The traveler who wishes to drive a vehicle while in France can either rent a car, a traditional method, or purchase it with a repurchase agreement given by the manufacturer. This latter option is an original and economic alternative to enjoy the use of a factory-new, tax-free car for a period of a least 17 days and a maximum of 6 months. In this comprehensive plan, the traveler actually owns the car while using it. The cost is a small down payment and a promissory note for the balance of the value of the car. The down payment includes unlimited mileage, insurance, registration and certification as well as a repurchase agreement for an amount equal to the promissory note.
Most major automobile manufacturers, such as Renault and Peugeot, participate in this plan which is only available to tourists who reside outside the European Community. The plan can be extended to 12 months for students, teachers, journalists and diplomats on a clearly stated assignment or mission in France.
If you plan to rent a vehicle, check out the best rate. A service offered to you by the French Tourist Office that also contains a few tips on how to drive in Europe. If you are traveling part of the way by train and wish to rent a car, Rail Europe offers interesting discount on both train travels and car rentals and so does the SNCF.
Whether you rent or buy, having a car offers greater freedom and access to the countryside. However, gas prices are high, the equivalent of about $4 U.S. per gallon, and you should be prepared to drive a standard transmission, as few cars in France are automatic. Most car rental agencies require credit cards, and drivers must be at least twenty years of age. It is also common to require that the driver has been licensed for at least one year.
It is recommended that you make rental arrangements in advance of your trip. Renting with a multinational rental agency may offer you greater flexibility in terms of picking up and dropping off the vehicle. Tour operators can also help you rent through a local agency, and may be more prepared to negotiate price and services. Like the railway companies, the airline you are traveling with may also be a good source for economical car rental. Ask if your airline is offering any special packages.
Check what kind of insurance you need and whether tax and collision insurance are included in the price. Your credit card may already covers collision insurance, but there is no certainty and a comprehensive car insurance in France is mandatory. Be sure to be adequately covered.
When organizing your itinerary, you can calculate the distance between cities. This is a helpful service to determine where to stop as well as the approximate cost of the trip.
 Go back | Top of page | Continue
|
