How Long Does It Take to Drive Around France?

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Was it always a dream of yours to drive through the lined vineyard hills of Bordeaux or stroll along the famous Parisian boulevards? 

Well, get ready for the adventure, then, because we have the perfect guide to turn that dream into reality! 

But before we hit the road, a question might pop into your head – How long does it take to drive around France?

Basically, France is a large country, roughly the size of Texas. And, generally, it takes about 10-12 hours, depending on the distance between the cities and the route you take. 

Want to know more in detail? Continue reading, as there is much to explore to make your journey a safe and memorable one.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Around France?

Here’s a table that provides a general overview of driving times around France within some of the major cities in west, north, and south France.

Route Direction	Driving Distance	Estimated Driving Time
North (Calais) to South (Montpellier)	1030 km (640 mi)	9–10 hours
East (Strasbourg) to West (Nantes)	866 km (538 mi)	8 hours
Northwest (Brest) to Southeast (Menton)	1468 km (912 mi)	12–13 hours
Northeast (Dunkirk) to Southwest (Hendaye)	1,098 km (682 mi)	9–10 hours

Must-Know Info for Travelers Before Driving in France

Before you hit the road to drive across France, you might want to know a few things. We have already discussed the driving rules and the documents you may need. But as a traveler, there may still be a lot of things on your mind. Such as how security is in France. Or, what is the road condition?

Do you think, is France safe to travel alone? For security, you can stay totally assured that it is pretty good with the safety ranking of this country standing at position 38. And, for the best part, you can find help anywhere if needed.

There are many hospitals in every department, France’s equivalent of a state. The hospitals have several kinds of reimbursement programs as well. All you need to do is pay for treatment and then apply for reimbursement.

Certainly, understanding the color-coded French road signs will also help you. For instance, the blue represents autoroutes or motorways. The color green represents major roads. Yellow is for temporary roads with frequent detours, and white is for local roads. There are also some other traffic signs, such as:

• Triangular signs with a red border and a white background = Warning signs
• Yellow triangular signs = Temporary warnings
• Circulars = Regulatory signs
• Squares = Informational signs
• Rectangles = Directional signs 

Understanding French Driving Rules

France has one of the strictest driving regulations. Like 2/3rds of the world, in France, you have to drive on the right side with overtaking done on the left. However, the general rules, such as wearing seat belts, not using hand-held mobile phones, and requiring child seats when traveling with children, are also there.

Some additional rules you might need to take note of are:

• Priority is to the right at unmarked intersections.
• Speed limits vary based on road type and weather conditions.
• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
• Mandatory reflective vest and warning triangle on the car.

What Are the Speed Limits for Driving in France?

Driving in France!

It can be a dream for many people. However, while fulfilling YOUR long-cherished dream of yours, don’t forget about the speed restrictions. Otherwise, instead of having the best possible time, you will end up with several fines and charges under your name. Besides, they are for a valid reason—to ensure a safe journey!

So, how fast can you drive in France?

In France, different types of roads have different speed limits. Such as,

• Urban areas: 50 km/h
• Outside areas: 80 km/h
• Dual carriageways: 110 km/h
• Motorways: 130 km/h 

N.B: These limits can change, based on various factors, such as if the weather or visibility is poor, the limit is less than usual. 

Is It Challenging to Drive Around France?

Wondering is it hard to drive in France? 

In short, the answer is yes. Driving across France, indeed, poses a certain degree of challenge for travelers. And, this is part of the reason why it is so fun! 

But to enjoy the drive fully, you should be aware of these minor challenges. So, you can prepare yourself for facing any kind of situation.

Now, what are these challenges? 

Well, it can be anything from navigating the map to facing traffic jams and the language barrier in tourist areas due to the use of the French language on road signs. Other challenges may include:

• Toll roads are pretty expensive.
• Huge levels of traffic congestion in major cities, especially during rush hours.
• Different road layouts and traffic circles.
• Higher fuel expenses.
• Steep and winding roads in mountainous areas.
• Right-hand driving for drivers from left-hand countries.

