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Driving in France
A car is probably the best way to explore France in total freedom. From motorways to departmental roads and country lanes, the French road network is very dense. The most detailed maps are produced by IGN (Web site in French only), and show even the smallest paths. Others, such as Michelin maps (Web site in English), also give an excellent overview of the road network. As a general rule, tolls are levied on motorways.
A valid driver’s license (permis de conduire) and passport are required to operate a motor vehicle. Minimum age for drivers is 18. Proof of insurance is necessary. Carry your identification, license, insurance certificate and vehicle registration (carte grise) with you. Seat belts must be worn in both the front and back seats of all automobiles. Children under 10 may not ride in the front seat. If you are on a motorcycle, scooter or moped, you are required to wear a helmet. All cars must also carry a safety jacket or warning triangle at all times.
Distances between principal cities, listed in both miles and kilometers:
|
K |
|
|
|
MILES |
|
|
|
|
|
I
L |
|
Paris |
Lyon |
Marseille |
Bordeaux |
Lille |
Nantes |
Nancy |
|
O |
Paris |
X |
289 |
483 |
362 |
137 |
237 |
191 |
|
M |
Lyon |
465 |
X |
195 |
334 |
424 |
407 |
252 |
|
E |
Marseille |
777 |
314 |
X |
400 |
621 |
597 |
445 |
|
T |
Bordeaux |
583 |
538 |
644 |
X |
497 |
199 |
526 |
|
E |
Lille |
220 |
683 |
1000 |
801 |
X |
373 |
261 |
|
R |
Nantes |
382 |
655 |
961 |
321 |
600 |
X |
420 |
|
S |
Nancy |
308 |
406 |
717 |
847 |
420 |
676 |
X |
Renting a Car in France
Reserving your rental car before you leave can mean substantial savings—most international car-rental agencies discount standard rates if you reserve ahead for a minimum number of days and pay in advance. For longer trips, some car manufacturers offer leaseback arrangements, which can mean big savings. Gas (essence) and highway tolls are about twice as expensive as in the United States and Canada. Note: To rent a car in France you must be at least 21 years old or 25 years old (minimum age varies by rental agency), and have a credit card in your name. Some agencies may require you to have had your driver’s license for at least one year. Check specific rules with individual rental companies before booking.
To hire a car, contact one of the various car rental companies (Avis, Europcar, Autoescape, Sixt/ Eurorent, TT Car Transit). The big names have offices all over the country, as well as in some airports and railway stations. Don't forget to bring your driving licence and your international insurance papers!
And remember: Some of the following companies have special offers for FranceGuide readers, so be sure to check our homepage and our deals and contests page for promotional deals!
Avis
Eurocar TT Citroën
Renault
Renault’s Eurodrive program is available for drivers who are at least 18 years old and are staying in Europe for 21 days or more. All cars are brand-new Renaults. There are pick-up and drop-off points all over France in cities and airports including Paris, Avignon, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and many others.
Hertz
With over 2,000 European locations, Hertz assures you that no matter where your travels take you, you'll receive low, competitive rates and quality service with every rental. Hertz gives you the freedom to explore Europe on your own terms. And with all of our European locations, Hertz is never too far away to point you in the right direction. Whether you need a car for a few days, a week, or a month, we offer the excellence, service and reliability Hertz is known for at home.
For reservations and information regarding the Affordable Europe program, please contact:
Your travel agent, or Hertz International Reservations at 1-800-654-3001.
Europcar
Sixt
Sixt is a leading full range mobility provider: car or van rental, limousine service, Holiday Cars, leasing or car purchase. Sixt has an excellent range of vehicles from the luxury segment, premium brands from leading manufacturers. The Sixt vehicle fleet has been equipped with the highest technological level right from the start, in particular with navigation systems. The Sixt service is available in 75 countries at 3500 locations.
Autoescape
TT Car Transit
TT Car Transit has specialized over the past 30 years in Tax-free lease and car rentals exclusively for expatriates and foreign tourists.
Special offer by TT Car Transit : ID Code = MDLF
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