9-Day France Road Trip from Caen traveling south to Nantes, Tours, and Paris

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Ducey, Nantes, Chenonceaux, Amboise, Tours, Blois, Cheverny, Chambord, Paris, Vineuil-Saint-Firmin, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, and Versailles. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Caen, 1 night in Nantes, 1 night in Tours, and 3 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 Caen, 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 Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Ducey, Nantes, Chenonceaux, Amboise, Tours, Blois, Cheverny, Chambord, Paris, Vineuil-Saint-Firmin, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, and Versailles, 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

Day 1 – Ifs, and Caen - arrival day

  • Caen - Arrival day
  • More

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Caen and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Caen for 2 nights 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.

Caen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Caen. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Make sure to book a table at La Ficelle, a popular restaurant in Caen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Caen at La Galettoire, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Bar de la Fac. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Caen tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Kokomo, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Delirium Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Rhumba is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Ouistreham

  • Caen
  • Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe
  • Ouistreham
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Colline aux Oiseaux
  • Mémorial de Caen
  • L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
  • Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Caen, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Kick off the day at Mémorial De Caen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 349,455 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This peace museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,288 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit L'abbaye-aux-hommes. L'abbaye-aux-hommes is a place of worship with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,380 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Colline Aux Oiseaux. This extraordinary green space is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,950 visitors.

Ouistreham welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make The "big Bunker" one of your first sightseeing stops in Ouistreham. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,021 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Dine in style at Yaki Sushi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Trattoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SASÉSU. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Caen.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Vertigo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Les Déserteurs, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Vous Êtes Ici provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Caen, Ducey, and Nantes

  • Nantes
  • Ducey
  • More

Drive 310 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • More

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 - Ducey, and Nantes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ducey. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Château Des Montgommery, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 395 reviews.

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

Make Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes one of your first sightseeing stops in Nantes. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Botanical Garden is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 visitors. Up to 167,867 people travel to this site annually.

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

Savor the flavors at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Cigale. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nantes tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Chat Noir. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Nantes, Chenonceaux, Amboise, and Tours

  • Tours
  • Chenonceaux
  • Amboise
  • More

Drive 287 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Château d'Amboise
  • Château du Clos Lucé
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Chenonceaux, and Amboise. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Chenonceaux. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Château De Chenonceau is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,253 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Amboise, 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 Chenonceaux to Amboise may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amboise, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château D'amboise. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,016 visitors.

When you’re finished at Château D'amboise, head to Chapel Of Saint-hubert. This one-of-a-kind church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 444 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Château Du Clos Lucé. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,292 visitors.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Tours. 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 lovely meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Au Fût et à mesure is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tours tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Piraat Cafe Tours, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'alexandra. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Tours, Blois, Cheverny, Chambord, and Paris

  • Paris
  • Blois
  • Cheverny
  • Chambord
  • More

Drive 279 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
  • Château de Blois
  • Château de Cheverny
  • Château de Chambord
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Blois, Cheverny, and Chambord. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Tours, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blois. Your travel time is around 46 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Robert-houdin House Of Magic. This museum is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,105 visitors.

Château De Blois is another popular attraction you could visit today. This château has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,926 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Blois, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cheverny. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Cheverny. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cheverny, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Paris, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café De Paris V, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Paris, Vineuil-Saint-Firmin, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, and Versailles

  • Paris
  • Vineuil-Saint-Firmin
  • Le Chesnay
  • Versailles
  • More

Drive 158 km, 3 hours 24 min

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 2 nights left in Paris, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Vineuil-Saint-Firmin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Paris behind. This drive usually takes around 56 min. Vineuil-Saint-Firmin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Château De Chantilly, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,488 reviews.

After soaking in Vineuil-Saint-Firmin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marie-antoinette's Estate, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,865 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Versailles, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Paris. This drive usually takes around 43 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Grand Trianon. This extraordinary maison de plaisance has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,511 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palace Of Versailles. This château welcomes around 4,741,758 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 119,665 reviews.

While in Versailles, we also recommend a visit to Gardens Of Versailles. This french formal garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,133 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Sens Unique, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Caveau de l'isle. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Boucan offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Mamie Paris is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Paris

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 22 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Sacré-Cœur
  • Louvre Museum
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Champ de Mars
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sacré-cœur. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 visitors. Sacré-cœur welcomes around 11,000,000 visitors every year.

Louvre Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 visitors. Louvre Museum attracts up to 2,825,000 visitors every year.

Tuileries Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This garden has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 visitors.

Eiffel Tower is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 6,207,303 people visit this place every year. This lattice tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 322,389 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Champ De Mars. This urban park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 172,488 travelers.

You can learn more about Paris today by going on a tour. Paris offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Harp Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sherry Butt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Highlander for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Sully is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Paris, and Caen

  • Caen
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • Panthéon
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Jardin des plantes
  • place de la Concorde
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • More

On day 8 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Caen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Panthéon. This popular mausoleum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Jardin Du Luxembourg. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors, this urban park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Place De La Concorde. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 54,229 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Arc De Triomphe. This triumphal arch gets around 2,743,823 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 travelers, this triumphal arch is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Paris.

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

Dine in style at Le Refuge, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'R de rien boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out PAUL & LÉON. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Caen.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Boudoir, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Garsouille is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Caen - departure day

  • Caen - Departure day
  • More
  • Caen Castle
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Caen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Caen’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Caen Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,915 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Caen.

You’ll then say farewell to Caen. 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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