Can American Citizens Drive in France? 

Despite the geographical distance, driving in France is pretty familiar to driving in the United States of America. Why? Well, France has a similar driving side to here in America!

Ultimately, making it easy to drive in France for an American. In fact, American drivers will find driving from the right side easier. There are various reasons for this. For example, renting a car in France with a US license is possible.

But what to do before driving in France as an American? To drive in France on a US license, you must bring an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) along with your actual license. This is a translation of your driver’s license.

However, the American license is only valid on French territory for one year. One can also exchange their US driving permit for a French permit.

Choosing Your Perfect Season for a French Adventure

The best time for a road trip to France is the time that works best for you! 

After all, every human being is different from one another. So, it totally depends on your preferences and the type of experience you are seeking. For example, the best time to visit Paris is early December, January, and February. 

For instance, the climate in France changes significantly with the seasons. Spring has pleasant weather. There is a mild temperature rise in summer, with the autumn being a bit damp and the winter season being extremely cold.

Also, each region in France has its own climate. Such as, the West has an oceanic climate and the East has a continental climate. While the South is famous for its Mediterranean climate, the overseas departments have a tropical climate.

Now that we have developed a basic idea, let’s see how the weather conditions can affect your tour in detail:

Weather Conditions and Their Impact on Your Trip

The spring tour is ideal for outdoor activities and avoiding heavy tourist crowds. But Summer is definitely the most popular season, as the weather is warm and nice. This is also the busiest one.

Autumn in France offers pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage. French winters tend to be shivering cold. But during this time, skiing and snowboarding are available, which is obviously the most exciting thing of this season. Something you cannot bear to miss at all.

If you plan to travel to France by car, it is best to choose dry and less windy weather. During the late stages of autumn, the weather can be a bit damp. Road trips during this time can be quite risky. Also, try to avoid the winter’s heavy snowfall if you decide on road trips, as things can get quite messy at this time.

France’s Peak Travel Season

While this guide helps you plan the distance and time for your French road trip, it’s also important to consider the following peak travel seasons:

High Gear & High Season (June-August)

This is the most popular time, with sunshine, long days, and vibrant summer festivals. Hence, you can expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. So try to book hotels and attractions well in advance.

Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October)

These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable rates. You might even catch the tail-end of a summer festival or the vibrant fall foliage.

Winter Wonderland (December-February)

Experience the magic of Christmas markets and snowy landscapes, especially in the French Alps. Also, be prepared for shorter days and potentially trickier road conditions in some areas.

Pre-Trip Essentials for Your French Drive Journey

For any kind of journey to be successful, you obviously need to have some preparation. Such example, you should visit your doctor to check if you are in good condition. Or, you may also want to catch up with your vaccination and so on.

Here is a list of some extra preparations that you can make: 

• Researching the routes
• Buying and marking the map of France
• Charging the rechargeables
• Downloading important files and videos
• Packing the appropriate clothes and items 

Along with packing all the necessary clothes and items, you must also pack all the important documents. Lastly, to make your journey completely hassle-free, you can consider learning about renting transportation and learning about the driving rules of France. Can come quite handy while driving around the roads!

Necessary Documentation

When it comes to planning a road trip, obtaining all the necessary paperwork is an absolute necessity. So for your tour in France, carefully pack all your documents, like passports and permits, at the very beginning and also cross-check before your departure trip.

These documents are extremely crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. To ensure you are well-prepared for a hassle-free exploration of France, let’s take a quick look at the essential documentation to pack: 

• Valid Passport & VISA
• Driver’s License
• International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Vehicle Registration
• Insurance Documents, such as
  • European Health Insurance 
  • Travel Insurance
  • Travel Itinerary & Maps

Roadmap to Rent a Vehicle in France

Having control over the wheels gives you a certain level of independence. After all, you get to explore the vast and beautiful landscapes of this amazing country at your very own pace. 

