9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand to Orléans, Paris, Mâcon, and Nimes and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. 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 2 nights in Clermont-Ferrand, 1 night in Orléans, 2 nights in Paris, 1 night in Mâcon, and 2 nights in Nimes. 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 Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand, Orléans, Paris, Noisiel, Beaune, Mâcon, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Nimes, Sagriès, Aigues-Mortes, Anduze, Générargues, and Saint-Jean-du-Gard, 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 – Clermont-Ferrand - arrival day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Arrival day
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- place de Jaude
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Say hello to Clermont-Ferrand! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Clermont-Ferrand for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Clermont-Ferrand 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 Place De Jaude or 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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 in Clermont-Ferrand. 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.
Savor the flavors at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Clermont-Ferrand tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Les Berthom, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Bar Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Viking Pub Counter likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Clermont-Ferrand and Orléans
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Orléans
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Drive 322 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption
- L'Aventure Michelin
- place de Jaude
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Clermont-Ferrand. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Orléans, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with a charming, a stunning, an eye-catching, a respected, a stunning, and a culturally significant in Clermont-Ferrand. Begin your sightseeing with Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This often recommended church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Panoramic Domes, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Clermont-Ferrand, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to L'aventure Michelin. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Orléans. 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 Orléans's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant des Plantes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Paul & Juliette is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Orléans.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Moog, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Java Pop. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Charbon, another top-rated place in the area.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 3 – Orléans and Paris
- Orléans
- Paris
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Louvre Museum
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
After soaking in Orléans’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Paris. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 36 min. When you arrive in Paris, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Jardin Du Luxembourg, a widely recognized park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Champ De Mars and admire its visually striking features. When you’re ready, continue to Eiffel Tower, an iconic monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Arc De Triomphe, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Louvre Museum, a photogenic place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café De Paris V, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dirty Dick provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Red Door offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 4 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 35 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
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On day 4 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.
A blend of an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a charming, a respected, an inviting, a majestic, and a detailed await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the famous park, La Villette. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Sacré-cœur. A visit to this church is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Place De La Concorde. This famous public square is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Tuileries Garden, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Musée D'orsay and learn why this museum is renowned as one of the city's most extraordinary attractions.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Sens Unique, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Boucan for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mamie Paris is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
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 5 – Paris, Noisiel, Beaune, and Mâcon
- Paris
- Noisiel
- Beaune
- Mâcon
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Drive 433 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- Louvre Museum
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Noisiel and Beaune. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mâcon. 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 Paris, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Noisiel. This drive usually takes around 27 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Parc De Noisiel, a frequently visited park in Noisiel.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beaune. This car ride takes around 3 hours 5 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering La Moutarderie Fallot, a beloved museum known for its photogenic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune, a popular museum that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
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 Mâcon. Mâcon 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Mâcon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 6 – Mâcon, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, and Nimes
- Mâcon
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Arles
- Nîmes
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Drive 377 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Les Baux-de-Provence and Arles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Carrières Des Lumières is a well-known art installation we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a grand castle that’s well-regarded in the area.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, 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 Les Baux-de-Provence to Arles may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Roman Theatre Of Arles is an increasingly popular archeological site we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Arles Amphitheatre, a picture-perfect archeological site that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nimes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Galerie, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Annaba Café, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel des Tuileries, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Bonne Mousse, known for its lively atmosphere. O’flaherty’s is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, News Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
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 7 – Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Aigues-Mortes
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
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Drive 156 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Pont du Gard
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start by visiting Jardin De La Fontaine, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Musée De La Romanité, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated museum renowned for its photogenic features.
Set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Pont Du Gard, a well-known monument that everyone visiting La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sagriès may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Sagriès, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Haribo Candy Museum, an interesting museum that draws attention for its visually striking features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nimes and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nimes's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Criée, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Vatel and Spa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nimes tonight.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8 – Nimes, Anduze, Générargues, Saint-Jean-du-Gard, and Clermont-Ferrand
- Nîmes
- Anduze
- Générargues
- Saint-Jean-du-Gard
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 334 km, 4 hours 45 min
- The Bamboo Cevennes
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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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 Anduze, Générargues, and Saint-Jean-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clermont-Ferrand, where you will stay for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Anduze. This car ride takes around 44 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Train À Vapeur Des Cévennes, an increasingly popular heritage railway that everyone visiting Anduze should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Générargues’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Anduze behind. This drive usually takes around 6 min. Générargues welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at The Bamboo Cevennes and explore the romantic features.
After soaking in Générargues’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Saint-Jean-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Steam Train Of Cevennes, an often recommended heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Fille à papa, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Le Dôme offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Centre Jaude. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at L’arrozoir, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Kokomo, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Des Beaux Arts provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 9 – Clermont-Ferrand - departure day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Departure day
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- Jardin Lecoq
- place de Jaude
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Clermont-Ferrand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Begin your adventure at Jardin Lecoq. This is an underrated park you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Fée Maison, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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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