12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Carcassonne, Lyon, Beaune, Paris, and Blois

On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bordeaux and Lormont to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bordeaux, including a church, an art installation, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Bordeaux Cathedral. This popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Miroir D'eau located in Bordeaux for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Place De La Bourse. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porte Cailhau. This monument has a respected appeal.

Set your GPS to Lormont and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lormont beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum that everyone visiting Lormont should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Soléna, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hôtel De Sèze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Dog And Duck is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Toulouse and Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Toulouse today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Basilica Of St. Sernin, an interesting church in Toulouse. Explore its grand features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Jardin Des Plantes. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a top recommendation in the area.

After soaking in Toulouse’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Carcassonne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Carcassonne, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cité De Carcassonne. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Comtal. This locally appreciated castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Beaune, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most interesting places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Lyon Cathedral, a captivating church, known for its inviting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Place Bellecour. This enchanting public square offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a famous park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking in Caluire-et-Cuire’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Vaulx-en-velin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Vaulx-en-velin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Grand Parc Miribel Jonage is a notable park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Beaune, 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 Beaune. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Ermitage de Corton, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistrot du Coin? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Bout du Monde as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Beaune.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Paris. This car ride takes around 3 hours 4 min.

Make your way to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a top-rated park that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Panthéon, a standout monument that stands out in the city. Next, visit Sainte Chapelle, a popular church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Centre Georges Pompidou, a nearby art museum, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated L'Imprévu Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café De Paris V, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dirty Dick, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Red Door provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including an opera house, a museum, a monument, a church, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Palais Garnier. This notable opera house is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Louvre Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Pont Neuf. This interesting monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Notre-dame De Paris, where you can take in its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This standout botanical garden offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prescription Cocktail Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Boucan provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mamie Paris offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is La Villette. This impressive park is an awe-inspiring place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Sacré-cœur, a romantic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Place De La Concorde. This astonishing public square offers a history-steeped encounter with Paris. Tuileries Garden is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Paris.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Sherry Butt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Highlander offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Le Sully is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 - Paris and Versailles. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Blois. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Paris allows for both. Start by heading to Pont Alexandre Iii. This popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Champ De Mars, an enchanting park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Eiffel Tower, a timeless monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the world-famous Arc De Triomphe.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Versailles. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Head to Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace in Versailles. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Relais de la Tour, a highly-rated dining destination in Blois.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!