To rent a vehicle, you must consider:

• Finding a Rental Company, such as Avis, Europcar, Autoescape, Sixt, and TT Car Transit.
• Picking the ideal vehicle
• Understanding insurance options
• Booking in advance

Another crucial point to note, different rental agencies may have varying age restrictions. So, understanding age and license requirements is of utmost importance. [**The minimum rental age is usually 21 years or older**]

Your Fun-Filled French Road Trip Plan is Here!

First things come first. After all, you just can’t go backpacking across France without a proper plan!

To plan a perfect French road trip, you have to work out the ideal duration for you. Also, you have to know all the best driving routes through France to have a safe journey.

A piece of advice: Always grab a notebook and write down whatever plans come into your mind. Why?

Well, writing the necessary plans down will help you organize the trip efficiently. Plus, it will also come in handy during a last-minute recheck. So, you don’t miss out on anything or leave anything behind.

Now, let’s see what it takes to plan for the best French road trips:

Deciding the Duration of the Trip

Determining how long your vacation will be is certainly an important factor.

From setting the tone for the entire vacation to giving an idea of the overall amount of the travel budget, the list goes on!

And, not to mention, how big your luggage would be and how much clothing you will need for the trip.

There are also some key factors, based on which the duration of your trip will greatly vary. So, make sure to keep them in your mind as well. They are:

The duration of the trip will depend on some factors, such as:

• Your Budget
• Your Health and stamina 
• Your Visa Validation Period
• Your Transportation Choice
• Road and Weather Conditions
• Your Activities
• Amounts of Stops You Take

Choosing a Route

Next up, you have to choose the desired route.

How to do it?

Well, to have a safe and secure journey, you must learn about the route in the very first place.

Besides, how long it takes to drive around France will depend on the route you select. Meaning, your France itinerary needs to include which route you should take.

There are multiple routes you can take while driving across France. However, the top three major routes in France include:

• Autoroute (A Route): A-routes are like interstate highways, with tolls, frequent rest stops, and restaurants. They might not be particularly scenic but they can be quite fast and convenient.
• National Routes (N Route): These routes pass through old towns and are more scenic, slower, and free. But they can be pretty hard to navigate.
• Departmental Routes (D Route): These kinds of routes can contain both N routes and A routes.

Top 5 Tips for Your Smooth French Driving Adventure

So, whether you are driving to the south of France or driving through France, you have to know some basic tips for driving in France and where to stop.

A smooth and successful trip is much more enjoyable. To make the trip go smoother, you can learn some important French phrases:

• Pouvez-vous m’aider ?  – Can you help me?
• Parlez-vous anglais ?  – Do you speak English?
• Où sont les toilettes ?  – Where are the restrooms?
• J’ai besoin d’aide. – I need help.
• Appelez la police! – Call the police!

You should also prepare an emergency contact list. And don’t forget to pack your first aid kits and insect repellents. After all, you will be spending a long time on the road. Mosquitoes and flies—they won’t be very kind!

Other valuable tips might involve picking up the right vehicle for you, navigating parking and gas stations, and having insurance. Most significantly, you can also travel around France without a car to ignore driving challenges and get the optimum travel experience.

How to Pick the Right Vehicle?

Picking the right vehicle depends on many things. While France’s motorway system offers wide roads, rural roads are narrow and windy. So a big, broad car will be difficult to manage.

So, to make the best choice for your road trip in France, first, consider your situation (whether you will be driving through hilly regions, countryside, or cities). And make a note of the below-mentioned factors before renting the car:

• Road conditions & size
• Fuel and cost efficiency
• Passenger capacity
• Luggage space
• Safety features
• Insurance and rental costs
• Reservation & availability

Consider Purchasing Additional Insurance 

Driving in France requires certain insurance requirements. Such as third-party insurance, a certificate of motor insurance, and valid vehicle insurance are some of them.

