9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Nantes, Caen, Paris, and Blois

On day 2 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 Nantes and Sainte-luce-sur-loire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nantes, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of La Rochelle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nantes. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. Spend some time admiring the noteworthy features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Botanical Garden. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the botanical garden. Next, continue your journey to Île De Versailles (nantes), a locally appreciated park.

Sainte-luce-sur-loire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Grand Blotterau Parc is a beloved park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. 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 Nantes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Parallèle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nantes.

Continue your lively evening at Le Chat Noir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe and Caen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Caen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe. This car ride takes around 2 hours 54 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Colline Aux Oiseaux, a frequently visited park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 min. When you arrive in Caen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Mémorial De Caen, a notable museum that everyone visiting Caen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Caen Castle. This picture-perfect castle is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Caen, 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 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.

Savor the flavors at La Ficelle, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Galettoire beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar de la Fac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Caen tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kokomo, known for its lively atmosphere. Delirium Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Rhumba offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Paris and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Paris beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Arc De Triomphe, a world-famous monument that everyone visiting Paris should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Champ De Mars. This visually striking park is one of the most timeless attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Eiffel Tower, a history-steeped monument, popular among locals as well as travelers. Tuileries Garden is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this extraordinary park before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Louvre Museum, a history-steeped museum and top attraction in the city.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at Mumi, 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 Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café De Paris V, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dirty Dick, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Little Red Door likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s agenda in Paris includes a church, a public square, a museum, a park, a monument and much more! Sacré-cœur is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Place De La Concorde, a widely recognized public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Musée D'orsay, an enchanting museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Paris. If you’re looking for more, Jardin Du Luxembourg is also an impressive attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Panthéon, a locally renowned gem to see in the city.

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.

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.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Boucan. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mamie Paris, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles and Blois, 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 Blois. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Versailles allows for both.

Versailles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Paris behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Versailles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Gardens Of Versailles, where you can soak in the remarkable surroundings. Next, explore Marie-antoinette's Estate, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Versailles and set your GPS to Blois. 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 2 hours 9 min. Upon reaching Blois, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château De Blois, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Relais de la Tour, a top-rated dining spot in Blois. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Angers. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Angers. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Château D'angers and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers, another highlight in the city.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

Keep the evening going at Le Dock Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mary Lili, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'alibi, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.