9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling west to Beaune, Paris, Blois, and Clermont-Ferrand
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Romorantin-lanthenay, and Clermont-Ferrand. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Lyon, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Blois, and 1 night in Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Lyon, 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 Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Fontainebleau, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Romorantin-lanthenay, and Clermont-Ferrand, 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Lyon - arrival day
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
- More
Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Lyon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Lyon for 1 night 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.
Lyon 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 Bellecour 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 Lyon. 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 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 delicious meal at Nuage café, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Continue your lively evening at L' Antiquaire, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Forest Society is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pompette ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Beaune
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Beaune
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Lyon Cathedral
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- More
Dive into day 2 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.
Set out on a day brimming with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a historically significant, a monumental, and a symbolic. Start at the well-known Lyon Cathedral, a romantic church in Lyon. Next, go to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma.
After visiting Lyon Cathedral and Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, take time to explore Lyon's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This enchanting church offers a unique experience.
Caluire-et-Cuire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lyon behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Caluire-et-Cuire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc De La Tête D'or, a famous park that draws visitors from near and far.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Beaune by booking a table at La Table du Square, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional menu. For a different culinary experience in Beaune, Clos du Cèdre shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Carmin is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Beaune. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3 – Beaune, Fontainebleau, and Paris
- Beaune
- Fontainebleau
- Paris
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Drive 324 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- Palace of Fontainebleau
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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 Beaune and Fontainebleau. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Begin your adventure at Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This is a locally renowned museum you should not miss. Another must-see is La Moutarderie Fallot, an increasingly popular museum in Beaune.
When you’ve had your share of Beaune, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Fontainebleau. Your travel time is around 2 hours 22 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Palace Of Fontainebleau, a captivating castle that everyone visiting Fontainebleau should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fontainebleau. This car ride takes around 2 hours 22 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Forêt De Fontainebleau, an underrated nature reserve known for its peaceful features.
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.
As you explore more of Paris, 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.
Discover the culinary delights of Paris by securing a reservation at Kei. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Le Pré Catelan, renowned for its delicious creative and contemporary dishes. This esteemed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Épicure, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 3-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Continue your lively evening at Café De Paris V, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dirty Dick is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Little Red Door ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4 – Paris and Versailles
- Paris
- Versailles
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Drive 77 km, 2 hours 9 min
- Palace of Versailles
- Palais Garnier
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 4 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Paris, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Paris for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Versailles and Paris to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a breathtaking, a photogenic, a historically significant, a majestic, and a noteworthy. Start at the interesting Palais Garnier, an awe-inspiring opera house in Paris. Next, go to Place De La Concorde.
After visiting Palais Garnier and Place De La Concorde, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tuileries Garden. This detailed park offers a unique experience. Musée D'orsay is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Louvre Museum, one of the most heritage-rich places to visit in Paris.
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 globally renowned palace that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Paris and your accommodation.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Prescription Cocktail Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Boucan, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mamie Paris. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant 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.
Day 5 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 35 km, 1 hour 37 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- More
Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at La Villette. This picture-perfect park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sacré-cœur, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Arc De Triomphe, one of the city’s most world-famous attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Eiffel Tower. This grand monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Champ De Mars, a wondrous park, and take a stroll around the area.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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 delicious meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sherry Butt, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Highlander offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Sully. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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 6 – Paris and Blois
- Paris
- Blois
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Drive 189 km, 2 hours 51 min
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Louvre Museum
- Jardin des plantes
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 Blois. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a culturally significant, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, a remarkable, and a picturesque! Start at Notre-dame De Paris, a well-known church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Panthéon, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin Du Luxembourg. This park is one of the city’s most famous spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Paris at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Jardin Des Plantes.
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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Blois by reserving a table at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Blois.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 7 – Blois, Romorantin-lanthenay, and Clermont-Ferrand
- Blois
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 312 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Château de Blois
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Blois and Romorantin-lanthenay. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Clermont-Ferrand, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Château De Blois, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking castle is sure to impress.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Auberge du Pont, 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, Apicius, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand is L'Ostal, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Les Berthom, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Bar Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Viking Pub Counter. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Say good night to Clermont-Ferrand and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 8 – Clermont-Ferrand and Lyon
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Lyon
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Drive 187 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption
- place de Jaude
- L'Aventure Michelin
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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 Clermont-Ferrand. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Clermont-Ferrand’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This enchanting church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Place De Jaude, a must-visit public square in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Panoramic Domes, a locally renowned observation deck. For a change of scene, check out L'aventure Michelin, known for its photogenic features.
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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon's best restaurants.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lyon by reserving a table at Takao Takano. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Mère Brazier, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The James Joyce Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Broc'bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Passagère offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – Lyon - departure day
- Lyon - Departure day
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- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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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 Lyon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Lyon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Fresque Des Lyonnais is must-visit street art and a great starting point for the day.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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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