One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen traveling west to Nantes, Vannes, and Saint-Malo
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Caen, 1 night in Nantes, 1 night in Vannes, and 2 nights in Saint-Malo. 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. Le Mont-saint-michel and Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, learn more about the unique Botanical Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mémorial De Caen.
As you hit the open road and drive through Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Ouistreham, Angers, Nantes, Vannes, Paimpont, Rennes, Saint-Malo, Pleugueneuc, Fougères, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Sainte-Mère-Église, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, and Bayeux, 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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- Forêt d'Ifs
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Welcome to Caen, 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 Caen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kokomo, known for its lively atmosphere. Delirium Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Rhumba offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Caen
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 20 min
- Mémorial de Caen
- Colline aux Oiseaux
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
- Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Caen for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Ouistreham.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Caen, including a museum, a park, and a monastery. Start your day with a visit to Mémorial De Caen. This popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Colline Aux Oiseaux, which may be one of the most mesmerizing 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 L'abbaye-aux-hommes, a beloved monastery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for The "big Bunker".
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Caen.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Caen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Yaki Sushi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Trattoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SASÉSU. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Caen.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Vertigo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Les Déserteurs, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Vous Êtes Ici. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3
- Caen
- Nantes
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Drive 344 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Angers Cathedral
- Château d'Angers
- Balzac Park
- Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Angers. 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.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Caen, including a church, a castle, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Angers Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Château D'angers located in Caen for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Balzac Park. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this botanical garden.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nantes, 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 Nantes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Les Cadets, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nantes is LuluRouget, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Chat Noir, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Head back to your accommodation in Nantes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Nantes
- Vannes
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Drive 183 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Botanical Garden
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- Carnac stones
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nantes and Le Ménec. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vannes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Botanical Garden, another must-visit landmark and captivating botanical garden renowned for its instagrammable features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Nantes by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. This breathtaking art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Nantes experience. We also recommend visiting Île De Versailles (nantes), an underrated park. Nearby, you'll also find Carnac Stones, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vannes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Vannes. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Vannes by reserving a table at Le Sous-sol. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to La Tête en l'air, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.
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 5
- Vannes
- Saint-Malo
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Drive 191 km, 3 hours
- Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
- Remparts de Vannes
- La forêt de Brocéliande
- parc du Thabor
- Parc des Gayeulles
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Vannes, Paimpont, and Rennes, 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 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Vannes, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Cathédrale Saint-pierre, an intriguing church in the town. Then, head to Remparts De Vannes and soak in the ambiance of this majestic historical landmark.
After exploring the park, visit the locally renowned Parc Du Thabor. Not far away, you'll also find Parc Des Gayeulles. This park is an eye-catching highlight in Vannes.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Saint-Malo. Saint-Malo offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Saint-Malo's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Comptoir Breizh Café, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible breton menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Saint Placide is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Saint-Malo. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Fourchette à Droite. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for contemporary cuisine in the city.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Saint Patrick stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Hôtel Oceania Saint-malo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 6
- Saint-Malo
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 20 min
- Grand Aquarium Saint Malo
- Zoo and Castle Bourbansais
- Château de Fougères
- Mont Saint-Michel
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Saint-Malo, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in La Ville Huchet, Pleugueneuc, Fougères, and Le Mont-Saint-Michel. You still have 1 night left in Saint-Malo.
Get ready for an exciting day in Saint-Malo. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aquarium, a zoo, a castle, a monastery and much more! Begin your adventure at Grand Aquarium Saint Malo. This is an interesting aquarium you should not miss. Another must-see is Zoo And Castle Bourbansais, an up-and-coming zoo in Saint-Malo.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Château De Fougères. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Le Mont-saint-michel, another of the hamlet’s impressive attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Saint-Malo and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Saint-Malo's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Les Embruns, an iconic dining spot in Saint-Malo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Marégraphe, a popular restaurant in Saint-Malo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Brigantine, a hidden gem nestled in Saint-Malo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 7
- Saint-Malo
- Caen
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Drive 284 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Airborne Museum
- Omaha Beach Memorial
- Longues-sur-Mer Battery
- Bayeux Cathedral
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On day 7 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 Sainte-Mère-Église, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Longues-sur-Mer, and Bayeux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Caen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Omaha Beach Memorial, a picture-perfect war memorial that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Longues-sur-mer Battery, one of the village’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Bayeux Cathedral.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Caen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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. Consider reserving a table at PAUL & LÉON as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Caen.
Continue your lively evening at Le Boudoir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Garsouille is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 8
- Caen - Departure day
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- Caen Castle
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Day 8 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, begin at Caen Castle. This curiosity-inducing castle is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Caen's best shopping area, Centre Commercial Les Rives de l'Orne. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Caen.
Dine in style at Anouche, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ju'ste Chez Moi boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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