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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!


  1. Size of country (km/mile): Approximately 551,695 km² (213,011 sq mi)
  2. Population: c67 million
  3. Population density: About 122 people per km² (316 people per sq mi)
  4. Total lengths of roads: Around 1,100,000 km (683,500 miles)
  5. Major road network: A1, A6, A7, A8, A10, and D roads connecting rural areas



Our Protection Levels for you
Basic protection
Basic
Market Standard
Basic coverage with standard experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleVery High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Plus protection
Plus
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Lower Deductible with an improved experience
Coverage LevelLow
Credit Card DeductibleMedium - High
Additional Journey30+ mins
ExperienceExpect upsell & hassle
Credit Card NeededALWAYS
Best protection
Best
Exclusive to ReservAway!
Zero Deductible with the best experience
Coverage LevelFull
Credit Card DeductibleZero
Additional JourneyZero
ExperiencePremium & Smooth
Credit Card NeededUsually NOT
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Protection Comparison

Hassle-Free Desk*
Credit Card Deductible
Cover Level
How to Claim
Protection Provider
Market Standard
ReservAway Exclusives
Basic protection
Basic
Plus protection
Plus
Standard protection
Standard
Best protection
Best
High
High
Low
None
Basic
Full
Partial
Full
N/A
Reimburse
N/A
N/A
Direct
3rd Party
Direct
Direct

*Hassle-Free Desk: The dreaded moment when the rental company hits you with upsells, extra inspections, or credit card dramas—turning what should be a quick pick-up into a drawn-out negotiation.


Third-Party Protection: What you need to know
Some companies might call it 'Full Protection' or 'Premium Protection', but we're here to tell you the facts.
Third-party protection does cover you fully against damage costs, just like our best product. However, the rental desk experience? That's still going to be the same as if you'd picked the basic option.
What is Third-Party Protection?It's an independent coverage that protects you from damage costs the rental company could charge. It works well but doesn't change how things go down at the rental desk.If you're interested in third-party protection, Rental Cover is our preferred partner. You can learn more or purchase coverage directly by visiting their website.
What is expected at the Rental Desk:Even with third-party protection, you'll still face the usual desk drama—deposits, credit card holds, and those upsell attempts. While you're financially protected, the hassle at the desk doesn't go away.We believe in keeping things clear: while third-party protection covers you well, the customer experience remains basic.
The Role of the Car Rental Company:Rental companies insure their cars, and they need you to either buy their protection or leave a deposit. Third-party protection takes care of the financial risks, but the rental company still holds the cards at pick-up.Want to avoid the hassle entirely? Read more about our Best Protection, which keeps both your wallet and your rental process smooth.
Why book with us?
If you're still unsure, see more reasons to book with us see more reasons to book with us.
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Tailoring Your Rental Experience
Understanding Your Needs
At ReservAway.com, we understand that every traveler is unique, and that is why we are dedicated to meeting your specific needs and preferences. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a business trip, or a weekend getaway, we are here to ensure that your car rental experience is tailored to suit you.
Tailored Recommendations
Our user-friendly platform allows you to input your travel dates, locations, and preferences, so we can provide personalized recommendations that match your requirements. Whether you prioritize price, convenience, or specific vehicle features, we'll help you find the perfect rental option.
Expert Guidance
Not sure where to start? Our team of car rental experts is here to assist you every step of the way. From selecting the right vehicle to understanding insurance options and navigating potential fees, we'll provide expert guidance to ensure that your rental experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Empowering Your Travel Experience
At ReservAway.com, we are dedicated to empowering you to make informed decisions and ensuring a seamless travel experience. With transparent pricing, comprehensive information, dedicated customer support, and by exclusively presenting options available directly at the rental car company's desk, we are here to assist you in maximizing your journey.
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Key Information to Help You Decide

Not sure where to start? Let us guide you through the car rental process, from start to finish:

Once you've searched for your dates and locations, consider these critical factors when selecting a car rental company:


Your Needs: Tailor your search to match your specific requirements for the journey. Use filters to narrow down options and ensure that the rental meets your exact needs.
Price: Compare prices from multiple suppliers to find the best deal that fits your budget. Our platform allows you to easily compare rates and choose the most cost-effective option for your trip.
Customer Scores: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge satisfaction with your chosen provider. Hearing from fellow travelers can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and overall experience.
Convenience: Evaluate the pickup and drop-off locations to ensure ease and accessibility during your trip. Choose locations that are convenient for your itinerary and minimize travel time to and from rental sites.

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What Do You Need to Pick Up the Car
To pick up your rental car, you'll need the following:
Car license icon
Driving license
A valid driving license in the name of the main driver.
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Identification
A passport or other form of identification.
Credit card icon
Credit card
A credit card in most cases is required in the name of the main driver with sufficient funds.
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Voucher
A printed Voucher or an e-Voucher, where available.

More Information Made Simple

Wondering about extras like additional drivers, one-way fees, reduced security deposits, or cross-border fees? we have got you covered. Our straightforward explanations and easy-to-use filters make renting a car a breeze.
Confused? Still have questions? Our friendly car hire advisors are here to assist you every step of the way. Get in touch, and we'll ensure everything is crystal clear for your rental experience. You can also click below to read more detailed explanations.

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