12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Nantes, Caen, Paris, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Montpellier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Montpellier covers several incredible sights, including an art gallery, a church, and a botanical garden. Start your adventure at La Panacée. This locally appreciated art gallery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Montpellier Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This up-and-coming botanical garden offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Rapière boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Carcassonne, including a castle, an art installation, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Château Comtal. This often recommended castle is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Carcassonne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cité De Carcassonne, an astonishing castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whose Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rezé and Nantes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Les Anneaux. This increasingly popular art installation is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Botanical Garden. This notable botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Chat Noir, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 6 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Caen. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Palace Of Versailles is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most timeless places to visit in Caen. Next, head to Champ De Mars, a timeless park, known for its visually striking 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 Les Invalides. This instagrammable museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Notre-dame De Paris. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mumi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider L'Imprévu Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café De Paris V offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dirty Dick is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Red Door is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Eiffel Tower, a globally renowned monument in the city. Then, head to Arc De Triomphe and soak in the ambiance of this remarkable monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Sacré-cœur. This is one of the city’s most timeless visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the extraordinary La Villette. Not far away, you'll also find Bois De Vincennes. This park is a romantic highlight 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 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 Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Prescription Cocktail Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mamie Paris is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Paris, including a botanical garden, a museum, a park, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This interesting botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Louvre Museum located in Paris for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée D'orsay. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Tuileries Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the remarkable features of this park. Next up is Place De La Concorde, a highly recommended public square.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at The Harp Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistro des Augustins beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Petit Châtelet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sherry Butt, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Highlander is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Sully provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cheverny. 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Orléans, including a castle and a museum. Start your adventure at Château De Chambord. This captivating castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Château De Cheverny located in Orléans for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets De Moulinsart. Its photogenic features will captivate you.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Les Berthom is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Viking Pub Counter. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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