12-Day France Road Trip from Paris to Caen, Rennes, Nantes, Tours, and Orléans

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Paris and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Paris for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Paris 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 Pont Alexandre III or 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 Paris. 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 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 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 satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Café de Paris V is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dirty Dick, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Red Door. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Champ de Mars. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.

Continue your journey at Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 322,389 travelers from near and far. Approximately 6,207,303 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Paris.

Paris is also the home of Tuileries Garden. This garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Musée d'Orsay. A total of 3,651,616 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Louvre Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this art museum. Approximately 2,825,000 people visit this attraction every year.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Sens Unique, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Caveau de l'isle, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Prescription Cocktail Club. 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.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Panthéon. This extraordinary mausoleum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 visitors.

Next, make your way to Jardin du Luxembourg. This top attraction is an urban park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Sainte Chapelle. This chapel is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Notre-Dame de Paris. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 travelers. Around 12,000,000 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at bois de Vincennes. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 35,777 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Harp Bar, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bistro des Augustins, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Petit Châtelet, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arc de Triomphe. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Attracting more than 2,743,823 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Arc de Triomphe, head to place de la Concorde. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palais Garnier. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Sacré-Cœur. This church building is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 visitors. Around 11,000,000 travelers visit Sacré-Cœur every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to La Villette. This famous commune of france is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 56,497 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Paris, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Paris below.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Guy Savoy, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Saint James Paris beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Klein Holland. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Tiger offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The 46 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Rouen, and Caen, 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 Caen. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rouen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Paris to Rouen may take around 1 hour 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rouen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Gros Horloge. This tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,666 visitors.

When you’re finished at Gros Horloge, head to Rouen Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,573 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rouen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Mémorial de Caen one of your first sightseeing stops in Caen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,288 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This peace museum attracts 349,455 visitors every year.

Caen Castle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,915 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Caen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kokomo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Delirium Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Rhumba 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!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Caen, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Longues-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Sainte-Mère-Église, and La Madeleine. You still have 1 night left in Caen.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Longues-sur-Mer, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Caen to Longues-sur-Mer may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Longues-sur-Mer, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Longues-sur-Mer battery is a great place to start. This artillery battery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,841 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Omaha Beach Memorial. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,995 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sainte-Mère-Église, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer to Sainte-Mère-Église may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sainte-Mère-Église, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Airborne Museum. This military museum typically receives around 180,922 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,064 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Yaki Sushi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Trattoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, SASÉSU is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Caen.

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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Champrepus, Avranches, and Fougères. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rennes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Caen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Champrepus. Your travel time is around 59 min.

Journey into the unknown at Parc zoologique de Champrepus, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,908 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Champrepus and set your GPS to Avranches. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Avranches, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Scriptorial. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 509 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fuji Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Réserve offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bar À Cocktails Le Irish Pub Shamrock. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rennes.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Cité d'Ys, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to L'Annexe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tiffany's Pub Rennes, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Rennes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nantes. This car ride takes around 1 hour 25 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Machines of the Isle of Nantes. This art project is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,332 reviews.

Continue your journey at Le Lieu Unique. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,945 travelers from near and far.

Nantes is also the home of Botanical Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Île de Versailles (Nantes). Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,112 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Château des ducs de Bretagne. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,724 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this museum. Approximately 167,867 people visit this attraction every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nantes. Nantes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nantes. 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 Gigg's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Cigale. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nantes.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Chat noir, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Oceania Hôtel de France Nantes offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Angers, and Tours. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Angers’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nantes behind. This drive usually takes around 59 min. Angers welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château d'Angers. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,556 reviews.

Next up is Angers Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,932 visitors.

Tours’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Angers behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. Tours welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château de Villandry. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,506 visitors.

When you’re finished at Château de Villandry, head to Vieux Tours. This one-of-a-kind neighborhood is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Tours, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Bartavelles is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Au Café d' en face. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tours tonight.

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.

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

On day 10 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 Chenonceaux, Loches, and Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Orléans, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tours and set your GPS to Chenonceaux. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Chenonceaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Chenonceau. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,253 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Chenonceaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Loches may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Loches, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Château de Loches. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,795 visitors.

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 you explore more of Orléans, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, a top-rated dining destination in Orléans. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Parenthèse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ma-Dam Restaurant coréen traiteur salon de thé orléans. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Orléans this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Moog, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Java Pop offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Orléans. Le Charbon is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Blois, Chambord, and Versailles, 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 1 night.

After soaking in Orléans’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Blois. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 57 min. When you arrive in Blois, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Château de Blois, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,926 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chambord. This car ride takes around 26 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château de Chambord. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,219 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Paris. Paris offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Teddy's Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Danico offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bisou. Is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Paris before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Paris’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

Kick off the day at Jardin des plantes, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Paris.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Gabriel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Emeraude? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Paris. 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!