10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Valence, Beaune, Paris, Auxerre, and Lyon
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Montpellier, Valence, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Auxerre, and Nimes.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Valence, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Auxerre, and 1 night in Lyon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Montpellier, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Champ De Mars, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sacré-cœur.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Valence, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Auxerre, and Nimes, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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Welcome to Montpellier, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Montpellier 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 Aqueduc Saint-clément, 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Palavasien, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Enfants Rouges, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Tord Boyaux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Triskell Montpellier, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kraken Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Rebuffy offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Montpellier
- Valence
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Planet Ocean World
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Montpellier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This intriguing botanical garden is a standout place to see in Montpellier. Continue your discovery at Comedy Square, a visually striking public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Montpellier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This frequently visited park offers an enchanting encounter with Montpellier. Next, make your way to Planet Ocean World to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Montpellier.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Valence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Les Cèdres - Bertrand Frères, a top pick for dinner tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3
- Valence
- Beaune
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 40 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Place Bellecour
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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On day 3 of your road trip in 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 in Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Beaune, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Valence on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known church, Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Afterward, continue to Lyon Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Valence’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Place Bellecour. This interesting public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Parc De La Tête D'or, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Beaune. Beaune offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Beaune's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining spot in Beaune. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Bistrot du Coin, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Bout du Monde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Beaune.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 4
- Beaune
- Paris
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Drive 317 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Palace of Fontainebleau
- Jardin des plantes
- Sainte Chapelle
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Fontainebleau and Paris, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Paris. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Immerse yourself in Beaune’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Palace Of Fontainebleau. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Jardin Des Plantes, a must-visit botanical garden in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Sainte Chapelle, a locally renowned church. For a change of scene, check out Notre-dame De Paris, known for its majestic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Paris, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café De Paris V. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dirty Dick, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Paris
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Drive 7 km, 55 min
- Pont Alexandre III
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
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Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Pont Alexandre Iii. This interesting monument is a remarkable place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Place De La Concorde, a visually striking public square 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 Tuileries Garden. This widely recognized park offers an enchanting encounter with Paris. Next, make your way to Musée D'orsay to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Louvre Museum, a world-famous museum that’s sure to impress. 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.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Boucan is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mamie Paris is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Paris
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Sacré-cœur, a wondrous church in the city. Then, head to Palais Garnier and soak in the ambiance of this romantic opera house.
There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Arc De Triomphe. This is one of the city’s most globally renowned remarkable spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the globally renowned Eiffel Tower. Not far away, you'll also find Champ De Mars. This park is an instagrammable highlight in Paris.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sherry Butt, known for its lively atmosphere. The Highlander is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Paris
- Auxerre
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Drive 232 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Panthéon
- Vincennes Woods
- La Villette
- Palace of Versailles
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Paris and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Auxerre, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, and a palace. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary Jardin Du Luxembourg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Panthéon, a breathtaking monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Bois De Vincennes, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the spectacular La Villette. When you're finished at the park, Palace Of Versailles awaits your visit. This palace is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Auxerre, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Auxerre's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 8
- Auxerre
- Beaune
- Lyon
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Drive 303 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Park Bouzaise
- La Moutarderie Fallot
- Basilica of Our Lady
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Beaune. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Auxerre on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Park Bouzaise is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. La Moutarderie Fallot is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Auxerre.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Basilica Of Our Lady. This culturally significant church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nuage café, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café du Rhône? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Agastache Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. L' Antiquaire is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Society, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pompette. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 9
- Lyon
- Montpellier
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Drive 312 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Carré d'Art
- Museum Romanité
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nimes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Montpellier. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Jardin De La Fontaine, a captivating park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Carré D'art, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Musée De La Romanité. This museum is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montpellier. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Banane, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Black Out, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Petit Nice, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Espit Chupitos Montpellier likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 10
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Day 10 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Arc De Triomphe. This frequently visited monument is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Odysseum. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Balthazar café & restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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