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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Explore France and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Ranville, Gonneville-en-Auge, Paris, and Versailles. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Caen. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Ficelle, a popular restaurant in Caen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Caen at La Galettoire, 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 Bar de la Fac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Caen tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kokomo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Delirium Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Rhumba. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Start by visiting Colline Aux Oiseaux, a prime spot to begin your journey. This idyllic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Mémorial De Caen, another must-visit landmark and interesting museum renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Caen by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to L'abbaye-aux-hommes. This breathtaking monastery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Caen experience. We also recommend visiting The "big Bunker", a beloved museum.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Yaki Sushi, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Trattoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SASÉSU. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

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, Vertigo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Les Déserteurs is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Vous Êtes Ici is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Caen
  • Paris
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 41 min

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Ranville and drive in the direction of the village of Gonneville-en-Auge for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Paris, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Memorial Pegasus is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Museum And The Merville Battery Site, an increasingly popular museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Parc Zoologique De Lisieux, a mesmerizing zoo, also available for your discovery today.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Paris in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Paris by securing a reservation at Kei. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pré Catelan, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Épicure, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café De Paris V after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dirty Dick, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Paris
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 17 min

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

A top thing to do today is to explore Le Marais, a must-see neighborhood in Paris. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Montmartre, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is La Villette. This widely recognized park is a picture-perfect place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Sacré-cœur, a history-steeped church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Louvre Museum. This timeless museum offers a historic encounter with Paris. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Paris.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 a lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at Prescription Cocktail Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Boucan, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mamie Paris, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 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

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Paris. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Arc De Triomphe. This is a wondrous monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Place De La Concorde, a famous public square in Paris.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Tuileries Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Musée D'orsay, another of the city’s astonishing attractions.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Paris offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Sherry Butt, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Highlander. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Sully, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • Caen
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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!

Start by visiting Jardin Des Plantes, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Jardin Du Luxembourg, another must-visit landmark and top-rated park renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Paris by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Champ De Mars. This instagrammable park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Paris experience. We also recommend visiting Eiffel Tower, a world-famous monument. Nearby, you'll also find Palace Of Versailles, ready to add charm to your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Caen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Caen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Refuge, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'R de rien? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at PAUL & LÉON as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Caen.

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 Caen. The bars in Caen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Boudoir after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Garsouille for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed 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 intriguing 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.

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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