One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lille traveling west to Paris, Rouen, Caen, and Rennes
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Lille, Roubaix, Croix, Amiens, Paris, Rouen, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Caen, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Rennes, and Le Mans. 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 Lille, 1 night in Paris, 1 night in Rouen, 1 night in Caen, and 1 night in Rennes. 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 Lille, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Le Mont-saint-michel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Notre-dame De Paris.
As you hit the open road and drive through Lille, Roubaix, Croix, Amiens, Paris, Rouen, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Caen, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Rennes, and Le Mans, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Lille
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Lille - Arrival day
- More
- Zoo Lille
- More
Welcome to Lille, 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 Lille's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Lille 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 Zoo De Lille, or just 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 Lille. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Lille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, an iconic dining spot in Lille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Lille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Lille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Colbert Café, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Level Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Fridge Bar Lille is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Lille
- More
Drive 31 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Citadel of Lille
- Palais des Beaux Arts
- Gare Saint Sauveur
- Église Saint-Martin
- La Piscine - Musée d'art et d'industrie André Diligent de Roubaix
- Parc Barbieux
- More
On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Lille, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Lille for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Lille, Roubaix, and Croix to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Begin your adventure at Citadel Of Lille. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Palais Des Beaux-arts De Lille, a curiosity-inducing art museum in Lille.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Gare Saint Sauveur. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Église Saint-martin, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at La Piscine - Musée D'art Et D'industrie André Diligent De Roubaix, a history-steeped place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Parc Barbieux to your itinerary. This worthwhile park offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Lille.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lille.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tir Na Nog, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Sébastopol offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L’Âme au Vert. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lille.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Biche & Le Renard, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bô Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pepere Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Lille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Lille
- Paris
- More
Drive 291 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Musée des Hortillonnages
- Notre-Dame d'Amiens
- Arc de Triomphe
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Amiens and 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Lille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Musée Des Hortillonnages is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching botanical garden before continuing your journey. Notre-dame D'amiens is your next stop. This locally renowned church is one of the best-rated sights in Lille.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Arc De Triomphe. This romantic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Notre-dame De Paris.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated L'Imprévu Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.
Keep the evening going at Café De Paris V, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dirty Dick, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Red Door, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Paris and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Paris
- Rouen
- More
Drive 138 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Sainte Chapelle
- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- Le Gros-Horloge
- Rouen Cathedral
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Paris and Rouen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rouen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sainte Chapelle. This history-steeped church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Louvre Museum, a must-visit museum 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 Eiffel Tower, a globally renowned monument. For a change of scene, check out Gros Horloge, known for its picture-perfect features. We also recommend visiting Rouen Cathedral. This church is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rouen. Rouen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rouen. 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 Au Fût et à mesure, a highly-rated dining destination in Rouen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Veau d'Or, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Petite Auberge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rouen this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Petit Bar Cocktails after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Côcoon Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café Rouen also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5
- Rouen
- Caen
- More
Drive 234 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Omaha Beach Memorial
- Normandy American Cemetery
- Mémorial de Caen
- More
On day 5 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 Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, and Caen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Caen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Rouen allows for both. Start by heading to Omaha Beach Memorial. This interesting war memorial provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Normandy American Cemetery, an awe-inspiring cemetery, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mémorial De Caen, a captivating museum.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Caen. 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 Caen's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Ficelle, an iconic dining spot in Caen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Galettoire, a popular restaurant in Caen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar de la Fac, a hidden gem nestled in Caen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kokomo, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Delirium Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at La Rhumba, another top-rated place in the area.
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
- Caen
- Rennes
- More
Drive 255 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Mont Saint-Michel
- Bidouane Tower
- Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
- Big Gate
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Le Mont-Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rennes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Le Mont-saint-michel. This famous monastery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Bidouane Tower located in Caen for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Saint-malo Intra-muros. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Big Gate.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Rennes, 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 Rennes, 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le Loup, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant IMA is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Taverne. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rennes tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Cité D'ys, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, L'annexe provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tiffany's Pub Rennes offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Rennes
- Lille
- More
Drive 585 km, 6 hours 9 min
- Palace of the Parlement of Brittany
- Saint-Germain church
- Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
- More
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 - Rennes and Le Mans. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites await you in Rennes on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended courthouse, Palace Of The Parlement Of Brittany. Afterward, continue to Saint-germain Church, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Rennes’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans. This increasingly popular museum is an essential stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lille. Lille offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at L'Assiette du Marché, an iconic dining spot in Lille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant l'Arbre Gruson, a popular restaurant in Lille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'île de Crète, a hidden gem nestled in Lille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Pirogue, known for its inviting atmosphere. Zythum Café Lille is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Café Des Six Roses provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Say good night to Lille and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Lille - Departure day
- More
- Column of the Goddess
- More
Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lille before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Column Of The Goddess. This worthwhile monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lille.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bloempot, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Arrière Pays offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Lille. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in France
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.