Explore France’s most scenic road trips with Hertz. From the French Riviera to the Loire Valley, discover hidden gems and stunning landscapes at your own pace.
Introduction
France is a country that begs to be explored beyond its cities. While Paris may steal the spotlight, the true magic lies in its sun-soaked vineyards, medieval villages, and breathtaking coastlines. The best way to experience it all? A road trip.
With Hertz France, you can rent a car from any major city or airport and set out on unforgettable journeys, stopping wherever beauty and curiosity lead you. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most scenic road trips in France that combine iconic landmarks with hidden treasures.
1. The French Riviera (Côte d’Azur)
Route: Nice → Èze → Monaco → Menton
Distance: ~50 km
The French Riviera offers glitz, glamour, and Mediterranean charm. Start your trip by renting a Hertz car in Nice, then take the winding coastal roads with stunning sea views.
Highlights:
- Stroll the old streets of Èze
- Visit the luxurious Monte Carlo Casino
- Enjoy pastel-colored Menton by the sea
2. Loire Valley Castles Route
Route: Tours → Amboise → Chenonceau → Chambord
Distance: ~150 km
Known as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley is a dream for history and architecture lovers. Renting from Hertz in Tours allows you to explore majestic châteaux surrounded by vineyards and rivers.
Highlights:
- Château de Chambord’s Renaissance splendor
- Château de Chenonceau over the River Cher
- Wine tasting in Amboise
3. Provence Lavender Fields
Route: Avignon → Sault → Valensole
Distance: ~200 km (best in summer)
In summer, Provence transforms into a sea of purple as lavender fields bloom. With Hertz, you can drive from Avignon through picturesque countryside and fragrant landscapes.
Highlights:
- Endless lavender fields in Valensole Plateau
- Sault’s lavender distilleries
- Charming cafés in small Provençal towns
4. Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d’Alsace)
Route: Strasbourg → Riquewihr → Colmar → Eguisheim
Distance: ~170 km
This fairy-tale drive through northeastern France takes you past colorful half-timbered houses, vineyards, and medieval fortresses. Renting from Hertz in Strasbourg ensures you enjoy this scenic route at leisure.
Highlights:
- Colmar’s “Little Venice” canals
- Riesling wine tasting in Riquewihr
- Eguisheim’s storybook streets
5. The French Alps Adventure
Route: Annecy → Chamonix → Grenoble
Distance: ~250 km
For mountain lovers, the French Alps promise dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures. Hertz rentals from Annecy or Geneva Airport make it easy to explore year-round.
Highlights:
- Annecy’s lakefront old town
- Mont Blanc views from Chamonix
- Alpine hiking trails and ski resorts
Tips for Road Tripping in France with Hertz
- Learn basic road signs in French for smoother driving
- Many motorways (autoroutes) have tolls – carry cash or a card
- Avoid city center restricted zones (ZFE)
- Book smaller cars for narrow village streets
Conclusion
From the lavender fields of Provence to the sparkling shores of the French Riviera, France offers road trips that blend beauty, history, and culture. With Hertz France, you have the freedom to explore the country’s most scenic routes and discover hidden gems along the way.
So, pack your bags, pick your route, and let the French roads lead you to your next great adventure.