12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling north to Lyon, Besancon, Strasbourg, Metz, Paris, and Bourges

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Clermont-Ferrand. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Muséum D'histoire Naturelle Henri-lecoq is always a good idea. This often recommended museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Panoramic Domes, a must-see observation deck 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 L'aventure Michelin. This curiosity-inducing museum offers an enriching experience.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Le Neuvième Art, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Lyon is Mère Brazier, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pompette is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Besancon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Place Bellecour and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Parc De La Tête D'or is a famous park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Besancon. Besancon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Besancon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Dine in style at Les 4 Saisons, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BUFFALO GRILL BESANCON (Chateaufarine) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les Gamins. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Besancon.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Titty Twister Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Coffee Brass'éliande is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar De L'u is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Colmar, Schaflager, and Kintzheim are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Strasbourg, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Besancon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Colmar. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours. When you arrive in Colmar, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Petite Venise In Colmar, a popular street that everyone visiting Colmar should see. Next, head to Parc Du Champ De Mars. This serene park is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Schaflager. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Château Du Haut-koenigsbourg and explore the culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kintzheim. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kintzheim is La Montagne Des Singes, a popular wildlife reserve that draws attention for its enchanting features.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Strasbourg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Strasbourg by booking a table at Umami, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Strasbourg, de:ja shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Relais de la Poste is known as a top local spot in Strasbourg for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Strasbourg and Nancy. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Metz, where will spend 1 night.

Place Kléber brings Strasbourg's character to life. This enchanting public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Parc De L'orangerie, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its serene features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Strasbourg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nancy. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Place Stanislas, Place De La Carrière And Place D'alliance In Nancy, a notable public square in Nancy. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Place De La Carrière. This often recommended public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Metz. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Metz is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Metz.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Metz by reserving a table at Quai des Saveurs. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CHEZ BAPTISTE, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Les Berthom Metz, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Fo'rhum is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Churchill Bar Metz also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Metz and Reims. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Check out the up-and-coming church, Metz Cathedral. Afterward, continue to Museum Of La Cour D'or, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Metz’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Reims. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Reims Cathedral, a captivating church known for its inviting features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Paris. Paris offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Paris by booking a table at Kei. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Le Pré Catelan, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Épicure, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café De Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 3 nights to stay in Paris, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Versailles and Paris.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Champs-Élysées, a street that captures the true essence of Versailles. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Arc De Triomphe is must-visit monument and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Eiffel Tower, an iconic monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Champ De Mars, a visually striking park, also available for your discovery today.

When you arrive in Versailles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Versailles is Palace Of Versailles, a world-famous palace that draws attention for its romantic features.

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

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 lovely dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, 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 Sens Unique, 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 Caveau de l'isle. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Clermont-Ferrand. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

La Villette is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Place De La Concorde, an impressive public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tuileries Garden, a masterful park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Paris. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the astonishing Musée D'orsay. If you’re looking for more, Louvre Museum is also a timeless attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sherry Butt, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Highlander offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Sully. 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 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Paris.

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. You can also visit Montmartre, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Panthéon is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This standout monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Jardin Du Luxembourg, another must-visit landmark and widely recognized park renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Paris by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Sacré-cœur. This visually striking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Paris experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Paris is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Paris.

Dine in style at Granite, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Guy Savoy boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Saint James Paris. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Klein Holland, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tiger is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The 46 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Your itinerary for day 10 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Paris. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bourges, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Notre-dame De Paris has to offer. This is a popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is Centre Georges Pompidou, an impressive art museum in Paris.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Jardin Des Plantes.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bourges's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Discover the culinary delights of Bourges by securing a reservation at Le Beauvoir. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Riom and Volvic. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Clermont-Ferrand, where you'll spend 1 night.

Riom’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bourges behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min. Riom welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Vulcania and explore the eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Riom and set your GPS to Volvic. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Volvic, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Space Volvic Information, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Cave Of The Volvic Stone, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Clermont-Ferrand. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Clermont-Ferrand by reserving a table at Auberge du Pont. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Apicius, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore L'Ostal, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L’arrozoir offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kokomo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Des Beaux Arts 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.