11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Paris traveling south to Blois, Bordeaux, Nantes, and Caen
Description
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 Paris, Blois, Amboise, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Nantes, Rennes, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Caen, Versailles, and Noisiel. 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 4 nights in Paris, 1 night in Blois, 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Nantes, and 1 night in Caen. 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, Blois, Amboise, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Nantes, Rennes, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Caen, Versailles, and Noisiel, 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 – Paris - arrival day
- Paris - Arrival day
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- Jardin du Luxembourg
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Say hello to Paris! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Paris for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Paris. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Mumi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Imprévu Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café De Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- 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.
Get ready for a day filled with a charming, a stunning, a photogenic, a heritage-rich, an inviting, a majestic, and a detailed in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Sacré-cœur, a globally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palais Garnier. This interesting opera house is known for its enchanting 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 Arc De Triomphe. This detailed monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Eiffel Tower is also worth visiting, along with Champ De Mars. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 delightful dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Sens Unique? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Caveau de l'isle as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
Continue your lively evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Boucan is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mamie Paris ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 3 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Panthéon
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- place de la Concorde
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Day 3 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Paris, including a monument, a museum, a park, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Panthéon. This captivating monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Musée D'orsay located in Paris for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Tuileries Garden. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Place De La Concorde. This public square has a noteworthy appeal.
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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Sherry Butt, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Highlander. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Sully, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4 – Paris and Blois
- Paris
- Blois
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Louvre Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Blois. 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.
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 Blois. Blois 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Relais de la Tour, an iconic dining spot in Blois. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a popular restaurant in Blois. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Say good night to Blois and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Blois, Amboise, and Bordeaux
- Blois
- Amboise
- Bordeaux
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Drive 432 km, 4 hours 47 min
- Château d'Amboise
- Château de Blois
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Amboise. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Château De Blois is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day.
Amboise’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Blois behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Amboise welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Chapel Of Saint-hubert and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Château D'amboise, another highlight in the town.
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.
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 Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Brun, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mushroom Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whose Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 6 – Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont
- Bordeaux
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Drive 16 km, 59 min
- Porte Cailhau
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Le Bouscat. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, an enchanting, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a masterful in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Porte Cailhau. This intriguing monument is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Place De La Bourse, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Miroir D'eau. This notable art installation is a traveler-favorite.
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 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.
Savor the flavors at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Soléna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel De Sèze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
Keep the evening going at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Grizzly Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Dog And Duck, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 7 – Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
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Drive 5 km, 1 hour 2 min
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
- place de la Bourse
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bordeaux for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a museum, a church, a monument, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This is a worthwhile historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, an up-and-coming museum in Bordeaux.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Bordeaux Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Monument Aux Girondins, another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with an eye-catching park. Jardin Public is a truly remarkable place to visit in Bordeaux.
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 Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Locadillos, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Le Plana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Blind. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Casey's Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Bar À Vin offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Thecity 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!
Day 8 – Bordeaux and Nantes
- Bordeaux
- Nantes
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Drive 352 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- Le Lieu unique
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- place de la Bourse
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nantes, 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 Nantes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nantes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 21 min. When you arrive in Nantes, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a captivating art installation in Nantes. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Le Lieu Unique. This often recommended cultural center is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Botanical Garden is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most mesmerizing botanical garden in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Château Des Ducs De Bretagne and discover what makes this castle unique.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nantes, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nantes's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Parallèle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Chat Noir, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 9 – Nantes, Rennes, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, and Caen
- Nantes
- Rennes
- Le Mont-Saint-Michel
- Caen
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Drive 297 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Space Sciences
- parc du Thabor
- Mont Saint-Michel
- Botanical Garden
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On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Rennes and Le Mont-Saint-Michel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Caen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nantes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rennes. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Parc Du Thabor, a romantic park that stands out in the city.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Mont-Saint-Michel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Le Mont-saint-michel, an impressive monastery that everyone visiting Le Mont-Saint-Michel should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Caen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Ficelle, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Galettoire is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar de la Fac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Caen tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kokomo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Delirium Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, La Rhumba provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Caen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 10 – Caen, Versailles, Noisiel, and Paris
- Caen
- Versailles
- Noisiel
- Paris
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Drive 308 km, 4 hours
- Marie-Antoinette's Estate
- Palace of Versailles
- Gardens of Versailles
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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 Versailles and Noisiel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 1 night.
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 Versailles may take around 2 hours 21 min. Upon your arrival in Versailles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Marie-antoinette's Estate is a locally appreciated palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Palace Of Versailles, a visually striking palace that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Gardens Of Versailles, a history-steeped botanical garden.
After soaking in Versailles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Noisiel. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 44 min. When you arrive in Noisiel, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Parc De Noisiel, an up-and-coming park in Noisiel.
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 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 book a table at Granite, 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 Restaurant Guy Savoy, 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 Saint James Paris. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Klein Holland is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Tiger, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The 46 Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 11 – Paris - departure day
- 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.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Paris's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Start your day with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This notable botanical garden is a must-visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Paris.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Paris Paris, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
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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