11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Lyon, Beaune, Paris, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand
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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 Montpellier, Nimes, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand. 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 3 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Orléans, and 1 night in Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Montpellier, 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 Montpellier, Nimes, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand, 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Montpellier - arrival day
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Montpellier and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Montpellier for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier. 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 Le Palavasien, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Enfants Rouges boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Tord Boyaux. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Montpellier
- Montpellier
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Drive 20 km, 59 min
- Comedy Square
- Planet Ocean World
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- promenade of Peyrou
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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Montpellier. You have 1 night left in Montpellier. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Montpellier is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a scenic, and a grand! Start at Comedy Square, a well-known public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Planet Ocean World, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This park is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Montpellier at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. After exploring the botanical garden, head to the increasingly popular Promenade Of Peyrou. This public square will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour 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 Montpellier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Montpellier at La Banane, 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 Troc. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Montpellier tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Black Out, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Petit Nice is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Montpellier, Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon
- Montpellier
- Nîmes
- Lyon
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Drive 332 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- Pont du Gard
- Comedy Square
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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 Nimes and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Nimes allows for both.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nimes, 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 Montpellier to Nimes may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nimes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jardin De La Fontaine, an interesting park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Musée De La Romanité, where you can soak in the standout surroundings.
Set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Pont Du Gard, a popular monument that draws attention for its enchanting features.
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.
Savor the flavors at Nuage café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café du Rhône beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Agastache Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at L' Antiquaire, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Forest Society, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pompette provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Beaune
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Beaune
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 21 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Place Bellecour
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Beaune. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a church and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This captivating church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lyon Cathedral, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Lyon 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 Place Bellecour, one of the city’s most popular public square.
After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc De La Tête D'or, an extraordinary park that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Beaune. 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 Beaune's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ermitage de Corton, an iconic dining spot in Beaune. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bistrot du Coin, a popular restaurant in Beaune. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Bout du Monde, a hidden gem nestled in Beaune. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 5 – Beaune and Paris
- Beaune
- Paris
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Drive 311 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Sainte Chapelle
- The Centre Pompidou
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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On day 5 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.
After soaking in Beaune’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Paris. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 6 min. When you arrive in Paris, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Sainte Chapelle and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Centre Georges Pompidou, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the art museum, continue to Notre-dame De Paris, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café De Paris V offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dirty Dick is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Red Door is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 13 km, 43 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- 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 2 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 charming, an enchanting, a picture-perfect, a standout, a symbolic, and a noteworthy. Start at Champ De Mars, an iconic park in the city. Then, head to Eiffel Tower and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Paris and when you are ready for more, go to Tuileries Garden. This is one of the city’s most astonishing spots. After exploring the park, visit the top-rated Musée D'orsay. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the globally renowned Louvre Museum, a globally renowned museum 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.
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 delicious dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Sens Unique offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Caveau de l'isle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- La Villette
- Vincennes Woods
- Jardin des plantes
- Panthéon
- Louvre Museum
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including a church, a park, a botanical garden, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Sacré-cœur. This timeless church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of La Villette, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Bois De Vincennes. This captivating park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Jardin Des Plantes, where you can take in its awe-inspiring features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Panthéon. This historic monument offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Harp Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 8 – Paris, Versailles, and Orléans
- Paris
- Versailles
- Orléans
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Drive 162 km, 2 hours 45 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Palais Garnier
- place de la Concorde
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
- Louvre Museum
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris and 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 Orléans. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a standout, a remarkable, and a symbolic. Whether you decide to explore Paris on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jardin Du Luxembourg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking park before continuing your journey. Palais Garnier is your next stop. This locally renowned opera house is one of the best-rated sights in Paris.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Place De La Concorde. This romantic public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Arc De Triomphe.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Versailles. This car ride takes around 35 min.
Palace Of Versailles is a world-famous palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Orléans, 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 Orléans. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant des Plantes, a top-rated dining spot in Orléans. If you're in the mood for something new, try Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Paul & Juliette. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Orléans.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Moog, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Java Pop offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Charbon provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 9 – Orléans and Clermont-Ferrand
- Orléans
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 305 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Parc Pasteur d'Orléans
- Orléans Cathedral
- George V Bridge, Orléans
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Orléans. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Clermont-Ferrand, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Orléans is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a serene, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a stunning, a majestic, and a noteworthy! Start at Parc Pasteur D'orléans, an up-and-coming park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Orléans Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Statue De Jeanne D'arc. This monument is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Orléans at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit George V Bridge, Orléans.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Clermont-Ferrand. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a highly-rated dining destination in Clermont-Ferrand. If you're eager to try something different, consider Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Clermont-Ferrand this evening.
Keep the evening going at Les Berthom, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Bar Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Viking Pub Counter, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 10 – Clermont-Ferrand and Montpellier
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Montpellier
- More
Drive 355 km, 4 hours 13 min
- place de Jaude
- Jardin Lecoq
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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 Clermont-Ferrand. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a symbolic, a remarkable, and a serene in Clermont-Ferrand. Begin your sightseeing with Place De Jaude. This well-known public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Panoramic Domes, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Clermont-Ferrand, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Jardin Lecoq. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite.
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 Montpellier. Montpellier 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 Montpellier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, an iconic dining spot in Montpellier. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Balthazar café & restaurant, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Georges Café Montpellier, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Du Port. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 11 – Montpellier - departure day
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
- Comedy Square
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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 Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Montpellier’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Aqueduc Saint-clément 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 Montpellier.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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