One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Paris to Caen and Tours
Description
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Paris, Rouen, Caen, Colleville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Vaucelles, Bayeux, Moidrey, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Tours, and Versailles. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Paris, 3 nights in Caen, and 1 night in Tours. 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 Paris, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Sacré-cœur, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Palace Of Versailles.
As you hit the open road and drive through Paris, Rouen, Caen, Colleville-sur-Mer, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Vaucelles, Bayeux, Moidrey, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, Tours, and Versailles, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Paris - Arrival day
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- Notre-Dame de Paris
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Paris and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights 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.
Paris 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 Notre-dame De Paris, 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 Paris. 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 Paris, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated L'Imprévu Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café De Paris V, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dirty Dick, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Red Door provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Paris
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Louvre Museum
- Sacré-Cœur
- Montmartre
- Champs-Élysées
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Montmartre is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Paris. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Champs-Élysées, a street offering its own unique experiences.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Eiffel Tower. This globally renowned monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Arc De Triomphe, 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 Louvre Museum. This world-famous museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Sacré-cœur, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Paris's bustling shopping hub, Le Marais. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Le Marais offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Prescription Cocktail Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Boucan, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Paris
- Caen
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Drive 269 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Le Gros-Horloge
- Rouen Cathedral
- Mémorial de Caen
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Rouen and Caen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Caen. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Gros Horloge. This beloved historical landmark is a picture-perfect place to see in Paris. Continue your discovery at Rouen Cathedral, an inviting church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Paris, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mémorial De Caen. This interesting museum offers a visually striking encounter with Paris. Next, make your way to L'abbaye-aux-hommes to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Paris.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Ficelle, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Galettoire is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bar de la Fac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Caen tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kokomo, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Delirium Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Rhumba provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4
- Caen
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Drive 112 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Normandy American Cemetery
- Omaha Beach Memorial
- Botanical Garden
- Église Saint-Patrice de Bayeux
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Arbre de la Liberté
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Caen, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Today’s itinerary in Caen covers several incredible sights, including a cemetery, a war memorial, a botanical garden, a church, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Normandy American Cemetery. This underrated cemetery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Omaha Beach Memorial, a must-see war memorial in the village.
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 Botanical Garden. This often recommended botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Église Saint-patrice, where you can take in monumental features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Bayeux Cathedral and Arbre De La Liberté. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Caen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Yaki Sushi, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Trattoria beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SASÉSU. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Caen tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Vertigo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Les Déserteurs is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Vous Êtes Ici ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5
- Caen
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Écomusée de la Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel
- Moidrey windmill
- Mont Saint-Michel
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Greet day 5 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 Saint-Léonard, Moidrey, and Le Mont-Saint-Michel.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Caen, including a museum, a monument, and a monastery. Start your day with a visit to Écomusée De La Baie Du Mont-saint-michel. This intriguing museum is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Moidrey Windmill, which may be one of the most historic 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 Le Mont-saint-michel, an impressive monastery in the hamlet.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Caen.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Refuge, a top-rated dining spot in Caen. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'R de rien, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at PAUL & LÉON. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Caen.
Keep the evening going at Le Boudoir, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Garsouille, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
Head back to your accommodation in Caen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Caen
- Tours
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Drive 425 km, 5 hours 9 min
- Château de Chambord
- Château de Chenonceau
- Basilica of St. Martin, Tours
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On day 6 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 Tours. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Caen, including a castle and a church. Start your day with a visit to Château De Chambord. This captivating castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château De Chenonceau, which may be one of the most enchanting 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 Basilica Of St. Martin, Tours, an underrated church in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tours. 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 Tours. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining spot in Tours. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Bartavelles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tours.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Piraat Cafe Tours. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at L'alexandra, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7
- Tours
- Paris
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Église Notre-Dame
- Royal Chapel
- Hall of Mirrors
- Palace of Versailles
- Dragon Pool
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles, 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 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Tours on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular church, Église Notre-dame. Afterward, continue to Royal Chapel, a church every traveler should visit.
As you explore Tours’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Hall Of Mirrors. This curiosity-inducing palace is an essential stop. Following that, head to Palace Of Versailles, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Dragon Pool, an intriguing park in the town.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Paris. Paris 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 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.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sherry Butt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Highlander for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Sully is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Paris - Departure day
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- Jardin du Luxembourg
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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 Paris 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 Jardin Du Luxembourg, a remarkable park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Paris’s shopping center, the lively Le Marais. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Paris.
You’ll then say farewell to Paris. 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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