9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Lyon, Beaune, Paris, and Limoges

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Cité De Carcassonne. This impressive castle is an UNESCO world heritage-designated place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Basilique Saint Nazaire, a grand church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal. This worthwhile castle offers a grand encounter with Carcassonne. Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Marmonières, 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 Carcassonne to Marmonières may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Marmonières, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Grotte De Limousis, an underrated cave that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Auberge des Lices is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Adélaïde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 2 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Jardin De La Fontaine, an interesting park in Nimes. Explore its detailed features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Musée De La Romanité. This beloved museum is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Musée Des Beaux-arts De Nîmes is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most heritage-rich museum in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. 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 Lyon. 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 Nuage café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café du Rhône is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Agastache Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pompette is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Beaune. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This captivating church is an inviting place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Lyon Cathedral, a visually striking church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This popular public square offers an enchanting encounter with Lyon.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a top-rated park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring 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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Beaune. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ermitage de Corton, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistrot du Coin offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bout du Monde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Beaune.

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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Paris. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Paris. 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 3 hours 10 min. Upon reaching Paris, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Musée D'orsay is an astonishing museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Place De La Concorde, a visually striking public square that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Tuileries Garden, a romantic park. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Louvre Museum, a respected and truly unique museum.

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 Paris. Paris 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mumi, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at L'Imprévu Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café De Paris V, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Little Red Door provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. 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. Champ De Mars is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking park before continuing your journey. Eiffel Tower is your next stop. This timeless monument 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 Arc De Triomphe. This history-steeped monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit 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.

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 lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 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 and Orléans. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limoges, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Paris includes a botanical garden, a monument, and a park. Jardin Des Plantes is must-visit botanical garden and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Panthéon, a popular monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a picture-perfect park, also available for your discovery today.

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 Orléans. Your travel time is around 1 hour 36 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Pasteur D'orléans. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Paris, 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 Le Pont Saint Etienne, 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 Le Geyracois, a hidden gem nestled in Limoges. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Chez Bernard is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying 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 Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a notable church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Pont-neuf and admire its history-steeped features. When you’re ready, continue to Grand Rond, a frequently visited park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Jardin Des Plantes, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant La Marquière, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Métairie beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!