Relaxed 9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille to Paris
Description
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Description
Uncover the beauty of France on this 9-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Lille, Croix, Versailles, and Paris. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.
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 Lille, Croix, Versailles, and Paris. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Lille and 3 nights in Paris. 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 Lille, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-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. 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 8 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 9 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 9-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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Lille - arrival day
- Lille - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Lille, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Lille and begin your adventure in France.
Lille 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 John Doe Escape Game or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Lille. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Lille.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lille.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lille. The bars in Lille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Colbert Café. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Level Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Fridge Bar Lille, another top-rated bar in the area.
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 Lille as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Lille and Croix
- Lille
- Croix
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Drive 20 km, 49 min
- Parc Barbieux
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral at Lille
- Column of the Goddess
- La Vieille Bourse
- More
Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 2, 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 Lille and beyond. With 3 nights left in Lille, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Today's adventure in Lille promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Notre-dame-de-la-treille Cathedral At Lille. This picture-perfect church is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Column Of The Goddess, another noteworthy attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Old Stock Exchange, one of the town’s most intriguing attractions, known for its enchanting features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Croix. This drive usually takes around 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc Barbieux, a beloved park that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lille and your accommodation.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Pureté, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, La Table - Hôtel Clarance, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Lille is Le Restaurant du Cerisier, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Lille. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La Biche & Le Renard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Bô Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pepere Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 3 – Lille
- Lille
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Drive 3 km, 46 min
- Gare Saint Sauveur
- Parc Jean-Baptiste Lebas
- Musée d'Histoire Naturelle de Lille
- Palais des Beaux Arts
- La Vieille Bourse
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On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Lille, 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 Lille, and meet locals along the way!
Start your adventure at Gare Saint Sauveur. This worthwhile cultural center is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parc Jean-baptiste Lebas located in Lille for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée D'histoire Naturelle De Lille. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Palais Des Beaux-arts De Lille.
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.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Don’t miss out on dining at L'Assiette du Marché, a top-rated dining destination in Lille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant l'Arbre Gruson, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'île de Crète. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lille this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lille.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at La Pirogue. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Zythum Café Lille, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Le Café Des Six Roses provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!
Day 4 – Lille
- Lille
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Drive 7 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Parc de la Citadelle
- Zoo Lille
- Jardin Vauban
- La Vieille Bourse
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Lille. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Lille. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Lille!
Lille is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a serene, an enchanting, an eye-catching, a standout, a symbolic, and a masterful! Start at Parc De La Citadelle, a locally appreciated park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Zoo De Lille, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin Vauban. This park is one of the city’s most beloved spots.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Lille. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Lille that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Lille to find the best options for you!
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 Lille, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bloempot, a highly-rated dining destination in Lille. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Arrière Pays, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Quai 38. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lille this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lille. The bars in Lille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Temple's Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dernier Bar Avant La Fin Du Monde - Lille. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Urban Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!
Day 5 – Lille, Versailles, and Paris
- Lille
- Versailles
- Paris
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Drive 277 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Marie-Antoinette's Estate
- Grand Trianon
- Palace of Versailles
- Gardens of Versailles
- La Vieille Bourse
- More
Day 5 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!
Immerse yourself in Versailles’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Versailles. This car ride takes around 2 hours 54 min.
Make your way to Marie-antoinette's Estate, a frequently visited palace that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Grand Trianon, a romantic palace that stands out in the town. Next, visit Palace Of Versailles, a world-famous palace that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Gardens Of Versailles, a nearby botanical garden, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Paris in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 3 nights.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Paris.
Begin your culinary exploration in Paris by securing a reservation at Kei. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pré Catelan, celebrated for its delectable creative and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Épicure, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
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, Café De Paris V offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dirty Dick is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Red Door is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Jardin des plantes
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- place de la Concorde
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring a charming, a picturesque, an enchanting, a photogenic, a heritage-rich, a noteworthy, and a culturally significant. Start at Jardin Des Plantes, a captivating botanical garden in the city. Then, head to Louvre Museum and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Paris and when you are ready for more, go to Musée D'orsay. This is one of the city’s most extraordinary spots. After exploring the museum, visit the astonishing Tuileries Garden. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the spectacular Place De La Concorde, a spectacular public square in the city.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Paris offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Paris.
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.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Paris’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Boucan, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mamie Paris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Paris, and meet locals along the way!
Today’s route brings a romantic, an enchanting, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a detailed. The first attraction of today is Sacré-cœur. This timeless church is a symbolic place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Palais Garnier, a romantic opera house with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-dame De Paris. This locally renowned church offers a visually striking encounter with Paris. Panthéon 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 Paris.
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 the food culture in Paris offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Harp Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Augustins offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Châtelet. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
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.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.
Day 8 – Paris and Lille
- Paris
- Lille
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Drive 239 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Pont Alexandre III
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- La Villette
- Louvre Museum
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Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Paris. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Lille, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Pont Alexandre Iii. Just a short distance away is Champ De Mars, a stunning park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Eiffel Tower, one of the city’s most timeless spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the iconic Arc De Triomphe. Last up on today’s itinerary is a park. Make your way to La Villette for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Paris.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Lille. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at CLUB MAROT, a highly-rated dining destination in Lille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Oiseaux, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Petite Table. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lille this evening.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Lille and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Continue your lively evening at Au Gand'brinus, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Windsor is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Barillet ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.
Day 9 – Lille - departure day
- Lille - Departure day
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- Paris Gate
- La Vieille Bourse
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Day 9 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 Lille.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Lille’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Lille is the remarkable Paris Gate. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,178 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Lille or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Safran, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Lille and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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