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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Basilique Saint Nazaire, an enchanting church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal, a curiosity-inducing castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne.

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 Carcassonne's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at V and B Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Auberge des Lices beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Adélaïde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Beaune, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Place Bellecour is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most notable places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a locally renowned church, known for its visually striking 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 Lyon Cathedral. This enchanting church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Wall Of The Canuts adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

Caluire-et-Cuire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lyon behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Caluire-et-Cuire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park in Caluire-et-Cuire. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ermitage de Corton, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistrot du Coin offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bout du Monde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Beaune.

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.

Dive into day 5 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Paris. 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 3 hours. Upon reaching Paris, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Des Plantes. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Panthéon. This well-known monument is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Jardin Du Luxembourg. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park. Next, continue your journey to Sainte Chapelle, a popular church.

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 Paris. Paris 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 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.

Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café De Paris V, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dirty Dick provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Red Door offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. La Villette is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most widely recognized places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Sacré-cœur, a globally renowned church, known for its enchanting 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 Palais Garnier. This respected opera house offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Place De La Concorde adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Arc De Triomphe, a noteworthy monument 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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Sens Unique offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Caveau de l'isle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

Keep the evening going at Prescription Cocktail Club, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Boucan, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mamie Paris, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 7 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Tuileries Garden. This impressive park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Louvre Museum, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Centre Georges Pompidou, one of the most widely recognized places to see in Paris. This art museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Notre-dame De Paris. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this church offers.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Harp Bar, 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 Le Bistro des Augustins, 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 Le Petit Châtelet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Sherry Butt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Highlander is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Sully is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Musée D'orsay. This spectacular museum is a romantic place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Pont Alexandre Iii, an enchanting monument 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 Champ De Mars. This globally renowned park offers an enchanting encounter with Paris. Eiffel Tower 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Paris and set your GPS to Versailles. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Versailles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Palace Of Versailles and explore the history-steeped features.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Relais de la Tour, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Blois.

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

On day 11 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 Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Jardin Public. This notable park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Monument Aux Girondins, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’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 Place De La Bourse. This captivating public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Miroir D'eau, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Porte De Bourgogne and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. 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 lovely meal at Restaurant La Marquière, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Métairie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!