10-Day France Road Trip from Clermont-Ferrand traveling north to Bourges, Paris, Auxerre, and Lyon
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Clermont-Ferrand, Bourges, Cheverny, Chambord, Paris, Versailles, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, Fontainebleau, Auxerre, Beaune, Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire.
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 Clermont-Ferrand, 1 night in Bourges, 4 nights in Paris, 1 night in Auxerre, and 1 night in Lyon. 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 Clermont-Ferrand, 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Clermont-Ferrand, Bourges, Cheverny, Chambord, Paris, Versailles, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, Fontainebleau, Auxerre, Beaune, Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 – Clermont-Ferrand - arrival day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Arrival day
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- place de Jaude
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Welcome to Clermont-Ferrand, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Clermont-Ferrand's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Clermont-Ferrand 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 Place De Jaude or 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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 in Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Clermont-Ferrand tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Les Berthom, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Bar Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Viking Pub Counter provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Clermont-Ferrand, and Bourges
- Bourges
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption
- Montjuzet
- L'Aventure Michelin
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Clermont-Ferrand. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bourges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,232 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Montjuzet. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,229 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Panoramic Domes. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,215 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit L'aventure Michelin. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,701 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bourges, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.
As you explore more of Bourges, 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.
Discover the culinary delights of Bourges by securing a reservation at Le Beauvoir. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3 – Bourges, Cheverny, Chambord, and Paris
- Paris
- Bourges
- Cheverny
- Chambord
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Bourges Cathedral
- Le Jardin de l'Archêveché
- Château de Cheverny
- Château de Chambord
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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 3 vibrant destinations - Bourges, Cheverny, and Chambord. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Paris. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Journey into the unknown at Bourges Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,823 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Le Jardin De L'archêveché is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,837 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Bourges, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cheverny. Your travel time is around 1 hour 15 min.
When you're ready to see some sights, Château De Cheverny is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Paris by booking a table at Kei, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Paris, Le Pré Catelan shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative, and contemporary cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Épicure is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Paris. This 3-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
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.
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 4 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 37 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like La Villette. This extraordinary commune of france has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 56,497 visitors.
Next, make your way to Sacré-cœur. This church building welcomes around 11,000,000 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,527 reviews.
While in Paris, we also recommend a visit to Arc De Triomphe. Hosting around 2,743,823 visitors every year, Arc De Triomphe is one of the best places to visit. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 193,235 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Eiffel Tower. This attraction gets around 6,207,303 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 322,389 travelers, this lattice tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Paris.
Make your way to Champ De Mars, perhaps the most famous urban park in Paris. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.
One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Paris has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Paris offers and add your favorites to your France travel package below.
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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Boucan is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 5 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Jardin des plantes
- Sainte Chapelle
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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On day 5 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.
Take the opportunity to see Jardin Des Plantes. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 40,461 visitors.
Sainte Chapelle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This chapel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 travelers.
Paris is also the home of Notre-dame De Paris. This catholic cathedral gets more than 12,000,000 visitors on an annual basis. Around 45,788 people have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Panthéon. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 43,649 reviews, a visit to this mausoleum is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Paris is also your chance to admire Jardin Du Luxembourg. This must-visit urban park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 reviews.
To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Paris, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Paris below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at The Harp Bar, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Bistro des Augustins, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Petit Châtelet. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 7 km, 55 min
- Pont Alexandre III
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
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Day 6 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.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Alexandre Iii. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,899 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Place De La Concorde. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 54,229 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Tuileries Garden. This garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée D'orsay. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 visitors. Visiting Musée D'orsay means you'll be one of 3,651,616 people who do so every year.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Louvre Museum. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 visitors. Approximately 2,825,000 travelers visit Louvre Museum every year.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Restaurant Guy Savoy, 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 Saint James Paris, 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 Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Klein Holland after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Tiger, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The 46 Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7 – Paris, Versailles, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, Fontainebleau, and Auxerre
- Auxerre
- Versailles
- Le Chesnay
- Fontainebleau
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Palace of Versailles
- Gardens of Versailles
- Marie-Antoinette's Estate
- Grand Trianon
- Palace of Fontainebleau
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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 Versailles, Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, and Fontainebleau. In the evening, you’ll end up in Auxerre, where you will stay for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
When you're ready to see some sights, Palace Of Versailles is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 119,665 visitors. Palace Of Versailles attracts more than 4,741,758 visitors every year.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Gardens Of Versailles. This french formal garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,133 travelers.
We also recommend a stop at Grand Trianon. The maison de plaisance has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,511 visitors.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Marie-antoinette's Estate. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,865 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Auxerre. Auxerre offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Auxerre's best restaurants.
Head back to your accommodation in Auxerre and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 8 – Auxerre, Beaune, and Lyon
- Lyon
- Beaune
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Drive 305 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Beaune. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Auxerre and set your GPS to Beaune. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 33 min. Upon reaching Beaune, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Journey into the unknown at La Moutarderie Fallot, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,107 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Parc Saint Jacques is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 186 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Beaune is Basilica Of Our Lady. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 773 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Beaune offers an experience you will remember.
Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Beaune. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,805 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lyon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Neuvième Art is one of the best restaurants for creative, and modern cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Mère Brazier. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Clermont-Ferrand
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Clermont-Ferrand. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Place Bellecour. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.
Next up is Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This minor basilica has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take the opportunity to see Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,967 visitors.
Parc De La Tête D'or is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 travelers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Clermont-Ferrand by reserving a table at Auberge du Pont. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Apicius, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore L'Ostal, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.
Keep the evening going at L’arrozoir, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kokomo, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Des Beaux Arts, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Say good night to Clermont-Ferrand and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 10 – Clermont-Ferrand - departure day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Departure day
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- Jardin Lecoq
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Day 10 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Clermont-Ferrand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Clermont-Ferrand’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Make Jardin Lecoq your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,878 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bourbonnais, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Clermont-Ferrand - Le Brézet offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Fée Maison.
You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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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