One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Metz traveling east to Strasbourg and Besancon
Description
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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 Metz, Strasbourg, La Petite-Pierre, Haegen, Saint-Nabor, Natzwiller, Kintzheim, Colmar, Besancon, Bonlieu, Nancy, and Pont-à-Mousson. 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 2 nights in Metz, 3 nights in Strasbourg, and 2 nights in Besancon. 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 Metz, 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. Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg and Petite Venise In Colmar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place Stanislas, Place De La Carrière And Place D'alliance In Nancy, learn more about the unique Château Du Haut-koenigsbourg, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Parc De L'orangerie.
As you hit the open road and drive through Metz, Strasbourg, La Petite-Pierre, Haegen, Saint-Nabor, Natzwiller, Kintzheim, Colmar, Besancon, Bonlieu, Nancy, and Pont-à-Mousson, 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!
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Day 1
- Metz - Arrival day
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- Jardin de l'esplanade de Metz
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Metz and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Metz for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Metz 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 De L'esplanade De Metz, or just 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 Metz. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Metz, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at L'envol Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Metz. If you're eager to try something different, consider CHEZ BAPTISTE, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at BOULANGERIE ANGE. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Metz this evening.
Keep the evening going at Les Berthom Metz, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Fo'rhum, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Churchill Bar Metz, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Metz
- Strasbourg
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Drive 200 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Metz Cathedral
- Germans' Gate
- Centre Pompidou-Metz
- Zoo d'Amnéville
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Metz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Strasbourg, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Metz, including a church, a historical landmark, a museum, a zoo and much more! Start your day at Metz Cathedral. This romantic church is a beloved place to see in Metz. Then, wander over to Germans' Gate. If breathtaking sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Centre Pompidou-metz. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.
Metz offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Zoo D'amnéville is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Strasbourg. Strasbourg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Strasbourg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Baeckeoffe d'Alsace, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Blue Moon Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zehnerglock. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Strasbourg tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Canapé Queer Bar Strasbourg offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Mandragore is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Local is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3
- Strasbourg
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Parc de l'Orangerie
- Barrage Vauban
- place Kléber
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
- Parc de l'Étoile
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Strasbourg for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start your day at Parc De L'orangerie. This eye-catching park is a notable place to see in Strasbourg. Then, wander over to Barrage Vauban. If visually striking sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Place Kléber. This history-steeped public square is a favorite among visitors.
Strasbourg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg is a widely recognized spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Strasbourg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cloche à Fromage RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining destination in Strasbourg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The XX - Wine Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Origin, coffee shop végétal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Strasbourg this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Schluch, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Michel - Café - Brasserie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Strasbourg. Le Douanier is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 4
- Strasbourg
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 56 min
- North Vosges Regional Natural Reserve
- Château de Hohbarr
- The chapel tears of Mont Saint-Odile
- Struthof
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Strasbourg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today's adventure in Strasbourg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at North Vosges Regional Natural Reserve. This idyllic nature reserve is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Château De Hohbarr, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Chapel Tears Of Mont Saint-odile, one of the village’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Struthof. This respected museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Strasbourg.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Strasbourg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Black & Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Strasbourg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Cannibale, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Jeannette and the Cycleux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Strasbourg this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Rafiot, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cathedral Beer Academy offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Strasbourg. A Maze In - 1er Live Escape Game De Strasbourg is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5
- Strasbourg
- Besançon
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 52 min
- The Eagle Park
- La Montagne des singes
- Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg
- Colmar
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kintzheim, Schaflager, and Colmar. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Besancon. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Strasbourg, including a bird watching area, a wildlife reserve, a castle, a street and much more! Start your day with a visit to The Eagle Park. This up-and-coming bird watching area is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to La Montagne Des Singes, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Strasbourg 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 Château Du Haut-koenigsbourg, a captivating castle in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Petite Venise In Colmar.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Besancon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Besancon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Les 4 Saisons, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BUFFALO GRILL BESANCON (Chateaufarine) beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les Gamins. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Besancon tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Titty Twister Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Coffee Brass'éliande, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar De L'u provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 6
- Besançon
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Drive 204 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Besançon Citadel
- Cascade des tufs
- The Hérisson waterfalls
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Besancon, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Besancon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Citadel Of Besançon is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Cascade Des Tufs is your next stop. This frequently visited waterfall is one of the best-rated sights in Besancon.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Hérisson Waterfalls. This mesmerizing waterfall is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Besancon and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Besancon. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at L' Ô à la bouche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Green Man offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Atelier de Francisco is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Besancon.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pub Kilarney, known for its lively atmosphere. Gotham 25 is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, L'arche offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 7
- Besançon
- Metz
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Parc Richard Pouille
- Place Stanislas
- Museum of Fine Arts in Nancy
- Lorraine Regional Natural Park
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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 Nancy and Pont-à-Mousson. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Metz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Besancon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Parc Richard Pouille is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Besancon. Next, head to Place Stanislas, Place De La Carrière And Place D'alliance In Nancy, a well-known public square, 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 Museum Of Fine Arts In Nancy. This visually striking museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Lorraine Regional Natural Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Metz, 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 Metz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at 3 Brasseurs Metz-Augny, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Buffalo Grill Metz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Metz Technopole - Best Western Plus. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Metz.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Aux Paraiges, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of 3.96 Kaffe, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Saint-jacques likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8
- Metz - Departure day
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- Jean-Marie Pelt Gardens - Seille Park
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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 Metz before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Jean-marie Pelt Gardens - Seille Park. This worthwhile park is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Metz’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Metz Centre Ville. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Metz.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Derrière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Metz. 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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