9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon to Valence, Auxerre, Paris, Beaune, and Lyon

On day 4 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Paris, 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 Auxerre to Paris may take around 1 hour 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Champ De Mars, a timeless park in Paris. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Eiffel Tower. This timeless monument is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Pont Alexandre Iii is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the extraordinary Tuileries Garden and discover what makes this park unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Louvre Museum, a photogenic museum many travelers find worthwhile the visit.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mumi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Imprévu Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café De Paris V, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dirty Dick is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Little Red Door is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Paris today. One of the most spectacular attractions included on the itinerary is La Villette. This stunning park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Sacré-cœur and learn what makes this inviting church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Palais Garnier. After exploring the opera house, head to Place De La Concorde. This impressive public square is a highlight in Paris. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the world-famous Arc De Triomphe. Enjoy exploring this incredible monument at your own pace.

Your discoveries in Paris do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Paris on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Sens Unique? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Caveau de l'isle 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 Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 6 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 Beaune. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Paris covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a park, a monument, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Musée D'orsay. This astonishing museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Jardin Du Luxembourg, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Panthéon. This locally renowned monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Jardin Des Plantes, where you can take in its eye-catching features.

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 explore more of Beaune, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ermitage de Corton, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistrot du Coin offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bout du Monde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Beaune.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. 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 Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lyon may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Lyon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Palais De La Bourse De Lyon, an up-and-coming palace that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, an inviting church that stands out in the town. Next, visit Lyon Cathedral, a captivating church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Place Bellecour, a nearby public square, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

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.

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 top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like L' Antiquaire, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pompette offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nimes. Your travel time is around 2 hours 41 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Jardin De La Fontaine, an interesting park that everyone visiting Nimes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Carré D'art. This photogenic museum is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Musée De La Romanité, an instagrammable museum, popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulon. 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 Toulon's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Holiday Inn Toulon - City Centre, an IHG Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Corsaire PUB? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Goût-Thé II as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulon.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Old Coucou, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Temple Beer, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Le Winny provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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