Renting a Car in France in 2025: A Complete Guide

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Thinking about renting a car in France in 2025? You’re not alone. France is one of the best countries in Europe to explore by road, offering charming countryside routes, scenic coastal drives, and picturesque mountain passes. Whether you’re heading to Provence, the Loire Valley, or the French Riviera, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

More than just a mode of transport, a rental car in France becomes your gateway to places rarely reached by train or bus. From sleepy villages with bustling morning markets to lavender fields that stretch for miles, the open road invites spontaneous detours and slow travel. In 2025, with modern GPS apps, better rental choices, and smoother highway networks, driving across France is easier and more rewarding than ever. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll discover how much more the French landscape has to offer when you explore it on four wheels.

Renting a car also opens up a different cultural experience—one where you can pause in roadside cafés, shop in rural brocantes, and navigate ancient cobbled streets that have remained untouched by mass tourism. It allows you to travel beyond fixed schedules and crowded transit hubs, creating a journey that’s uniquely yours. As travel trends in 2025 lean toward flexibility, sustainability, and slow travel, renting a car fits perfectly into the modern traveler’s approach to exploring France. Whether you’re tracing Napoleon’s footsteps, following vineyard trails, or driving up to cliffside viewpoints, the freedom of the road is a priceless companion.

Of course, driving in a foreign country comes with its own set of rules and challenges, but it’s nothing that can’t be managed with some basic preparation. France has well-maintained roads, clear signage (especially on major routes), and a network of service stations that make longer drives more convenient. Fuel stations, toll roads, and rest stops are well-marked, and with tools like translation apps and real-time navigation, even first-time visitors will find it manageable. Plus, the joy of turning off onto a quiet D-road and discovering an unexpected medieval hamlet or a family-run vineyard makes every kilometer worth it.

Why Rent a Car in France in 2025?

Public transport in France is excellent, but it doesn’t reach every idyllic village or rural vineyard. In 2025, with travel infrastructure improving post-pandemic and tourism booming again, renting a car gives you access to hidden gems and flexibility with your itinerary. Road conditions are generally good, and France’s varied landscapes make driving a pleasure.

Top Scenic Drives in France to Add to Your Itinerary

France offers some of Europe’s most scenic and diverse road trips, each showcasing a different facet of the country’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and regional charm. Whether you’re craving alpine adventure, vineyard-hopping, coastal elegance, or storybook castles, hitting the road in a rental car allows you to experience France beyond the cities and at your own pace. From winding through the towering passes of the French Alps to meandering along sun-drenched Riviera cliffs, these five iconic routes each promise unforgettable landscapes, picturesque stops, and the freedom to explore as you please.

Route des Grandes Alpes (French Alps)

The Route des Grandes Alpes is one of France’s most legendary road trips, winding through the dramatic peaks and alpine passes of the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. Covering over 700 km, the route takes you through awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, including iconic passes like Col du Galibier and Col d’Izoard. Along the way, charming alpine villages such as Annecy, Chamonix, and Briançon offer a mix of traditional architecture, hearty cuisine, and outdoor adventure. Best tackled in summer or early autumn, this drive is ideal for those seeking panoramic views, fresh air, and a taste of high-altitude France.

The Alsace Wine Route

Stretching over 170 km from Marlenheim to Thann, the Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d’Alsace) leads travelers through a patchwork of vineyard-covered hills and storybook villages. This scenic drive is perfect for food and wine lovers, with countless opportunities to taste crisp Rieslings and aromatic Gewürztraminers directly from the source. Half-timbered towns like Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg charm visitors with their flower-bedecked streets, cobbled lanes, and traditional winstubs (wine taverns). The route is especially magical in autumn during the grape harvest or in December when the villages glow with festive Christmas markets.

Gorges du Verdon

Often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Gorges du Verdon offers a thrilling drive through one of France’s most spectacular natural wonders. The route loops around the turquoise Verdon River, cutting through sheer limestone cliffs up to 700 meters deep. Driving along the Rim Roads (Routes des Crêtes), expect tight switchbacks, jaw-dropping viewpoints, and a few nerve-testing ledges. Towns like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane make great stops for hiking, kayaking, or simply taking in the views. Ideal in spring or early autumn, this road trip combines natural beauty with a dose of adrenaline.

