One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Limoges traveling east to Lyon, Auxerre, and Paris
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Limoges, Clermont-Ferrand, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, and Chilly-Mazarin. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Limoges, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Auxerre, and 2 nights in Paris. 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 Limoges, 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 Limoges, Clermont-Ferrand, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, and Chilly-Mazarin, 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 – Limoges - arrival day
- Limoges - Arrival day
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- Jardin botanique de l'Evêché
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Welcome to Limoges, 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 Limoges's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Limoges 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 Jardin Botanique De L'evêché or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Limoges. 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 Limoges. 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 Paris, a top-rated dining destination in Limoges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Pont Saint Etienne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Geyracois. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limoges this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Chez Bernard, a prime location for a drink.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Limoges
- Limoges
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Drive 2 km, 12 min
- Aquarium du Limousin
- Jardin botanique de l'Evêché
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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Limoges. You have 1 night left in Limoges. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Limoges allows for both. Start by heading to Aquarium Du Limousin. This beloved aquarium provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Pavillon Du Verdurier, a heritage-rich monument, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of St Peter In Queyroix, a worthwhile church.
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 Limoges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Firenza, an iconic dining spot in Limoges. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Restaurant Campanile Limoges Nord, a popular restaurant in Limoges. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Bureau Limoges, a hidden gem nestled in Limoges. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3 – Limoges, Clermont-Ferrand, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon
- Limoges
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
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Drive 409 km, 4 hours 41 min
- Jardin Lecoq
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- Jardin botanique de l'Evêché
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Clermont-Ferrand, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Clermont-Ferrand. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.
Set your GPS to Clermont-Ferrand and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Clermont-Ferrand beckons with new experiences!
Head to Jardin Lecoq, an increasingly popular park in Clermont-Ferrand. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Caluire-et-Cuire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Clermont-Ferrand behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 49 min. Caluire-et-Cuire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lyon, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Caluire-et-Cuire to Lyon may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lyon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Fresque Des Lyonnais is a frequently visited street art we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Place Bellecour, a visually striking public square that’s well-regarded in the area.
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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nuage café, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4 – Lyon and Auxerre
- Lyon
- Auxerre
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Parc des Hauteurs
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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 Lyon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Auxerre, where you will stay for 1 night.
Lyon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a church, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. Just a short distance away is Lyon Cathedral, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming Parc Des Hauteurs.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Auxerre's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Auxerre and Paris
- Auxerre
- Paris
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Drive 174 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Musée d'Orsay
- Palais Garnier
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Paris. This car ride takes around 1 hour 58 min.
Begin your journey at Musée D'orsay and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Palais Garnier, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the opera house, continue to Place De La Concorde, an enchanting public square. Nearby, you will also find Tuileries Garden. This astonishing park is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Louvre Museum, an eye-catching museum that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Mumi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Imprévu Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café De Paris V, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dirty Dick. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Little Red Door, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Sacré-Cœur
- La Villette
- Louvre Museum
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Paris, including a park, a monument, and a church. Start your day with a visit to Champ De Mars. This timeless park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eiffel Tower, which may be one of the most romantic 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 Arc De Triomphe, one of the city’s most wondrous monument. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sacré-cœur and La Villette.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Sens Unique? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Caveau de l'isle as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prescription Cocktail Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Boucan provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mamie Paris offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 7 – Paris, Chilly-Mazarin, and Limoges
- Paris
- Chilly-Mazarin
- Limoges
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Drive 395 km, 4 hours 14 min
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Louvre Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Paris and Chilly-Mazarin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limoges, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including a church, a monument, and a park. Start your adventure at Notre-dame De Paris. This captivating church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Panthéon, a must-see monument in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This impressive park offers an enriching experience.
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 Chilly-Mazarin. Your travel time is around 29 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De L'hôtel De Ville Chilly-mazarin, an often recommended park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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 Limoges. Limoges 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Limoges. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Sikaru Beer and Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ESCROCS offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Golf Saint Lazare. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Limoges.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Limoges - departure day
- Limoges - Departure day
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- Jardin botanique de l'Evêché
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Limoges before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Limoges’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Start by visiting Champ De Juillet, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable park is sure to impress.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Limoges.
You’ll then say farewell to Limoges. 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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