11-Day France Road Trip from Clermont-Ferrand to Orléans, Paris, Metz, Mulhouse, Lyon, Marseille, and Nimes and surrounding area

Welcome to Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Clermont-Ferrand 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 place de Jaude or 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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 in Clermont-Ferrand. 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.

Savor the flavors at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Le Dôme. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Clermont-Ferrand tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les BerThoM, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Bar Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Clermont-Ferrand. The Viking Pub Counter is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Orléans. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Panoramic Domes, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,215 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at La Fontaine de la Place Delille. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 229 travelers.

L'Aventure Michelin is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,701 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Orléans. Orléans offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Orléans's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, a top-rated dining spot in Orléans. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Parenthèse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ma-Dam Restaurant coréen traiteur salon de thé orléans. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Orléans.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Versailles and Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Orléans, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Versailles may take around 1 hour 30 min. Upon your arrival in Versailles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Palace of Versailles, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 119,665 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 4,741,758 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Versailles, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Paris. Your travel time is around 36 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Arc de Triomphe. This much-appreciated triumphal arch is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 193,235 reviews. Each year, 2,743,823 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Champ de Mars. This urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 172,488 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 322,389 reviews. Every year, 6,207,303 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Tuileries Garden is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Imprévu Café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Petit Châtelet is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Guy Savoy. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café de Paris V. 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.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Musée d'Orsay. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 visitors. Each year, around 3,651,616 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to place de la Concorde. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Palais Garnier. This opera house is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Sacré-Cœur. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 travelers. Around 11,000,000 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at La Villette. This commune of france is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 56,497 travelers.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Paris has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in France by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Saint James Paris, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of To Restaurant Paris, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sherry Butt is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Highlander provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 5 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Metz, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Louvre Museum is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 visitors. Louvre Museum attracts more than 2,825,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Notre-Dame de Paris. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 travelers. Every year, 12,000,000 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Paris.

We also recommend a stop at Jardin du Luxembourg. The urban park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Panthéon. This mausoleum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,649 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Metz, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Metz, 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.

Dine in style at CHEZ BAPTISTE, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Buffalo Grill Metz boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Aloyau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Metz.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Les BerThoM Metz offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Fo'Rhum is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Aux Paraiges is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Strasbourg and Colmar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mulhouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Strasbourg, 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 Metz to Strasbourg may take around 1 hour 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Strasbourg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to place Kléber. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,963 visitors.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is another popular attraction you could visit today. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,268 visitors.

Barrage Vauban is also highly recommended by travelers. This bridge has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,371 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Strasbourg and set your GPS to Colmar. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Colmar, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc du Champ de Mars. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,547 reviews.

Petite Venise in Colmar is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This neighborhood is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,311 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Mulhouse. Mulhouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Volfoni Mulhouse, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Winstub Factory offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Au Bureau Mulhouse is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Mulhouse.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Shamrock, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Pub Murphy's offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Mulhouse. La Quille is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyon. This car ride takes around 22 min.

Journey into the unknown at parc de la Tête d'Or, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lyon, 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 Caluire-et-Cuire to Lyon may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lyon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Place Bellecour is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon.

Savor the flavors at Café du Rhône, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vieille Canaille. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Avignon and Marseille, 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 Marseille. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Palais des Papes is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. The attraction welcomes 616,210 visitors every year.

The attraction gets an estimated 616,210 visitors every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Avignon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marseille may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Marseille, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Calanques National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 visitors.

When you’re finished at Calanques National Park, head to Palais Longchamp. This one-of-a-kind water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Marseille, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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 Chez Roger, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. La dame du mont is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Polikarpov, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Au Petit Nice. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Marseille and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Les Petits Trains de Marseille your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château des Baux-de-Provence. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.

Carrières des Lumières is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,791 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nimes. Nimes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Annaba Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hôtel des Tuileries, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Vatel and Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La bonne mousse, known for its inviting atmosphere. O’Flaherty’s is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, News Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 10 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 Nimes and Générargues. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clermont-Ferrand, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Jardin de La Fontaine. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

Musée de la Romanité is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 travelers. Up to 25,271 people visit Musée de la Romanité every year.

Set your GPS to Générargues and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Générargues beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned The Bamboo Cevennes. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,234 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Clermont-Ferrand, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Clermont-Ferrand - Le Brézet, an iconic dining spot in Clermont-Ferrand. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Lard De Vivre, a popular restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Bar d'O, a hidden gem nestled in Clermont-Ferrand. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at L’Arrozoir, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kokomo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Des Beaux Arts provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Clermont-Ferrand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Clermont-Ferrand’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

Kick off the day at Jardin Lecoq, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,878 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.

You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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!