12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Saumur, Tours, Le Mans, Caen, and Saint-Malo
Description
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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 Nantes, Saumur, Amboise, Tours, Le Mans, Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, Bayeux, Caen, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, and Dinan. 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 Nantes, 1 night in Saumur, 2 nights in Tours, 1 night in Le Mans, 2 nights in Caen, and 2 nights in Saint-Malo. 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 Nantes, 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. Le Mont-saint-michel and Château De Chambord are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château De Chenonceau, learn more about the unique Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Du Clos Lucé.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nantes, Saumur, Amboise, Tours, Le Mans, Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, Bayeux, Caen, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, and Dinan, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Nantes - Arrival day
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- Basilique Saint-Nicolas
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Welcome to Nantes, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Nantes's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Nantes 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 Basilique Saint-nicolas, or just 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 Nantes. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nantes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Parallèle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Le Chat Noir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Nantes
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Drive 6 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Natural History Museum
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Nantes. You’ll stay in Nantes for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for an exciting day in Nantes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a castle, a museum, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Botanical Garden. This is an interesting botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a popular castle in Nantes.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Natural History Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
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 Nantes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Cigale, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Les Berthom. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Coffee House offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bateau-lavoir, another top-rated bar in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Nantes
- Saumur
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 22 min
- Musée des Blindés
- Caves Louis de Grenelle
- Château de Saumur
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Saumur. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Saumur, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nantes today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Musée Des Blindés. This instagrammable military museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Caves Louis De Grenelle and learn what makes this instagrammable wine cellar unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Château De Saumur.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Saumur. Saumur 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 Saumur. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Say good night to Saumur and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Saumur
- Tours
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Château de Chenonceau
- Château de Chambord
- Chapel of Saint-Hubert
- Château du Clos Lucé
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Amboise. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Saumur. Begin your sightseeing with Château De Chenonceau. This interesting castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Château De Chambord, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Saumur, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Chapel Of Saint-hubert. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Château Du Clos Lucé, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tours's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at TIA Gourmet, an iconic dining spot in Tours. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Bartavelles, a popular restaurant in Tours. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan, a hidden gem nestled in Tours. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, known for its lively atmosphere. Piraat Cafe Tours is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, L'alexandra offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 5
- Tours
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Drive 7 km, 50 min
- Jardin botanique de Tours
- Vieux-Tours
- Basilica of St. Martin, Tours
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
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Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Tours. You have 1 night left in Tours. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Tours on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jardin Botanique De Tours is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic botanical garden before continuing your journey. Vieux Tours is your next stop. This up-and-coming street is one of the best-rated sights in Tours.
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 Basilica Of St. Martin, Tours. This historic church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée Des Beaux-arts De Tours and Tours Cathedral.
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 Tours. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa, an iconic dining spot in Tours. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Au Café d' en face, a popular restaurant in Tours. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Escapade, a hidden gem nestled in Tours. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le P Tit Soleil offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Belle Époque provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Tours
- Sarthe
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Drive 107 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
- Royal Abbey of Epau
- Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans
- Cité Plantagenêt
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Le Mans. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Le Mans, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the intriguing Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans, a photogenic museum in Tours. Next, go to Royal Abbey Of Epau.
After visiting Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans and Royal Abbey Of Epau, take time to explore Tours's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans. This historic church offers a unique experience. Cité Plantagenêt is another noteworthy stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Le Mans, 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 Le Mans's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Les Tontons, a top-rated dining spot in Le Mans. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'épi'Curieux, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L' Office. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Le Mans.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Luna Café. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Mojito Royal offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Lodge Irish Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 7
- Sarthe
- Caen
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Drive 292 km, 3 hours 57 min
- The Pointe Du Hoc
- Omaha Beach Memorial
- Normandy American Cemetery
- Longues-sur-Mer Battery
- Bayeux Cathedral
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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 Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, and Bayeux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Caen, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Le Mans, including a battlefield, a war memorial, a cemetery, an archeological site, a church and much more! Start your day at The Pointe Du Hoc. This awe-inspiring battlefield is an interesting place to see in Le Mans. Then, wander over to Omaha Beach Memorial. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this war memorial will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Normandy American Cemetery. This respected cemetery is a favorite among visitors.
Le Mans offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Longues-sur-mer Battery is an intriguing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the archeological site, don’t forget to check out the picture-perfect Bayeux Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this frequently visited church in Le Mans.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Caen. Caen 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 Caen. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Ficelle, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Galettoire offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar de la Fac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Caen.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kokomo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Delirium Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Rhumba provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Caen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Caen
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Mémorial de Caen
- Caen Botanical Garden
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
- Caen Castle
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Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Caen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Caen by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Caen, including a museum, a botanical garden, a monastery, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Mémorial De Caen. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Caen Botanical Garden located in Caen for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of L'abbaye-aux-hommes. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the monastery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Caen Castle. This castle has a picture-perfect appeal.
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 Caen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Yaki Sushi, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Trattoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SASÉSU. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vertigo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Les Déserteurs is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Vous Êtes Ici 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.
Day 9
- Caen
- Saint-Malo
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Drive 199 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Écomusée de la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel
- Les Traversées De Ludo - Guide de la baie du Mont-Saint Michel
- Mont Saint-Michel
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Saint-Léonard and Le Mont-Saint-Michel, 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 Saint-Malo. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today's adventure in Caen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Écomusée De La Baie Du Mont-saint-michel. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Les Traversées De Ludo - Guide De La Baie Du Mont-saint Michel, another peaceful attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Le Mont-saint-michel, one of the hamlet’s most famous attractions, known for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Saint-Malo. 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 Saint-Malo. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Grand Hôtel Dinard, a highly-rated dining destination in Saint-Malo. If you're eager to try something different, consider Home Burger - Saint-Malo Intra Muros, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bergamote. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Saint-Malo this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Saint Patrick, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Hôtel Oceania Saint-malo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 10
- Saint-Malo
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Drive 1 km, 26 min
- Grand Bé
- Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
- Big Gate
- National Fort
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Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Saint-Malo for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Saint-Malo today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Grand Bé. This visually striking historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Saint-malo Intra-muros and learn what makes this majestic historical landmark unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Big Gate. After exploring the point of interest, head to National Fort. This beloved castle is a highlight in Saint-Malo.
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 Saint-Malo's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Les Embruns, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Marégraphe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Brigantine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Saint-Malo tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Saint-Malo and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 11
- Saint-Malo
- Nantes
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Drive 194 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Basilique Saint-Sauveur
- Jerzual Gate
- Le Vieux Pont
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dinan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Saint-Malo covers several incredible sights, including a church and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Basilique Saint-sauveur. This curiosity-inducing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Jerzual Gate, a must-see historical landmark 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 Le Vieux Pont. This increasingly popular historical landmark offers an enriching experience.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nantes, 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 Nantes, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le 1, a top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'instinct gourmand, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Plein Sud, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 4.44 Bar Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Délirium Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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.
Day 12
- Nantes - Departure day
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- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
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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 Nantes before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Île De Versailles (nantes). This increasingly popular park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nantes.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Bouchon, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Nantes. 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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