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Should I rent a car in France?

I’m going on vacation to France soon, but it will be my first time visiting. Is there public transportation there, or should I rent a car?

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Jacqulyn Graber · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
France is a beautiful country with lots to see and do, and renting a car could be the best way to get around. Whether or not having a car is worth the expense will depend on two major factors: where you’re going and how long you’ll be there.
Consider the following before calling the rental agency:
  • Paris is full of confusing one-way streets and once you are lost, it can be difficult to find your way back.
  • Traffic in a major city can be infuriating—especially if you get stuck in an infamous périphérique (the ring road that goes around the city).
  • Finding parking in Paris can be difficult and expensive. Plus, once you do find a space, parking time is limited to six hours.
Fortunately, Paris has several modes of public transportation including buses, the metro, and the Regional Express Network (RER). Together, these are accessible throughout Paris and the surrounding suburbs at any time of day or night. If distance allows, what could be more romantic than a stroll through the City of Light?!
Ultimately, you don’t need to rent a car in France, and if you’re staying in Paris, a car could be a nuisance. However, if you’re traveling around the country, a car might be convenient, though it isn’t an absolute necessity.
If you do choose to rent a car, be sure to add on
rental car coverage
to your policy. Your best bet is to use
Jerry
to find an affordable
car insurance
provider that caters to your travel needs.
MORE: How to avoid being unfairly charged for rental car damage
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