France is a large and well-connected country, making it surprisingly easy to explore, whether you’re driving through the countryside, hopping on a high-speed train, or commuting by tram in a buzzing city. From country roads to cosmopolitan metro networks, Transport in France generally works smoothly and its networks are well maintained.
But what’s it really like to get around? What should you expect if you’re bringing your own car, relying on public transport or choosing to fly across the country? In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know in 2025 – updated, realistic and easy to understand.
Contents
- Driving in France
- Traffic laws and road safety
- The French road network and tolls
- Public transport options
- Train travel in France
- Buses, metros and trams
- Domestic air travel in France
- Frequently asked questions
With beautiful roads crisscrossing the country, car is a great option for transport in France
Driving in France
Driving in France can be a joy. The roads are often quieter than in the UK and long-distance travel by car is manageable thanks to excellent motorways. Compared to city driving back home, it can feel refreshingly calm – especially on rural country roads where you might pass more vineyards than vehicles.
For British drivers, the obvious change is driving on the right-hand side. It takes a bit of getting used to, especially at junctions and roundabouts, but most drivers adjust quickly. If you’re bringing a UK vehicle, make sure to beam-adjust your headlights and display a GB or UK sticker (depending on when your reg plate was registered).
Toll roads are common and driving through picturesque regions on your own schedule can be a brilliant way to explore. Rural areas often lack public transport, so hiring or bringing a car is a good option.
If you’re buying a home in France – whether a rustic farmhouse or a city pied-à-terre – knowing how easy it is to access local amenities could influence where you settle. We always recommend including transport links in your property match criteria.
For a closer look at purchasing French property, claim your free copy of our France Buying Guide:
Traffic laws and road safety
France enforces road laws strictly, especially when it comes to speed and safety gear. There are radar cameras everywhere – both fixed and mobile. Fines are swift and sometimes steep, so it pays to drive carefully.
Here are the key things you need to remember in 2025:
- You must carry your driving licence, registration certificate and insurance documents in the car at all times.
- You must also have a warning triangle and a reflective safety vest accessible from inside the vehicle. If you don’t, you could be fined €90 per missing item.
- Seatbelts are compulsory for everyone, front and back.
- The drink-drive limit is stricter than in the UK: 0.5mg/ml (0.2mg/ml for new drivers or those in a licensed profession).
Speed limits in France (unless posted otherwise):
- 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways in dry weather
- 110 km/h (68 mph) on motorways in wet weather
- 110 km/h (68 mph) on dual carriageways in dry weather
- 100 km/h (62 mph) on dual carriageways in wet weather
- 80 km/h (50 mph) on rural roads
- 50 km/h (30 mph) in built-up areas
Breaking the speed limit by 25 km/h or more can get your licence suspended on the spot. Cameras are often not marked, so stay within the limits – even when the roads are empty.
The French road network and tolls
France’s roads are highly rated for both condition and scenery. Even regular routes often feel scenic, especially in the south or through the Alps. There are three main road types worth knowing about:
- Autoroutes (A roads): These are motorways, many of which are toll roads. They’re fast and efficient.
- Routes nationales (N roads): Major trunk roads, often well maintained.
- Routes départementales (D roads): Smaller roads managed by local councils – sometimes narrow or winding but full of countryside charm.
Most autoroutes are péage (toll) roads. The system is either ticket-based or flat-rate, depending on the stretch. Costs can add up, but France has no road tax, which offsets it for most residents. If you’re driving long distances, plan your journey in advance and take note of toll costs. The official motorway site autoroutes.fr has toll calculators for most routes.
For regular users, the “Liber-t” scheme is worth joining. It gives you a fast lane at toll booths and automatically deducts payments from your account. It’s easy to set up and saves time during peak travel seasons.
Public transport options
France prides itself on having excellent public transport in cities and strong long-distance travel infrastructure. Trains, trams and buses are reliable and often affordable, while planes are an option for longer routes.
In more rural areas, services can be rare, especially on Sundays or late evenings. If you’re moving to the countryside, don’t expect frequent buses. A car might be essential – especially if you’re planning school runs, shopping trips or exploring surrounding villages.
That said, some towns and villages near cities offer great park-and-ride options, giving you access to metro or tram networks. If you’re house-hunting, our experts at Your Overseas Home can help you factor local transport links into your shortlist.
