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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of a charming, an enchanting, a photogenic, a respected, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a sacred await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the famous castle, Cité De Carcassonne. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Basilique Saint Nazaire. A visit to this church is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Château Comtal. This intriguing castle is an essential stop that should not be missed.

Set your GPS to Lastours and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lastours beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

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.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limoges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Toulouse allows for both.

Toulouse’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. Toulouse welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Jardin Des Plantes is an intriguing botanical garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a stunning church that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Couvent Des Jacobins, a historic monastery.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Pont Saint Etienne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Geyracois. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Limoges.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chez Bernard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 Versailles and Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Blois today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Château De Blois. This romantic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top.

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

After soaking in Blois’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Versailles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 52 min. When you arrive in Versailles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Palace Of Versailles, a world-famous palace in Versailles. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Versailles, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Paris. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arc De Triomphe, a world-famous monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palais Garnier, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings. Next, explore Centre Georges Pompidou, yet another astonishing place to see in the area.

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mumi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Imprévu Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café De Paris V is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dirty Dick, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Red Door. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Paris, including a park, a monument, a public square, a museum and much more! Start your day at Champ De Mars. This eye-catching park is a wondrous place to see in Paris. Then, wander over to Eiffel Tower. If history-steeped sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Place De La Concorde. This visually striking public square is a favorite among visitors.

Paris offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Tuileries Garden is a top-rated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Musée D'orsay. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this extraordinary museum 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Sens Unique, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Caveau de l'isle, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Prescription Cocktail Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Boucan offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mamie Paris. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Notre-dame De Paris. This enchanting church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Panthéon, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Jardin Des Plantes, an interesting botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Bois De Vincennes, known for its eye-catching features.

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.

Make sure to book a table at The Harp Bar, 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 Le Bistro des Augustins, 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 Petit Châtelet. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, another top-rated bar in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Beaune. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a standout, a noteworthy, a stunning, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. Whether you decide to explore Paris on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jardin Du Luxembourg is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Sainte Chapelle is your next stop. This interesting church is one of the best-rated sights in Paris.

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 Sacré-cœur. This history-steeped church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit La Villette.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this evening.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Lyon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Lyon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lyon beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Wall Of The Canuts. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the street art before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Fresque Des Lyonnais. This intriguing street art is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, continue your journey to Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière, an often recommended museum. End your day at Place Bellecour, known for its enchanting features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nuage café, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pompette is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon 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’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Lyon for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Lyon Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, a locally appreciated museum, known for its photogenic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, an up-and-coming monument known for its breathtaking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Parc De La Tête D'or, an impressive park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vaulx-en-velin, 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 Caluire-et-Cuire to Vaulx-en-velin may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Mini World Lyon is an up-and-coming miniature park we recommend making time to visit today.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bernachon Chocolats, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Mère Léa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

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

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying 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 Nimes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Auguste Gate, an often recommended historical landmark that everyone visiting Nimes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Jardin De La Fontaine. This detailed park is one of the most interesting attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Musée De La Romanité, a heritage-rich museum, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Marquière, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Métairie, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Buffalo Grill Carcassonne, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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