11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Lyon, Beaune, Paris, Blois, and Limoges
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Limoges, and Toulouse. 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 3 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Beaune, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Blois, and 1 night in Limoges. 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 Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Versailles, Blois, Limoges, and Toulouse, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Carcassonne - arrival day
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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- Porte de l'Aude
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Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Carcassonne is a beautiful town 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 Porte De L'aude or taking a stroll in the town 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 Carcassonne. 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 Carcassonne. 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 delicious dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Carcassonne
- Carcassonne
- More
Drive 6 km, 25 min
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Carcassonne. You have 1 night left in Carcassonne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a castle and a church. Start your adventure at Cité De Carcassonne. This top-rated castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Basilique Saint Nazaire located in Carcassonne for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Château Comtal. This castle has a history-steeped appeal.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at V and B Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adélaïde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Carcassonne, Nimes, and Lyon
- Carcassonne
- Nîmes
- Lyon
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Drive 459 km, 4 hours 55 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- Place Bellecour
- Cité de Carcassonne
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Nimes 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nimes today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Carcassonne and set your GPS to Nimes. 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 Nimes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Musée De La Romanité and admire its instagrammable features.
After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lyon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 37 min. When you arrive in Lyon, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Place Bellecour, a popular public square known for its enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nuage café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café du Rhône offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Agastache Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Beaune
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Beaune
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Drive 175 km, 2 hours 30 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Porte des Enfants du Rhône
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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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Beaune, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a historic, a stunning, and a majestic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This locally renowned church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Lyon Cathedral, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!
Parc De La Tête D'or is a top-rated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, a noteworthy monument that’s well-regarded in the area.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Beaune. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this 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 5 – Beaune and Paris
- Beaune
- Paris
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 28 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Panthéon
- Jardin des plantes
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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On day 5 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.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Beaune, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Paris. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Du Luxembourg, an impressive park known for its awe-inspiring features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Panthéon, a locally renowned monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Jardin Des Plantes and uncover the details of this standout botanical garden. Make sure to also explore Notre-dame De Paris, a popular church that offers a unique experience.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café De Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 13 km, 46 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Pont Alexandre III
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the world-famous Champ De Mars. Just a short distance away is Eiffel Tower, an enchanting monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Pont Alexandre Iii, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Tuileries Garden. Last up on today’s itinerary is a museum. Make your way to Musée D'orsay for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Paris.
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.
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.
Continue your lively evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Boucan is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mamie Paris ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 35 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- place de la Concorde
- Les Invalides
- Louvre Museum
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
A blend of a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a romantic, a standout, a profound, a culturally significant, and a noteworthy await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the top-rated 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 Palais Garnier. This captivating opera house is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Place De La Concorde, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Les Invalides and learn why this museum is renowned as one of the city's most popular 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.
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 delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sherry Butt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Sully provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8 – Paris, Versailles, and Blois
- Paris
- Versailles
- Blois
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Drive 213 km, 2 hours 59 min
- Sainte Chapelle
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
- More
Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris and Versailles, 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring a romantic, a breathtaking, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a stunning, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a detailed. Start at Sainte Chapelle, a notable church in the city. Then, head to Arc De Triomphe and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking monument.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Palace Of Versailles, a timeless palace that draws attention for its visually striking features.
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.
As you explore more of Blois, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Relais de la Tour, an iconic dining spot in Blois. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a popular restaurant in Blois. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 9 – Blois and Limoges
- Blois
- Limoges
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Drive 246 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Jacques-Gabriel Bridge
- Château de Blois
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Blois. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limoges, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting Jacques-gabriel Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. This awe-inspiring monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Château De Blois, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned castle renowned for its visually striking features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Limoges, 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 Limoges's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Pont Saint Etienne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Geyracois. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Limoges tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Chez Bernard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Head back to your accommodation in Limoges and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 10 – Limoges, Toulouse, and Carcassonne
- Limoges
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 386 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Pont-Neuf
- jardin Royal
- Jardin des Plantes
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Toulouse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Limoges, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toulouse may take around 2 hours 53 min. Upon your arrival in Toulouse, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Basilica Of St. Sernin and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Pont-neuf, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Jardin Royal, a serene park. Nearby, you will also find Jardin Des Plantes. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a top place to see in the area.
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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant La Marquière, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Métairie beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11 – Carcassonne - departure day
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Portail des Jacobins
- Cité de Carcassonne
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Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Carcassonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Immerse yourself in Carcassonne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Portail Des Jacobins. This symbolic monument is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
Savor the flavors at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Celt beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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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