Train is one of the best options when it comes to transport in France
Train travel in France
France’s train network is fast, extensive and mostly runs on time. The national operator is SNCF, and their high-speed flagship is the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse). These trains link major cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Nice and Strasbourg in hours rather than days.
For international routes, Eurostar connects London and Paris in under 2.5 hours. You can also travel with Thalys, ICE or Lyria to Belgium, Germany, Switzerland or Spain. Heading further afield? Major routes connect to Milan, Barcelona and Amsterdam with ease.
Tips for using the French rail network:
- Book in advance for the best prices – SNCF tickets are released 3–4 months before the travel date.
- You often need to validate your ticket at the station using a ‘composteur’ (yellow box) unless it’s electronic.
- TGV tickets are seat-specific and time-sensitive. Missing your train could mean buying a brand new ticket.
Check timetables and fares on SNCF Connect. It offers an English-language version and has mobile ticketing built-in.
Buses, metros and trams
Cities and larger towns in France usually have an integrated transport network combining buses, trams and metro lines. In places like Paris, Lyon, Marseille and Toulouse, these systems run frequently and are low-cost.
The Paris Métro is extensive, with over 300 stations, and operates from 5.30am until after midnight. Other cities like Lille, Rennes and Strasbourg also have smart, efficient metro and tram systems with contactless ticketing.
Most cities offer transport apps, multi-ride cards and monthly passes. These help you save money if you’re commuting or travelling frequently. You’ll typically find:
- Single-use tickets costing between €1.50–€2.50
- 10-ticket carnets for small groups or weekly travel
- Transport card options like Navigo (Paris) or TCL (Lyon) for passes and timed access
Validate every trip. Machines at metro stations and inside buses will stamp or scan your ticket. If you don’t, you could be fined, even with a valid ticket.
Trams are especially popular in eco-conscious cities. Bordeaux, Montpellier and Nantes have modern tram lines with easy-to-use payment machines at stations. You can often combine your tram journey with free bike rentals (vélo city schemes vary by location).
Domestic air travel in France
France has more airports per capita than any other country in Western Europe. With over 150 airports and regional airfields, internal flights are a popular way to travel long distances – especially from rural or coastal areas to business hubs like Paris or Lyon.
The major players in 2025 include Air France, EasyJet, Transavia and Volotea. However, expect fewer short-haul domestic flights under 2.5 hours due to environmental rules that aim to cut carbon. High-speed rail is replacing many of these “short-hops”.
If you’re flying from regional centres like Carcassonne or Bergerac, you’ll still find seasonal routes to London, Dublin or Amsterdam – brilliant for holiday home owners or weekend visits.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Flights may not run daily – check schedules early for small regional airports.
- A multi-city ticket or rail + air pass can save both money and time. Some SNCF fares include onward connections by air.
- Budget airlines often use smaller airports – plan transport from the airport to your destination carefully.
Whether you travel by plane, train or car, France offers beautiful landscapes, efficient systems and a sense of freedom that makes owning a property here even more rewarding. Need help finding an area with good transport links? Book a free consultation with one of our property experts and let us guide you through your move.
Frequently asked questions about transport in France
Can I drive in France with a UK licence?
Yes. UK licences are valid in France, but if you become a resident, you may be required to exchange your licence. Make sure to carry your licence, insurance and registration documents when driving.
Are French roads safe and well maintained?
Yes. France has an excellent road network, including scenic departmental roads and smooth autoroutes. Be aware of strict speed limits, radar enforcement and the need to carry safety equipment in your car at all times.
How does train travel work in France?
France’s rail system is efficient and widespread. TGV high-speed trains connect major cities, and local services reach rural areas. Book early for the best prices and always validate physical tickets before boarding.
What public transport is available in French cities?
Cities like Paris, Lyon and Toulouse offer metro, bus and tram networks. Contactless cards and travel apps make it easy to navigate, and multi-ride passes offer good value for frequent users.
Is it easy to fly domestically within France?
Yes, especially from rural areas to business hubs like Paris or Lyon. However, many short-haul routes are being phased out due to environmental policies. High-speed trains now replace many under-2.5 hour domestic flights.
