11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Toulouse, Limoges, Blois, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Nimes

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Castelnaudary. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a castle and a church. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This up-and-coming castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne located in Carcassonne for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cité De Carcassonne. Its UNESCO world heritage-listed features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church has an enchanting appeal.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Castelnaudary. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Écluses De Saint-roch and explore the gorgeous features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Toulouse by securing a reservation at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Hedone, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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 Toulouse and Padirac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limoges, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Toulouse allows for both. Start by heading to Square Charles De Gaulle. This increasingly popular public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Basilica Of St. Sernin, a picture-perfect church, promising a delightful encounter.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Toulouse and set your GPS to Padirac. 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 2 hours. Upon reaching Padirac, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Padirac Cave is a captivating cave we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Limoges. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Chez Bernard, a top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Amboise and Chargé. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Blois, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Amboise, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Loches to Amboise may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amboise, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château D'amboise, an interesting château that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Chapel Of Saint-hubert, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Blois's best restaurants.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Blois by booking a table at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Head back to your accommodation in Blois and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles, 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 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Versailles. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

Gardens Of Versailles is a captivating botanical garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its remarkable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Palace Of Versailles, a visually striking palace that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Grand Trianon, a respected palace. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Marie-antoinette's Estate, an UNESCO world heritage-designated and truly unique palace.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Kei in Paris by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Kei offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Le Pré Catelan, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and contemporary cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Épicure, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Keep the evening going at Café De Paris V, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dirty Dick, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Red Door, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Le Marais, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Paris, including a church and a monument. Start your adventure at Sacré-cœur. This iconic church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Arc De Triomphe located in Paris for an enchanting atmosphere.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Auxerre. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Jardin Du Luxembourg, a widely recognized park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Louvre Museum, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Tuileries Garden. This park is one of the city’s most famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Eiffel Tower. After exploring the monument, head to the globally renowned Champ De Mars. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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 Auxerre. Auxerre 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 explore more of Auxerre, 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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Beaune. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Beaune and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beaune beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Park Bouzaise and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Basilica Of Our Lady, another highlight in the town. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune, a respected museum. Nearby, you will also find La Moutarderie Fallot. This underrated museum is a top place to see in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

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

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.

On day 9 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 Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This well-known church is a romantic place to see in Lyon.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, a top-rated park known for its mesmerizing features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nimes is Rouge, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Bonne Mousse offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, O’flaherty’s is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. News Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Say good night to Nimes and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Nimes covers several incredible sights, including a museum and a park. Start your adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This worthwhile museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Jardin De La Fontaine, a must-see park in the city.

Set your GPS to Sagriès and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sagriès beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Haribo Candy Museum, a locally renowned museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sagriès, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Du Gard, a well-known monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des Lices, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!