12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble traveling north to Beaune, Paris, Blois, Auxerre, and Lyon
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 12-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Grenoble, Cormatin, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Amboise, Auxerre, Bourg En Bresse, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Grenoble, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 2 nights in Blois, 1 night in Auxerre, and 1 night in Lyon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Grenoble, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Grenoble, Cormatin, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Amboise, Auxerre, Bourg En Bresse, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Grenoble - arrival day
- Grenoble - Arrival day
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- Parc Paul Mistral
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Grenoble and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Grenoble for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Grenoble is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Parc Paul Mistral or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Grenoble. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Grenoble. 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.
Dine in style at Restaurant Le Rousseau, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Au RENCARD boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ciao a Te. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Grenoble.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Groove, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Brasserie La Natation, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pub Shakesbeer likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Grenoble
- Grenoble
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Drive 1 km, 26 min
- Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère
- musée de l'Ancien Évêché
- Museum of Grenoble
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Grenoble for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Museum Of The Resistance And Deportation Of Isère is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Musée De L'ancien Évêché, a curiosity-inducing museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée De Grenoble, a heritage-rich museum, also available for your discovery today.
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 Grenoble. 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 delicious meal at La Bobine, a highly-rated dining destination in Grenoble. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at restaurant brasserie L'Albatros Grenoble. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Grenoble this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pub Des Copains after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Blind Pig, another bar with an inviting ambiance.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3 – Grenoble, Cormatin, and Beaune
- Grenoble
- Cormatin
- Beaune
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Drive 278 km, 3 hours 27 min
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cormatin and Beaune. 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.
Set your GPS to Cormatin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cormatin beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Château De Cormatin, an up-and-coming castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beaune. This drive usually takes around 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to La Moutarderie Fallot, an up-and-coming museum that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune, a photogenic museum that stands out in the village. Next, visit Basilica Of Our Lady, a curiosity-inducing church that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Beaune. 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 Beaune's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4 – Beaune, Fontainebleau, and Paris
- Beaune
- Fontainebleau
- Paris
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Drive 316 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Palace of Fontainebleau
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Fontainebleau and Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Fontainebleau. 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 2 hours 20 min. Upon reaching Fontainebleau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Palace Of Fontainebleau, a captivating castle that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Paris. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.
Head to Musée D'orsay, an extraordinary museum in Paris. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Tuileries Garden. This extraordinary park is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Notre-dame De Paris is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking church in the region.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Imprévu Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- place de la Concorde
- Pont Alexandre III
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
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Day 5 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 adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Sacré-cœur. This enchanting church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Place De La Concorde, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pont Alexandre Iii, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Eiffel Tower. This visually striking monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Champ De Mars, a globally renowned park, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Sens Unique offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Caveau de l'isle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
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.
Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 38 km, 1 hour 35 min
- La Villette
- Vincennes Woods
- Jardin des plantes
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- The Centre Pompidou
- Louvre Museum
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Day 6 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.
Start your adventure at La Villette. This famous park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bois De Vincennes located in Paris for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Jardin Des Plantes. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This park has a masterful appeal. For a change of pace, head to Centre Georges Pompidou. As one of the most widely recognized attractions in Paris, this art museum is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
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 Paris's best restaurants.
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.
Keep the evening going at Sherry Butt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Highlander, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Sully, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Paris, Versailles, and Blois
- Paris
- Versailles
- Blois
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Panthéon
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
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On day 7 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 Paris and Versailles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blois, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a standout, a symbolic, a romantic, and a noteworthy in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Panthéon, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Arc De Triomphe. This globally renowned monument is known for its culturally significant appeal.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Versailles, 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 Paris to Versailles may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Versailles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Palace Of Versailles, an iconic palace that everyone visiting Versailles should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Blois, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Blois, 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.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8 – Blois and Amboise
- Blois
- Amboise
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Château d'Amboise
- Château de Blois
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On day 8 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Blois, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Blois for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Amboise and Blois to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Amboise. This car ride takes around 23 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Château D'amboise, a popular château that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Blois.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Blois's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a highly-rated dining destination in Blois.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 9 – Blois and Auxerre
- Blois
- Auxerre
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Château de Blois
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Blois and Auxerre. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Auxerre, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Auxerre. 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 Auxerre. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 10 – Auxerre, Bourg En Bresse, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon
- Auxerre
- Bourg-en-Bresse
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
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Drive 347 km, 4 hours
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
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Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bourg En Bresse, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
After soaking in Auxerre’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bourg En Bresse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 42 min. When you arrive in Bourg En Bresse, it's time to take a break from the road.
Royal Monastery Of Brou is a worthwhile monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking in Bourg En Bresse’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lyon. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Place Bellecour, a popular public square that draws visitors from near and far.
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 Lyon. Lyon 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.
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 lovely meal at Nuage café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café du Rhône is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Agastache Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.
Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pompette, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 11 – Lyon and Grenoble
- Lyon
- Grenoble
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Lyon Cathedral
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lyon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Grenoble. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Lyon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Lyon Cathedral. This romantic church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its enchanting features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This stunning museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Grenoble, 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 in Grenoble. 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.
Dine in style at La Ferme à Dédé, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Little copains boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant La Baratte. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Grenoble.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 12 – Grenoble - departure day
- Grenoble - Departure day
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- Fontaine du Lion
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Day 12 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Grenoble before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Grenoble allows for both. Start by heading to Fontaine Du Lion. This beloved monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Grenoble.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Les copains d'abord, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Grenoble. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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