Relaxed 12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Metz to Auxerre and Paris

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Metz, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Zoo D'amnéville. This interesting zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Metz Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Germans' Gate, one of the most often recommended places to see in Metz. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Centre Pompidou-metz. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this museum offers.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Metz's bustling shopping hub, Saint-Jacques Shopping Center. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Saint-Jacques Shopping Center offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 Metz.

Make sure to reserve a table at 3 Brasseurs Metz-Augny, an iconic dining spot in Metz. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Buffalo Grill Metz, a popular restaurant in Metz. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Metz Technopole - Best Western Plus, a hidden gem nestled in Metz. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Aux Paraiges, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 3.96 Kaffe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Saint-jacques, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Auxerre for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Metz on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Marché Couvert is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking market before continuing your journey. Abbey Of Saint-germain D'auxerre is your next stop. This locally appreciated monastery is one of the best-rated sights in Metz.

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 Cathédrale Saint-étienne D'auxerre - Baie 129. This visually striking church is a sight to behold.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Auxerre in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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

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 town.

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

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Auxerre, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Auxerre will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the up-and-coming Cyclo-rail De Puisaye, an instagrammable heritage railway in Auxerre. Next, go to Les 7 Ecluses.

After visiting Cyclo-rail De Puisaye and Les 7 Ecluses, have a stroll along Auxerre's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Castle Of Saint-fargeau. This visually striking castle offers a unique experience. Boutissaint Natural Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Guédelon Castle, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Auxerre.

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

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Auxerre and visit amazing attractions in Maulnes, Ancy-le-Franc, Vézelay, and Foissy-lès-Vézelay destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 1 night left in Auxerre. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Auxerre. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a church, and an archeological site. Begin your adventure at Château De Maulnes Stephen. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Château D'ancy-le-franc Stephen, a curiosity-inducing castle in Auxerre.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Abbey Of La Madaleine. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Les Fontaines Salées, another of the hamlet’s underrated attractions.

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

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

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 town.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Auxerre and drive in the direction of the village of Tanlay for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Paris, where you’ll stay for 5 nights.

Start your adventure at Muséum D’histoire Naturelle D’auxerre. This underrated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Château De Tanlay, a must-see castle in the town.

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 La Fabuloserie. This underrated museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mumi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Imprévu Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café De Paris V, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dirty Dick. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Little Red Door, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 4 nights, 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!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Champ De Mars. This globally renowned park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eiffel Tower, 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 Tuileries Garden. This impressive park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Musée D'orsay, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Louvre Museum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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.

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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Boucan, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mamie Paris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. 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 Paris!

Get ready for an exciting day in Paris. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a church, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Bois De Vincennes. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is La Villette, a top-rated park in Paris.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Parc Des Buttes-chaumont. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Sacré-cœur, another of the city’s timeless attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Arc De Triomphe, a romantic place of interest in the city.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistro des Augustins is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Petit Châtelet. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

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.

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.

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

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Jardin Des Plantes, a captivating botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Jardin Du Luxembourg, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Panthéon. This monument is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Notre-dame De Paris. After exploring the church, head to the notable Sainte Chapelle.

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!

Exploring the food culture in Paris offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

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 Klein Holland after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tiger, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The 46 Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 10 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!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the locally renowned Pont Alexandre Iii, a visually striking monument in Paris. Next, go to Place De La Concorde.

After visiting Pont Alexandre Iii and Place De La Concorde, have a stroll along Paris's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Palais Garnier. This history-steeped opera house offers a unique experience. Centre Georges Pompidou is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Place Des Vosges, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Paris.

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.

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 Paris, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, 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 Paris Paris, 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 Palais Royal Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Teddy's Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Danico is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bisou. Offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Metz for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited park, Parc De Champagne. Afterward, continue to Place Drouet-d’erlon, a public square every traveler should visit.

As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Reims Cathedral. This captivating church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Basilica Of Saint-remi, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Metz. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Metz.

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Taverne Du Graoully, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La Quille provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Gramophone offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Metz!