Hi everyone, my first time posting. I am planning a trip to France for 2018. I realize things (costs especially) could change drastically before then, but I'm trying to get a general sense of costs. Rick's France book says to account for approx $800 per person for surface transportation for 3 weeks, but also says $200/week for a car. We may rent a car for 3 weeks of a 4 week trip (so not including a week in Paris) since we want to explore Normandy and Brittany then the southwestern coast and then base ourselves in Provence for a couple weeks. (At least this is the dream trip for now, whilst still trying to do it on the cheap!) If we have a car how much should we estimate for "surface transportation" costs? Just in general. (We also might then return car in Provence and return to Paris via train with stops along the way in Burgundy.) I'd appreciate any ideas or suggestions re: this very vague itinerary. I'm enjoying the planning most of all and am getting so many great tips from this forum! I'm sure I'll have more questions as I go forward! Julie
Posted by
Basel, Switzerland
8889 posts
Hello Julie and welcome.
Go to http://www.viamichelin.com/ and research each leg of your proposed route.
Not only does this gives route and estimated times, it also gives costs for fuel and tolls.
The times this sites gives are optimistic, they assume you don't stop for anything. In practice you have to add times for meal breaks etc.
If you are going by car and want to visit any big cities, you will need to park the car at the edge of the city and take public transport in, so you need to add costs for parking and transport. If you are travelling from city to city by train there is of course no parking costs.
Rural Provence is lovely and does need a car.
2018 - that is really l....o...n...g term planning. I have holiday I must use up before the end of April, and I have still not decided where to go.
Posted by
OP
Langley, WA, USA
16 posts
Thanks Chris, I'll explore that site. Yes, I am planning a bit early, but having fun doing it! It sounds like you better get planning for your trip soon!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
For a more general overview of associated costs, see the appendix of the France book and/or https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/transportation/car-rental-costs. It is fine to pick up and drop the car in different cities. If you need one or two rides on TGV fast trains, then book about 3 months ahead for the best price; regional trains don't need that.