Big Changes for UK Drivers in Normandy: Speed Limits on Secondary Roads to Increase UK drivers heading to Normandy should take note: the speed limit on many rural roads in the Eure department is set to increase from 80 km/h to 90 km/h. Local authorities have approved the change, though it won’t take effect immediately. […]

Before setting of on a French road trip, ensuring your tyres are roadworthy and compliant with French regulations is crucial. While the basic principles of tyre safety are very similar to those in the UK, there are key differences and requirements that UK motorists should be aware of when driving their own car in France. […]

France, a country famed for its culinary delights, iconic landmarks, and artistic spirit, has another secret up its sleeve. These seven breath-taking, lesser-known road trips that stay under the radar. Forget the usual Parisian hustle and the Riviera's glitz; we’re diving into roads less traveled. Make sure you read our Full Driving in France Checklist […]

Scammers have found a sneaky new way to target tourists and drivers across France: fake QR codes on parking meters. Known as "Quishing," this scam lures victims into entering personal and payment details on fraudulent websites. How Does the Scam Work? Scammers place fake QR code stickers on parking meters, covering legitimate ones. Drivers scan […]

In a bold move to reshape the way traffic flows through the heart of Paris, authorities have started implementing a "limited traffic zone" (ZTL) in four central arrondissements, signaling a transformative shift for drivers in the city. For motorists, this may be a significant change in navigating Paris in the years to come. This isn't […]

France Introduces new red lines on certain roads to discourage dangerous overtaking. If you read this article you'll have a better understanding of what UK drivers need to know when touring on French roads. British drivers hitting the roads in France may notice a new feature on certain roads: red lines running down the centre […]

The EU's new biometric border system, the Entry-Exit System (EES), is facing delays as key countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands report they aren't ready to implement the changes. So it's not just the UK government that couldn't organise a party in a brewery. Even so, UK operators, including Eurostar and Eurotunnel, are still […]

OK, so everything below about this experiment not being extended is now NOT correct. They have seen sense and decided to extend the experiment until 31st December 2024. When I guess we will probably be on this merry go round, again. I do apologise for the scare, saying the rules had changed, but they had […]

If you've recently realized that you're headed to France and urgently need a Crit'Air sticker for your vehicle, then I have the answer for you here. You can’t get the physical sticker in your hand in less than two weeks, but I can show you how you can legally drive in France within 48 hours […]

I first headed to Paris about 30 years ago and in the intervening years it has changed a great deal but also not changed a bit! I know that sounds weird but everything that was great about Paris still is and modern life although bringing changes hasn't altered the essence of Paris. The City of […]

The Paris Olympics and Paralympics are fast approaching. Hordes of Brits (around 450,000) are expected to descend on the French capital this summer to enjoy the occasion. They will be able to soak up the atmosphere and watch many of the 339 sparkling events, which will showcase the crème de la crème of no less […]

Can I Take my Dog to France? Yes, you can take your dog from the UK to France. Just make sure your dog has a microchip a rabies vaccination and an Animal Health Certificate. France is a popular holiday destination for many in the UK, especially in summer, and isa great place if you intend […]

All standard UK car insurance provides minimum coverage (third-party liability) in France. However, comprehensive cover may vary, so always check with your insurer to see if you will be fully comp. Insurance Cover while in France Driving in down country lanes and through glorious countryside in France and stopping for lunch in a riverside café […]

Does my car need headlamp beam deflectors? Yes, it probably does. There are a few exceptions that I’ll tell you about, but 95% of cars* need headlamp beam deflectors. *Please note before you read on: When I say car, you should take that to mean “vehicle” because this rule doesn’t just apply to cars, but, […]

Northern France itinerary Discover hidden gems in Northern France beyond the usual tourist routes. Explore enchanting towns, serene landscapes, and lesser-known places in this detailed guide. I thought I’d share some hidden gems in northern France. So I’ve written some of my memories of a trip I took some time ago and hopefully it may […]

No, you can’t use a phone while driving, and the fine is €135. Not even hands free. Only passengers can speak on a mobile phone while driving in France. The number of French motorists using their mobile phones while driving, speeding and tailgating is on the rise so it just plays into the stereotype that […]

OK so you are about to spend some time driving in France and you've suddenly had the thought “What are the fuel prices in France?” Well, there is no need to worry as compared to the UK, prices are currently very good. They are a little bit cheaper than the UK currently and the bonus […]

New Speed Limits in France This is an old post, see our Speed Cameras page for more up to date information. Old Post starts here: The summer holiday season is fast approaching, so if you are planning a driving trip to France then this article could save you money by making aware of the changes […]

Has the French Police Gone Mad? French police always have an eye on any chance to issue on the spot fines, and this time they have surpassed themselves. A female driver was stopped near Toulouse and has been issued an on-the-spot fine of €90 for driving whilst wearing flip flops! Yes, we know France has […]

Please Note: This is an old post (2015) and since Brexit, the cross border enforcement of motoring offences is no longer in force. Though France and the UK are speaking about a deal just between the 2 countries. See our page about "Speed Cameras in France" for the latest details. OLD ARTICLE STARTS HERE: With […]

This article talks about the NEW driving laws (from July 2015) don't forget all the existing ones mentioned here. If you want to buy breathalysers for your trip to France, get them here. New Laws The Drink Driving Law and Mobile Phone Legislation and the use of Headphones has changed in France. The legal blood alcohol level has been lowered again for new […]

The French equivalent of the monopolies and mergers commission the “Competition Authority” (Autorité de la Concurrence) published a report that was leaked to the French newspaper Les Echoes. The report stated that the prices being charged on toll roads in France are extortionate. Extortionate wasn't the actual word they used but they went as far […]

Sadly, another two base jumpers were killed in unrelated accidents in the French Alps on Sunday (17th Aug). That brings the number of deaths base jumping in France to 4 since the end of July. Base jumping is exceptionally dangerous even to experienced practitioners as it involves parachuting off (in this case) mountains in a […]