13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling north to Auxerre, Paris, Tours, Nantes, Blois, and Clermont-Ferrand

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Lyon Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting church before continuing your journey. Musée Miniature Et Cinéma is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Lyon.

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 Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This history-steeped church is a sight to behold.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Lyon. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Parc De La Tête D'or is an extraordinary park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Lyon, Le Neuvième Art shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Mère Brazier is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at The James Joyce Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Broc'bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is La Passagère, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 1 destination, Beaune. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Auxerre, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Auxerre. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Moutarderie Fallot. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This captivating museum is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Basilica Of Our Lady. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, continue your journey to Parc Saint Jacques, a frequently visited park.

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.

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

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

On day 4 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 Fontainebleau and Serris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 4 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Auxerre, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Fontainebleau may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Fontainebleau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Palace Of Fontainebleau is a well-known castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fontainebleau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Make your way to Forêt De Fontainebleau, an often recommended nature reserve that draws attention for its mesmerizing 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 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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Paris by booking a table at Kei, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Paris, Le Pré Catelan shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Épicure is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Paris. This 3-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café De Paris V. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dirty Dick, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night 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.

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. 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. La Villette is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing park before continuing your journey. Arc De Triomphe is your next stop. This world-famous monument 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 Palais Garnier. This visually striking opera house is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Centre Georges Pompidou.

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 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Boucan, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mamie Paris provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Champ De Mars, an iconic local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eiffel Tower. This wondrous monument is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Paris's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Tuileries Garden. This visually striking park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Louvre Museum is also worth visiting, along with Sacré-cœur. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Sherry Butt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Highlander is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Sully is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Paris, including a park, a church, a monument, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Bois De Vincennes. This eye-catching park is a notable place to see in Paris. Then, wander over to Sainte Chapelle. If enchanting sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Jardin Du Luxembourg. This enchanting park is a favorite among visitors.

Paris offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Panthéon is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the idyllic Jardin Des Plantes. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting botanical garden 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.

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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Klein Holland. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Tiger, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The 46 Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Paris and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a museum, and a public square. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Notre-dame De Paris. Just a short distance away is Musée D'orsay, a stunning museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Place De La Concorde, one of the city’s most top-rated spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Head to Palace Of Versailles, a world-famous palace in Versailles. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at L'Opidom, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Évidence is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Tours. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Piraat Cafe Tours, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'alexandra likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Angers and Les Herbiers, 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 Nantes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Angers. This car ride takes around 1 hour 18 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château D'angers, a well-known castle known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Le Jardin Du Mail, an often recommended park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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

Municipal Park Landreau is a beloved park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

As you explore more of Nantes, 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 an outstanding dining experience at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Les Cadets, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nantes is LuluRouget, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Chat Noir is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 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 Blois. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nantes today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This detailed art installation will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne and learn what makes this awe-inspiring castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Botanical Garden.

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 Blois. Blois 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 Blois. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Blois by securing a reservation at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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 2 destinations, Blois and Romorantin-lanthenay. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Clermont-Ferrand, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Blois covers several incredible sights, including a museum and a castle. Start your adventure at Robert-houdin House Of Magic. This intriguing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of Château De Blois, a must-see castle in the town.

When you’ve had your share of Blois, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Romorantin-lanthenay. Your travel time is around 36 min.

Matra Automobile Museum Space is an often recommended museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Clermont-Ferrand by booking a table at Auberge du Pont. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Apicius, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover L'Ostal, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Berthom stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Bar Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Viking Pub Counter is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 12 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 Clermont-Ferrand. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Clermont-Ferrand on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Statue Of Vercingetorix is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant monument before continuing your journey. Panoramic Domes is your next stop. This captivating observation deck is one of the best-rated sights in Clermont-Ferrand.

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 Place De Jaude. This culturally significant public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Clermont-ferrand Cathedral.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nosch, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Raffinerie offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mos - Maker Of Stories 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.