One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon to Beaune, Paris, and Auxerre

On day 2 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 and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Beaune, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Lyon Cathedral, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This intriguing museum is known for its inviting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lyon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This visually striking church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Caluire-et-Cuire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lyon behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Caluire-et-Cuire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Parc De La Tête D'or, a famous park in Caluire-et-Cuire. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Beaune, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Beaune. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table du Square, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Clos du Cèdre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Beaune is Le Carmin, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Beaune and Fontainebleau. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Paris. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Immerse yourself in Beaune’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of La Moutarderie Fallot, a must-visit museum in the town.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Beaune, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Fontainebleau may take around 2 hours 22 min. Upon your arrival in Fontainebleau, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Palace Of Fontainebleau is a notable castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Fontainebleau. 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 2 hours 22 min. Upon reaching Fontainebleau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Forêt De Fontainebleau, a beloved nature reserve that everyone visiting Fontainebleau should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Kei in Paris by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Kei offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Le Pré Catelan, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and contemporary cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Épicure, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Keep the evening going at Café De Paris V, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dirty Dick, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Red Door, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, an opera house, a monument, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Notre-dame De Paris. This locally renowned church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Louvre Museum, a must-see museum 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 Palais Garnier. This well-known opera house offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Eiffel Tower, where you can take in its visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Champ De Mars. This visually striking park offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, 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 Sens Unique, 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 Caveau de l'isle. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Prescription Cocktail Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Boucan, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mamie Paris. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the iconic Sacré-cœur, a grand church in Paris. Next, go to Place De La Concorde.

After visiting Sacré-cœur and Place De La Concorde, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tuileries Garden. This enchanting park offers a unique experience. Musée D'orsay is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to La Villette, one of the most visually striking places to visit in Paris.

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 Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Paris and Versailles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Auxerre, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Jardin Des Plantes. This well-known botanical garden is a romantic place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Jardin Du Luxembourg, a history-steeped park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Panthéon. This locally renowned monument offers a historic encounter with Paris. Arc De Triomphe is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Paris.

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 Versailles. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Palace Of Versailles, an iconic palace that everyone visiting Versailles should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 Auxerre. Auxerre 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 explore more of Auxerre, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Say good night to Auxerre and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Auxerre and Dijon, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Cathédrale Saint-étienne D'auxerre - Baie 129, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic church is sure to impress.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dijon. This car ride takes around 1 hour 34 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Darcy Garden. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Parc De La Colombière. This often recommended park is a traveler-favorite in the town.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The James Joyce Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Broc'bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Passagère is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!