12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulouse traveling north to Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, Blois, and Limoges

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 Toulouse and Blagnac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Toulouse promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This picture-perfect church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Muséum De Toulouse, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Jardin Des Plantes, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blagnac. This car ride takes around 22 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Musée Aeroscopia, an underrated aviation museum that everyone visiting Blagnac should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Carcassonne by securing a reservation at La Table de Franck Putelat. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Les Baux-de-Provence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Château Comtal. This frequently visited castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Carcassonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This impressive castle is a traveler-favorite.

Les Baux-de-Provence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min. Les Baux-de-Provence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Carrières Des Lumières and explore the breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. 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 Nimes's best restaurants.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Bonne Mousse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O’flaherty’s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, News Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Nimes and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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 3 vibrant destinations - Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Avignon. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 Nimes to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Du Gard, a well-known monument that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a well-known historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palais Des Papes, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated 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 Lyon. Lyon 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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Mère Brazier, a local gem known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L' Antiquaire after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Society, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pompette also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Beaune. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Auxerre, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Tête D'or. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Beaune. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Beaune, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune and explore the symbolic features.

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

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 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Fontainebleau 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Auxerre, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fontainebleau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Palace Of Fontainebleau and explore the history-steeped features.

When you’ve had your share of Auxerre, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Fontainebleau. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

Make your way to Forêt De Fontainebleau, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Fontainebleau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Serris may take around 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Serris, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Disneyland Paris.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Paris by securing a table at Kei. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Le Pré Catelan, famous for its scrumptious creative and contemporary dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Épicure, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Paris. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting 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.

Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make sure to visit Champs-Élysées, a popular street in Paris. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Champ De Mars, an iconic park in the city. Then, head to Eiffel Tower and soak in the ambiance of this romantic monument.

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 timeless spots. After exploring the monument, visit the wondrous Louvre 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.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Boucan is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mamie Paris 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 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.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Montmartre, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Paris. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Paris on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sacré-cœur is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking church before continuing your journey. Place De La Concorde is your next stop. This astonishing public square is one of the best-rated sights in Paris.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Tuileries Garden. This noteworthy park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée D'orsay.

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 delicious dinner at The Harp Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Augustins offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Châtelet. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Sherry Butt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Highlander, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Sully likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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