12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier to Clermont-Ferrand, Blois, Paris, Beaune, and Lyon

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

Set out on a day brimming with a gorgeous, a visually striking, a historically significant, a culturally significant, a charming, and an idyllic. Start at the locally appreciated Arc De Triomphe, a breathtaking monument in Montpellier. Next, go to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle.

After visiting Arc De Triomphe and Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, take time to explore Montpellier's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Comedy Square. This visually striking public square offers a unique experience. Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier is another noteworthy stop.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.

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

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles and 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 Blois 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 1 hour 52 min. Upon reaching Versailles, 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 Palace Of Versailles. Spend some time admiring the grand features of the palace before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Versailles, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Paris. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Du Luxembourg, an astonishing park known for its history-steeped features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Panthéon, a captivating monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Jardin Des Plantes and uncover the details of this standout botanical garden. Make sure to also explore Notre-dame De Paris, a locally renowned church that offers a unique experience.

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

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.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café De Paris V after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dirty Dick, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Paris today. One of the most timeless attractions included on the itinerary is Champ De Mars. This visually striking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Eiffel Tower and learn what makes this enchanting monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the world-famous Arc De Triomphe. After exploring the monument, head to Pont Alexandre Iii. This interesting monument is a highlight in Paris. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the captivating Les Invalides. Enjoy exploring this incredible museum at your own pace.

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 delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Boucan, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mamie Paris provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a standout, a sacred, a majestic, and a detailed. Start at the timeless Sacré-cœur, a symbolic church in Paris. Next, go to Palais Garnier.

After visiting Sacré-cœur and Palais Garnier, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Place De La Concorde. This noteworthy public square offers a unique experience. Tuileries Garden is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Musée D'orsay, one of the most romantic places to visit 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Harp Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Augustins offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Châtelet. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Sherry Butt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Highlander provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Sully offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 8 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Beaune, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring a romantic, a stunning, an eye-catching, a historic, an inviting, a symbolic, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a serene. Start at Sainte Chapelle, a captivating church in the city. Then, head to La Villette and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Paris and when you are ready for more, go to Bois De Vincennes. This is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

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 explore more of Beaune, 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.

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

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vaulx-en-velin. This car ride takes around 1 hour 39 min.

Mini World Lyon is a frequently visited miniature park we recommend making time to visit today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Parc De La Tête D'or is a top-rated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lyon may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Lyon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, a frequently visited museum that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Lyon Cathedral, a visually striking church that stands out in the town. Next, visit Place Bellecour, a notable public square that offers a unique experience.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pompette is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Lyon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Wall Of The Canuts is the perfect place to start. This street art is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Fresque Des Lyonnais, a curiosity-inducing street art, known for its standout 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 Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône is a locally appreciated monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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 Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bernachon Chocolats boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Mère Léa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The James Joyce Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Broc'bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Passagère is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Roque-sur-Cèze, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Roque-sur-Cèze may take around 2 hours 20 min. Upon your arrival in La Roque-sur-Cèze, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Sautadet Falls, an often recommended waterfall that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 50 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Du Gard. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and set your GPS to Nimes. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Nimes, 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 Jardin De La Fontaine, a notable park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Espeisses Woods, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Montpellier. 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 Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Banane boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Petit Troc. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Black Out stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Espit Chupitos Montpellier is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!