the best train rides in France!

1. Le Cévenol is the most remote and wild train ride

Clermont-Ferrand to Nîmes; 303km (188 miles)  

The savage beauty of the isolated Massif Central opens up on one of France’s oldest train routes – and one of the most challenging to build, given the topography of the Gorges de l’Allier. In the mid-1800s, the technology to blast through granite and basalt mountains didn't yet exist, so in a triumphant feat of engineering, workers used rudimentary techniques to blast out the line’s tunnels. Le Cévenol (also known as La Ligne des Cévennes) opened in 1870 for both passengers and freight, including coal headed to the Rhône region and wine to Paris. 

The Cévenol forms part of a longer, cross-country route linking Marseille to Paris , but most riders jump aboard at Clermont-Ferrand , in the heart of volcano country. You’ll start off admiring volcanic plugs dotting the landscape before heading through the pièce de résistance: the Gorges de l’Allier. High above the Allier River, magnificent views open up, stretching far across the gorge.

Along the way, you’ll cross three historic viaducts, wind through several impressive valleys and traverse 106 tunnels. The highest point is La Bastide-Puylaurent at 1024m (3360ft), while the Chamborigaud viaduct promises a heart-in-mouth experience as you teeter high above the landscape for 409 endless meters (1341ft). 

Planning tip: Maintenance work is often carried out in the spring, and SNCF buses replace trains. Be sure to check ahead before booking. 

2. Le Train du Montenvers will get you up close to a glacier

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to Montenvers; 5km (3 miles) 

Mont Blanc towers over the Alps, its eternally snow-capped peak providing a majestic vista from afar. To get up close to this age-old mountain, hop aboard the famous cherry-red Train du Montenvers , as sightseers have done since 1908.

Departing from the main train station in Chamonix , the rack-and-pinion train trundles up the mountainside at an angle greater than 9%, climbing through dark forests and tunnels pierced through the rock. Sit on the left side of the train to take in glimpses of Mont Blanc between the fir trees.

It takes about 20 minutes to ascend 1000m (3280ft) up the mountain and – just when you think the high mountain scenery can’t get any more stunning – you arrive at the foot of Mer de Glace , a valley glacier (literally, “sea of ice”) at an altitude of 1913m (6276ft). From here, you can take in the north face of the Grandes Jorasses, an immense face of rock and ice.

Yet the most amazing sights are the dense, blue-colored ice caves of the glacier, through which you can walk to admire ice sculptures (the excursion is included in the price of the train ticket). The interactive Glaciorium , which recounts the glacier’s history, is another must-see. Grab a hot chocolate at Le Panoramique cafe before heading back down, or spend the night at the historic Refuge du Montenvers , with its stunning patio overlooking the Mer de Glace.

3. Marseille to Ventimiglia is the best train ride for dazzling sea views

Marseille to Ventimiglia; 187km (116 miles) 

Traveling from Marseille to Ventimiglia in southern France along the SNCF tracks might be a standard journey. The views, however, are anything but. You will be challenged to remain seated for much of the way, as stunning scenes of the azure-blue Mediterranean Sea slide by the train’s window, illustrating the allure of the South of France . Interspersed are glimpses of maquis-covered cliffs (maquis is the tantalizing blend of herbs that grow wild here), terracotta-colored villages, and palm-tree-bedecked hills. 

The stops along the way are fabled destinations unto themselves: legendary St-Tropez , made famous by then-unknown Brigitte Bardot; Cannes , with its star-studded legacy; Monaco , home of the Grimaldi royals; and Nice, with its intoxicating mix of world-class museums and legendary beaches. But there are lesser-traveled places as well, including gorgeous Èze Plage , with its medieval village perched impossibly high on a nearby peak, and down-to-earth Menton . Get out, explore, take in some sun – and catch the next train onward later.

The 50-minute stretch between Nice and Ventimiglia is perhaps the most stunning, as you glide past art deco villas, sparkling bays and pastel-colored towns marching up palm-tree-dotted hillsides. You end just at the Italian border, where you have the option of turning around and seeing it all over again.

4. Le Train des Pignes is a fabulous vintage train ride

Nice to Digne; 150km (93 miles) 

Behind the Mediterranean-lapped shores of Nice, the jagged gray peaks of the Mediterranean Alps beckon from afar. A ride aboard the “ Train of Pinecones ” chuffs from the glittery seaside up into those snowy mountains in just over three hours, providing stunning, ever-changing views along the way. From Provençal fields and olive groves, you’ll enter a land of deep river gorges and medieval fortresses.

