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

1 / 29
Photo of Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore France and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Paris, Orléans, Blois, Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, Sully-sur-Loire, Vineuil-Saint-Firmin, Chantilly, and Mongresin. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Paris, Orléans, Blois, Saint-Jean-le-Blanc, Sully-sur-Loire, Vineuil-Saint-Firmin, Chantilly, and Mongresin. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Paris and 4 nights in Orléans. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Paris, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Eiffel Tower. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Louvre Museum.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Arc De Triomphe. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Champ De Mars. Get close to the spectacular Sacré-cœur and the wonderful Jardin Du Luxembourg. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Paris

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin du Luxembourg
Sacré-CœurArc de TriompheEiffel TowerChamp de MarsMontmartre
Louvre MuseumMusée d'Orsayplace de la Concorde
Castle of Chaumont-sur-LoireDomaine de Chaumont-sur-LoireChâteau de BloisChâteau de ChevernyChâteau de Chambord
Parc Pasteur d'OrléansHôtel GroslotOrléans Cathedral
Ile CharlemagneBase de loisirs de l'Île CharlemagneChâteau de Sully-sur-Loire
Château de ChantillyPavillon de MansePonds of Commelles
Tuileries Garden

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Paris - Arrival day
  • More
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Paris, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Paris and begin your adventure in France.

Paris 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 Du Luxembourg, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Paris. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime 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 Paris, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, 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 Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. 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 Paris and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café De Paris V, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dirty Dick offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Red Door. 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 into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Paris as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 18 km, 1 hour 13 min

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

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

Montmartre is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Paris, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Sacré-cœur. This visually striking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Arc De Triomphe, another noteworthy attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Eiffel Tower, one of the city’s most world-famous attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Champ De Mars. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Kei, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Pré Catelan is one of the best restaurants for creative and contemporary cuisine in Paris. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Épicure. As a top-rated establishment with 3 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Paris
  • Orléans
  • More

Drive 139 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Louvre Museum
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • place de la Concorde
  • More

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Paris on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Louvre Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Musée D'orsay is your next stop. This extraordinary museum is one of the best-rated sights in Paris.

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 Place De La Concorde. This enchanting public square is a sight to behold.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Orléans in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Orléans by reserving a table at L'Hibiscus. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to La Table, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Lièvre Gourmand, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Orléans. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative 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.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Orléans as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Orléans
  • More

Drive 191 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire
  • Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire
  • Château de Blois
  • Château de Cheverny
  • Château de Chambord
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Orléans and beyond. With 3 nights left in Orléans, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Orléans allows for both. Start by heading to Castle Of Chaumont-sur-loire. This curiosity-inducing castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Domaine De Chaumont-sur-loire, a visually striking castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Blois, a well-known castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Château De Cheverny. Round off your day at Château De Chambord, another gem in Orléans with visually striking features to discover.

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

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 Orléans, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Parenthèse, a top-rated dining spot in Orléans. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tawouk & Falafel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Saint Vincent. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Orléans.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L'antidote offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Orléans
  • More

Drive 1 km, 27 min

  • Parc Pasteur d'Orléans
  • Hôtel Groslot
  • Orléans Cathedral
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Orléans, 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 Orléans, and meet locals along the way!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the underrated Parc Pasteur D'orléans, a peaceful park in Orléans. Next, go to Hôtel Groslot.

After visiting Parc Pasteur D'orléans and Hôtel Groslot, have a stroll along Orléans's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Orléans Cathedral. This visually striking church offers a unique experience.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Tonnelier, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Ptit Gavroche - Cuisine française, fait maison ! offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ma-Dam Restaurant coréen traiteur salon de thé orléans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Orléans.

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.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Orléans
  • More

Drive 96 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Ile Charlemagne
  • Base de loisirs de l'Île Charlemagne
  • Château de Sully-sur-Loire
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Orléans and visit amazing attractions in Saint-Jean-le-Blanc and Sully-sur-Loire destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Orléans. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Orléans, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Étang De L'île Charlemagne, a frequently visited lake in the village. Then, head to Base De Loisirs De L'île Charlemagne and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting park.

There are many interesting places to see in Orléans, and when you are ready for more, go to Château De Sully-sur-loire. This is one of the village’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Orléans and your accommodation.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mei, a highly-rated dining destination in Orléans. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tex Mex, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Grande Tour. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Orléans this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Orléans’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Orléans
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 237 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Château de Chantilly
  • Pavillon de Manse
  • Ponds of Commelles
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Vineuil-Saint-Firmin and end it in the city of Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Today's adventure in Orléans promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Château De Chantilly. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Pavillon De Manse, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ponds Of Commelles, one of the village’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its majestic features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Paris. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 lovely meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistro des Augustins is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Petit Châtelet. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

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

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.

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

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Paris - Departure day
  • More
  • Tuileries Garden
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Paris.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Paris’s popular marketplace, Galeries Lafayette. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tuileries Garden. This spectacular park is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Paris or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Paris 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.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.