One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen to Paris

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Photo of church of Saint-Pierre in Caen, France.
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 8-day relaxed road trip in France! Ifs, Caen, Falaise, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Paris, Lisieux, and Ranville await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in France, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 3 nights in Caen and 4 nights in Paris, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Your journey starts in Caen, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in France to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in France already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Eiffel Tower and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Louvre Museum.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this France road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in France.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in France even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in France includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in France today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Caen - Arrival day
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  • Forêt d'Ifs
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Caen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Caen and begin your adventure in France.

Caen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Forêt D'ifs. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Caen. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Caen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Ficelle, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Galettoire, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar de la Fac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

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

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in France. Enjoy your first taste of Caen as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Caen
  • Falaise
  • Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe
  • More

Drive 126 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Château de Falaise
  • Parc Michel d'Ornano
  • Colline aux Oiseaux
  • Mémorial de Caen
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Caen and visit amazing attractions in Falaise, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Ouistreham, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Caen, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy all that Parc Michel D'ornano has to offer. This is a locally appreciated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Mémorial De Caen, a locally renowned museum in Caen.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Falaise.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Château De Falaise and explore the stunning features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Colline Aux Oiseaux and explore the eye-catching features.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Caen.

Savor the flavors at Yaki Sushi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Trattoria beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SASÉSU. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Caen tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Caen.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vertigo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Les Déserteurs is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Vous Êtes Ici is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Caen
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 238 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • St Peter's Catholic Church
  • L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
  • Caen Botanical Garden
  • Vallée des Jardins
  • More

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in France offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Caen and end it in Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in France.

Make a stop at St Peter's Catholic Church. This locally appreciated church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to L'abbaye-aux-hommes located in Caen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Caen Botanical Garden. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Vallée Des Jardins. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this park.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Paris. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in France.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Paris.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café De Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Champ de Mars
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Sacré-Cœur
  • La Villette
  • More

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Make time for Champ De Mars, a world-famous park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Eiffel Tower, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Arc De Triomphe. This monument is one of the city’s most wondrous 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 Sacré-cœur. After exploring the church, head to the spectacular La Villette.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Paris, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Sens Unique, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Caveau de l'isle, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Prescription Cocktail Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Boucan offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mamie Paris. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Louvre Museum
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • Tuileries Garden
  • place de la Concorde
  • Palais Garnier
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

Louvre Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This wondrous museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée D'orsay, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Paris 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 Tuileries Garden, a spectacular park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Place De La Concorde and Palais Garnier.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Caen. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Caen that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Paris to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Paris offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Harp Bar, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Bistro des Augustins, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Petit Châtelet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Paris.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sherry Butt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Highlander, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Sully provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 8 km, 57 min

  • Jardin des plantes
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Panthéon
  • Notre-Dame de Paris
  • Sainte Chapelle
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Paris!

Jardin Des Plantes leaves a lasting impression. This botanical garden is one of the most well-known places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a famous park, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Panthéon. This picture-perfect monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Notre-dame De Paris and Sainte Chapelle Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Granite, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Guy Savoy beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Saint James Paris. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Paris and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Klein Holland, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tiger is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The 46 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Paris
  • Lisieux
  • Ranville
  • Caen
  • More

Drive 264 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Parc zoologique de Lisieux
  • Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux
  • Memorial Pegasus
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across France offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Zoobservatoires and drive in the direction of Lisieux for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Caen, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Paris, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Zoobservatoires. Your travel time is around 2 hours 28 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Parc Zoologique De Lisieux, a locally renowned zoo in Zoobservatoires. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Zoobservatoires, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lisieux. Your travel time is around 14 min.

Basilica Of Saint Therese Of Lisieux is a beloved church we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ranville. This drive usually takes around 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Memorial Pegasus, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far.

In Caen, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in France.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Caen has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Refuge, an iconic dining spot in Caen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L'R de rien, a popular restaurant in Caen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of PAUL & LÉON, a hidden gem nestled in Caen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Caen and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Boudoir, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Garsouille is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Caen - Departure day
  • More
  • Caen Castle
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Caen.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Caen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Caen Castle. This up-and-coming castle is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Caen, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Anouche, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ju'ste Chez Moi is another top choice with a popular menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Caen and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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