Third-party insurance compensates third parties for damages or injuries caused by an accident. But it won’t cover the damages that you face. So a fully comprehensive insurance policy is necessary for comprehensive coverage.

Another thing you may want to remember is that the repatriation costs from Southern France are extremely high. So, having motor breakdown insurance or full travel insurance will come in handy in unwanted situations.

Parking Considerations in France 

French parking zones in cities are marked by color, indicating the parking type. For your better understanding, the colors and their meanings are as follows:

• Green Zones offer free parking for limited durations.
• Blue Zones require a fee for limited durations.
• Red Zones have no parking allowed, or “Arrêt Interdit.”

Parking in residential areas might require a special permit. The disabled parking spaces have the international blue wheelchair symbol.

Caution Note:
➔    Avoid parking in front of fire hydrants, near pedestrian crossings and intersections.
➔    Avoid double parking or overnight parking. 

In big cities, parking garages provide secure parking but come at a cost. So, make sure to follow the parking rules to avoid getting towed from every possible angle.

Navigating French Gas Stations

Navigating through a French gas station can be quite intimidating. Apart from the obvious language barrier, there might be some unfamiliar customs.

Don’t worry!

We have made a list of the key points that you need to remember during your stop at a French gas station:

• French Fuel: A gas station in France offers various types of gasoline. Unleaded gas is known as essence, petrol, or benzene. While Diesel is familiar with Gazole, Gasoil, Gasol, or simply Diesel.
• Fuel Service: Gasoil nozzles are slightly bigger than petrol nozzles, preventing inversion. Some stations offer self-service options, while others require payment inside the station.
• Fuel prices: In France, fuel prices are usually listed per liter. The cost is slightly higher in comparison to other countries.

Bonus Tip:
Supermarket fuel stations are the most cost-effective options for fuel in France. So, going for these will be a good deal for you, saving you from spending an extra penny!

Staying Connected and Navigating

Cruising through the French countryside with the wind in your hair is a dream, but staying connected and navigating unfamiliar roads are keys to a smooth adventure. Here’s your roadmap to mastering both –

• Local SIM Card – Ditch expensive roaming charges. Grab a pre-paid SIM card from major carriers like Orange, SFR, or Bouygues Telecom for affordable calls, texts, and data. These are readily available at phone stores, tobacco shops (“tabacs”), and supermarkets.
• Free Wi-Fi – Many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public libraries offer free Wi-Fi. Stock up on offline maps and information when you find a hotspot.
• GPS is Your Friend – Invest in a portable GPS device with pre-loaded French maps or rent one with your car rental. This ensures smooth navigation even in areas with limited phone signals.
• Embrace the Road Signs – French road signs are generally clear and well-marked. Familiarize yourself with common signs like “autoroute” (motorway), “sortie” (exit), and “péage” (toll).
• Download Offline Maps – Download offline maps of your planned route on Google Maps or other navigation apps. This serves as a backup plan if your GPS or internet connection falters.

3 Must-Know Essentials for Long Drives in France

Without any second doubt in mind, long drives are hard. From making you feel super tired to jeopardizing the safety of the trip – the list goes on!

Therefore, along with making a memorable road trip, you should also know how to make it a safer one. As always, safety is the number one priority!

Here is a breakdown of the top three essential safety tips for long drives in France:

Ways to Plan for Breaks During Long Drives

Breaks that too long drives?

Well, it is very much essential. Otherwise, all your energy will get drained up.

Besides, Long drives in France should contain planned breaks. You may now wonder while driving through France, where to stop? This is why you should plan your stops and make necessary reservations. So, how long does it take to drive in France by car before you get tired?

“The rule of thumb on how long to drive across Europe, the daily driving period is typically limited to 9 hours. However, there’s an exception where twice a week it can be 10 hours. It is because a person awake for 18 hours is equivalent to having a blood alcohol content of 0.05%.”