Just 90 minutes from Nice,  Entrevaux  is a good stop to wander enchanting medieval streets and explore an ancient citadel. Digne-les-Bains , at the end of the line, is cute as can be, with cobblestone streets, bougainvillea-draped stone villas and shops purveying honey, lavender and other local products.

With its diesel railcars and gleaming varnished wood benches, this line is the only remnant of the meter-gauge Chemins de Fer de Provence that once crisscrossed southern France.

The pigne in its name means “pinecone”: perhaps because the train used to run so slowly that passengers could jump off to gather cones or because when the train ran short on fuel, the engineers resorted to burning them. Whatever the case, majestic pine forests surrounding the route add to its scenic allure. 

5. Orléans to Le Croisic on Interloire is the best train ride for cyclists

Orléans to Le Croisic; 338km (210 miles) 

The Loire Valley unfolds like a fairy tale, with a stunning array of Renaissance castles, green-emerald rivers and charming medieval villages. ( Azay-le-Rideau castle was, after all, the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty .) The Interloire railroad (run by the TER Centre-Val de Loire and TER Pays de la Loire ) traverses this legendary valley from Orléans , the hometown of Jeanne d’Arc, to the fishing harbor town of Le Croisic on the Atlantic.

Must-visit stops include Blois , crowned by the château once occupied by Louis XII; Amboise , Leonardo da Vinci’s final home; and Nantes , a historic Breton town with an evocative 15th-century château. 

Planning tip:  You can hop on and off the train with your bike to peddle parts of the 900km (559-mile) Loire à Vélo, a relatively flat bike path through this quintessentially French landscape. The train even has a car dedicated to bicycles in the summer. 

6. Eurostar through the Chunnel offers a quick escape to London

Paris to London; 451km (280 miles)  

If you fancy a quick getaway from Paris to London , perhaps to say hi to Big Ben or to wander through the V&A Museum , count on the Channel Tunnel. Completed in 1994, this extraordinary engineering feat – nicknamed the Chunnel – burrows deep beneath the expanse of water between France and England, allowing passengers in sleek, high-speed Eurostar trains to travel the channel portion of the trip – 51km (31.5 miles) – in just 30 minutes, with a full 38km (23.5 miles) of that underwater.

From Gare du Nord in the heart of Paris to St Pancras International in the heart of London, the entire trip takes just 2½ hours from door to door. Along the way, you’ll enjoy pretty French and English countryside – inside the tunnel itself, you shouldn’t count on seeing any sea life, only blackness until you emerge into the light of day.  

7. The Nîmes to Le Grau-du-Roi Line is the best Wild West train ride

Nîmes to Le Grau-du-Roi; 37km (23 miles)

Wild bulls in Provence? And cowboys? Mais oui . Tucked away in the southwestern corner of Provence, the marshy Camargue – a river delta south of Arles where the Grand and Petit Rhône meet the Mediterranean – reigns as France’s version of the Wild West. Gardians – Camarguais cowboys – live on manades (ranches), riding indigenous white horses with flowing manes as they round up wild black bulls.

Bullfighting is a big part of the culture here (unlike Spanish bullfights, the bulls here are not killed or injured). As are paella (though Camargue rice differs from its Spanish cousin), jazzy  manouche music and an independent spirit developed from working a challenging landscape for centuries. You can get to the heart of it all aboard the Nîmes to Le Grau-du-Roi train route. 

Departing from Nîmes , the single-track train rumbles through the vineyards of Costières de Nîmes before passing by Aigues-Mortes . Kings departed on their Crusades from this medieval walled city, where you can still stroll ancient streets. From there, you head across the salt marshes and lagoons; keep your eyes out for horses and bulls, as well as pink flamingoes flying overhead. The route ends in Le Grau-du-Roi , just steps from the Mediterranean Sea. 

8. Le Petit Train Jaune is the most famous vintage train ride

Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour de Carol; 64km (40 miles) 

This historic little train – or, literally, the “ little yellow train ” – may be the most famous of them all in France. It’s certainly one of its most stunning when it comes to scenery. Chugging through the mountainous Pyrénées-Orientales from medieval Villefranche-de-Conflent to Latour de Carol on the Andorra border, it winds through gorges and shadowy forests, across viaducts, past two historic fortresses and by one perilously perched ancient monastery. The highest point is the Bolquère Eyne depot, a gasp-inducing 1593m (5225ft) high – making it France’s highest station.  

Note that two different types of trains operate this route: a modern enclosed train as well as the vintage train that sometimes runs with open carriages. No need to worry about which one to choose, though – both are painted yellow.

