13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling east to Carcassonne, Lyon, Beaune, Paris, Tours, and Nantes

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Place Du Parlement, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Porte Cailhau, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited monument renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bordeaux by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Miroir D'eau. This instagrammable art installation is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Place De La Bourse also adds charm to your journey, and Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux wraps up your day with its grand appeal.

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 Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Soléna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel De Sèze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Grizzly Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bordeaux and Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This awe-inspiring historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Tour Pey-berland and learn what makes this standout monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toulouse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 23 min. When you arrive in Toulouse, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular church known for its picture-perfect features.

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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. 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. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne and Nimes. 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.

Immerse yourself in Carcassonne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Château Comtal. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Cité De Carcassonne, a must-visit castle in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nimes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Jardin De La Fontaine and explore the enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. 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 Lyon. 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 Nuage café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café du Rhône offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Agastache Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pompette, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a church, a park, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This locally renowned church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc Des Hauteurs, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lyon 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 Lyon Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned church. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Place Bellecour.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire 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 Beaune, 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 Beaune's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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 4 nights.

After soaking in Beaune’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Paris. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 4 min. When you arrive in Paris, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Jardin Du Luxembourg, a widely recognized park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Panthéon and admire its picture-perfect features. When you’re ready, continue to Place Des Vosges, a popular public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Centre Georges Pompidou, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 3 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a standout, a grand, a remarkable, an inviting, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. Start at the wondrous Champ De Mars, a romantic park in Paris. Next, go to Eiffel Tower.

After visiting Champ De Mars and Eiffel Tower, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tuileries Garden. This romantic park offers a unique experience. Musée D'orsay is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Notre-dame De Paris, one of the most symbolic places to visit in Paris.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Sens Unique, 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 Le Caveau de l'isle. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Prescription Cocktail Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mamie Paris is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 8 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.

Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Sacré-cœur. This history-steeped church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Palais Garnier, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Domaine National Du Palais-royal, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Place De La Concorde. This visually striking public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

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.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Paris, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Paris for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Paris and Versailles to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer a gorgeous, a visually striking, a charming, a picturesque, a heritage-rich, a symbolic, and a masterful! Start at La Villette, a famous park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bois De Vincennes, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Arc De Triomphe.

After soaking in Paris’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Versailles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Versailles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Granite, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Guy Savoy, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Saint James Paris. 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 Klein Holland, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tiger, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The 46 Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 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 Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Nantes includes a botanical garden, a castle, and an art installation. Botanical Garden is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a popular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a picture-perfect art installation, also available for your discovery today.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Locadillos, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Le Plana beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Blind. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

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

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