11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Paris traveling south to Caen, Nantes, Tours, Poitiers, Orléans, and Auxerre

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Montmartre is a fantastic place you can explore today in Paris. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Paris-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Paris, including a park, a monument, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Champ De Mars. This globally renowned park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eiffel Tower, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Paris on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Louvre Museum, a wondrous museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sacré-cœur.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Paris by securing a table at Kei. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Le Pré Catelan, famous for its scrumptious creative and contemporary dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Épicure, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Paris. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Boucan. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mamie Paris, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore 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 Caen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Tuileries Garden. This astonishing park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Place De La Concorde, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Paris, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe. This iconic monument is a traveler-favorite.

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.

As you explore more of Caen, 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 La Ficelle, a highly-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Galettoire, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar de la Fac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kokomo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Delirium Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Rhumba is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caen and Champrepus. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

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 frequently visited castle provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Mémorial De Caen, a history-steeped museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Zoologique De Champrepus, an underrated zoo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nantes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Nantes by reserving a table at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Les Cadets, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit LuluRouget, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Nantes. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Chat Noir is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Nantes for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the popular Botanical Garden, a serene botanical garden in Nantes. Next, go to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne.

After visiting Botanical Garden and Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, have a stroll along Nantes's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Le Lieu Unique. This picture-perfect cultural center offers a unique experience. Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nantes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Cigale, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'Abbaye de Villeneuve is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nantes.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les Berthom, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Coffee House offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nantes. Bateau-lavoir is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Tours and Amboise. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Poitiers, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Tours on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved street, Vieux Tours. Afterward, continue to Château De Villandry, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Tours’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Château De Chenonceau. This locally renowned castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Château D'amboise, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Château Du Clos Lucé, a well-known museum in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Poitiers, 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 Poitiers's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Poitiers by securing a reservation at La Chênaie. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Ibis site du Futuroscope, a popular restaurant in Poitiers. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Zinc, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Café Des Arts. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Bar Des Papas, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Blois. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Orléans. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Poitiers on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Château De Blois is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Château De Cheverny is your next stop. This popular castle is one of the best-rated sights in Poitiers.

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 Château De Chambord. This majestic castle is a sight to behold.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Orléans. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Orléans. 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Orléans by securing a table at L'Hibiscus. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit La Table, famous for its scrumptious modern and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Le Lièvre Gourmand, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Orléans. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Moog after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Java Pop for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Charbon is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Orléans, Saint-Fargeau, and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Orléans is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Hôtel Groslot, a frequently visited museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Orléans Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Castle Of Saint-fargeau. This castle is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Orléans at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Guédelon Castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Auxerre. Auxerre 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 Auxerre. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Head back to your accommodation in Auxerre and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Fontainebleau and Serris. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Palace Of Fontainebleau, a prime spot to begin your journey. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Forêt De Fontainebleau, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile nature reserve renowned for its instagrammable features.

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.

As you explore more of Paris, 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.

Savor the flavors at The Harp Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistro des Augustins beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Petit Châtelet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Sherry Butt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Highlander is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Sully is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.