Tips for train travel in France

Train options in France

Several different types of trains travel across France, including local and regional trains, overnight trains with sleeping accommodations and the TGV , the high-speed Trains à Grande Vitesse. To travel between most big cities, the TGV is your best bet: these pioneering high-speed trains travel between 255km/h and 320km/h (160mph and 200mph) and will get you there within hours.

Paris to Bordeaux, for example, is 2½ hours, with Paris to Marseille a mere 3 hours 40 minutes. That said, the slower local and regional trains open up lesser-traveled regions of the country.  TGV inOui is a new premium TGV train service operated by SNCF on certain high-speed rail services.

Two classes of tickets are usually available to purchase: first ( première ), with plush, reclining seats and ample space; and second ( deuxième ), which is still comfortable but often more crowded. Maps of the French rail network are available on the SNCF website.

How to book a train in France

While you can buy a ticket at the station, either from a ticket window or a vending machine, it’s often cheaper to book your ticket online in advance. Contact Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer (SNCF ) or, from the United States,  Rail Europe . 

Cheap train tickets in France 

France offers various rail passes, including the France Pass, with unlimited travel on the national rail network; and the Eurail Global Pass, which includes train travel to neighboring countries. Deals for hotels, museums and other attractions are often included, too. You’ll find more information on the  Rail Europe website .

The TGV offers Prem’s tickets (their term for affordable tickets) three months in advance (the booking horizon may be extended in summer).

The Eurostar high-speed train service connecting the United Kingdom with France (and Belgium and the Netherlands) offers a limited batch of discount fares six months in advance. The sooner you book, the better chance you have of getting a good price.

Set up a booking alert to be notified when discount tickets are released. 

How to get from Italy to France by train

You can get from Italy to France via Italiarail. It takes about 11½ hours to travel from Rome to Paris. SNCF also serves the route. 

How to get from Spain to France by train

Spain’s train company is Renfe . It takes about 10½ hours to get from Madrid to Paris, a route also served by SNCF. 

How to get from Switzerland to France by train

The TGV runs from Geneva to Paris in a little over four hours. 

How to get from Germany to France by train

The Deutsche Bahn ’s InterCity Express (ICE) is Germany’s high-speed train service, allowing travel from Frankfurt to Paris in as little as four hours (as long as you don’t have to connect in Cologne). SNCF also serves the route. 

How to get from Poland to France by train

It takes between 14 hours and 19½ hours to cross much of Europe from France to Poland, and you typically need to make two changes along the way. Train companies serving this route include Deutsche Bahn, SNCF and Eurostar (the French–Belgian high-speed train operator, which will take you as far as Cologne).

This article was first published Aug 5, 2022 and updated Dec 25, 2023.

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Affordable mobile data across Europe and beyond

Stay connected in 45+ countries in Europe with a single eSIM from Vodafone Travel.

Watch 60 second video

What is eSIM?

eSIM is a digital SIM that you can download. No plastic, no shop visits.It’s easier and greener. Install and get online in a matter of minutes!

Stay connected

Use the same eSIM across 45+ European countries and stay connected

Fast and easy

Get your Europe eSIM immediately via email, and connect within seconds

Wi-Fi Hotspot

Share your internet connection with friends, family, and any other devices

Keep your original SIM

Your existing SIM card will continue to operate, while the eSIM provides you data connectivity.

How it works

No more swapping SIM cards when you travel! Buy your eSIM before you go for faster, easier connectivity - wherever you roam.

Before purchasing, make sure that your device is eSIM compatible using our device compatibility tool.

Install your eSIM as soon as possible. You’ll need a stable internet connection. You can use another device to scan your QR code or install your eSIM manually.

Activate when you are ready to use the eSIM. You can do it in flight or upon arrival at your destination (you don’t need an internet connection to activate).

Join 300M+ global customers who choose Vodafone

A reliable, award-winning network. Choose eSIM from Europe’s most trusted Network provider and we’ll keep you connected to the things and people that matter.

Included Locations

Enjoy 4G/LTE and 5G coverage (where available) in the following countries and regions with our Europe eSIM Plan

United Kingdom

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in touch.

Can’t find the answers you’re looking for in our FAQs? Drop us an email and we’ll get back to you promptly.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Charges Guide
• Acceptable Usage Policy
• eSIM Installation Guide

Vodafone Roaming Services S.à r.l. is registered in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. R.C.S Luxembourg No. B125883. Registered Office: 15 rue Edward Steichen, L-2540 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. VAT LU22869756