5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen to Chartres and surrounding area
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Falaise, Paris, Chartres, and Rennes.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Caen and 1 night in Chartres. 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 Caen, 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 Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Falaise, Paris, Chartres, and Rennes, 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 – Caen - arrival day
- Caen - Arrival day
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Welcome to Caen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Caen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Caen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Caen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Caen. 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.
Savor the flavors at La Ficelle, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Galettoire beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar de la Fac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Caen tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kokomo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Delirium Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Caen. La Rhumba is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Falaise
- Caen
- Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe
- Falaise
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Drive 92 km, 1 hour 32 min
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
- Caen Castle
- Mémorial de Caen
- Colline aux Oiseaux
- Château de Falaise
- More
Greet day 2 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Caen for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Falaise.
Caen is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery, a castle, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing L'abbaye-aux-hommes. Just a short distance away is Caen Castle, a culturally significant castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Mémorial De Caen, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.
Set your GPS to Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Colline Aux Oiseaux, a locally appreciated park known for its romantic features.
Set your GPS to Falaise and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Falaise beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château De Falaise, an increasingly popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Caen, 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 Yaki Sushi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Trattoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SASÉSU. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Caen tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vertigo, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Les Déserteurs offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Vous Êtes Ici provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Caen and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Caen, Paris, and Chartres
- Caen
- Paris
- Chartres
- More
Drive 323 km, 4 hours 7 min
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Caen Castle
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On day 3 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chartres, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Caen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Paris. Your travel time is around 2 hours 26 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arc De Triomphe, a wondrous monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Eiffel Tower, where you can soak in the enchanting surroundings. Next, explore Louvre Museum, yet another globally renowned place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This romantic park is well worthwhile the visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Chartres, 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 Chartres's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at L'odyssée, a top-rated dining destination in Chartres.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Chartres, Rennes, and Caen
- Chartres
- Rennes
- Caen
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Drive 457 km, 4 hours 51 min
- Museum of Fine Arts of Rennes
- parc du Thabor
- Parc des Gayeulles
- More
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 1 vibrant destinations - Rennes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Caen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
After soaking in Chartres’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rennes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Rennes, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Museum Of Fine Arts Of Rennes, a curiosity-inducing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Parc Du Thabor and admire its eye-catching features. When you’re ready, continue to Parc Des Gayeulles, an up-and-coming park beloved by locals and tourists alike.
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 Caen. Caen 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 Caen. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Refuge, a highly-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'R de rien, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at PAUL & LÉON. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Boudoir after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Garsouille for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 5 – Caen - departure day
- Caen - Departure day
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- Caen Castle
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Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Caen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Caen’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Caen.
Savor the flavors at Anouche, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ju'ste Chez Moi beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Caen. 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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