Cheap 12-Day France Road Trip from Clermont-Ferrand to Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, Orléans, and Blois

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Clermont-Ferrand, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Clermont-Ferrand and begin your adventure in France.

Clermont-Ferrand is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in France, Clermont-Ferrand is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Jardin Lecoq. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,878 reviews.

Savor the culinary delights of Clermont-Ferrand, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Clermont-Ferrand, Les BerThoM. Le Bar Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend The Viking Pub Counter, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in France!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 1 destination: Clermont-Ferrand. You'll stay in Lyon for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,232 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Montjuzet. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,229 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Panoramic Domes is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,215 visitors.

When you’re finished at Panoramic Domes, the perfect next stop is Parc Pierre Montgroux. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,868 reviews.

Lyon offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Lyon offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The James Joyce Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

Ready for day 3 of your road trip vacation in France? Discover more of Lyon and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

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 Vaulx-en-velin may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Porte des Enfants du Rhône. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Caluire-et-Cuire, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,967 visitors.

Parc de la Tête d'Or is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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 Vaulx-en-velin may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,314 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lyon.

A cheap, budget vacation in Lyon should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Lyon, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your foodie adventure at Cactus Bar, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to L Bar food & drink, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Flair Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Broc'Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. The Phantom of the Opera is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in France! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Lyon!

Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in France. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Lyon and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lyon, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Musée Miniature et Cinéma is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. Visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Place Bellecour is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Lyon. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Lyon offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in France worth remembering for a lifetime.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Lyon, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Bouchon Tupin stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, The King Arthur offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Betty's Bar, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

MOS - Maker of Stories is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 5 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Beaune, Nuits-Saint-Georges, and Auxerre. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Auxerre, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nuits-Saint-Georges. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,805 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Nuits-Saint-Georges. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Nuits-Saint-Georges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Le Cassissium your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,349 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Auxerre, 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 Nuits-Saint-Georges to Auxerre may take around 1 hour 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Auxerre, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Église Saint-Eusèbe. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 129 visitors.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Auxerre has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Auxerre on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Auxerre, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the town's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

A road trip vacation in Beaune can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in France!

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Paris, where you'll be staying for 3 nights. On your way to Paris, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Fontainebleau, and Serris.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Fontainebleau, 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 Fontainebleau may take around 1 hour 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Fontainebleau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Palace of Fontainebleau. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,054 visitors.

Fontainebleau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Auxerre behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Fontainebleau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Forêt de Fontainebleau. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Fontainebleau, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,778 visitors.

Serris’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Fontainebleau behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Serris welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Disneyland Paris, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 256,402 reviews. Every year, Disneyland Paris welcomes more than 13,400,000 curious visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Paris. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Paris, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Paris should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Paris, try some of our top recommendations.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café de Paris V, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dirty Dick, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Red Door provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across France. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in France!

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. You have 2 nights left in Paris. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Palais Garnier. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,053 visitors.

Place de la Concorde is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 54,229 visitors.

Tuileries Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This garden has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 visitors.

Musée d'Orsay is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 3,651,616 people visit this place every year. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,115 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Louvre Museum. This art museum has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 travelers. This local favorite gets around 2,825,000 visitors each year.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in France. To have the best affordable travel experience in France, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in France unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in France.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Paris, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Le Sens Unique offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Le Caveau de l'isle is the perfect spot for you!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Paris, Prescription Cocktail Club. Le Boucan is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Mamie Paris, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

Day 8 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Paris, with 1 night to stay in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to La Villette. This much-appreciated commune of france is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 56,497 reviews.

Next up is Sacré-Cœur. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Sacré-Cœur welcomes 11,000,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Arc de Triomphe. This triumphal arch has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 193,235 reviews. Every year, 2,743,823 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Eiffel Tower is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This lattice tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews. This popular attraction gets 6,207,303 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Champ de Mars. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Paris. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Paris is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Harp Bar, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Le Bistro des Augustins - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Le Petit Châtelet, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Sherry Butt is an excellent example of a great bar in Paris offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at The Highlander, another of locals’ go-to bars in Paris. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Paris, Le Sully is for you.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

On day 9 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Paris. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Orléans, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Notre-Dame de Paris, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 12,000,000 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,788 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sainte Chapelle. Sainte Chapelle is a chapel with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,376 reviews.

Jardin du Luxembourg is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Panthéon. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Jardin des plantes, a famous botanical garden in Paris. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,461 travelers.

Orléans offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Orléans. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Moog, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Java Pop, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Charbon likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 10 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Tours, Chenonceaux, and Amboise. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Blois, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Orléans, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tours. Your travel time is around 1 hour 36 min.

Kick off the day at Château de Villandry, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,506 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Chenonceaux. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Château de Chenonceau, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable château has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,253 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Amboise. This drive usually takes around 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château d'Amboise. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,016 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Château du Clos Lucé. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,292 reviews.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Blois has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Blois on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Blois is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne offers delicious bites without straining your wallet.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in France! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Blois!

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 4 destinations: Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, and Romorantin-lanthenay. You'll stay in Clermont-Ferrand for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Château de Blois is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,926 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Blois, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chambord may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Chambord, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Chambord. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,219 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Chambord, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cheverny. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Drop by the renowned Château de Cheverny. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Clermont-Ferrand. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Clermont-Ferrand, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Clermont-Ferrand has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Continue your lively evening at L’Arrozoir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kokomo is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Des Beaux Arts ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Clermont-Ferrand.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Clermont-Ferrand’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Clermont-Ferrand is the remarkable place de Jaude. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,034 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Clermont-Ferrand, consider a top-rated restaurant like Le Bourbonnais, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Clermont-Ferrand - Le Brézet is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is La Fée Maison, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Clermont-Ferrand.

You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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!