Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen to Paris

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Photo of church of Saint-Pierre in Caen, France.
Photo of church Vieux St-Etienne in Caen in Normandie in France.
Photo of typical french buildings in Caen, France.
Photo of Devizes Caen Locks multiple lock gates, France.
Photo of picturesque ancient abbey of St. Stephen in Caen, France.
Photo of Caen Castle, Turkey.
Photo of the Abbey of Saint-Etienne is a former Benedictine monastery and town hall in the French city of Caen.
Photo of Musée de Normandie France.
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.
Photo of Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France.
Photo of Pont Alexandre III, Alexander 3 Bridge, in Paris, France.
Photo of Consiergerie, Pont Neuf and Seine river at sunny summer sunset, Paris, France
Cozy street in quarter Montmartre in Paris, France.
An  overview of the Eiffel Tower and Paris, France from the Arc de Triomphe.
Champs-Elysées in Paris, France.
Alexandre III (1896) bridge spanning river Seine, Paris, France
Louvre Museum, Paris, France
Notre Dame de Paris cathedral, France
Typical view of the Parisian street with tables of brasserie (cafe) in Paris, France.
Paris Eiffel Tower and river Seine in Paris, France.
photo of view of Louvre Museum, Paris, France
photo of view of Porte de Paris, France.
photo of view of Porte De Paris, France.
photo of view of Paris, France - 16.05.2016: Disneyland, Paris, France.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Ranville, Gonneville-en-Auge, Paris, and Versailles. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Caen and 3 nights in Paris. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Caen, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Eiffel Tower. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Louvre Museum.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Arc De Triomphe. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Champ De Mars. Get close to the spectacular Sacré-cœur and the wonderful Palace Of Versailles. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Forêt d'Ifs
Colline aux OiseauxMémorial de CaenL'Abbaye-aux-HommesLe Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
Memorial PegasusMuseum and the Merville Battery siteParc zoologique de Lisieux
La VilletteSacré-CœurLouvre MuseumLe MaraisMontmartre
Arc de Triompheplace de la ConcordeTuileries GardenMusée d'OrsayChamps-Élysées
Jardin des plantesJardin du LuxembourgChamp de MarsEiffel TowerPalace of Versailles
Caen Castle

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Caen - Arrival day
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  • Forêt d'Ifs
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Caen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Caen and begin your adventure in France.

Caen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Forêt D'ifs, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Caen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Caen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Ficelle, an iconic dining spot in Caen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Galettoire, a popular restaurant in Caen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar de la Fac, a hidden gem nestled in Caen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Caen and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kokomo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Delirium Café, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Rhumba also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Caen as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Caen
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Colline aux Oiseaux
  • Mémorial de Caen
  • L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
  • Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Caen and beyond. With 1 night left in Caen, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Caen allows for both. Start by heading to Colline Aux Oiseaux. This frequently visited park provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Mémorial De Caen, an eye-catching museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to L'abbaye-aux-hommes, a frequently visited monastery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming The "big Bunker".

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Caen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Yaki Sushi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Trattoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SASÉSU. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Caen tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Caen and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vertigo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Les Déserteurs, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Vous Êtes Ici provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Caen
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 265 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Memorial Pegasus
  • Museum and the Merville Battery site
  • Parc zoologique de Lisieux
  • More

On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Memorial Pegasus. Continue your discovery at Museum And The Merville Battery Site, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Caen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Zoologique De Lisieux. This interesting zoo offers a visually striking encounter with Caen. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Caen.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Paris. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Kei, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, Le Pré Catelan, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Paris is Épicure, a renowned restaurant with a 3-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Paris. The bars in Paris make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café De Paris V. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Little Red Door, another top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 30 km, 1 hour 17 min

  • La Villette
  • Sacré-Cœur
  • Louvre Museum
  • Le Marais
  • Montmartre
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Paris!

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Paris is Le Marais. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Montmartre, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Paris today. One of the most famous attractions included on the itinerary is La Villette. This breathtaking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Sacré-cœur and learn what makes this inviting church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the timeless Louvre Museum.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Paris offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Sens Unique, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Caveau de l'isle. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Paris’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Boucan, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mamie Paris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 13 km, 55 min

  • Arc de Triomphe
  • place de la Concorde
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • Champs-Élysées
  • More

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Champs-Élysées is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Paris. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Arc De Triomphe. This timeless monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the remarkable wonders of Place De La Concorde, a must-see public square in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Tuileries Garden. This extraordinary park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Musée D'orsay, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Paris. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Paris that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Paris to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Paris.

Savor the flavors at The Harp Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistro des Augustins beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Petit Châtelet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Paris.

Keep the evening going at Sherry Butt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Highlander, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Sully, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Paris!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • Caen
  • More

Drive 260 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Jardin des plantes
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Champ de Mars
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Palace of Versailles
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Jardin Des Plantes. This serene botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Jardin Du Luxembourg, another remarkable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Champ De Mars, one of the city’s most globally renowned attractions, known for its enchanting features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Eiffel Tower. This romantic monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace, and take a stroll around the area.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Caen in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Caen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Refuge, an iconic dining spot in Caen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'R de rien, a popular restaurant in Caen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of PAUL & LÉON, a hidden gem nestled in Caen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Caen and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Boudoir offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Garsouille is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Caen - Departure day
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  • Caen Castle
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Caen.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Caen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Caen Castle. This locally appreciated castle is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Caen or just grab something light to keep you going.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Anouche, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ju'ste Chez Moi is another top choice with a popular menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Caen and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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