Source: European Union (EU)

Besides, it is risky to drive nonstop, as you may get super tired. Hence, making frequent short stops is really important, as it will help you to:

• Make meal breaks & find good cuisine
• Stay hydrated
• Stretch and move to keep muscles relaxed
• Avoid getting over-stressed up
• Gather some local information

Plan ahead for overnight stops and book accommodations in advance for popular tourist regions. To plan breaks, identify your travel goals, like exploration or fast-moving. And if you want to explore or relax, take longer breaks if needed. But if you want to just pass by in your car, the breaks can be shorter.

N.B: For a good long-drive plan, set your schedule accordingly by being as flexible as possible.

Must Needed Items to Carry for Long Drives

Apart from carrying the essentials, you should also add some extra items to your luggage. Who knows, which thing might come in handy?

A valid driver’s license, vehicle documents, etc. are necessary documents. But for a safe and enjoyable long drive in France, try adding the following to your checklist:

• A high-visibility vest
• A warning triangle
• A first-aid kit
• Marked road map of France/GPS
• Spare tires and tools
• Powerbank
• Water and snacks
• Cash and cards
• Camp, Travel pillows, and blankets
• Dictionaries and local guidebooks
• A translation app

Carrying these items ensures a smooth journey by allowing you to focus on your journey alone. Plus, you will also have peace of mind knowing that you are well-prepared to tackle every kind of situation.

How to Stay Alert during Long Drives? 

“Sleepiness during driving contributes to 3%-30% of road traffic accidents globally!”

Source: WHO.int

So, staying alert during long drives and having multiple drivers when going on a road trip is very important. This way, they can all take turns in driving. 

In case, you are yawning, or have heavy eyelids, hand over the wheels or make a stop. Try taking a power nap if you feel tired. To prevent sleepiness or getting drowsy, you can follow these tips, as instructed:

• Get adequate sleep the night before
• Take regular breaks
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid heavy meals
• Maintain proper ventilation and keep windows open
• Listen to upbeat music
• Interact, play road games, and stay engaged
• Eat healthy and try to avoid overconsumption of caffeine and sugary drinks as much as possible.

Tricks to Handle Emergencies on Your French Drive

It is not possible to avoid emergencies 100%. However, you can stay prepared for emergencies to lessen the harm. And for any kind of emergency situation, the key is to remain calm as much as possible.

Assess the entire situation to take proper procedures as it will directly affect the safety of yourself and others involved.

Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the nature of the emergency, determine a course of action, and notify rescue personnel. You should also keep an emergency toolkit with adjustable wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers.

“In France, the emergency number for police is 13. The medical emergency number is 15 and for the fire service, it’s 18. But, to make it available, you will need a French phone or landline and the service will be in French.“

But for English speakers, dial 112 (NOT 911!) whether you are in France, Germany, Switzerland, or anywhere in Europe. This, in return, will connect you to a free English-speaking emergency service.

Now, What to Do in Case of a Breakdown?

When experiencing a breakdown, always pull over the first safe chance you get. If you smell gas or suspect a fuel leak, don’t use flares or ignite flames around the car. And, for flat tire changes, only change on the side facing away from traffic. While the flat is on the side facing traffic, reach out for immediate help as soon as possible.

Some other steps that you can take include the following:

• Turning on hazard lights
• Exiting the vehicle on the side away from traffic
• Setting up warning triangles
• Calling for assistance
• Being visible and safe

Wrapping Up

As the French countryside fades in your rearview mirror, you will find yourself reminiscing about the unforgettable moments—each village, each bite, and each breathtaking vista.

However, the answer to how long it takes to drive around France becomes more than a number, instead, it is more like a collection of memories you will carry with you for a lifetime.

So, fellow adventurer, are you ready to turn the key and set forth on your very own French odyssey? The road awaits, and with our guide, every kilometer is a treasure waiting to be uncovered.

Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)