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

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Lyon and begin your adventure in France.

Lyon is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in France, Lyon 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Place Bellecour. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 visitors.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Café du Rhône, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Vieille Canaille is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at L' Antiquaire and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Black Forest Society 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 The James Joyce Pub, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 2 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! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Lyon and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Your discovery of Lyon does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Lyon on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, France.

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.

Cactus Bar 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, L Bar food & drink offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Flair Restaurant, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Lyon, Broc'Bar. Alternatively, visit The Phantom of the Opera, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bron, Clermont-Ferrand, and Vaulx-en-velin. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Clermont-Ferrand, where you'll stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Jardin Lecoq. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,878 reviews.

Continue your journey at place de Jaude. This square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,034 travelers from near and far.

Bron welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Musée Lumière. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,920 reviews.

Continue your journey at iFLY Lyon. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,468 travelers from near and far.

When you arrive in Vaulx-en-velin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,314 reviews.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

Le Comptoir Des Saveurs offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand. Or, try Restaurant Le Dôme, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Les BerThoM, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bar Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Viking Pub Counter offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Clermont-Ferrand!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the town of Blois, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Blois, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Blois and Romorantin-lanthenay.

Journey into the unknown at Château de Blois, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,926 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Blois Cathedral is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 979 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Clermont-Ferrand, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Romorantin-lanthenay. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Matra automobile museum space. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,056 visitors.

Blois 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 town.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in France shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Blois is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Discover the heart of Blois through its culinary scene, starting with Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 3: Tours, Chenonceaux, and Amboise. You'll stay in Orléans for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

After soaking in Chenonceaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tours. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Tours, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Château de Villandry your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,506 reviews.

Chenonceaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Amboise behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Chenonceaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Château de Chenonceau, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 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 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Château d'Amboise. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,016 visitors.

Château du Clos Lucé is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,292 travelers.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Orléans has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Orléans on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 Orléans offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Parenthèse is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Ma-Dam Restaurant coréen traiteur salon de thé orléans.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Moog after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Java Pop, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Charbon also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 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 2 wonderful destinations — Versailles and Orléans. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Paris, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gardens of Versailles, a remarkable french formal garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,133 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Palace of Versailles. This château has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 119,665 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 4,741,758 people visit it every year.

Marie-Antoinette's Estate is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,865 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Make Orléans Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,178 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Statue de Jeanne d'Arc. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,278 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Paris, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at L'Imprévu Café, 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 Petit Châtelet - 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 Restaurant Guy Savoy, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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.

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 ample time, or 3 nights, to stay in Paris. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arc de Triomphe. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Attracting more than 2,743,823 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Arc de Triomphe, head to place de la Concorde. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palais Garnier. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Sacré-Cœur. This church building is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 visitors. Around 11,000,000 travelers visit Sacré-Cœur every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to La Villette. This famous commune of france is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 56,497 travelers.

France is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in France, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to France. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in France that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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.

Saint James Paris offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail. Or, try To Restaurant Paris, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Visit Prescription Cocktail Club, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Sherry Butt serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Paris. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is The Highlander.

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 8 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in France, you’ll go deep into Paris and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Paris — 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Jardin des plantes, a remarkable botanical garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Jardin du Luxembourg. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 travelers.

Panthéon is another must-visit attraction. This renowned mausoleum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Notre-Dame de Paris. This well-loved catholic cathedral boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 45,788 reviews. In a single year, approximately 12,000,000 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Sainte Chapelle awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a chapel, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 previous visitors.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Paris, 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.

Discover the heart of Paris through its culinary scene, starting with Alliance. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try The Bombardier, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Le Bistrot Du Perigord, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Tiger, considered one of the best bars in Paris. You can also enjoy drinks at Bisou. , known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Le Requin Chagrin, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Paris.

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

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Champ de Mars. This urban park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Paris, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 visitors.

Eiffel Tower is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 6,207,303 people visit this lattice tower every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Tuileries Garden. Visitors have rated this garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 92,172 reviews.

Musée d'Orsay, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 3,651,616 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,115 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Louvre Museum, perhaps the most famous art museum in Paris. This attraction welcomes around 2,825,000 visitors annually and is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 travelers.

Touring the best attractions in France offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to France you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in France. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in France.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Jules Verne, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Kitchen Galerie Bis offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Au Pied de Cochon 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, Harry's New York Bar. Experimental Cocktail Club is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company.

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

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Fontainebleau and Chessy. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Auxerre, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Fontainebleau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Auxerre. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Palace of Fontainebleau, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,054 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chessy, 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 Paris to Chessy may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chessy, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

When you’ve had your share of Fontainebleau, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Auxerre. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Forêt de Fontainebleau. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,778 visitors.

Auxerre 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 town.

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. Auxerre has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Beaune. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon, 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 Beaune. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, La Moutarderie Fallot is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,107 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,805 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Park Bouzaise. The park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,309 visitors.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in France by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Lyon that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Bouchon Tupin, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is The King Arthur, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Ninkasi Gerland, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at MOS - Maker of Stories, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Lyon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Take home a piece of France with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Lyon, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Betty's Bar, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Dam's Pub features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Restaurant Gastronomique Christian Tetedoie is a highly recommended spot.

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!