7 Reasons Renting a Car in France Is More Trouble Than It’s Worth

Renting a car in France sounds like a great idea – until you actually do it. While the idea of road-tripping through scenic villages and vineyards is appealing, the reality is often frustrating, expensive, and full of unexpected headaches.

Before you commit to driving, here’s why renting a car in France might be more trouble than it’s worth.

1. Parking in Cities Is a Nightmare

If you plan to rent a car for a trip that includes Paris, Lyon, or any other major city, good luck finding parking. In Paris, street parking is scarce, underground garages are expensive, and many hotels don’t offer parking at all.

Even in smaller cities, spaces are tight, and parallel parking in narrow streets can be a challenge.

Some historic towns like Annecy or Aix-en-Provence have pedestrian-only zones where you can’t even drive, forcing you to park far away and walk in. What seems convenient at first quickly turns into a hassle.

2. Toll Roads Are Shockingly Expensive

France has an extensive highway system, but many of the major roads are toll roads (autoroutes), and they’re not cheap. A drive from Paris to the south of France can easily cost €50 or more in tolls alone.

Unlike some countries where tolls are small and frequent, French tolls often come as one big, expensive charge at major exits. If you’re not expecting it, it can feel like you’re throwing money away just for the privilege of using a highway.

3. Gas Prices Are Higher Than You Think

If you’re used to US gas prices, be prepared for a shock. Fuel in France is much more expensive, and prices fluctuate frequently.

On top of that, gas stations along highways charge even more than those in towns, so a full tank can set you back much more than expected.

Electric rentals are becoming more common, but charging isn’t always cheap. Public charging stations typically cost €0.54 to €0.59 per kWh, making it cheaper than gas but not always a massive saving. Fast chargers can also add extra fees after a time limit.

Home charging is the most affordable option, but that’s not practical for tourists. If you rent an electric car, plan your charging stops carefully, especially outside major cities.

4. French Drivers Can Be Aggressive

French roads aren’t as chaotic as in some countries, but driving in France can still be stressful, especially in cities. Speed limits change frequently, roundabouts are everywhere, and French drivers have zero patience for hesitation.

On highways, the left lane is strictly for passing, and if you don’t move over fast enough, expect tailgating and flashing headlights.

In smaller towns, streets are often so narrow that two cars barely fit, and if you don’t know exactly where you’re going, navigating can be a nightmare.

5. Rental Car Deposits and Fees Can Be Ridiculous

Many travelers don’t realize that French car rental companies hold large deposits on your credit card, often upwards of €1,000 or more. If anything happens, even a tiny scratch, they’ll deduct from that, and some companies are notorious for charging hefty repair fees.

Automatic cars also cost significantly more than manual ones, and if you don’t specify that you need an automatic, you might end up struggling with a stick shift.

Adding GPS, insurance, or extra drivers can quickly drive up the cost, making it way pricier than expected.

6. Speed Cameras Are Everywhere

France has one of the strictest speed enforcement systems in Europe. Speed cameras are everywhere, and even going a few kilometers over the limit can result in a fine.

Rental car companies often receive the fines weeks after your trip and will automatically charge your credit card, sometimes with an added administrative fee! If you’re used to going slightly over the speed limit without consequences, France will catch you off guard.

7. Public Transport Is Often Faster and Easier

For long-distance travel, France’s train system is simply better than driving. The TGV (high-speed train) gets you from Paris to places like Lyon, Bordeaux, or Marseille in a fraction of the time it would take to drive. No tolls, no parking issues, no dealing with French drivers.

Even in rural areas, renting a car isn’t always necessary. Many scenic villages are connected by regional trains or buses, and if you plan your route well, you can avoid renting a car entirely.

When Renting a Car in France Actually Makes Sense

If you’re sticking to cities and places well-served by trains, public transport is easier, faster, and cheaper. But once you start venturing into smaller towns, the countryside, or areas without direct train access – like the Loire Valley châteaux, Provence’s hilltop villages, or the Normandy countryside – a car will give you a lot more flexibility.

If you only need a car for a short time, peer-to-peer car rental platforms like Getaround and Turo (ex OuiCar) can be a great alternative. These services let you rent directly from private car owners, often at lower rates than traditional agencies. You’ll also find more pickup locations, including residential neighborhoods and smaller towns.

For rural trips or day excursions, renting a car for just a few hours or a couple of days saves you money and stress. This is the best way to avoid unnecessary hassle while still getting the most out of your trip.

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Cover photo: daxtell (CC BY-SA 3.0)