Paris by car
Paris is wrapped by a ring boulevard that separates the old arrondissements from everything around them, and the Seine cuts the whole thing in half. Distances in France are still measured from a single marker outside Notre-Dame, and the road network radiates from it.
Driving in Paris
Paris is reached by A1, A4, A6, A13 and the Boulevard Périphérique and A86 ring roads. Paris has a low-emission zone, Zone à faibles émissions (ZFE): check the sticker rules before driving into the centre. Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone. Driving through the centre is restricted, so most drivers park on the edge.
Renting and driving in France
Speed limits 50 / 80 / 130 km/h. Alcohol limit 0.5 ‰. Motorways charge at the barrier.
Within a day’s drive of Paris
- Versailles — 17 km
- Fontainebleau — 56 km
- Reims — 130 km
What kind of car do you need?
Typical capacity for the category — the exact model is confirmed by the rental company at booking.
Economy
4–5 seats · 1 large bag + 1 small
City streets and tight parking
Standard
5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small
Long drives with full luggage
SUV
5 seats · 3 large bags
Mountain roads and winter trips
Estate
5 seats · 3 large bags
Families with a lot of luggage
People carrier
7 seats · 4 large bags
Groups of six or more
Luxury
5 seats · 2 large bags + 1 small
Business trips and long motorways
Convertible
4 seats · 2 small bags
Coastal roads in warm weather
Airports serving this city
Other cities in France
Frequently asked questions
Where can I pick up a car in Paris?
In the city and at the airport — Beauvais-Tillé Airport, Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris–Le Bourget Airport, Orly Airport, Pontoise – Cormeilles Aerodrome and Villacoublay Air Base. Which desk, and whether it sits inside the terminal or a shuttle ride away, is shown by the rental company before you book.
France: which side of the road do they drive on?
On the right. Speed limits are posted at the roadside and differ between towns, open roads and motorways.
Which currency will I be charged in?
Prices are usually set in EUR. The rental company sets both the price and the deposit, and shows them before you book.
Can I drive the car into another country?
Often yes within the EU, but never assume it. Crossing a border has to be allowed by the rental company and usually costs extra, so check the terms before you book.
Is there a low-emission zone in Paris?
Yes. Paris has a low-emission zone covering the centre, and cars have to meet its emission rules to drive in. The zone is called Zone à faibles émissions (ZFE).
Where do I park in the centre of Paris?
Parking in the centre is paid and marked by zone.
What are the speed limits in France?
50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on open roads, 130 km/h on motorways.
Are the motorways tolled?
Motorways charge at the barrier. Payment is by cash, card or an electronic tag.