Car and Truck Hire France

Car & Truck Hire in France

Explore one of Europe’s best-loved destinations at your own pace when you hire a car in France with Avis. France is a country that’s easy and rewarding to explore by car, offering varied landscapes, well-connected highlights and enough flexibility for day trips and detours. 

With short distances between cities and plenty of picturesque routes to choose from, France invites adventure and is an ideal location for road trips. Whether you want to cruise along open country roads, take in Normandy’s dramatic coastline or wind your way through the Alps, every route reveals something new about this charming country.

When you hire a car with Avis, you have the freedom to discover it all on your terms. From scenic drives through the lavender fields of Provence to chateaux-hopping in the Loire Valley, see it all with Avis.

Top driving routes and road trip ideas

With charming vineyards, sweeping beaches and storybook villages, France is made for road trips. Here are our top picks:

Coastal Drives

France has both an Atlantic and Mediterranean coast, offering visitors a choice of beachy road trip routes to discover. 

In the south, take in the glamour and sunshine with a drive along the Côte d’Azur. Start from Nice and cruise past glittering beaches, hillside towns and coastal viewpoints to end up in chic Saint-Tropez. If you’re exploring the north or based in Paris, nearby Normandy’s beaches offer a mix of history, culture, and open landscapes. 

Loire Valley Châteaux Route

Located in central France, the Loire Valley traces the Loire River, with lush countryside dotted with historic castles, grand gardens and charming market towns, perfect for a quick stop or detour along your way. Take your time to explore the highlights and hop between attractions like Chambord and Chenonceau at your own pace. 

Bordeaux and Wine Country 

Escape the busy cities and find some peace with a road trip through Bordeaux’s picture-perfect countryside. Outside of the city, you’ll find medieval towns, pretty villages and châteaux. This area is also known for its world-famous vineyards, where you can pick up a souvenir to take back home. 

Looking for a more rewarding way to travel in France? Join our free loyalty programme, Avis Preferred, and benefit from priority service, discounts and more. 

Tips for driving in France

Unlike in Australia, you’ll need to drive on the right-hand side of the road in France. 

All speed limits are in km/h rather than mph and for most vehicles, the speed limit is around 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and can go up to 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways – called the autoroute in France. 

Toll roads are also common in France, and while most take card payments, it’s worth having some euros with you in the car. 

If you’re travelling with kids, make sure they have a car seat (which you can add to your rental).

Ready to plan your French holiday? Book your car hire at one of our France stations today.

Discover exclusive international offers and elevate your journey through France with exceptional comfort and style — your perfect drive awaits.