The Loire Valley Castles Route

A road trip through the Loire Valley offers a regal journey through France’s historic heartland, dotted with more than 300 châteaux and elegant estates. From the Renaissance splendor of Château de Chambord to the riverside grace of Château de Chenonceau, each castle brings its own charm and story. The route follows the Loire River through rolling countryside and quaint towns like Amboise and Saumur, with opportunities to stop for wine tastings, gardens, and regional delicacies. Best enjoyed over several days, this relaxed and cultural itinerary captures the grandeur and romance of the French Renaissance.

Coastal Drive from Nice to Menton

The drive from Nice to Menton along the French Riviera is a short but stunning stretch of coastline that dazzles with Mediterranean beauty. This route follows the Corniches—three cliffside roads that offer varying perspectives of the sea, from the low-lying Basse Corniche to the panoramic Grande Corniche. Along the way, you can stop in glamorous coastal towns like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, and Monaco, each offering a unique blend of old-world charm and Riviera elegance. With sparkling sea views, fragrant gardens, and cliff-hugging roads, this drive is best savored slowly, especially in spring or early autumn when the crowds thin out.

Is It Worth Renting a Car in France?

Absolutely—especially if you plan to explore beyond the big cities. Places like Dordogne, Alsace, or the lavender fields of Provence are best experienced by car. You’ll save time, discover local eateries, and even stumble upon charming chateaux not listed in the guidebooks.

Where to Book your Rent a Car

When it comes to renting a car, we recommend using Discover Cars. It’s a trusted comparison platform that searches multiple rental agencies to help you find the best prices and vehicle options. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by car type, transmission, fuel policy, and rental company reputation. Plus, they offer excellent customer support and transparent insurance options.

What You Need to Rent a Car in France

Renting a car in France is a straightforward process, but there are a few key requirements to keep in mind. Being prepared with the right documents and understanding local regulations will ensure a smooth rental experience.

Essential Requirements for Renting a Car in France

To rent a car in France in 2025, you will typically need:

• A valid driver’s license from your home country. If your license is not in the Roman alphabet (e.g., Arabic, Japanese, Cyrillic), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your original license.
• A credit card in the name of the primary driver—most car rental companies require a credit card for security deposits. Some may accept debit cards, but it’s best to check in advance.
• Proof of identity (passport)—you’ll need your passport to verify your identity when picking up the car.
• Age requirements: The legal driving age in France is 18, but most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Certain categories of vehicles, such as luxury cars or vans, may require drivers to be 25 or older.
• Young driver fees: Many rental companies charge an additional fee for drivers under 25, so be sure to factor this into your budget when booking your rental.

Additional Considerations Before Booking

• Payment methods: While most rental companies accept credit cards, always check whether your specific card provider is accepted—American Express may not be accepted at smaller agencies.
• Driving restrictions: If you plan to take your rental car across borders (e.g., to Spain, Italy, or Germany), make sure your rental agreement allows international travel.
• Fuel policy: Some rental companies operate on a full-to-empty fuel policy, meaning you pay upfront for fuel and return the car empty. Others require you to return the car with the same amount of fuel it had at pickup.

Types of Cars Available (And What to Choose for Your Trip)

France offers a wide selection of rental vehicles tailored to different travel styles. Choosing the right type of car will depend on your itinerary, group size, and budget.

Common Rental Car Categories

• Electric vehicles (EVs)—Many rental companies now offer hybrid or electric options. Charging stations are widely available in France, especially near major cities and highways.
• Compact cars—Ideal for city driving, fuel-efficient, and easy to park in tight spaces. Best for solo travelers or couples exploring Paris or other urban areas.
• Mid-size sedans—A great option for couples or small families traveling between cities, offering comfort and reasonable fuel efficiency.
• SUVs & crossovers—Perfect for countryside road trips, mountainous areas, or travelers needing more luggage space. Recommended for exploring rural France or the Alps.
• Luxury cars—If you’re traveling for a special occasion or seeking a premium experience, France offers a variety of luxury vehicles, including BMWs, Mercedes, and Audis.

Manual vs. Automatic: What to Know Before You Book

France primarily operates with manual transmission cars, and automatic rentals tend to be more expensive and less available. If you only drive automatic, book well in advance to secure an automatic transmission vehicle.

Rental platforms like Discover Cars allow you to filter for automatic cars, ensuring you get the right vehicle for your needs. Expect a surcharge of around €10-€20 per day for an automatic rental.

Understanding Insurance: What’s Required and What’s Optional

Car rental insurance can be confusing, but understanding your options will help protect you financially in case of an accident.

