9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in England and France With Itinerary from London to Calais, Paris, Tours, and Bayeux
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 9-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the England and France guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in England and 5 nights in France.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of England, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of London and begin your adventure from there. Explore London, Canterbury, and Dover, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of France. Immerse yourself in the allure of Calais, Paris, Versailles, Tours, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Bayeux, Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, Colleville-sur-Mer, and Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, where every street tells a story.
From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across England and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 9-day self-drive adventure in England and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in England and France.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- London - Arrival day
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- Covent Garden
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in England and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of London in England. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in London for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to England to enjoy as much time as possible exploring London before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
London 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 Covent Garden, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in London. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of England's delectable cuisine at one of London's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The American Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cahoots London, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hawksmoor Borough. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Américain, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Connaught Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Juno Rooms provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Your multi-country road trip in England and France has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- London
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 42 min
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- St Paul's Cathedral
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Buckingham Palace
- Hyde Park
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful London. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
London is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, a church, an observation deck, a palace, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Tower Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Tower Of London, a picture-perfect castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to St Paul's Cathedral, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the world-famous London Eye. When you're finished at the observation deck, Buckingham Palace awaits your visit. This palace is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a park - the wondrous Hyde Park.
Visit Covent Garden in London for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Covent Garden has to offer, including restaurants, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of London boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Soho Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Estiatorio Milos as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lyaness is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Polski, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Buckingham Arms. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 3
- London
- Calais
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Canterbury Cathedral
- Dover Castle
- National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover
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On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in England and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Canterbury in England. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Calais, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Canterbury Cathedral. This historic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dover Castle and learn what makes this picture-perfect castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated National Trust - The White Cliffs Of Dover.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Calais of your choice.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Calais's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Chill, a top-rated dining destination in Calais. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Memphis - Restaurant Diner, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Route des épices. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Calais this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Du Minck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Un Singe En Hiver. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Purple Café, another top-rated place in the area.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 4
- Calais
- Paris
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Drive 293 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across England and France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Paris in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Calais, including a church and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Sacré-cœur. This iconic church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Louvre Museum, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Calais on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Notre-dame De Paris, a captivating church in the city.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Paris’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Paris's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Paris has them.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mumi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at L'Imprévu Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café De Paris V offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dirty Dick is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Red Door is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the night falls in Paris, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 5
- Paris
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Drive 60 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
- Champs-Élysées
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Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across England and France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Paris for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Paris in France.
Make sure to visit Champs-Élysées, a popular street in Paris. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Eiffel Tower. This history-steeped monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Arc De Triomphe, another noteworthy attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Palace Of Versailles, one of the city’s most globally renowned attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Paris's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Sens Unique offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Caveau de l'isle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prescription Cocktail Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Boucan provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mamie Paris offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 6
- Paris
- Tours
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Drive 288 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Château de Chambord
- Château de Chenonceau
- Château du Clos Lucé
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across England and France. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tours. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Château De Chambord. This is a captivating castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Château De Chenonceau, a popular castle in Paris.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Château Du Clos Lucé.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Tours.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Tours. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across England and France.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at TIA Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Tours. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tours at Les Bartavelles, 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 The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tours tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Piraat Cafe Tours, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'alexandra likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Take in the ambiance of Tours as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!
Day 7
- Tours
- Bayeux
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Drive 396 km, 4 hours 48 min
- Mont Saint-Michel
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Le Mont-Saint-Michel in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bayeux, your home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Le Mont-saint-michel. This spectacular monastery is an inviting place to see in Tours. Continue your discovery at Bayeux Cathedral, a culturally significant church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Tours, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Arbre De La Liberté. This increasingly popular monument offers a history-steeped encounter with Tours. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Tours.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Bayeux. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across England and France by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bayeux’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bayeux.
Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Bayeux
- London
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Drive 583 km, 7 hours 16 min
- Eglise Saint-André de Port en Bessin
- Widerstandsnest 62
- Omaha Beach Memorial
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across England and France. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Port-en-Bessin-Huppain in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to London where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the underrated Eglise Saint-andré De Port En Bessin, a culturally significant church in Bayeux. Next, go to Widerstandsnest 62.
After visiting Eglise Saint-andré De Port En Bessin and Widerstandsnest 62, have a stroll along Bayeux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Omaha Beach Memorial. This breathtaking war memorial offers a unique experience.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in London. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by London’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in England and France.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Premier Inn London Blackfriars (Fleet Street) hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Palomar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cabotte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Merchant House London is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Artesian, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Jin Bo Law. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in England and France! Enjoy your evening in London to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 9
- London - Departure day
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- Trafalgar Square
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On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of London before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across England and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Trafalgar Square, a culturally significant public square before you head out.
Get a last taste of England’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in London and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across England and France.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Clermont London, Victoria, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Berners Tavern? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
The time has come to say farewell to London for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in England and France with fond memories. Safe travels!
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