12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Marseille, Lyon, Beaune, Paris, Blois, and Bordeaux
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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 Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Carcassonne. 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 2 nights in Perpignan, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Blois, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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 Perpignan, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Carcassonne, 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 – Perpignan - arrival day
- Perpignan - Arrival day
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Welcome to Perpignan, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Perpignan's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Perpignan is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Perpignan. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Perpignan. 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 Le 17, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Buffalo Grill Perpignan is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Perpignan.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Dry States, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Pearl 66, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café De La Source provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Marseille
- Perpignan
- Salses-le-Château
- Marseille
- More
Drive 361 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Le Castillet
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Perpignan and Salses-le-Château. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Perpignan, featuring a beautiful, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, and a majestic. Start at Parc Saint-vincent, a beloved park in the city. Then, head to Le Castillet and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking monument.
Salses-le-Château welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Salses Fortress, a frequently visited castle known for its picture-perfect features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Chez Roger, a highly-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Traquenard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Dame Du Mont, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3 – Marseille and Lyon
- Marseille
- Lyon
- More
Drive 325 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Old Port of Marseille
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Palais Longchamp
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start by visiting Old Port Of Marseille, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking marina is sure to impress.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Marseille by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This enchanting church is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Palais Longchamp also adds charm to your journey.
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.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Beaune
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Beaune
- More
Drive 170 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Place Bellecour
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Beaune. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a symbolic, a noteworthy, and a stunning. Start at the popular Place Bellecour, an enchanting public square in Lyon. Next, go to Fresque Des Lyonnais.
After visiting Place Bellecour and Fresque Des Lyonnais, take time to explore Lyon's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This visually striking church offers a unique experience. Lyon Cathedral is another noteworthy stop.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Parc De La Tête D'or is a top-rated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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 Beaune. Beaune 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Beaune. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5 – Beaune and Paris
- Beaune
- Paris
- More
Drive 320 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Vincennes Woods
- Jardin des plantes
- Sainte Chapelle
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Paris. This car ride takes around 3 hours.
Spend your afternoon discovering Bois De Vincennes, a locally renowned park known for its mesmerizing features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Jardin Des Plantes, a locally renowned botanical garden that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Sainte Chapelle and uncover the details of this romantic church. Make sure to also explore Notre-dame De Paris, a captivating church that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 wonderful meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Imprévu Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café De Paris V, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dirty Dick, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Red Door provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 15 km, 51 min
- Louvre Museum
- place de la Concorde
- Les Invalides
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- More
Day 6 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Paris today. One of the most iconic attractions included on the itinerary is Louvre Museum. This instagrammable museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Place De La Concorde and learn what makes this detailed public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Les Invalides. After exploring the museum, head to Champ De Mars. This world-famous park is a highlight in Paris. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the wondrous Eiffel Tower. Enjoy exploring this incredible monument at your own pace.
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 Paris's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Prescription Cocktail Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Boucan is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mamie Paris is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 33 km, 1 hour 32 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Paris allows for both. Start by heading to La Villette. This famous park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Sacré-cœur, an inviting church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Palais Garnier, a popular opera house. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the astonishing Tuileries Garden. Round off your day at Musée D'orsay, another gem in Paris with awe-inspiring features to discover.
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 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistro des Augustins is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Petit Châtelet. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
Keep the evening going at Sherry Butt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Highlander, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Sully, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 8 – Paris, Versailles, and Blois
- Paris
- Versailles
- Blois
- More
Drive 213 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Panthéon
- Pont Alexandre III
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
- Louvre Museum
- More
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 Paris and Versailles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blois, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Paris includes a park and a monument. Jardin Du Luxembourg is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Panthéon, a locally renowned monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Pont Alexandre Iii, a historic monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Paris. If you’re looking for more, Arc De Triomphe is also an iconic attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
When you’ve had your share of Paris, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Versailles. Your travel time is around 35 min.
Head to Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace in Versailles. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-designated features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Blois, 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 Blois. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Le Relais de la Tour, a popular restaurant in Blois. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Blois at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – Blois and Bordeaux
- Blois
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 421 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Château de Blois
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Blois. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Blois today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Jacques-gabriel Bridge. This romantic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Château De Blois and learn what makes this grand castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
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 Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, 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.
Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mushroom Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Whose Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 10 – Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 7 km, 33 min
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- Porte Cailhau
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- More
Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bordeaux has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bordeaux by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bordeaux, including a park, a monument, an art installation, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Jardin Public. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Monument Aux Girondins, which may be one of the most breathtaking 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 Porte Cailhau, one of the city’s most frequently visited monument. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse.
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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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 your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Grizzly Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Dog And Duck provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 11 – Bordeaux, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Perpignan
- Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
- Perpignan
- More
Drive 456 km, 4 hours 51 min
- Jardin des Plantes
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- place de la Bourse
- More
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 2 vibrant destinations - Toulouse and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Perpignan. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Toulouse’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 28 min. Toulouse welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Des Plantes. Spend some time admiring the peaceful features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carcassonne, 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 Toulouse to Carcassonne may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château Comtal, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Cité De Carcassonne, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Perpignan. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Perpignan's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Access - TotalEnergies, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Tartard offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Perpignan.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 12 – Perpignan - departure day
- Perpignan - Departure day
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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 Perpignan before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Perpignan's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Perpignan.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Arena Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Perpignan. 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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