11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling west to Beaune, Paris, Blois, Bordeaux, and Carcassonne

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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Beaune, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This locally renowned church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the inviting wonders of Lyon Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that draws attention for its majestic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, a noteworthy monument that stands out in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Beaune, 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 Beaune. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ermitage de Corton, a highly-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Paris, 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 Beaune to Paris may take around 3 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Sainte Chapelle, a captivating church that draws visitors from near and far. Next, explore Notre-dame De Paris, yet another captivating place 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 your accommodation in Paris. Paris 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 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.

Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café De Paris V, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dirty Dick. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Little Red Door, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 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.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a respected, a remarkable, and a grand. Start at the widely recognized Tuileries Garden, an enchanting park in Paris. Next, go to Musée D'orsay.

After visiting Tuileries Garden and Musée D'orsay, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Les Invalides. This standout museum offers a unique experience. Champ De Mars is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Eiffel Tower, one of the most history-steeped places to visit 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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, 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 Sens Unique, 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 Caveau de l'isle. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Boucan offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Mamie Paris is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 5 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Paris, including a public square, an opera house, a church, a park and much more! Start your day at Place De La Concorde. This romantic public square is a famous place to see in Paris. Then, wander over to Palais Garnier. If enchanting sites excite you, this opera house will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Sacré-cœur. This majestic church is a favorite among visitors.

Paris offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, La Villette is an astonishing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Bistro des Augustins, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Petit Châtelet. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sherry Butt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Highlander for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Sully is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 - Paris and Versailles. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blois. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a monument, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Jardin Des Plantes. Just a short distance away is Panthéon, a picture-perfect monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Jardin Du Luxembourg, one of the city’s most famous spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the wondrous Arc De Triomphe.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Palace Of Versailles, a wondrous palace 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 Blois. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Relais de la Tour, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Blois.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bordeaux is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, an art installation, a monument, a park, a public square and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. Just a short distance away is Miroir D'eau, a romantic art installation that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Monument Aux Girondins, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Jardin Public. Last up on today’s itinerary is a public square. Make your way to Place De La Bourse for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Bordeaux.

Lormont’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Betasom is a curiosity-inducing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Grizzly Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. The Dog And Duck is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux and Toulouse, 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a heritage-rich, and a majestic. Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Porte Cailhau is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic monument before continuing your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toulouse, 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 Bordeaux to Toulouse may take around 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Basilica Of St. Sernin, an interesting church in Toulouse. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Jardin Des Plantes. This intriguing botanical garden is a top recommendation 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 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

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

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 Carcassonne and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of a charming, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing castle, Château Comtal. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne. A visit to this castle is an enriching experience for all.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nimes. This car ride takes around 2 hours 2 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin De La Fontaine, a locally renowned park known for its visually striking features.

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

As you explore more of Lyon, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Bernachon Chocolats, 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 La Mère Léa. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The James Joyce Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Broc'bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Passagère 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.