Standard Insurance Coverage in France

Most car rentals in France include basic liability insurance or civil liability insurance, which covers damage to third parties but not damage to the rental vehicle itself. This means if you damage the rental car, you may be responsible for repair costs unless additional coverage is purchased.

Recommended Add-On Insurance

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces or eliminates the amount you have to pay for damages to the rental vehicle.
• Theft protection: Covers the cost if your rental car is stolen.
• Personal accident insurance: Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

Buying Insurance for your Rent a Car

You are not required to purchase any additional insurance beyond the mandatory coverage included with your rental. However, keep in mind that if an incident occurs, you could be held responsible for the full deposit amount.

• Option 1: Use your existing insurance: Some credit cards and personal car insurance policies include rental car coverage. Be sure to carefully read the terms and conditions, as coverage is often limited. Many travel credit cards also offer rental car insurance benefits, so check if your card provides this before buying extra insurance.
• Option 2: Purchase insurance when booking: Most rental platforms allow you to add insurance during the reservation process, often at a better rate than at the rental counter—sometimes significantly cheaper. These platform-specific policies, like the “Full Coverage Waiver” offered by Discovercars.com, can be a convenient and cost-effective choice.
• Option 3: Buy insurance at the rental counter: This is generally the most expensive option and usually not recommended unless necessary.
• Option 4: Use travel insurance: You can also purchase travel insurance that includes comprehensive rental car coverage from a traditional insurer, which might provide broader protection during your trip.

Cross-Border Travel

Be aware that if you plan to take a ferry or cross an international border with your rental car, there are important rules to follow. From France, you can take a ferry to Corsica, England, or smaller islands, and you can also cross borders into neighboring countries such as Monaco, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. However, it’s essential to check whether your rental agreement allows these trips and to find out if any extra fees apply.

When using the Discovercars.com platform, after selecting a rental offer, look under “Rental Conditions” or “Additional Conditions” to find details about “Geographical Restrictions.” If this information isn’t clearly provided, don’t hesitate to contact customer support to get clarification before you travel.

Cost of Renting a Car in France (and How to Save)

Prices vary based on season, location, and vehicle type, but on average, expect to pay:

• €30-70 per day for an economy car
• €70-150 per day for an SUV or mid-range sedan
• €150+ per day for luxury vehicles

Ways to Save Money on Car Rentals

• Book early, especially in peak summer travel season.
• Rent from airport locations—often cheaper than downtown rental offices.
• Avoid unnecessary add-ons like GPS if you can use your smartphone instead.
• Check for discounts via comparison platforms

What to Check When You Pick Up Your Rental

Before driving in France, make sure your rental car is equipped with the mandatory safety items. This includes a warning triangle and at least one reflective vest or jacket, which must be worn if you need to step out of the vehicle on the roadside. While not legally required, it’s also recommended to have a spare tire on hand in case of a flat. Checking these items before you set off will help you comply with French road safety regulations and be better prepared for emergencies.

What to Check When You Pick Up Your RentalWhen you pick up your rental car, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection before driving away. Check the entire exterior carefully, paying special attention to areas that are often overlooked such as the roof, bumpers, side mirrors, and tires. Don’t forget to look inside the vehicle as well, including the seats and dashboard, to spot any existing damage or wear. Make sure to note any scratches, dents, or other issues on the rental agreement or inspection form, whether with the agent or on your own if no one is available.

To protect yourself from potential disputes when returning the car, take clear photos or videos of the vehicle from multiple angles, capturing any marks or damages. Also, verify that the fuel level and mileage match what’s recorded in the contract to avoid unexpected charges. Lastly, confirm that the car is equipped with mandatory safety items required in France: a warning triangle and at least one reflective vest. While a spare tire is not legally required, it is highly recommended to have one in case of emergencies.

Driving your Rent a Car in France

Driving a rental car in France can be a refreshing and scenic way to see the country, but it’s important to understand how the rules of the road may differ from those in your home country. For example, French drivers drive on the right-hand side, and priority is often given to vehicles entering from the right unless otherwise indicated—something that can catch visitors off guard. Roundabouts are common, and unlike in some countries, vehicles already in the roundabout usually have the right of way. Strict speed enforcement, mandatory safety equipment in the car, and urban environmental zones are also key differences to note. Taking time to understand these rules before setting off can help you avoid fines and stay safe while enjoying the freedom of the open road.

Speed Limits in France

In France, the road system is divided into several categories, each with specific speed limits you should know.

