11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling east to Carcassonne, Limoges, Blois, Paris, and Nantes
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Carcassonne, Padirac, Limoges, Amboise, Blois, Brie-comte-robert, Paris, Versailles, Angers, and Nantes. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Bordeaux, 1 night in Carcassonne, 1 night in Limoges, 1 night in Blois, 4 nights in Paris, and 1 night in Nantes. 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 Bordeaux, 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Carcassonne, Padirac, Limoges, Amboise, Blois, Brie-comte-robert, Paris, Versailles, Angers, and Nantes, 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!
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Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
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- jardin public
- More
Welcome to Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public or 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 Bordeaux. 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 in Bordeaux. 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 wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Brun. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Whose Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, and Carcassonne
- Bordeaux
- Le Bouscat
- Lormont
- Carcassonne
- More
Drive 351 km, 4 hours 5 min
- parc bordelais
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Le Bouscat, Lormont, and Bordeaux, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Place De La Bourse. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Miroir D'eau and learn what makes this noteworthy art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Le Bouscat’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. Le Bouscat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Parc Bordelais, an often recommended park known for its mesmerizing features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Le Bouscat and set your GPS to Lormont. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Lormont, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at La Cité Du Vin, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3 – Carcassonne, Padirac, and Limoges
- Carcassonne
- Padirac
- Limoges
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Drive 413 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Padirac Cave
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Carcassonne and Padirac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limoges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, a stunning, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated in the charming town of Carcassonne. Your adventure starts at Château Comtal, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cité De Carcassonne. This impressive castle is known for its history-steeped appeal.
After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Padirac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 50 min. When you arrive in Padirac, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Padirac Cave and explore the instagrammable features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Limoges. Limoges offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Limoges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Paris, a top-rated dining spot in Limoges. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Pont Saint Etienne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Geyracois. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Limoges.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Chez Bernard, a top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4 – Limoges, Amboise, and Blois
- Limoges
- Amboise
- Blois
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Château d'Amboise
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On day 4 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 Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blois, where you will stay for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Amboise. This car ride takes around 5 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Château D'amboise, a popular château that everyone visiting Amboise should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to L'ile D'or.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Blois, 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 Blois's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Relais de la Tour, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5 – Blois, Brie-comte-robert, and Paris
- Blois
- Paris
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Château de Blois
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Blois and Brie-comte-robert. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Paris. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of a romantic, an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a historic, and a grand. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Château De Blois. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Jacques-gabriel Bridge, one of the town’s most promising highlights.
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.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Sacré-Cœur
- La Villette
- Louvre Museum
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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 3 nights 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 a romantic, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a majestic, a detailed, and a culturally significant. Start at Champ De Mars, a world-famous park in the city. Then, head to Eiffel Tower and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant monument.
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 world-famous spots. After exploring the monument, visit the timeless Sacré-cœur. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the astonishing La Villette, an astonishing park in the city.
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 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Boucan is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mamie Paris also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 13 km, 49 min
- Palais Garnier
- Louvre Museum
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
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Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Paris, including an opera house, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Palais Garnier. This notable opera house is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Place De La Concorde, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Paris 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 Tuileries Garden, one of the city’s most spectacular park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Musée D'orsay.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at The Harp Bar, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Bistro des Augustins, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Petit Châtelet. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, another top-rated bar in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 8 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 7 km, 33 min
- Jardin des plantes
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Sainte Chapelle
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Louvre Museum
- More
Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a monument, a park, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Jardin Des Plantes. Just a short distance away is Panthéon, a culturally significant monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Jardin Du Luxembourg, one of the city’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Sainte Chapelle. Last up on today’s itinerary is a church. Make your way to Notre-dame De Paris for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of 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 Granite, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Guy Savoy offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Saint James Paris. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Klein Holland, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Tiger, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The 46 Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – Paris, Versailles, Angers, and Nantes
- Paris
- Versailles
- Angers
- Nantes
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Drive 411 km, 4 hours 31 min
- Palace of Versailles
- Gardens of Versailles
- Château d'Angers
- Louvre Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Versailles and Angers. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Palace Of Versailles, a wondrous palace that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gardens Of Versailles, a visually striking botanical garden that stands out in the town.
Set your GPS to Angers and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Angers beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château D'angers, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Nantes. Nantes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nantes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Parallèle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nantes tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Chat Noir, known for its inviting atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 10 – Nantes and Bordeaux
- Nantes
- Bordeaux
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Drive 353 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Le Lieu unique
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
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Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nantes, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nantes, including a botanical garden, a castle, a cultural center, an art installation and much more! Start your day with a visit to Botanical Garden. This captivating botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Nantes 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 Le Lieu Unique, one of the city’s most locally appreciated cultural center. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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.
Dine in style at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Soléna boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel De Sèze. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grizzly Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Dog And Duck is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 11 – Bordeaux - departure day
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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- Monument aux Girondins
- place de la Bourse
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Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bordeaux’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Monument Aux Girondins is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux.
You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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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