9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen traveling south to Bayeux, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Saint-Malo, Amboise, and Le Mans
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Caen, 1 night in Bayeux, 1 night in Le Mont-Saint-Michel, 1 night in Saint-Malo, 2 nights in Amboise, and 1 night in Le Mans. 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 Caen, 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. Château De Chambord and Château De Chenonceau are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château D'amboise, learn more about the unique Château Du Clos Lucé, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mémorial De Caen.
As you hit the open road and drive through Caen, Bayeux, Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Vierville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Colleville-sur-Mer, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Moidrey, Saint-Malo, Amboise, Tours, Le Mans, Alencon, and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, 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!
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Day 1
- Caen - Arrival day
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- St Peter's Catholic Church
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Caen and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Caen for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Caen 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 St Peter's Catholic Church, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Caen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Caen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Ficelle, a top-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Galettoire, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar de la Fac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kokomo, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Delirium Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Rhumba offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Caen
- Bayeux
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Caen Castle
- The Abbey of Sainte-Trinité
- Parc Michel d'Ornano
- Caen Botanical Garden
- Mémorial de Caen
- Bayeux Cathedral
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Caen and Bayeux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bayeux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Caen allows for both. Start by heading to Caen Castle. This often recommended castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover The Abbey Of Sainte-trinité, a historic church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Michel D'ornano, an intriguing park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Caen Botanical Garden. Not far away from the botanical garden, you will find the grand Bayeux Cathedral, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Mémorial De Caen, another gem in Caen with eye-catching features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bayeux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bayeux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Bayeux
- Le Mont-Saint-Michel
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Drive 205 km, 3 hours 4 min
- The Pointe Du Hoc
- Omaha Beach Dog White
- Omaha Beach Memorial
- Normandy American Cemetery
- Widerstandsnest 62
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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 4 vibrant destinations - Saint-Pierre-du-Mont, Vierville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, and Colleville-sur-Mer. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Le Mont-Saint-Michel. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bayeux today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is The Pointe Du Hoc. This awe-inspiring battlefield will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Omaha Beach Dog White and learn what makes this standout beach unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Omaha Beach Memorial. After exploring the war memorial, head to Normandy American Cemetery. This increasingly popular cemetery is a highlight in Bayeux. As your day continues, stop by Widerstandsnest 62, known for its culturally significant features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Le Mont-Saint-Michel. Le Mont-Saint-Michel offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Le Mont-Saint-Michel's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4
- Le Mont-Saint-Michel
- Saint-Malo
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 17 min
- St Peter Church
- Moidrey windmill
- National Fort
- Micro Zoo Saint-Malo
- Big Gate
- Saint-Malo Intra-Muros
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Moidrey, and Saint-Malo, 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 Saint-Malo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is St. Peter Church. This often recommended church is a historic place to see in Le Mont-Saint-Michel. Continue your discovery at Moidrey Windmill, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monument with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Le Mont-Saint-Michel, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Fort. This up-and-coming castle offers a picture-perfect encounter with Le Mont-Saint-Michel. Next, make your way to Micro Zoo Saint-malo to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Big Gate, an up-and-coming point of interest that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Saint-malo Intra-muros, an increasingly popular historical landmark in the village. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Saint-Malo, 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 Saint-Malo, 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 delicious meal at Le Grand Hôtel Dinard, a top-rated dining destination in Saint-Malo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Home Burger - Saint-Malo Intra Muros, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bergamote. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Saint-Malo this evening.
Keep the evening going at Saint Patrick, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hôtel Oceania Saint-malo, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Saint-Malo
- Amboise
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Drive 460 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Grand Bé
- Château de Chambord
- DOMAINE DU CROC DU MERLE
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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-Malo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amboise, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Saint-Malo covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a castle, and a winery. Start your adventure at Grand Bé. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Château De Chambord, a must-see castle in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Domaine Du Croc Du Merle. This curiosity-inducing winery offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Amboise. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Amboise. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 6
- Amboise
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Drive 135 km, 2 hours 11 min
- Château de Chenonceau
- Château de Villandry
- Château d'Amboise
- Chapel of Saint-Hubert
- Château du Clos Lucé
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Amboise, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Today's adventure in Amboise promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Château De Chenonceau. This visually striking castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Château De Villandry, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Chapel Of Saint-hubert. This history-steeped church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Château Du Clos Lucé, a locally renowned museum, and take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Amboise and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Amboise's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 7
- Amboise
- Sarthe
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 25 min
- Jardin botanique de Tours
- Vieux-Tours
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
- Park Théodore Monod
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tours and Le Mans. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Le Mans, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Amboise is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Jardin Botanique De Tours, a locally appreciated botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Vieux Tours, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Tours Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Amboise at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans. After exploring the museum, head to the often recommended Park Théodore Monod.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Le Mans. Le Mans 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 Le Mans. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Tontons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'épi'Curieux offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L' Office is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Le Mans.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Luna Café, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mojito Royal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Lodge Irish Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 8
- Sarthe
- Caen
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans
- Papea Parc
- Parc des Promenades
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Le Mans and Alencon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Caen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the worthwhile Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans, a symbolic church in Le Mans. Next, go to Papea Parc.
After visiting Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans and Papea Parc, have a stroll along Le Mans's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Parc Des Promenades. This romantic park offers a unique experience.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Caen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Caen's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Yaki Sushi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Trattoria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss SASÉSU. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Caen.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Vertigo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Les Déserteurs offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Vous Êtes Ici, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 9
- Caen - Departure day
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- Colline aux Oiseaux
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Caen 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, we recommend visiting Colline Aux Oiseaux, an eye-catching park before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Caen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Caen.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Refuge, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'R de rien? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Caen. 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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