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

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Photoof Lille cityscape, La Grand Place square General de Gaulle, historical monument Flemish mannerist architecture style, row of buildings, trees in pots, Nord department, Hauts-de-France Region, France.
Photo of Amphitheatre and the Prefecture of Lille in the Republic Square.
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 8-day relaxed road trip in France! Lille, Versailles, and Paris 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 4 nights in Lille and 3 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 Lille, 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

  • Lille - Arrival day
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  • Column of the Goddess
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Lille, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Lille and begin your adventure in France.

Lille 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 Column Of The Goddess. 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.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Lille. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Lille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, a highly-rated dining destination in Lille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lille this evening.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Colbert Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Level Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Fridge Bar Lille offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Lille
  • More

Drive 6 km, 1 hour

  • Jardin Vauban
  • Zoo Lille
  • Parc de la Citadelle
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lille, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Whatever your travel style is, Jardin Vauban is an essential stop in Lille. This worthwhile park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Zoo De Lille, an instagrammable zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parc De La Citadelle, an increasingly popular park.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Lille. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Lille 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 Lille to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Pureté, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Table - Hôtel Clarance is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Lille. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Le Restaurant du Cerisier. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Lille. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La Biche & Le Renard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Bô Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pepere Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Lille
  • More

Drive 4 km, 36 min

  • Gare Saint Sauveur
  • Parc Jean-Baptiste Lebas
  • Musée d'Histoire Naturelle de Lille
  • More

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Lille, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Lille, and meet locals along the way!

Lille is brimming with adventures.

Gare Saint Sauveur leaves a lasting impression. This cultural center is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Lille. Next, head to Parc Jean-baptiste Lebas, an intriguing park, known for its eye-catching 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 Musée D'histoire Naturelle De Lille. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Lille offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Lille.

Savor the flavors at L'Assiette du Marché, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant l'Arbre Gruson beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider L'île de Crète. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lille tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lille. The bars in Lille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La Pirogue, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Zythum Café Lille offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Café Des Six Roses provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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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Day4

Day 4

  • Lille
  • Versailles
  • Paris
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Drive 272 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Palace of Versailles
  • Gardens of Versailles
  • Marie-Antoinette's Estate
  • Grand Trianon
  • More

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Versailles.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Palace Of Versailles is a globally renowned palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gardens Of Versailles, an enchanting botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Marie-antoinette's Estate, an awe-inspiring palace. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Grand Trianon, an UNESCO world heritage-designated and truly unique palace.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Paris. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Paris by reserving a table at Kei. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Pré Catelan, recognized for its delicious creative and contemporary dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Épicure, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Paris. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 3 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café De Paris V after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dirty Dick for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Red Door is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Sacré-Cœur
  • Palais Garnier
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Champ de Mars
  • More

Day 5 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!

Make time for Sacré-cœur, a globally renowned church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Palais Garnier, enchanting visitors with its grand appeal. Continue your exploration at Arc De Triomphe. This monument is one of the city’s most world-famous 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 Eiffel Tower. After exploring the monument, head to the timeless Champ De Mars.

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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Prescription Cocktail Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Boucan is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mamie Paris is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 11 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • place de la Concorde
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • Louvre Museum
  • Jardin des plantes
  • More

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Catch Place De La Concorde before the crowds roll in. This symbolic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the masterful features of Tuileries Garden, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Musée D'orsay, an extraordinary museum. For a change of scene, check out Louvre Museum, known for its heritage-rich features. We also recommend visiting Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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

Dine in style at The Harp Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Bistro des Augustins boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Petit Châtelet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Sherry Butt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Highlander is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Sully ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Paris
  • Lille
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Notre-Dame de Paris
  • Panthéon
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Vincennes Woods
  • La Villette
  • More

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Lille for 1 night.

Catch Notre-dame De Paris before the crowds roll in. This visually striking church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Panthéon, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Jardin Du Luxembourg, an impressive park. For a change of scene, check out Bois De Vincennes, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting La Villette. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

In Lille, 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.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lille, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bloempot, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Arrière Pays is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Quai 38. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lille tonight.

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 delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Temple's Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dernier Bar Avant La Fin Du Monde - Lille is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Urban Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day8

Day 8

  • Lille - Departure day
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  • Paris Gate
  • 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 Lille.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Lille’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Paris Gate. This worthwhile monument 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 Lille, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Oiseaux, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Lille 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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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.
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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