Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees just a few kilometres from the sea, Perpignan is the bridge between Spanish and French culture thanks to its past as the capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca. The city is also heavily influenced by Catalonian culture, given its strategic position close to the border of Spain’s autonomous region.

Discover the atmosphere of this culturally rich university town through its quaint cobblestone streets, lively squares and sun-soaked facades. Visit the 13th century Palais des Rois de Majorque, located in the heart of the city, the imposing Gothic City Hall, and the well-preserved Castillet – an emblematic monument that was once the main entrance to the walled city.

Complete with a backdrop of the Pyrenees, clear waters and sandy beaches are what await you just a few kilometres outside the centre of Perpignan. Get behind the wheel of your hire car and start exploring France’s south coast. To the north you can visit beaches like Le Barcarès and La Franqui which are popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers, or head south to the Côte Vermeille, where pristine white sandy beaches and dreamy azure waters await.

Which side of the road?
In France, please drive on the right side of the road.

Country driving laws

• Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device. Do not use headphones or earpieces
• Bus lanes are reserved exclusively for buses, taxis and bicycles

• In towns and rural areas, on minor roads and where there is no clear indication of right of way, it may be prudent to give way to traffic coming from the right (“priorité a droite”)
• It is recommended that drivers use dipped headlights at all times

Speed limits

All speed signs will be in km/h.

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailer:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
• 4-lane expressways (rural areas): 110 km/h (68 mph)

• Rural areas: 80 km/h (50 mph)
• Motorways: 130 km/h (80 mph)

Unless indicated by road signs.

Be aware of changes to speed limits displayed on road signs due to adverse weather conditions

Child safety/Seatbelt laws

• It is compulsory for the driver and all passengers to wear a seatbelt
• Children weighing up to 9 kg must travel in a rear-facing car seat, in the back of the car only

• Children aged under 10 and weighing less than 36 kg must be seated in appropriate child restraint

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

This road rules information is for provided for general guidance only. We endeavour to keep the information up to date and accurate, but any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.

If you want to learn more about driving in Paris, see the full France Road Rules guide.

Both in the foothills of the Pyrenees Orientales and by the Mediterranean Sea, the best way to really explore the regions surrounding Perpignan is to hire a car. Just 30 minutes from the border with Spain, and gateway to some of France’s most beautiful southern regions, it offers up endless sights to see.

Languedoc-Roussillon

For nature lovers, lose yourself in the spectacular scenery of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Drive through the pretty countryside speckled with lush green fields and vineyards. It’s also home to delightful Provençal villages such as Roussillon, characterised by its vibrant red and orange-hued buildings.

Figueres

Discover the capital of the Alt Empordà region of Catalunya, birthplace of the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, and home to the Teatre-Museu Gala Salvador Dalí – a large museum that Dalí designed himself. Figueres is also an ideal jumping off point to the wild and varied coastline of the Costa Brava region.

Cadaqués

This fairytale seaside village, just 35 km south of the French border, is less than a 1.5-hour drive south from Perpignan. The village, with its soothing, white-washed houses on hillsides overlooks panoramic views of the bright blue sea.

How difficult is it to drive in Perpignan?

Driving in France is relatively easy and Perpignan is no different. Roads are in good condition. Remember you must drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.

Is it easy to rent a car in Perpignan?

At Avis we have a wide range of high-quality rental cars in Perpignan at the very best price at convenient locations in and around Perpignan. On our booking pages, you’ll find an extensive variety of hire cars designed to suit all your travel needs.

What is the speed limit in Perpignan?

In and around Perpignan you must adhere to the same speed laws as anywhere else in France. That’s 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on dual carriageways, 80 km/h on main roads outside of built-up areas and 50 km/h on main roads within built up areas.

Can you turn right on a red in Perpignan?

It’s legal to turn right on a red without stopping only when a separate amber light flashes. This does not give drivers the priority.

Need to move house or travel with a heavy load? A van might be the best choice for you. Check out our van hire options – whatever your needs, there’s something for everyone.