12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Angouleme, Blois, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, Nimes, and Carcassonne

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Versailles and Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today's adventure in Versailles promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blois and set your GPS to Versailles. 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 52 min. Upon reaching Versailles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Gardens Of Versailles, a well-known botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palace Of Versailles, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings.

Set your GPS to Paris and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Paris beckons with new experiences!

Arc De Triomphe is an iconic monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pont Alexandre Iii, a visually striking monument that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Pont Neuf, a romantic monument.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated L'Imprévu Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café De Paris V, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dirty Dick offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Little Red Door is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Champ De Mars. This iconic park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eiffel Tower, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Paris, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Place De La Concorde. This top-rated public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tuileries Garden, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Musée D'orsay and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most famous 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Boucan, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mamie Paris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sacré-cœur. This history-steeped church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Palais Garnier, a must-visit opera house in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Louvre Museum, a timeless museum.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sherry Butt, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Highlander offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Sully. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris and Serris, 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 Auxerre. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Paris allows for both. Start by heading to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This astonishing park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Jardin Des Plantes, a standout botanical garden, promising a delightful encounter.

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

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

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 8 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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Auxerre, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lyon may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Lyon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a locally renowned church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Lyon Cathedral, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings. Next, explore Place Bellecour, yet another well-known place to see in 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.

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pompette is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Avignon and Les Baux-de-Provence. 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.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 20 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Palais Des Papes, an interesting palace that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a romantic historical landmark that stands out in the city.

When you’ve had your share of Avignon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. Your travel time is around 40 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Carrières Des Lumières. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Des Baux-de-provence. This popular castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

As you explore more of Nimes, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Galerie, a top-rated dining spot in Nimes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Annaba Café, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel des Tuileries. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nimes.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Bonne Mousse after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O’flaherty’s for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, News Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying 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 increasingly popular castle, Château Comtal. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne. A visit to this castle is an enriching experience for all.

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 frequently visited church is an essential stop that should not be missed.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, 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 Pau. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Resto Dit Vin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant L' Ardoise offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Little Monkey Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Pau.

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