11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling west to Bourges, Angers, Caen, Paris, and Blois

On day 2 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 Clermont-Ferrand. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bourges, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a charming, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a sacred, a symbolic, and a peaceful. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This worthwhile church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Panoramic Domes, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Montjuzet, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Clermont-Ferrand. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, L'aventure Michelin. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this museum offers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bourges. 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 Bourges's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bourges by booking a table at Le Beauvoir, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Angers, 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 Caen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Angers today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Angers Cathedral. This enchanting church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Château D'angers and learn what makes this romantic castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Arboretum Gaston Allard. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Balzac Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a highlight in Angers. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Parc De La Garenne. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.

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 Caen. Caen 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 Caen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at La Ficelle, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Galettoire beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar de la Fac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Caen tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kokomo, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Delirium Café offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Rhumba provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Ranville. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Caen, including a castle and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Caen Castle. This underrated castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Mémorial De Caen, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Colline Aux Oiseaux and explore the noteworthy features.

When you’ve had your share of Caen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ranville. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Memorial Pegasus, an often recommended 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 Paris. 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 Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Kei, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, Le Pré Catelan, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Paris is Arpège, a renowned restaurant with a 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 3 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at La Villette. This picture-perfect park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the majestic features of Sacré-cœur, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Arc De Triomphe, a globally renowned monument. For a change of scene, check out Eiffel Tower, known for its history-steeped features.

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.

Savor the flavors at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Sens Unique beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Caveau de l'isle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

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

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 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a park, a public square, an opera house and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the widely recognized Musée D'orsay. Just a short distance away is Tuileries Garden, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Place De La Concorde, one of the city’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Palais Garnier.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sherry Butt, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Highlander is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Sully also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 8 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Jardin Des Plantes is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most notable places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Sainte Chapelle, a captivating church, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Notre-dame De Paris. This enchanting church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Panthéon adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a romantic park 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.

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

Dine in style at Granite, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Guy Savoy boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Saint James Paris. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Klein Holland, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tiger, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The 46 Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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 Fontainebleau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Blois, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Versailles. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Gardens Of Versailles, an interesting botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palace Of Versailles, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings. Next, explore Marie-antoinette's Estate, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area.

After soaking in Versailles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Fontainebleau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Fontainebleau, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Palace Of Fontainebleau, a popular castle in Fontainebleau. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

As you explore more of Blois, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Blois by securing a table at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another premier location with a delectable menu.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.