One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in France, Switzerland, and Italy With Itinerary from Paris to Auxerre, Geneva, Milan, Lucerne, and Dijon

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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Paris, Auxerre, Geneva, Lucerne, and Milan sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in France, 2 nights in Switzerland, and 1 night in Italy.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of France, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Paris and begin your adventure from there. Explore Paris, Auxerre, Beaune, Dijon, Fontainebleau, and Versailles, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Switzerland. Immerse yourself in the allure of Geneva, Lucerne, and Basel, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Italy. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Milan.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Geneva’s The Geneva Water Fountain and Milan's iconic Duomo Di Milano Museum. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in France, Switzerland, and Italy. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in France, Switzerland, and Italy.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin du Luxembourg
Louvre Museumplace de la ConcordeArc de TriompheEiffel TowerChamp de Mars
Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'AuxerreBasilica of Our LadyHôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
St Pierre CathedralThe Flower ClockJardin AnglaisThe Geneva Water Fountain
Duomo di MilanoGalleria Vittorio Emanuele IILa ScalaCastello SforzescoSempione Park
SpreuerbrückeChapel BridgeLion Monument LucerneZoo Basel
Palace of FontainebleauForêt de FontainebleauGrand TrianonPalace of Versailles
Tuileries Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Paris - Arrival day
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  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in France, Switzerland, and Italy begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Paris in France. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Paris for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to France to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Paris before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Paris — Jardin Du Luxembourg. About 94,043 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Paris. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Paris’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mumi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Imprévu Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café De Paris V, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dirty Dick is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Little Red Door is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Your multi-country road trip in France, Switzerland, and Italy has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Paris
  • Auxerre
  • More

Drive 180 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Louvre Museum
  • place de la Concorde
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Champ de Mars
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across France, Switzerland, and Italy. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Paris in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Auxerre where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A tour of Paris is not complete without a visit to the famous Louvre Museum. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 travelers, and is visited by 2,825,000 people every year.

Make the most of your Paris travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Place De La Concorde. This public square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Arc De Triomphe for an experience worth remembering. This local monument and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 visitors, with up to 2,743,823 people including this popular attraction in their Paris tour itinerary each year.

Another stop we recommend you add to your Paris sightseeing list is the remarkable monument, Eiffel Tower. Sought after by many travelers from around the world, Eiffel Tower has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 visitors. More than 6,207,303 people visit this impressive attraction annually.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Champ De Mars. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 172,488 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Auxerre. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Auxerre's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Auxerre has them.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Auxerre
  • Beaune
  • Geneva
  • More

Drive 379 km, 4 hours 5 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre
  • Basilica of Our Lady
  • Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy. Today's main destinations are Auxerre in France, 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 Geneva. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Cathédrale Saint-étienne D'auxerre - Baie 129. This outstanding church and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 1,232 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Cathédrale Saint-étienne D'auxerre - Baie 129 is worth pages in your travel diary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beaune. This car ride takes around 1 hour 32 min.

A tour of Beaune is not complete without a visit to the famous Basilica Of Our Lady. This incredible church and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 773 travelers.

Make the most of your Beaune travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,805 travelers.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Geneva’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy by rewarding yourself with a taste of Geneva’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Start your culinary exploration in Geneva by securing a reservation at Il Lago. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of italian and mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit L'Atelier Robuchon, celebrated for its delectable french contemporary 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 Bayview by Michel Roth, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french and mediterranean menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Coyote Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Roi Ubu is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Phare provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France, Switzerland, and Italy! Enjoy your evening in Geneva to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Geneva
  • Milan
  • More

Drive 318 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • St Pierre Cathedral
  • The Flower Clock
  • Jardin Anglais
  • The Geneva Water Fountain
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France, Switzerland, and Italy, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Geneva in Switzerland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Milan, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

In Geneva, the extraordinary St Pierre Cathedral awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,538 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Geneva is the spectacular L'horloge Fleurie. This attraction is an art installation that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,932 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Jardin Anglais. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,416 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

The Geneva Water Fountain is another attraction you might want to add to your Geneva exploration itinerary. This monument is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,374 reviews.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Milan. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Italy's delectable cuisine at one of Milan's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Enrico Bartolini al Mudec in Milan by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Enrico Bartolini al Mudec offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Seta by Antonio Guida, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing international and contemporary cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Il Luogo Aimo e Nadia, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional italian contemporary and modern menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nottingham Forest. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Armani/bamboo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mag Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Milan
  • Lucerne
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Duomo di Milano
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • La Scala
  • Castello Sforzesco
  • Sempione Park
  • More

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy, 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 to see in Milan in Italy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lucerne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated church and attraction in Milan — Duomo Di Milano Museum. About 138,554 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ii is another top sight in Milan that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved shopping mall in the area, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 91,394 visitors.

La Scala is a spectacular opera house and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Milan, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,219 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Sforzesco Castle Art Library. Because of its allure and charm, around 68,714 visitors have rated this attraction and castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Parco Sempione. Echoing its popularity, 72,914 travelers have awarded this famous park and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Lucerne of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in France, Switzerland, and Italy, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Lucerne. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Discover the culinary delights of Lucerne by securing a reservation at Lucide. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of contemporary and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Colonnade, renowned for its delicious modern french and seasonal dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar 58 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Blue Bar & Smokers Lounge for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Penthouse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Lucerne as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Lucerne
  • Basel
  • Dijon
  • More

Drive 351 km, 4 hours 29 min

  • Spreuerbrücke
  • Chapel Bridge
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Zoo Basel
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lucerne in Switzerland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dijon, your home for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Lucerne is the magnificent Spreuer Bridge, Lucerne. Around 4,153 visitors have rated this excellent historical landmark and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Chapel Bridge on this leg of your adventure in Switzerland. This attraction is a well-known historical landmark that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 30,595 travelers.

The remarkable Lion Monument Lucerne is known to be one of the best places to visit in Lucerne, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 20,757 traveler reviews is proof.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lucerne and set your GPS to Basel. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Basel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Basel, including the outstanding Basel Zoo. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,396 reviews and welcoming more than 2,012,511 visitors each year, this fascinating zoo and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Dijon.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Dijon’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in France, Switzerland, and Italy.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Auberge de la Charme, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, William Frachot is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Dijon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Loiseau des Ducs. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Barberousse Dijon, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Beer Country. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Blue Dog, another top-rated place in the area.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dijon
  • Fontainebleau
  • Versailles
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 364 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Palace of Fontainebleau
  • Forêt de Fontainebleau
  • Grand Trianon
  • Palace of Versailles
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across France, Switzerland, and Italy. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Fontainebleau in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Paris where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Palace Of Fontainebleau. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 21,054 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Palace Of Fontainebleau is worth pages in your travel diary.

When you’ve had your share of Dijon, 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 2 hours 32 min.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Fontainebleau is the fantastic Forêt De Fontainebleau. As an appreciated nature reserve and local gem in the area, Forêt De Fontainebleau has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,778 reviews.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Versailles today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Grand Trianon. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,511 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Palace Of Versailles. This incredible attraction and palace holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 119,665 visitors. Up to 4,741,758 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Paris. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Paris boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of France.

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 Arpège, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Paris. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Boucan is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mamie Paris is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Paris, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Paris - Departure day
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  • Tuileries Garden
  • More

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Paris before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Paris's best shopping area, Galeries Lafayette. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Tuileries Garden. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 92,172 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Tuileries Garden is worth pages in your travel diary.

Get a last taste of France’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Paris and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across France, Switzerland, and Italy.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Paris for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in France, Switzerland, and Italy with fond memories. Safe travels!

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