9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Caen traveling east to Tours, Orléans, and Paris
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Tours, Blois, Cheverny, Orléans, Serris, Paris, 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 2 nights in Caen, 2 nights in Tours, 1 night in Orléans, and 3 nights in Paris. 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Disneyland Paris, learn more about the unique Arc De Triomphe, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Champ De Mars.
As you hit the open road and drive through Ifs, Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Tours, Blois, Cheverny, Orléans, Serris, Paris, 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!
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Day 1
- Caen - Arrival day
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- Forêt d'Ifs
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Caen and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Caen for 1 night 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.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Caen. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Ficelle, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Galettoire? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bar de la Fac as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Caen.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kokomo, known for its inviting atmosphere. Delirium Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, La Rhumba provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Caen
- Tours
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Drive 270 km, 3 hours 1 min
- L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
- Mémorial de Caen
- Colline aux Oiseaux
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caen and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tours, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Caen today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is L'abbaye-aux-hommes. This awe-inspiring monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Mémorial De Caen and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Colline Aux Oiseaux.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Tours. Tours offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Tours by securing a table at L'Opidom. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit L'Évidence, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Piraat Cafe Tours, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'alexandra likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Tours
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Drive 2 km, 31 min
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- Château de Tours
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Day 3 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Tours. You have 1 night left in Tours. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Tours. Begin your sightseeing with Musée Des Beaux-arts De Tours. This increasingly popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tours Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Tours, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Château De Tours. This up-and-coming castle is a traveler-favorite.
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 Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa, a top-rated dining spot in Tours. If you're in the mood for something new, try Au Café d' en face, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Escapade. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tours.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le P Tit Soleil, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Belle Époque provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4
- Tours
- Orléans
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
- Château de Blois
- Château de Cheverny
- Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets de Moulinsart
- Château de Chambord
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Blois and Cheverny, 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 Orléans. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the underrated Robert-houdin House Of Magic, a photogenic museum in Tours. Next, go to Château De Blois.
After visiting Robert-houdin House Of Magic and Château De Blois, have a stroll along Tours's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Château De Cheverny. This enchanting castle offers a unique experience. Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets De Moulinsart is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Château De Chambord, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-designated places to visit in Tours.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Orléans's best restaurants.
Start your culinary exploration in Orléans by securing a reservation at L'Hibiscus. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit La Table, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Lièvre Gourmand, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Keep the evening going at Le Moog, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Java Pop, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Charbon, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Orléans
- Paris
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Drive 207 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Hôtel Groslot
- Hôtel Groslot Garden
- Disneyland Paris
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Orléans and Serris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Orléans on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Hôtel Groslot is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic museum before continuing your journey. Hôtel Groslot Garden is your next stop. This underrated park is one of the best-rated sights in Orléans.
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 Disneyland 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Kei in Paris by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Kei delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Pré Catelan, acclaimed for its delectable creative and contemporary specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Épicure, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 3-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Paris
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Drive 10 km, 48 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- Le Marais
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Le Marais 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Paris, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Champ De Mars, a world-famous park in the city. Then, head to Eiffel Tower and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Tuileries Garden. This is one of the city’s most famous romantic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the timeless Louvre Museum.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, 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 Le Sens Unique, 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 Le Caveau de l'isle, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prescription Cocktail Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Boucan provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mamie Paris offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7
- Paris
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Montmartre
- Champs-Élysées
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Paris is Montmartre. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Champs-Élysées, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the globally renowned church, Sacré-cœur. Afterward, continue to Arc De Triomphe, a monument 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 Jardin Du Luxembourg. This widely recognized park is an essential stop.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Harp Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Bistro des Augustins offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Châtelet. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8
- Paris
- Caen
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Gardens of Versailles
- Palace of Versailles
- Hall of Mirrors
- Grand Trianon
- Marie-Antoinette's Estate
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On day 8 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 Versailles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Caen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Paris. Your adventure starts at Gardens Of Versailles, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palace Of Versailles. This timeless palace is known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed 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 Hall Of Mirrors. This UNESCO world heritage-listed palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Grand Trianon is also worth visiting, along with Marie-antoinette's Estate. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Caen. Caen 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 Caen. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Yaki Sushi, a highly-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Trattoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SASÉSU. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vertigo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Les Déserteurs offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Caen. Vous Êtes Ici is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 9
- Caen - Departure day
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- Caen Castle
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Day 9 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 locally appreciated 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.
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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