11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Paris to Caen, Nantes, Tours, Orléans, and Fontainebleau
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 11-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Paris, Rouen, Caen, Avranches, Rennes, Nantes, Angers, Tours, Amboise, Orléans, Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Serris.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Paris, 1 night in Caen, 2 nights in Nantes, 1 night in Tours, 1 night in Orléans, and 1 night in Fontainebleau. 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 Paris, 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 Paris, Rouen, Caen, Avranches, Rennes, Nantes, Angers, Tours, Amboise, Orléans, Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Serris, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Paris - Arrival day
- More
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Paris and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Paris for 3 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.
Paris 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 Jardin Du Luxembourg 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 Paris. 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, 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 Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café De Paris V, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dirty Dick is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Little Red Door also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Paris
- More
Drive 33 km, 1 hour 30 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- More
Day 2 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.
Today’s agenda in Paris includes a park, a church, a monument, a public square, a museum and much more! La Villette is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sacré-cœur, a timeless church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe, a visually striking monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Paris. If you’re looking for more, Place De La Concorde is also a spectacular attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Tuileries Garden, a spectacular gem to see 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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3
- Paris
- More
Drive 13 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Panthéon
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- More
Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a museum, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Panthéon. Just a short distance away is Musée D'orsay, a history-steeped museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Eiffel Tower, one of the city’s most wondrous spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the timeless Champ De Mars.
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.
Dine in style at The Harp Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Bistro des Augustins boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Petit Châtelet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sherry Butt, known for its lively atmosphere. The Highlander is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Paris
- Rouen
- Caen
- More
Drive 276 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Rouen Cathedral
- place du Vieux-Marché
- Mémorial de Caen
- Caen Castle
- Louvre Museum
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rouen and Caen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Caen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Rouen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Paris and set your GPS to Rouen. 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 1 hour 51 min. Upon reaching Rouen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Rouen Cathedral, a notable church that everyone visiting Rouen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Place Du Vieux-marché. This symbolic public square is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Mémorial De Caen, a well-known museum in Caen. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Caen Castle. This frequently visited castle is a top recommendation in the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Caen, 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 Caen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at La Ficelle, a popular restaurant in Caen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Caen at La Galettoire, 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 Bar de la Fac. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Caen tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Kokomo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Delirium Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Rhumba is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5
- Caen
- Avranches
- Rennes
- Nantes
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Drive 296 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Scriptorial
- Parc Hamelin Oberthür
- parc du Thabor
- BRAIN
- Caen Castle
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Avranches and Rennes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Avranches. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.
Set your GPS to Avranches and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avranches beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Scriptorial, a worthwhile museum known for its instagrammable features.
Rennes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avranches behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Rennes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Parc Hamelin Oberthür, a locally appreciated park that everyone visiting Rennes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Parc Du Thabor. This mesmerizing park is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.
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 Nantes. Nantes 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 Nantes. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Gigg's Irish Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Parallèle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nantes.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Chat Noir, known for its lively atmosphere. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 6
- Nantes
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Puy du Fou
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- Botanical Garden
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Nantes, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Discover a day packed with a stunning, an eye-catching, a masterful, a charming, and a picturesque in Nantes. Begin your sightseeing with Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This locally renowned art installation is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Botanical Garden, another must-visit attraction that enhances the hamlet’s allure.
Set your GPS to La Forge and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Forge beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Puy Du Fou and explore the breathtaking features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nantes.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nantes. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Cigale, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Abbaye de Villeneuve is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nantes.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Berthom stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Coffee House offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bateau-lavoir is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Nantes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Nantes
- Angers
- Tours
- More
Drive 235 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Balzac Park
- Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
- Château d'Angers
- Château de Villandry
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- Botanical Garden
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Angers and Tours, 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 Tours. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Angers. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Angers, it's time to take a break from the road.
Balzac Park is a worthwhile park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers, a mesmerizing botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Château D'angers, an enchanting castle.
After soaking in Angers’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tours. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 2 min. When you arrive in Tours, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Château De Villandry, a locally renowned castle known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Tours Cathedral, an increasingly popular church 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 Tours. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tours's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at TIA Gourmet, a highly-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Bartavelles, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Piraat Cafe Tours, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, L'alexandra also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 8
- Tours
- Amboise
- Orléans
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Drive 160 km, 2 hours 29 min
- Château d'Amboise
- Chapel of Saint-Hubert
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- More
On day 8 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 Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Orléans, where you will stay for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Amboise, 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 Loches to Amboise may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amboise, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Château D'amboise is a popular château we recommend making time to visit today.
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.
As you explore more of Orléans, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant des Plantes, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Paul & Juliette. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Orléans.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Moog after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Java Pop for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Charbon is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Orléans and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 9
- Orléans
- Versailles
- Fontainebleau
- More
Drive 305 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Versailles cathedral
- Gardens of Versailles
- Palace of Versailles
- More
On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Versailles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Fontainebleau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Blois, 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 1 hour 50 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Versailles Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Gardens Of Versailles. This captivating botanical garden is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Palace Of Versailles. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace.
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 Fontainebleau. Fontainebleau 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 Fontainebleau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Head back to your accommodation in Fontainebleau and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 10
- Fontainebleau
- Serris
- Paris
- More
Drive 120 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Palace of Fontainebleau
- Forêt de Fontainebleau
- Disneyland Paris
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Fontainebleau and Serris. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Fontainebleau, featuring a charming, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at Palace Of Fontainebleau, a well-known castle in the town.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Fontainebleau and set your GPS to Serris. 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 1 hour 1 min. Upon reaching Serris, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Forêt De Fontainebleau, an up-and-coming nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Serris, 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 Fontainebleau to Serris may take around 1 hour 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Serris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Disneyland Paris, an iconic amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Granite, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Guy Savoy? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Saint James Paris as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Klein Holland. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Tiger offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The 46 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11
- Paris - Departure day
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- Jardin des plantes
- Louvre Museum
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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 Paris before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Paris’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Today’s route brings a charming, a scenic, a breathtaking, a photogenic, and a historically significant. The first attraction of today is Jardin Des Plantes. This captivating botanical garden is a standout place to see in Paris.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Paris.
You’ll then say farewell to Paris. 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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