12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Paris to Rouen, Caen, Rennes, Tours, and Bordeaux

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Montmartre. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Eiffel Tower is must-visit monument and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Arc De Triomphe, a globally renowned monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Louvre Museum, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Sens Unique beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Caveau de l'isle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rouen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rouen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Paris and set your GPS to Rouen. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Rouen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St Joan Of Arc's Church, a beloved church that everyone visiting Rouen should see. Next, head to Gros Horloge. This historic historical landmark is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Rouen Cathedral, a romantic church popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Rouen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Rouen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Rouen.

Savor the flavors at Au Fût et à mesure, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Veau d'Or beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant La Petite Auberge. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rouen tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Petit Bar Cocktails, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Côcoon Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Delirium Café Rouen also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Rouen and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 place, which are Caen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Caen, where will spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 21 min.

Mémorial De Caen is a well-known museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Caen Castle, a historic castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Caen Botanical Garden, a stunning botanical garden. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit L'abbaye-aux-hommes, a stunning and truly unique monastery.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Caen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Ficelle, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Galettoire, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar de la Fac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kokomo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Delirium Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook La Rhumba, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Caen, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Caen, there’s no need to rush. Experience Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Vaucelles, Bayeux, and Longues-sur-Mer to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Saint-Pierre-du-Mont. This drive usually takes around 55 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Pointe Du Hoc. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the battlefield before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Saint-Pierre-du-Mont and set your GPS to Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer is Omaha Beach Memorial, a locally renowned war memorial that draws attention for its historic features.

Colleville-sur-Mer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Colleville-sur-Mer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Normandy American Cemetery, a beloved cemetery that everyone visiting Colleville-sur-Mer should see.

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

Caen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Caen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Yaki Sushi, a highly-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Trattoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SASÉSU. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vertigo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Les Déserteurs, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Vous Êtes Ici. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Saint-Léonard, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, and Moidrey. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Rennes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saint-Léonard may take around 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Saint-Léonard, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Saint-Léonard is Écomusée De La Baie Du Mont-saint-michel, an up-and-coming museum that draws attention for its heritage-rich features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Le Mont-Saint-Michel, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Saint-Léonard to Le Mont-Saint-Michel may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Le Mont-Saint-Michel, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Le Mont-saint-michel is an impressive monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Moidrey may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Moidrey, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Moidrey Windmill is a worthwhile monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rennes, 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 Rennes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Cité D'ys after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'annexe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tiffany's Pub Rennes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bordeaux are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tours, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bordeaux. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 18 min.

Savor the day by heading to Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, a frequently visited museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Jardin Public, where you can soak in the serene surroundings.

Next, explore Place De La Bourse, yet another captivating place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Bordeaux Cathedral. This symbolic church is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Porte Dijeaux, an up-and-coming monument you won’t want to miss.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'Originel, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. 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 Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Saint-Poly and Saint-Émilion. With 1 night to stay in Bordeaux, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Saint-Poly, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to Saint-Poly may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Poly, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Château De Ferrand, Grand Cru Classé De Saint-emilion, an intriguing winery that draws visitors from near and far.

Saint-Émilion’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Poly behind. This drive usually takes around 6 min. Saint-Émilion welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Château Rochebelle, Saint-emilion Grand Cru Classé, an increasingly popular winery that everyone visiting Saint-Émilion should see. Next, head to Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. This stunning church is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Soléna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hôtel De Sèze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Dog And Duck. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!