12 Scenic France Road Trip Routes You Won't Forget

Imagine yourself cruising down scenic highways, the wind in your hair, with breathtaking landscapes unfolding before you. That's the magic of a French road trip! France offers a diverse range of routes, from the charming countryside bursting with lavender fields to dramatic coastlines and historic regions. To help you pick your perfect adventure, here's a list of the best road trips in France for every traveler:

Distance: The Provence Lavender Loop varies in distance depending on the specific route you take, but it is generally between 200 and 300 kilometers (124 to 186 miles).

Travel Time: Allow 3-5 hours of driving time for the loop, plus additional time for stops to explore the villages, take photos, and visit lavender farms.

Close your eyes and picture rolling hills painted purple. That's Provence in bloom! This route winds through quintessential Provençal villages like Valensole and Sault, where lavender fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Time your trip for late June to mid-July to witness this fragrant spectacle at its peak. Don't forget to stop by a local farm to learn about the distillation process and pick up some lavender souvenirs!

Additional Tip: Consider incorporating walking or biking tours into your itinerary for a more immersive experience among the fragrant purple fields. Many farms also allow visitors to participate in lavender harvesting or distillation demonstrations.

Distance: The Loire Valley is quite large, so the distance of your road trip will depend on which châteaux you want to visit. A loop that includes some of the most famous châteaux, such as Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, and Tours, is around 300 kilometers (186 miles).

Travel Time: Allow 4-6 hours of driving time for the loop, plus additional time for stops to visit the châteaux, explore the towns, and enjoy the scenery.

Step into a world of fairytale elegance on this Loire Valley road trip. Majestic châteaux like Chambord and Chenonceau will leave you speechless with their grand architecture and rich history. Explore charming towns like Amboise and Tours, indulge in delicious local wines, and maybe even take a hot air balloon ride for a truly unforgettable experience.

Additional Tip: Purchase a multi-château pass for discounted entry fees, especially if you plan on visiting multiple châteaux. Many châteaux offer beautiful gardens to explore, perfect for picnics or leisurely strolls. Consider attending a jousting tournament or a night-time illumination event for a truly magical experience.

Distance: The French Riviera coastline is roughly 180 kilometers (112 miles) long.

Travel Time: Allow 3-4 hours of driving time for the coastal route, plus additional time for stops to explore the cities and towns, relax on the beach and enjoy the nightlife.

Feel the Mediterranean sea breeze as you cruise along the French Riviera. This glamorous route takes you past iconic cities like Nice and Cannes, with their sandy beaches, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Stop by the charming village of Eze perched on a clifftop, or soak up the billionaire vibes in Monaco. Don't forget to factor in some relaxing beach time and indulge in fresh seafood by the water.

Additional Tip: Factor in parking costs, especially in popular areas like Nice and Cannes. Consider packing beach essentials like towels, sunscreen, and a swimsuit to relax on the beautiful beaches along the route. The French Riviera is known for its glamorous nightlife, so pack an extra outfit if you plan on hitting the clubs or casinos in Monte Carlo.

Distance: The Alsace Wine Route is around 170 kilometers (106 miles) long.

Travel Time: Allow 3-4 hours of driving time for the route, plus additional time for stops to visit the wineries, explore the towns, and sample the local wines and cuisine.

Wine lovers, this one's for you! The Alsace Wine Route winds through picturesque villages nestled amidst rolling vineyards. Explore medieval towns like Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr with their half-timbered houses and colorful flower boxes. Sample the region's unique wines like Riesling and Gewurztraminer at local wineries, and enjoy delicious Alsatian specialties like flammekueche (a kind of savory tart).

Additional Tip: Don't forget to designate a driver so everyone can enjoy the wine tastings at the many wineries along the route! Alsace is also known for its delicious food, so sample hearty dishes like flammekueche (a kind of savory tart) and choucroute garnie (sautéed sauerkraut with meat).

Distance: The Normandy coast is about 600 kilometers (373 miles) long, but you can design a shorter route depending on how much you want to see.

Travel Time: Allow 6-8 hours of driving time for a route that includes the D-Day beaches, Honfleur, and Mont Saint-Michel, plus additional time for stops to explore the sights and enjoy the fresh seafood.

This evocative route takes you along the dramatic Normandy coast of Western France, steeped in World War II history. Visit the poignant D-Day beaches and memorials to pay your respects. Explore the charming town of Honfleur, known for its impressionist legacy, and wander the medieval streets of Mont Saint-Michel, a tidal island monastery. Sample fresh seafood specialties and soak in the beauty of the rugged coastline.

