French road rules
A road trip in a foreign country requires a bit of know-how if you want to make your journey smooth. After various road journeys through France, I thought it would be useful to point out some tips for newbies to les routes françaises for maximum liberté.
Autoroutes vs. Smaller Roads
The main difference in these two options is speed vs slower going. The autoroutes are generally multilane highways with a speed limit of 80mph (or 130km). They are well-maintained with various rest stops along the way—some with simple restrooms and picnic benches and others that are full service gas stations with restaurants and general stores. These conveniences and good conditions do not come free - the autoroutes are toll roads and the charges can add up fast. If you need to cover a long distance in a short amount of time and budget isn’t a factor, the autoroute is your best bet. But note that these roads can be on the monotonous side (you won’t pass through cute little towns, rather you might see more commercial zones that look a lot like American strip malls) and are usually full of semi-trucks hauling large trailers.
If you have the time, I would recommend taking minor roads. They are far slower because they are generally only 1 or 2 lane roads. You’ll pass through towns and villages always at reduced speed limits (generally 20mph), come to stop lights/signs and maybe go over speed bumps. The bonus is that you’ll get to see waaaay more of the “real France” and the local way of life. For example, if you were racing down the autoroute, you would never know that the cute little town you cut through is hosting a local musical festival that night or that the weekly farmers market is happening where you can pick up items for your lunch. And on the autoroute you’ll never see that perfectly enticing river that you can pull over and jump right into or find the ideal grassy pasture with a chateau in the distance for your picnic.
Highways/Autoroutes - Main thoroughfares are designated by a RED A and the signs are BLUE. These are toll roads which will be marked by the “Péage” indicator. At the start of toll roads, you’ll need to take a ticket marking your entry point (keep this handy!). When you exit, you’ll go through the toll area where you enter the ticket and pay the amount for your distance.
Main roads are national roads or route nationale indicated by GREEN signs which are free autoroutes. They are marked by an E, meaning they are European roads that cross borders.
Minor roads are called ‘D’ or departmental (country roads). These are YELLOW with the number of the road and WHITE signs will indicate the towns located in which direction like below.
Understanding the Péage
When arriving at your first pay station, it can look slightly intimidating. Basically, just look for an open lane indicated by a Green Arrow. If you want to pay by credit card look for the card icon. Most all lanes will also allow you to pay with cash or change but not all will give change back, this is why it’s typically best to pay by card and get a receipt.
Speed Limits & Traps
The easiest mistake of new drivers to French roads is not paying close attention to the speed limit. The speed (number indicated in the red circle above) can change frequently especially on smaller roads and you’ll most definitely come across speed traps. The good news is that there will be warnings with this sign below. When you see one like this, be sure to check your speed. I also recommend using the app WAZE while driving which shows the current speed limit in the area you are driving, as it’s totally easy to miss signs with the current speed.
After this sign appears, a few kilometers ahead will be a camera ready to FLASH you if you’re going over the designated speed limit. The fee will show up on your car rental which you will be billed for later.
Rest Stops
This sign Aire de/du X indicates a rest stop. The signs below show 2 difference types: the first will have a gas station, restaurant and cafe where you can find general provisions, and the one below is a rest stop with toilets and picnic area.
The Dreaded Roundabout
For first-time drivers in Europe the roundabout or rond-point can be highly confusing and sometimes frustrating. My only advice is to take it slow and stay on the outer edge of the circle (even if it’s a multi-lane situation. This isn’t technically correct but it will make your life easier even if you piss off other drivers). When you’re following GPS directions, this can also be tricky as it’s not always totally understandable to find the correct exit. I recommend locating the route number you are to follow or be aware of the next bigger town you will cross to understand which exit to take. If you miss your exit, continue going around again. No big deal. I’ve had many “look kids Parliament, Big Ben” moments going around a few times and that’s OK (bonus points if you get that reference).
Points of Interest
Something cool to note are the signs pointing out towns of interest in picture form. Seeing these signs every few minutes makes you realize just how many notable places of history and culture there are to see in France!
French Road Signs
It’s not a bad idea to familiarize yourself with some of these road signs before getting on the road.
Or use this reference as a game while driving (a sort of road sign bingo).
Bonne Route!
