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This is a preview of the full content of our France’s Best app.

Please consider downloading this app to support small independent publishing and because:

  • All content is designed for mobile devices and works best there.
  • Detailed in-app maps will help you find sites using your device’s GPS.
  • The app works offline (one time upgrade required on Android versions).
  • All advertising (only present on Android versions) can be removed.

The app will also allow you to:

  • Add custom locations to the app map (your hotel…).
  • Create your own list of favourites as you browse.
  • Search the entire contents using a fast and simple text-search tool.
  • Make one-click phone calls (on phones).
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Driving & Car Rental

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Driving

Nowadays of course ‘smart’ technology can show you the way if you prefer! However, if you are still using Michelin maps (which I've used for many years and recommend) these are conveniently colour coded: Autoroutes are yellow bordered by thin red lines, National roads are red and Departmental Roads are yellow.

Autoroute Tolls

Most Autoroutes are tolled and known as the Péage. The easiest ways to pay are by Card or by purchasing an electronic tag which attaches to your vehicles screen and beeps as you pass through the toll. I’ve used both and the tag is by far the most convenient - see link below.

Driving in Cities

Generally in large cities such as Paris, Marseille and Bordeaux it is best to forget about using a car and just use the local transport. If you do use your own vehicle many cities now have clean air zones and you need to display the correct badge for your vehicle - check the Driving website in Practical Info below.

Rental

France has all the main car rental companies e.g. Europcar, Hertz, Sixt etc and you can reserve in advance of your trip or pick up at the Airport.

Companies like Expedia and Hotwire offer comparison price shopping.

Transport

Text © Paul Shawcross

Image by Paul Shawcross