Rachel Southwood

25 November 2025

Lifestyle & Culture

Driving in the south of France: Tips for Newcomers

Whether you’re moving to France or visiting for the first time, getting behind the wheel in a new country can feel daunting. Driving in Occitanie, however, is one of the best ways to explore the region from the Mediterranean coast to the Pyrenees mountains and the rolling vineyards in between. Here are some key tips to help newcomers feel confident on the road.

Understanding the Rules of the Road

• Drive on the right: All traffic in France drives on the right-hand side.

• Speed limits: Motorways (autoroutes) are usually 130 km/h (110 km/h in rain), main roads 80-90 km/h and towns/villages 50 km/h unless otherwise signed.

• Signs can be sparse: Unlike in the UK, speed limit signs in France are not always frequent, so it’s important to remember the general rules above. If in doubt, assume 50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h on country roads.

• Kilometres, not miles: All limits are in kilometres per hour (kph), not miles per hour (mph) as in the UK.

• Speed cameras: France has many fixed and mobile speed cameras, so staying within the limit is essential to avoid fines.

• Carry the essentials: French law requires drivers to carry a warning triangle, high-visibility vest and spare bulbs in the car.

Toll Roads and Costs

Motorways in France often come with tolls (péages). You can pay with cash or card at the booths, but many locals use an electronic télépéage tag for faster entry and exit. Planning your journey on secondary roads can save money and reveal beautiful countryside routes.

Parking and Cities

Parking in medieval towns and city centres can be tricky. Look out for blue zones (where a disc is required) and always check local signs. In places like Montpellier and Toulouse, park-and-ride schemes are a convenient way to avoid city traffic.

Scenic Routes Worth Driving

• The Canal du Midi: Follow the tree-lined routes around this UNESCO site for leisurely drives.

• The Pyrenees: Expect winding mountain roads with breathtaking views - perfect for a day trip.

• The Minervois vineyards: Quiet country lanes make it easy to explore charming wine villages.

Driving Etiquette in France

French drivers are generally courteous but expect you to be decisive. Indicating clearly and keeping to the speed limits will help you blend in. Don’t be surprised if someone gives a quick flash of headlights - it often means “I’m coming through”.

Fuel and Services

Petrol stations are plentiful on motorways but may be sparse in rural areas, especially on Sundays. Many are automated and require a card with a chip-and-pin system.

Exploring Occitanie by Car

Driving in Occitanie opens up a world of discovery - from hidden swimming spots to vineyards and medieval towns. With a little preparation and confidence, newcomers will quickly find that exploring by car is one of the most rewarding ways to experience life in southern France.

Important: “Priorité à droite” rule

In France, at many junctions you must give way to traffic arriving from your right (even if they’re joining from a minor road). It’s a rule that confuses loads of foreign drivers and yes, it applies in some roundabout/urban junctions too. In simple terms, unless otherwise indicated, you must give way to vehicles approaching from your right, even if you’re on what looks like the main road. You’ll see this most often in small villages and rural areas where side roads don’t have stop or give-way signs. The safest rule of thumb? If there’s no clear signage, slow down and assume traffic from the right has priority.

Exploring the scenic routes around the south of France

Driving in Occitanie: Quick Checklist

Documents & Essentials

• Valid driving licence (UK/EU licences are accepted)

• Vehicle registration documents

• Insurance certificate

• Passport or ID

• Warning triangle, high-visibility vest, spare bulbs

Speed Rules

• 130 km/h on motorways (110 km/h in rain)

• 80-90 km/h on main/country roads

• 50 km/h in towns and villages

• Remember: kph, not mph

• Speed signs can be rare - assume the defaults above

• Watch for fixed and mobile speed cameras

Tolls & Fuel

• Motorways (autoroutes) often have tolls (cash, card or télépéage tag)

• Cheaper, scenic routes available on secondary roads

• Fuel stations may be closed Sundays or fully automated

Driving Etiquette

• Drive on the right-hand side

• Indicate clearly, drive decisively

A flash of headlights usually means “I’m letting you go”