Welcome to France, a Land of Stylish Cities and Vineyard Villages
Bienvenue en France! The land of romance, rich history, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled natural beauty welcomes you. France is a destination where each region offers something unique—from the lavender fields of Provence to the rugged coastline of Brittany, the soaring peaks of the French Alps to the vineyards of Bordeaux. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine in Paris, exploring quaint villages in the Dordogne, or soaking up the glamour of the French Riviera, France captures the imagination like no other country.
Picture yourself sipping fine wine in a vineyard overlooking rolling hills, gazing at Gothic cathedrals like Notre-Dame, or losing yourself in the vibrant markets of Marseille. France is a mosaic of experiences, blending timeless charm with contemporary sophistication. The best way to explore it all? By car! Collect your hire car from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly International (ORY), Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS), or Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) and set off on your adventure. A compact car is ideal for navigating the tree-line avenues and narrow Parisian backstreets streets or exploring smaller towns with skinny lanes. For long drives through the Alps or countryside, an SUV offers comfort, space, and flexibility.
No trip to France is complete without immersing yourself in its iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. Start with Paris, the City of Light, where the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and charming Montmartre await. From Paris, drive into the Loire Valley, a region famed for its enchanting châteaux like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau. The rolling vineyards of Burgundy and Champagne offer tastings of some of the world’s finest wines, paired with exquisite French cuisine. Head south to Provence, where fields of lavender stretch as far as the eye can see, and the scent of rosemary and thyme fills the air. Explore the vibrant markets of Aix-en-Provence or the historic Roman amphitheater in Arles. For something different, the Camargue region captivates with its wild horses, flamingos, and salt flats. The French Riviera, with glamorous destinations like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, is a must-see for lovers of sun, sea, and luxury. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais or enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the rugged cliffs of Normandy and Brittany showcase France’s wilder coastal side, with highlights like Mont Saint-Michel and the D-Day landing beaches.
France’s gastronomy is world-renowned, and each region boasts its own culinary specialties. From the buttery croissants and baguettes of Paris to the hearty cassoulet of Toulouse and the cheese-laden tartiflette of the Alps, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t miss the escargots in Burgundy, bouillabaisse in Marseille, or crepes in Brittany. Pair every dish with a local wine or a glass of champagne for the full French experience. For art and culture lovers, France is a treasure trove. Visit the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, filled with Impressionist masterpieces, or admire the medieval tapestries in Bayeux. Wander through Avignon’s Papal Palace or explore the cobblestone streets of Colmar, a fairy-tale town in Alsace. Each city and village tells its own story, adding to the rich tapestry of French heritage.

Driving in France
Before setting out on your French road trip, book your hire car in advance for the best rates and availability, particularly during peak travel seasons. Inspect your vehicle for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s noted in your rental agreement.
In France, you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road, and most cars have manual transmission, so request an automatic vehicle if needed. Highways (autoroutes) are well-maintained and marked with "A" and a number. Many autoroutes are toll roads, so be prepared to pay with cash or a card. Alternatively, take the scenic route along departmental roads marked "D," where you’ll discover charming villages and picturesque countryside.
Parking can be challenging in cities like Paris, so look for designated lots or metered street parking. When driving through rural areas, watch out for cyclists and farm vehicles. In winter, snow chains may be required in mountainous regions. You may even decide to embark on an epic road trip across the whole of the vine-tufted French countryside! Whatever your plans for your adventure in France, enjoy!
- Size of country (km/mile): Approximately 551,695 km² (213,011 sq mi)
- Population: c67 million
- Population density: About 122 people per km² (316 people per sq mi)
- Total lengths of roads: Around 1,100,000 km (683,500 miles)
- Major road network: A1, A6, A7, A8, A10, and D roads connecting rural areas

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