Relaxed 12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen to Paris and Le Mans

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Caen and visit amazing attractions in Caen and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Caen. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Mémorial De Caen. This notable museum is a history-steeped place to see in Caen. Continue your discovery at Colline Aux Oiseaux, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Caen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to L'abbaye-aux-hommes. This beloved monastery offers a picture-perfect encounter with Caen. Next, make your way to St. Stephen's Church to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Caen.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Caen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Yaki Sushi, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Trattoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SASÉSU. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Caen.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vertigo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Les Déserteurs, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Vous Êtes Ici. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Caen as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Caen, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Caen will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Caen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Musée De Normandie and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Caen Castle, a breathtaking castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to The "big Bunker", one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Caen has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Refuge, a popular restaurant in Caen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Caen at L'R de rien, 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 PAUL & LÉON. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Caen tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Caen. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Boudoir. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La Garsouille offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Ranville and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Sallenelles and the village of Gonneville-en-Auge. You’ll stay in Paris for 4 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Caen, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Memorial Pegasus, an often recommended museum in the village.

There are many interesting places to see in Caen, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum And The Merville Battery Site. This is one of the village’s most up-and-coming photogenic spots of interest.

In the city of Paris, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Begin your culinary exploration in Paris by securing a reservation at Kei. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pré Catelan, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Épicure, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café De Paris V after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dirty Dick, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Paris and beyond. With 3 nights left in Paris, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Don’t miss Champs-Élysées in Versailles today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the town’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace in the town. Then, head to Arc De Triomphe and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Eiffel Tower. This is one of the town’s most globally renowned awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the wondrous Champ De Mars.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Paris and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Paris and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Boucan for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mamie Paris is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Versailles can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Paris, including an opera house, a public square, a park, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Palais Garnier. This captivating opera house is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Place De La Concorde located in Paris for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Tuileries Garden. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Musée D'orsay. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this museum. Next up is Louvre Museum, a highly recommended museum.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Paris offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Paris.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sherry Butt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Highlander, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore Rue Mouffetard, a must-see street in Paris. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Notre-dame De Paris. This notable church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Jardin Du Luxembourg, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Paris, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Panthéon. This locally renowned monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Jardin Des Plantes, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Paris. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Paris that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Paris to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Granite, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Guy Savoy, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Saint James Paris. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Paris’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Klein Holland, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tiger offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The 46 Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Le Mans. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Le Mans. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Le Mans!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Le Mans on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Royal Abbey Of Epau is your next stop. This often recommended monastery is one of the best-rated sights in Le Mans.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Water House (arche De La Nature). This stunning nature reserve is a sight to behold.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Le Mans.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Auberge des 7 Plats, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La plancha gourmande offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Savourez is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Le Mans.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Elephant Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Vaudeville is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Barouf also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Le Mans, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Le Mans allows for both. Start by heading to Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans. This intriguing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover La Nuit Des Chimères, a noteworthy art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cité Plantagenêt, a frequently visited historical landmark.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Le Mans, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Boeuf Tient le Pavé, an iconic dining spot in Le Mans. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Beaux Buns, a popular restaurant in Le Mans. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Le Grenier à Sel, a hidden gem nestled in Le Mans. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Lézard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Racines - Le Mans offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!