12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Nantes, Caen, Paris, Orléans, and Clermont-Ferrand

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities await you in Montpellier on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated art gallery, La Panacée. Afterward, continue to Montpellier Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Montpellier’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This worthwhile botanical garden 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 Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne and Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Château Comtal. This majestic castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cité De Carcassonne, one of the town’s most extraordinary attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Miroir D'eau. This awe-inspiring art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square, and take a stroll around the area.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Brun, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mushroom Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whose Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 Rezé and Nantes. 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 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Les Anneaux. This underrated art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a detailed art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Botanical Garden, a well-known botanical garden. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Château Des Ducs De Bretagne.

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.

Savor the flavors at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Parallèle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nantes tonight.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles 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 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Caen, including a palace, a park, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Palace Of Versailles. This iconic palace is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Champ De Mars, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Caen 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 Les Invalides, a notable museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for 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.

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.

Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café De Paris V, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Eiffel Tower is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most world-famous places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe, a world-famous monument, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Sacré-cœur. This visually striking church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find La Villette and Bois De Vincennes. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Sens Unique, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Jardin Des Plantes. This standout botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected 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 Musée D'orsay, a spectacular museum. For a change of scene, check out Tuileries Garden, known for its respected features. We also recommend visiting Place De La Concorde. This public square is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Harp Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bistro des Augustins offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Petit Châtelet is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cheverny. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Clermont-Ferrand. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Orléans is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Château De Chambord and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Château De Cheverny, a romantic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets De Moulinsart, one of the village’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand. Clermont-Ferrand 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 Clermont-Ferrand's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a top-rated dining spot in Clermont-Ferrand. If you're in the mood for something new, try Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Clermont-Ferrand.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Les Berthom, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Bar Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Viking Pub Counter provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Say good night to Clermont-Ferrand and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!