Additional Tip: Research tide times, especially when visiting Mont Saint-Michel, to avoid getting stranded on the tidal island. Sample the local cider, a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples, and Calvados brandy, a strong apple brandy produced in the Normandy region. Don't forget to indulge in the fresh seafood specialties available in the many charming coastal towns.

Distance: The Gorges du Verdon Loop is around 120 kilometers (75 miles) long.

Travel Time: Allow 2-3 hours of driving time for the loop, plus additional time for stops to hike, swim in the lake, and explore the villages.

Calling all adventure enthusiasts! The Gorges du Verdon Loop is a scenic drive around Europe's answer to the Grand Canyon. Hike along breathtaking trails overlooking the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix, or take a refreshing dip in the lake. Explore charming villages like Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, known for their pottery. This route is a perfect blend of nature, adrenaline, and quaint villages.

Additional Tip: Be sure to pack swimwear and sturdy shoes for hiking the many trails that offer breathtaking views of the gorge and Lac de Sainte-Croix. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on the lake, and you can rent equipment from local vendors.

Distance: The distance of your Corsica Coastal Drive will depend on which parts of the island you want to explore. A loop around the entire island is roughly 600 kilometers (373 miles), but most people choose to focus on a specific region.

Travel Time: Allow for ferry travel time to and from Corsica in addition to driving time. The driving time will vary depending on your chosen route but expect to spend at least 4-6 hours driving, plus additional time for stops to explore the towns, beaches, and hiking trails.

Craving a taste of paradise? Take a ferry to Corsica, the "Island of Beauty", and embark on a stunning coastal drive. Discover hidden coves with crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Explore the charming port town of Bonifacio with its ancient citadel carved into the cliffs. Hike through the scenic trails of Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, or simply relax on one of the many pristine beaches.

Additional Tip: Consider purchasing a Corsica travel guide to help you plan your itinerary based on the specific regions you want to explore. The island boasts a diverse landscape with dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and lush mountains. For the adventurous types, Corsica offers various hiking and biking trails, while others may prefer to relax on the pristine beaches.

Distance: The Route des Grandes Alpes stretches for about 700 kilometers (435 miles).

Travel Time: Allow for several days to complete this route, factoring in driving time, stops for sightseeing, challenging mountain climbs, and potential seasonal closures due to snow.

Calling all experienced drivers! This high-altitude route winds its way through the majestic French Alps, offering breathtaking mountain views and challenging switchbacks. Conquer iconic climbs like Col du Galibier and Alpe d'Huez, famous for the Tour de France. Be sure to factor in stops at charming mountain villages like Chamonix and Megève, and enjoy breathtaking hikes or gondola rides for panoramic views. Remember, this route might have seasonal closures due to snow, so plan accordingly.

Additional Tip: This route is best for experienced drivers who are comfortable navigating mountain roads with switchbacks and steep inclines. Be sure your car is in good working condition, and check weather conditions before you go, as some parts of the route may be closed due to snow.

Distance: The Brittany coastline is roughly 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) long, but you can design a shorter route depending on your interests.

Travel Time: This is a long road trip, so allow for multiple days to explore the Brittany coastline, with driving times varying depending on the chosen route. Factor in additional time for stops to explore the town's historical sites and enjoy the scenery.

Head west to Brittany for a taste of rugged coastlines, Celtic culture, and historic towns. Explore the dramatic Pointe du Raz peninsula with its wild winds and crashing waves. Visit the medieval town of Dinan with its well-preserved ramparts, or wander the cobbled streets of Saint-Malo, a charming port city. Sample fresh seafood specialties like crêpes and galettes, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this Celtic region.

Additional Tip: This route is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Consider packing bikes to explore the charming coastal towns and scenic countryside or hiking gear to conquer the rugged cliffs and heather moorlands.

Distance: The distance of your Pyrenean Escape will depend on the specific activities you choose and the towns you visit.

Travel Time: Allow for multiple days to explore the Pyrenees, with driving times varying depending on your chosen route. Factor in additional time for hiking, biking, cable car rides, and exploring the towns and villages.

The Pyrenees offer a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through the stunning scenery of Parc National des Pyrénées, or challenge yourself on the trails of Cirque de Gavarnie, a dramatic glacial cirque. Explore charming mountain villages like Lourdes, a famous pilgrimage site, or Cauterets, a traditional spa town. Take a scenic cable car ride for breathtaking views, or try white-water rafting for an adrenaline rush. This route is perfect for those who love mountains, adventure, and a touch of French culture.

