How to Travel by Car in France
Although most of France is easily accessible by train, or other transportation, the only way to see the countryside is by car. This is also the case for some tourist attractions and smaller towns that are not located within walking distance from a train station. Traveling by car is a fun way to enjoy a vacation, but does require a bit of adjustment. It’s important to understand signs and rules of the road to have a safe and fun trip.
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Instructions
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Rent a car.Most of the major rental car agencies, such as Hertz, Avis and National, operate in France. Rentals can be booked via the Internet or by phone and confirmed prior to your trip. If you are using a travel agent, or one of the Internet travel services, you can often combine your car rental with airline tickets or hotel rooms to get a discount. Making these arrangements in advance can make the process easier by eliminating any language translation issues.French rental agencies such as Century Self Drive and Autos Abroad offer deeply discounted rentals and can also be booked prior to your trip.
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Buy a car.Although this might sound like a strange option, non-EU residents can realize big discounts by utilizing a program called Purchase and Buy-Back, or TT Leasing. This tax free program is available through Citroen, Peugeot and Renault, but is only advantageous if you plan to use the vehicle for a minimum of three weeks.
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Gather important documentation.While driving in France, you should carry an original insurance registration certificate, a valid driver’s license, a passport and a copy of your rental agreement.
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Make sure that your rental car is properly equipped.In France you are required to carry various safety items at all times. If you are caught without these items, you can be fined. Be sure that the following items are in your rental car prior to departure: a red warning triangle, spare headlight bulbs, a first aid kit and fire extinguisher. If not, contact your rental agent to have these items provided.
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Understand speed limits.Speed limits in France are shown in kilometers per hour. Some important standard limits to know are: Highways -- 130 km/h or 110 km/h when raining, other roads -- 90 km/h or 80 km/h when raining and 50 km/h in towns or villages. Speed limit signs are round with a red circle around the posted limit.
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Tips & Warnings
The French state railroad, SNCF, offered a combined train ticket and auto rental which can be picked up at various rail stations.
Seat belts must be worn at all times as mandated by law.
If another driver flashes his lights, it means that he is claiming the right of way.
Parking meters, or horodateurs, are used from 9 am to 7 pm during the week. Weekends are usually free, unless otherwise noted.
Gas is expensive in France. Check the Internet for current prices to help plan your trip budget.
If pulled over by the police, you may be fined on the spot.
