Jean

Here's a question for those who have driven around Paris. <BR> <BR>On a Friday afternoon, we'll be traveling from Chantilly (north and west of Charles de Gaulle) down to our hotel in the 16th. Looks like this means taking the Ring Road/Peripherique. Can you tell me, is that like other urban beltways, generally clogged up at "rush hours" - especially on a Friday? We can figure other ways if it's to be avoided at all costs. (We have too little time in France to waste in a major traffic jam...!)

francesca

It's hard to avoid traffic on the "periphe" even outside of traditional rush hours, which are approx.7.30-9.30 and 4-8pm. Cutting through Paris is not a good idea--you'll get lost with all the one-way streets, and these are often totally clogged as well. Ask your hotel what the best exit is as there are several for the 16th.

Jean

Thanks - exactly what I wanted to know!

Scott

Staying in EVERY/Lisses It was difficult to travel the A-4 due to heavy traffic at all times.Not to mention that being used to driving in the USA there seems to be no traffic laws or rules in and around Paris. <BR> My Suggestion is to park the car and take the train.LIFE IS TO SHORT

Robin

3 words.... <BR> <BR>DON'T DO IT! <BR> <BR>I was very foolish last year and drove from Reims (Champagne region) to Paris and dropped the car downtown. It was one of the worst experiences of my life! I consider myself a pretty experienced driver. I live in the Boston area (where it is known that there are no rules) and have also felt very comfortable driving in New York, LA, Chicago, and even the auto bahn. I thought nothing of driving in and around Paris. Boy was I wrong!! Between the language barrier and 8 lanes of traffic that all go in different directions, trying to read a map, finding out the lane you want to be in is 4 over from the one you're in and you're 50 yards from the "no turning back point" etc. etc. etc. Keep your sanity, take the underground! <BR> <BR>Just my 2 cents! <BR> <BR>Robin

Rex

Ce n'est pas tellement difficile a conduire en France, mais je pense que Robin a raison: c'est beaucoup plus difficile si vous ne lisez pas francais. <BR> <BR>Si vous ne pouvez pas lire cette message, vous allez avoir plus de peine a conduire dans les environs de Paris. Et la peripherique a presque toujours beaucoup de circulation. Il y a beaucoup de bonnes signes pour vous prevoir la fluidite de circulation et ou on trouvera les bouchons. Pourrez-vous les comprendre? <BR> <BR>Pehaps the more important question is: will you already have the car BEFORE Friday afternoon, and/or are there compelling reasons why you will want to be keeeping it after you arrive in Paris? <BR> <BR>And if you can't read the first two paragraphs of this message, please feel write to me, or simply ask here and I will rewite it to you by e-mail or by re-posting here. <BR> <BR>Meilleurs voeux, <BR> <BR>Rex