11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Angers, Paris, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand

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 Montpellier and Castelnau-le-Lez. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings an eye-catching, an enchanting, a standout, an inviting, a grand, a charming, and a picturesque. The first attraction of today is La Panacée. This intriguing art gallery is an eye-catching place to see in Montpellier. Continue your discovery at Montpellier Cathedral, a stunning church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Montpellier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This often recommended botanical garden offers a mesmerizing encounter with Montpellier.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Montpellier, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Castelnau-le-Lez. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Parc Du Domaine De Méric, a worthwhile park that draws attention for its majestic features.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Château Comtal, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile castle renowned for its majestic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Carcassonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This history-steeped castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

Bordeaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 11 min. Bordeaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Miroir D'eau, an interesting art installation known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, 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 Clemenceau. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.

Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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 3 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux, Lormont, and La Trezanne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your adventure at Monument Aux Girondins. This underrated monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lormont. This drive usually takes around 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to La Cité Du Vin, a locally renowned museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Trezanne. This car ride takes around 2 hours 40 min.

Head to The Potager Extraordinaire, an intriguing botanical garden in La Trezanne. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Angers, 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 Angers, 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 Wallaby's Australian Café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Cour - Angers boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Brasserie de la Gare. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Angers.

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

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

On day 5 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 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Angers, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Versailles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 44 min.

Head to Palace Of Versailles, a wondrous palace in Versailles. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Versailles to Paris may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Next, make your way to Notre-dame De Paris, another highlight in the town.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Mumi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider L'Imprévu Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

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.

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 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.

A blend of a charming, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a symbolic, a noteworthy, and a stunning await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the globally renowned park, Champ De Mars. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Eiffel Tower. A visit to this monument is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Arc De Triomphe. This globally renowned monument is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Sacré-cœur, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit La Villette and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most spectacular attractions.

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with a charming, an idyllic, an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a detailed, and a majestic in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Jardin Des Plantes, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Musée D'orsay. This extraordinary museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Paris's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Tuileries Garden. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Place De La Concorde is also worth visiting.

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 The Harp Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistro des Augustins beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Petit Châtelet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Sherry Butt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Highlander is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Sully 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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris and Serris, 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 agenda in Paris includes a park and a monument. Jardin Du Luxembourg is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Panthéon, a well-known monument, located just a leisurely stroll away.

After soaking in Paris’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Serris. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 37 min. When you arrive in Serris, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Disneyland Paris.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant des Plantes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Paul & Juliette is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Orléans.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Moog, known for its inviting atmosphere. Java Pop is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Charbon provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Clermont-Ferrand. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Clermont-Ferrand is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a breathtaking, an instagrammable, a historic, a culturally significant, a detailed, an inviting, and a majestic! Start at Place De Jaude, a captivating public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Clermont-ferrand Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at Parc Pierre Montgroux. This park is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Banane, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Black Out after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Petit Nice for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Espit Chupitos Montpellier is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!