12-Day France Road Trip from Tours traveling south to Angers, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Carcassonne, Nimes, Marseille, Lyon, Dijon, and Fontainebleau

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tours, Les Frogerais, and Rigny-Ussé. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Tours Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,212 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Jardin botanique de Tours. Jardin botanique de Tours is a botanical garden with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,560 reviews.

Château de Villandry is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,506 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tours, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Les Frogerais may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Les Frogerais, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cave of Goupillières. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,332 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Angers, 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 Angers. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Wallaby's Australian Café, a popular restaurant in Angers. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Angers at La Cour - Angers, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Brasserie de la Gare. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Angers tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Snooker. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Les BerThoM Angers offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Welsh, 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 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nantes, 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 La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Angers’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nantes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive in Nantes, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Île de Versailles (Nantes). This river island is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

Continue your journey at Machines of the Isle of Nantes. This art project is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 travelers from near and far.

Nantes is also the home of Le Lieu Unique. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,945 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Botanical Garden. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,694 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 your accommodation in La Rochelle. La Rochelle 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in La Rochelle. 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 La Boussole, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Les Flots offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palem Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in La Rochelle.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Plan B offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in La Rochelle. Le Dock Café 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lormont, and Bordeaux. 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 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lormont, 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 La Rochelle to Lormont may take around 1 hour 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lormont, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make La Cité du Vin your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,487 reviews.

After soaking in Lormont’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bordeaux. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Bordeaux, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make jardin public your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at miroir d'eau. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this reflecting pool every year.

Place de la Bourse is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

When you’re finished at place de la Bourse, the perfect next stop is Bordeaux Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,591 reviews.

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

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.

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 Le Clemenceau, 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 L'Oiseau Bleu, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 5 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 Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 27 min. Toulouse welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Basilica of St. Sernin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Jardin des Plantes. Jardin des Plantes is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,847 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Toulouse and set your GPS to Carcassonne. 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 3 min. Upon reaching Carcassonne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Château Comtal. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,823 reviews.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France 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, Montpellier, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Montpellier and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Montpellier beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arc de Triomphe. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,323 visitors.

Next, make your way to Comedy Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews.

While in Montpellier, we also recommend a visit to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,915 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Montpellier, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Pont du Gard is a great place to start. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 visitors.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La bonne mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’Flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Les Baux-de-Provence, and Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château des Baux-de-Provence. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.

Carrières des Lumières is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,791 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Les Baux-de-Provence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marseille. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This extraordinary church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palais Longchamp. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

While in Marseille, we also recommend a visit to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,446 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Traquenard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La dame du mont is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Polikarpov also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Avignon, and Orange, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palais des Papes. This top attraction is a palace with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors. Palais des Papes welcomes 616,210 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Jardin des doms. This urban park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 travelers.

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

Journey into the unknown at Triumphal arch, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,483 reviews.

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.

Dine in style at Café du Rhône, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day 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 Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dijon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Continue your journey at Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 travelers from near and far.

Lyon is also the home of Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Fresque des Lyonnais. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to parc de la Tête d'Or. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 visitors.

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 Dijon. Dijon 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dijon. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Maison Millière - Restaurant Boutique Bar à vin et Salon de thé, an iconic dining spot in Dijon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bistrot Burger, a popular restaurant in Dijon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café de l'Industrie, a hidden gem nestled in Dijon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Barberousse Dijon after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Beer Country for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Blue Dog is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Beaune, and Fontainebleau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Fontainebleau, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dijon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beaune may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Beaune, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,805 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is La Moutarderie Fallot. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,107 travelers.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Forêt de Fontainebleau. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,778 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Fontainebleau, 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Chambord, Cheverny, and Chenonceaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tours, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chambord. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Château de Chambord, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,219 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cheverny and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cheverny beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Château de Cheverny. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets de Moulinsart. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 405 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tours, 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 Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at L'Escapade, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Au Fût et à mesure beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tours tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le P Tit Soleil, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Belle Époque. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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