11-Day France Road Trip from Tours traveling south to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, Dijon, and Fontainebleau

Welcome to Tours, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Tours's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Tours 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 Vieux Tours or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Tours. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tours. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at TIA Gourmet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Au Fût et à mesure boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tours.

Keep the evening going at Cave à Vins et à Bières Vins sur 20, Bar et soirées à thème, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to PIRAAT CAFE TOURS, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'Alexandra, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore 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 Nantes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Tours’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 1 hour 59 min. When you arrive in Nantes, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Petrified Caves is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,740 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Jardin botanique de Tours. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,560 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Tours Cathedral. The catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,212 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Château de Villandry. This château is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,506 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nantes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nantes.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Nantes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le 1, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'instinct gourmand. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nantes.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Chat noir after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Oceania Hôtel de France Nantes for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nantes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Château des ducs de Bretagne. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,724 visitors. Each year, around 167,867 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,694 reviews.

While in Nantes, we also recommend a visit to Île de Versailles (Nantes). This river island has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Machines of the Isle of Nantes. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 travelers, this art project is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Nantes.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of La Rochelle. La Rochelle offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 La Rochelle. 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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at La Boussole, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Les Flots, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palem Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

Keep the evening going at Mac Ewan's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Plan B, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Dock Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 2 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux and Lormont. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is jardin public. Previous visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Place de la Bourse is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,251 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is miroir d'eau. This reflecting pool is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,462 reviews.

Bordeaux Cathedral is another outstanding experience in Bordeaux. Around 10,591 travelers have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Lormont’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Rochelle behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 56 min. Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, La Cité du Vin is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 21,487 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Make sure to book a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Le Plana, 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 Confidentiel. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar à Vin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Comtesse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Carcassonne and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cité de Carcassonne, a remarkable fortress where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Château Comtal. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,823 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 2 hours 27 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basilica of St. Sernin, a remarkable minor basilica where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Jardin des Plantes. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,847 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to L'espace Van Gogh. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,003 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Roman Theatre of Arles. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,900 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arles, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Les Baux-de-Provence may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château des Baux-de-Provence. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Carrières des Lumières. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,791 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nimes. Nimes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Nimes's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Annaba Café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hôtel des Tuileries boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel Vatel and Spa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La bonne mousse, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, O’Flaherty’s is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, News Café 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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Nimes, and Sagriès, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Pont du Gard, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable arch bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,439 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sagriès. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Musée de la Romanité, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 25,271 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Jardin de La Fontaine. Jardin de La Fontaine is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 reviews.

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.

As you explore more of Lyon, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Café du Rhône, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vieille Canaille. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dijon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Porte des Enfants du Rhône your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,967 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at parc de la Tête d'Or. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caluire-et-Cuire. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Make Place Bellecour one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lyon Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dijon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dijon.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maison Millière - Restaurant Boutique Bar à vin et Salon de thé, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bistrot Burger? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café de l'Industrie as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dijon.

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

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Fontainebleau and Beaune. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fontainebleau. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Palace of Fontainebleau. This extraordinary château has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

Next, make your way to Diana Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 536 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beaune. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,805 reviews.

Next up is Cité des Climats et vins de Bourgogne. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 214 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Fontainebleau. Fontainebleau offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Fontainebleau. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Fontainebleau.

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

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 Cheverny, Chambord, and Chenonceaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cheverny, 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 Chambord to Cheverny may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cheverny, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Cheverny. This extraordinary château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chambord, 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 Chambord may take around 1 hour 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chambord, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Château de Chambord. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,219 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tours, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. Enjoy a delicious meal at Casse-Cailloux, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Buffalo Grill Tours, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brasserie de l'Univers. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Belle Époque offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tours. Bar Le Corsaire is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Tours before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Tours’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Tours.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Hédoniste, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Tours. 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!