12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes traveling north to Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Poitiers, Orléans, Paris, Auxerre, and Lyon

On day 2 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 Nimes, Pazac, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Nimes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, a winery, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Carré D'art. This is an increasingly popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardin De La Fontaine, a well-known park in Nimes.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sca Des Grands Vins De Pazac. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pont Du Gard, another of the city’s well-known attractions.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at La Table de Franck Putelat in Carcassonne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, La Table de Franck Putelat delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Rapière? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Toulouse, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This often recommended church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bordeaux by reserving a table at Ressources. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Brun. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Mushroom Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whose Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Poitiers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a church, a monument, a public square, an art installation and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This well-known church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tour Pey-berland, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux 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 Place De La Bourse, a well-known public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Miroir D'eau.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Poitiers. 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 Poitiers. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Chênaie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional traditional menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Poitiers at Hotel Ibis site du Futuroscope, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Amboise. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Orléans, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Château De Chenonceau. This enchanting castle is a popular place to see in Poitiers. Then, wander over to Château D'amboise. Nearby, you’ll also find Château Du Clos Lucé.

Poitiers offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Château De Chambord is a popular spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Orléans, 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 Orléans. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Orléans by reserving a table at L'Hibiscus. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to La Table, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Lièvre Gourmand, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Orléans. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your lively evening at Le Moog, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Java Pop is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Charbon ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Fontainebleau and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the popular Palace Of Fontainebleau, an enchanting castle in Orléans. Next, go to Gardens Of Versailles.

After visiting Palace Of Fontainebleau and Gardens Of Versailles, have a stroll along Orléans's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Palace Of Versailles. This culturally significant palace offers a unique experience. Hall Of Mirrors is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Kei in Paris by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Kei offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Le Pré Catelan, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and contemporary cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Épicure, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café De Paris V after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dirty Dick for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Red Door 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.

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the widely recognized Tuileries Garden. After exploring the park, head to Musée D'orsay. This spectacular museum is a highlight in Paris. As your day continues, stop by Louvre Museum, known for its instagrammable features.

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.

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 delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Boucan. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mamie Paris, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Montmartre is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Paris, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Champs-Élysées, a street that showcases another side of Paris.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Sacré-cœur, a world-famous church in the city. Then, head to Place De La Concorde and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Arc De Triomphe. This is one of the city’s most wondrous history-steeped spots of interest.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sherry Butt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Highlander, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Sully 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!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Vosne-Romanée and Beaune, 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.

Today's adventure in Auxerre promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Domaine Armelle Et Bernard Rion. This romantic winery is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy La Moutarderie Fallot, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Basilica Of Our Lady, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This photogenic 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 Lyon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Lyon, Le Neuvième Art shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Mère Brazier is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at L' Antiquaire, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Society provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pompette offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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 3 vibrant destinations - Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Parc De La Tête D'or. This astonishing park is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lyon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Palais Des Papes. This historic palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Nimes by securing a reservation at Duende. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Rouge, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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