Additional Tip: Do research on different hiking and biking trails based on your skill level. The Pyrenees offer everything from leisurely, family-friendly paths to challenging multi-day treks. For an adrenaline rush, consider trying white-water rafting or kayaking on the mountain rivers.

Distance: The Champagne Route is a relatively short route, with a loop around the main champagne houses in Reims and Épernay being around 100 kilometers (62 miles).

Travel Time: Allow 2-3 hours of driving time for the loop, plus additional time for tours and tastings at champagne cellars, exploring the towns, and enjoying the scenery.

Pop the cork and embark on a bubbly adventure along the Champagne Route of Eastern France! Explore the charming towns of Reims and Épernay, where prestigious champagne houses like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot are headquartered. Delve into the fascinating history of champagne production with tours and tastings at local cellars. Don't forget to stock up on some bottles to enjoy throughout your trip or as a souvenir!

Additional Tip: Book your champagne cellar tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment. The Champagne region is also known for its delicious food en route, so don't miss out on trying a decadent Champagne lunch paired with local specialties.

Distance: The Route des Grands Crus is around 60 kilometers (37 miles) long.

Travel Time: Allow 1-2 hours of driving time for the route, plus additional time for stops to visit the wineries, explore the towns of Beaune and Dijon, and savor the delicious Burgundian food and wine.

Foodies, buckle up! On this route, you'll head south through the vineyards of Burgundy, a region renowned for its world-class wines and rich culinary heritage. Explore charming towns like Beaune with its historic Hospices de Beaune and Dijon, famous for its mustard.

Sample the region's prestigious wines like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at local wineries. Indulge in delicious Burgundian specialties like boeuf bourguignon (beef stew) and escargots (snails) – perfect for washing down with a glass of local wine, of course!

Additional Tip: Foodies can research Michelin-starred restaurants or hidden local eateries along the route to indulge in the world-famous Burgundian cuisine. Be sure to sample the region's prestigious wines, like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, at the many wineries along the route. Don't forget to stock up on some bottles to enjoy throughout your trip or as a souvenir!

Here are some general tips to make your France road trip more seamless and memorable:

• Plan Your France Itinerary

Do research weather patterns, festivals, and potential closures to make the most of your experience. Avoid peak tourist seasons in popular areas if you prefer a quieter experience. Booking accommodation in advance is especially crucial during these times. Having a road trip planner could come in handy.

• Rent A Car

While some routes might be doable with train trips, having a car gives you the most flexibility to explore hidden gems and charming villages along the way. Consider the size and fuel efficiency of your car based on the route and planned activities.

However, before you can even rent a car, you must first secure an International Driver’s License (IDL). To know how to get one, you can check out this page.

• Pack For All Weather Conditions

Find out the average temperatures and typical weather patterns for your chosen travel dates. Pack layers, rain gear, and even sunglasses and sunscreen for unexpected sunshine, especially in mountainous areas.

• Purchase A Good Travel Map Or Use A GPS

Having a physical map as a backup is always a good idea, especially in rural areas with limited phone signals. Download offline maps on your GPS app if possible.

• Learn Some Basic French Phrases

A few polite phrases in French like "Bonjour" (Hello), "Merci" (Thank you), and "Parlez-vous anglais?" (Do you speak English?) go a long way, especially in smaller towns where English might not be widely spoken.

Most of all, enjoy the drive! Don't be afraid to pull over and explore interesting sights, charming villages, or detour for scenic viewpoints. The beauty of a road trip is the freedom to explore at your own pace.

It's time to hit the open road! With these twelve incredible road trips around France, you're guaranteed an unforgettable adventure in France. From breathtaking coastlines and charming villages to historical sites and world-class food and wine, there's a route for every taste. So, buckle up, hit the road, and get on this trip to see the magic of France at your own pace!

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. July and August are peak seasons with hot weather and higher prices.

While not mandatory, it's highly recommended to bring one along with your regular driver's license in case you get pulled over by the police.

Consider the size and fuel efficiency based on your route and luggage to have the perfect road trip. A smaller car in France is ideal for navigating narrow village streets, while SUVs might be better for mountain routes.

Cars drive on the right side of the road in France.

Be aware of priority signs at roundabouts (yield to traffic already in the circle), use your turn signal well in advance, and be mindful of speed limits, which are posted in kilometers per hour (kph).

Many highways in France have tolls (péages). You can pay by cash or credit card at toll booths.

While English is spoken in some tourist areas, knowing a few basic French phrases goes a long way.

The Euro (€) is the currency in France.

Tipping is not expected in France, but a small gratuity is appreciated for good service at restaurants.