Planning your route to France

Booked a vacation home in France? Then the vacation feeling starts as soon as you plan your route. Especially if you're traveling by car, it's worth taking a moment to consider the smartest way to travel. Do you want to take the fastest route via the toll roads, or would you prefer a more relaxed route with some nice stops along the way? How can you avoid black Saturdays, and what are some good alternatives to endless traffic jams around Lyon? In this blog, we'll take you step by step. From map to suitcase. Because a good route is more than just a line on a map, it's the start of your vacation.

Start at the end point

It may sound logical, but first decide exactly where you want to go. France is large, and it makes quite a difference whether you are staying in Brittany, the Dordogne, or on the Côte d'Azur. Based on your final destination, you can map out a route that best suits your needs: fast, quiet, touristy, or avoiding traffic. Haven't chosen an exact destination yet? Then be inspired by the current range of holiday houses in France. Sometimes you'll find that one place that's not only beautiful but also easily accessible. 

Toll roads or back roads?

Most people automatically choose toll roads. That's not surprising: it's the fastest way to cover long distances. Think of the A1, A6, and A7, also known as the Autoroute du Soleil. But there is a price tag attached: for a trip from the Netherlands to the south of France, you can expect to pay around 50 to 100 euros in tolls (and that's not even including gas). Of course, you can also opt for the back roads: the ‘routes nationales’ and ‘départementales’. These take more time, but they take you through sleepy villages, past local bakeries, and unexpected views. Perfect if you have a little more time, or if you want to make driving part of your vacation. You can also find a handy comparison of both options in our blog about being well prepared for your trip to France.

Smart navigation: tools & apps

Google Maps is the classic navigation app, but there are also other tools that are useful for those driving to France. ViaMichelin, for example, not only shows the route, but also toll and fuel costs. Waze helps you avoid traffic jams with live traffic data from other users. Useful extras:

• Download your route offline (in case you lose reception)
• Add your final destination to your favorites
• Plan your fuel stops wisely (supermarket gas stations are much cheaper than filling up on the highway)

Make sure your phone holder is securely attached to the windshield, and bring an old-fashioned map with you just in case. You never know.

Avoid black  Saturdays

Want to avoid traffic jams on your way south? Then steer clear of the infamous black Saturdays: the end of July and beginning of August, when the whole of France seems to go on vacation at the same time. The highways are packed, especially around Paris, Lyon, and Orange.

What works better:

• Leave on Sunday or during the week.                                                                                   
• Opt for an early start (think: leaving at 4 a.m.).
• Spend the night halfway along your route, for example in Burgundy, Champagne, or the Vosges.

A well-planned overnight stay breaks the journey into two relaxed parts. What's more, there are plenty of gems to be found along the way.

Stopovers make your trip more enjoyable

Long drives are tiring, especially with children in the back seat. So make sure you take enough stops. Not just at gas stations, but also in charming towns along the route. Many villages have a village square with a fountain, a boulangerie for fresh baguettes, and a terrace under a plane tree. Turn the drive itself into an experience: choose a charming detour, have lunch in a village, or visit a winegrower along the way. Sometimes you'll discover the most beautiful memories unexpectedly, even before you reach your destination.

Are you still looking for an affordable place to start or end your trip? Then take a look at our offers. Maybe there's an ideal stopover for you!

Last-minute departure? Stay flexible

Sometimes you decide spontaneously: let's go! Or your plans change at the last minute. No stress: even then, you can still map out a good route. Let the traffic determine your choice, choose an overnight stay along the route, and see where it is less busy on Google Maps or ANWB Traffic. Even without a strict schedule, you can still have a great trip with a little improvisation. And with this up-to-date overview of  last minutes deals, you can sometimes find a vacation home that is available tomorrow and is located on a route that you can reach without traffic jams.

Frequently asked questions about routes to France

What is the fastest route to the south of France?

Usually via the A1 > A6 > A7. This is the classic ‘Route du Soleil’. Be prepared for tolls and the possibility of traffic jams, especially in summer.

How can I avoid traffic jams on the way to France?

Avoid black Saturdays, drive early or at night, and use live traffic apps such as Waze. An overnight stay halfway there also helps.

Are there emvironmental zones on the route?

Yes, especially around cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Grenoble. Make sure you have a Crit'Air sticker if you are going to be in those areas.

Which is cheaper: toll roads or back roads?

Back roads are often cheaper, but take more time. Toll roads are faster, but you pay tolls (and often more fuel due to higher speeds).

Where can I plan stopover?

In regions such as the Vosges, Burgundy, or Jura. Choose a place that is roughly halfway and has something to offer. Peace and quiet, nature, or good food.

Bon voyage starts with a smart route

Good route planning is more than just a matter of ‘getting in the car’. It makes your vacation smoother, more enjoyable, and often faster. With the right preparation, you can enjoy the journey itself. Check the weather, avoid black Saturdays, pack your snacks, plan your stops, and choose a route that suits your pace!