One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen to Paris
Description
Included
Description
Discover France stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Ifs, Caen, Falaise, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Paris, Lisieux, and Ranville. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Ifs, Caen, Falaise, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Paris, Lisieux, and Ranville. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Caen and 4 nights in Paris. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Caen, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Eiffel Tower. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Louvre Museum.
Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Arc De Triomphe. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Champ De Mars. Get close to the spectacular Sacré-cœur and the wonderful Jardin Du Luxembourg. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Caen - Arrival day
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- Forêt d'Ifs
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Caen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Caen and begin your adventure in France.
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 Forêt D'ifs, 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 Caen. 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 Caen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at La Ficelle, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Galettoire boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar de la Fac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Caen.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.
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 as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Caen as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Caen
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Château de Falaise
- Parc Michel d'Ornano
- Colline aux Oiseaux
- Mémorial de Caen
- Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
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On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Caen and visit amazing attractions in Falaise, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Ouistreham destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Caen. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Château De Falaise. This beloved castle is a picture-perfect place to see in Caen.
As you stroll around Caen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Colline Aux Oiseaux. This beloved park offers an eye-catching encounter with Caen. Next, make your way to Mémorial De Caen to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit The "big Bunker", a curiosity-inducing museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Caen.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen and your accommodation.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Caen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at Yaki Sushi, 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 Trattoria, 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 SASÉSU, a hidden gem nestled in Caen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Caen. The bars in Caen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Vertigo, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Les Déserteurs is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Vous Êtes Ici also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 3
- Caen
- Paris
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 18 min
- St Peter's Catholic Church
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
- Caen Botanical Garden
- Vallée des Jardins
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Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Caen. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Paris, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.
Today’s agenda in Caen includes a church, a monastery, a botanical garden, a park and much more! St Peter's Catholic Church is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to L'abbaye-aux-hommes, a beloved monastery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Caen Botanical Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Paris. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring the food culture in Paris offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Café De Paris V, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dirty Dick is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Little Red Door is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Caen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!
Day 4
- Paris
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Sacré-Cœur
- La Villette
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Paris!
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Champ De Mars, a timeless local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eiffel Tower. This wondrous monument is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Paris's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Arc De Triomphe. This remarkable monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Sacré-cœur is also worth visiting, along with La Villette. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Paris.
Savor the flavors at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Sens Unique beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Caveau de l'isle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Boucan for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mamie Paris is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.
Day 5
- Paris
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Drive 7 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- place de la Concorde
- Palais Garnier
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On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Louvre Museum. This history-steeped museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée D'orsay, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Tuileries Garden, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Place De La Concorde. This romantic public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palais Garnier, a notable opera house, and take a stroll around the area.
France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Paris has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Bistro des Augustins, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Petit Châtelet. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Paris. The bars in Paris make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Sherry Butt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Highlander offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Le Sully is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 6
- Paris
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Drive 8 km, 57 min
- Jardin des plantes
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Panthéon
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Sainte Chapelle
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular botanical garden, Jardin Des Plantes. Afterward, continue to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Panthéon. This popular monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Notre-dame De Paris, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Sainte Chapelle, a well-known church in the city.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Paris offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Granite, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Guy Savoy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Saint James Paris. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Klein Holland, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Tiger, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The 46 Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.
Day 7
- Paris
- Caen
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Parc zoologique de Lisieux
- Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux
- Memorial Pegasus
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On day 7 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known zoo, Parc Zoologique De Lisieux. Afterward, continue to Basilica Of Saint Therese Of Lisieux, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Memorial Pegasus. This intriguing museum is an essential stop.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Caen. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Caen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Refuge, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'R de rien offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, PAUL & LÉON is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Caen.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Caen and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Boudoir stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Garsouille offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Caen - Departure day
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- Caen Castle
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Caen.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Caen’s shopping center, the lively Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Caen Castle. This beloved castle is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Caen or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ju'ste Chez Moi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Caen and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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