Autoroutes (motorways)

The autoroutes (motorways), identified by an “A” followed by a number, are high-speed toll roads called péages. The speed limit on these motorways is 130 km/h under normal conditions, but it drops to 110 km/h when it rains. France is one of the few countries that adjusts speed limits based on weather, so it’s important to stay aware of changing conditions while driving.

Routes nationales

Then there are the routes nationales (marked with N or RN), usually dual carriageways without tolls. On these roads, the speed limit is 110 km/h, reduced to 100 km/h in wet weather. For the smaller routes départementales (D), which are mostly single carriageways outside towns, the speed limit is 80 km/h and 70 km/h in rainy conditions. Inside urban areas, called routes communales (C or V), the speed limit is generally 50 km/h.

Towns and Villages

It’s important to note that when entering urban areas or smaller villages, speed signs may not always be posted; instead, the village name sign automatically signals the 50 km/h limit. Speed cameras are common on all types of roads, so stay vigilant and drive within the limits, even in rural locations.

Parking in France: What Tourists Should Know

Look for color-coded curb markings:

• White = free or pay parking
• Blue = free with a disc (time-limited)
• Yellow = no parking

Use local parking apps or machines. Avoid parking near intersections, bike lanes, or driveways—towing is swift and expensive.

How to Navigate French Tolls (Péages)

Driving in France can be a rewarding experience, especially when exploring scenic countryside routes, but it’s important to be prepared for the country’s extensive toll road system, known as péages. Most major highways (autoroutes) are toll roads and are typically faster and better maintained than national or departmental roads. Toll booths are located at entrances, exits, or at regular intervals on the motorway. Some use tickets—collected at the entry point and paid for at your exit—while others charge flat fees. Payment can be made by card (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted), cash (euros only), or with a Liber-t electronic toll tag, though the latter is more commonly used by residents. Signs clearly indicate whether a lane is for cash (pièces), card (CB), or telepeage (for tag holders).

If you’re renting a car in France, navigating tolls is relatively straightforward but requires a bit of planning. Rental vehicles typically don’t come with an electronic toll tag unless specifically requested, so be prepared to stop and pay at each booth. It’s wise to keep a payment card handy and to avoid the far-left lanes, which are reserved for automatic tag holders. You might also consider asking your rental company if they offer a vehicle equipped with a badge télépéage, especially if you’re planning a long road trip. To save on toll costs or avoid them entirely, you can take the slower but toll-free national or departmental roads—though these can add significant time to your journey.

On our recent journey from the UK to Brittany and Loire valley, we set out google maps to avoid tolls. It was great seeing a little more of the France we were driving though, although at times you do wonder why your phone is taking you up this narrow lane!

Fueling Up: Gas Stations, Fuel Types, and Costs

Fuel is widely available, but not all stations are staffed. Use credit/debit cards or prepaid fuel cards. “Essence” means unleaded gas, while “Gazole” is diesel. In 2025, fuel costs around €1.75 to €2.00 per liter. Electric charging points are expanding rapidly too.

What to Do in Case of an Accident

If you find yourself involved in a car accident in France, it’s important to stay calm and follow the proper steps to ensure everyone’s safety and comply with local regulations.

• Check for Injuries: First, assess if anyone is injured. If there are injuries or if the situation is serious, immediately call the emergency number 112. This is the European-wide emergency number and will connect you to medical, fire, or police services.
• Contact the Police: If there are injuries or if the accident leads to a dispute or conflict between drivers, contact the police to file a report. In minor accidents without injuries or disputes, the police are usually not involved, but exchanging details with the other party is essential.
• Exchange Information: If possible, calmly exchange names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers with the other driver(s). Avoid admitting fault or making accusations.
• Fill Out the European Accident Statement (Constat Amiable): In case of a minor collision, you and the other driver should complete this standard form, which helps simplify insurance claims. You can usually get a copy from your rental car or rental company.
• Notify Your Rental Company: Contact your car rental provider as soon as possible to inform them about the accident. They will guide you through the next steps, including how to handle repairs and insurance claims.

What to Do If You Receive a Fine or Ticket (Speeding / Parking)

You are responsible for any traffic fines or tickets issued during your rental period. If you are informed of a fine right away, you may be able to pay it directly at the police station or online, following the instructions provided.

However, keep in mind that it can take up to three months for a fine to be officially recorded against the vehicle owner—the rental company. When this happens, the rental company will notify you, provide proof of the fine, and charge you for the amount. They may also add an administrative fee for processing the penalty.