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Pedal Power

What better reason to explore France, than le Tour?

The world's most famous cycle race is in full swing, and with the Continent a mere ferry or train ride away you could be part of the action.

The 95^th Tour de France begins at Brest, Brittany, on 5 July and finishes with a spectacular celebration on the Champs-Élysées, Paris, on 27 July. The gruelling race will see riders cover 3,500 km in 21 stages and this year takes the convoy into Italy. The 10 new stop-over towns are Auray, Aigurande, Brioude, Prato Nevoso (Italy), Cuneo (Italy), Jausiers, Embrun, Roanne, Cérilly, Étampes.

Expert advice

Stay in one of the towns along the route, or take your car and shadow the riders all the way. Plan your journey with our free online European Route Planner, and make sure you don't get stranded somewhere unfamiliar. Check out our valuable advice on driving abroad and make sure you've got European Breakdown Cover sorted – save up to 15 per cent when you book online and enjoy peace of mind with our 24-hour English-speaking assistance.

If you're not up to a spontaneous trip across the channel to be a part of the sporting action, the race may well inspire you to venture to France for a holiday.

Travel discounts

AA members enjoy special discounts on travel with P&O Ferries, Hertz Car Rental, and Best Western Hotels.

Keep boredom at bay

If you've got kids in tow and you simply can't tolerate any more 'eye spy', keep them occupied on the journey with our free downloadable games.

Get away

For a complete package tailored to your needs, check out AA Getaways. Enjoy a short Continental break by ferry, Eurostar or Eurotunnel with three nights from £69 per person.

Find your way

The AA publishes a huge range of travel books and guides to France and other destinations, as well as individual maps covering many European regions.

A place to stay

Those who love life under canvas should check out our Caravan & Camping France guide. People who prefer a roof over their heads should pick a place to rest from our Best B&Bs France paperback.

And don't forget Travel Insurance in case of any mishaps while you're abroad. Annual cover costs from £34 and we also provide single trip policies.

Check out our other inspirational ideas for days out and weekend breaks.

Wherever you're heading...

...plan your trip with the AA Route Planner, stock your car with essential accessories from the AA Travelshop, and check for traffic blackspots before you leave with AA Roadwatch. Find the best places to eat and drink, and check out our brilliant travel guides.