France Road Trip Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip To France

If you are worried about planning the perfect France road trip itinerary, I am here to help! It doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing.

No matter where you choose to visit in France, you are in for a real treat. From the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris to the stunning château in Chantilly, there is no limit to the breathtaking places in France!

One of the best parts about a car trip in France is that you don’t have to narrow down your options to one or two places, but you get to see so much of the country you’re visiting!

For this France road trip itinerary, I am not going to specify an amount of time so that you can make the drive as time allows for your schedule.

If you have 5 to 7 days in France, then modify this France road trip route to fit that length of time. If you have 2 weeks, consider spending a few days in each location to really take in what France has to offer.

Don’t forget to check out our detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials.

Let’s dive into the best France travel planner for a road trip!

France Road Trip Itinerary Map

If you are a visual person, don’t worry! I have included my France by car itinerary in a map version below.

You can see exactly where you will be going during your trip! Feel free to bookmark or screenshot during your planning stages!

All places recommended on this France example itinerary are very easy to find by simply plugging the name into your GPS! You can even download the maps offline if you use Google Maps!

France Road Trip Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip To France

Stop 1: Paris

Paris is the easiest city to fly into to begin your French road trip since it has major airports such as Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport.

Depending on your plans for your France itinerary, you can rent a car from the airport and move on to the next stop on the itinerary immediately. If you plan to include Paris on your ultimate France vacation, you can explore Paris before renting a car and leaving the city.

Paris is the capital of France and holds many famous monuments, cute cafes, views of the Seine River, and beautiful parks and gardens. I adore Paris and keep coming back to experience its magic!

I suggest staying at least 2 to 4 days in Paris to see and do as much as possible. At least 2 days is enough time in Paris to at least start you off!

Parking in Paris

Driving and parking in Paris is not the easiest for tourists, and you will almost always have to pay a fee. This is why I suggest waiting to rent your vehicle until you plan on leaving the city.

With that said, you can find plenty of paid parking in Paris either on the street or in underground car parks.

On the street, you usually pay by the hour while the car parks offer daily fees that vary by location. Parking in the city center is free on Sundays.

After parking, you can easily walk or use public transport to get around the city.

Things to Do in Paris

Find Views From the Eiffel Tower

Of course, you must visit the Eiffel Tower on your road trip around France! Head to the top for amazing city views or wander the gardens surrounding the tower to find the best photo spots.

If you only have one day in Paris, this is a must-see in France! Check it out at night to see it sparkle!

Book Here: Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access

Climb the Arc de Triomphe

Dedicated to the soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars, the Arc de Triomphe sits on a massive roundabout on the Champs Elysees.

From the top, you will find one of the best views of Paris since it includes the Eiffel Tower and tree-lined streets. Time your visit here to see the Paris sunset.

Book Here: Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets

Explore Montmartre and Sacre Couer

The hill of Montmartre is the historic artists’ quarter, and you can still see people painting here today. This area is one of the most beautiful places in Paris with darling cafes, old churches, and pretty streets.

The white Sacre-Coeur Basilica towers over it all. For jaw-dropping panoramic views of Paris, you can climb to the top.

Check out all the other things to do in Montmartre from top sights to hidden gems.

Book Here: Paris: Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Walking Tour

Soak Up Culture at the Louvre Museum

Millions of art and history lovers flock to the Louvre Museum each year. Buy tickets in advance to save standing in line!

From the Mona Lisa to the Venus di Milo, there are numerous masterpieces to see here. Plan to spend a few hours wandering the huge galleries.

Book Here: Paris: Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Ticket

Take a Day Trip to Versailles

Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris and you can easily take the train. You will love wandering the opulent halls of the Palace of Versailles and pretending you’re royalty.

The grounds are gorgeous as well with formal gardens and a quaint hamlet where you can step back in time.

Book Here: Paris: Versailles Palace and Gardens Full Access Ticket

Where To Stay In Paris

When looking for where to stay in Paris, there are a ton of great options! From lavish, luxury hotels to cozy, affordable accommodations, there is something for everyone.

Affordable: Hôtel De La Porte Dorée. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Grand Hôtel Lévêque. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Normandy

Time to continue your road trip from Paris. Your next stops will be the beautiful towns of Giverny, Étretat, and Mont Saint-Michel in the region of Normandy in Northern France.

These are some of the top stops on a North France road trip!

If you plan to see all three towns in a day, make sure you leave Paris early! You can, of course, spread your trip out further depending on your schedule.

From Paris, it is about an hour’s drive to Giverny where the top attraction is the house and gardens of painter Claude Monet. This is truly one of the best things to do in France outdoors!

Then it is just under two hours to Étretat on the coast. This beautiful city is known for its awesome rock formations carved out of white cliffs.

A three-hour drive will bring you from Étretat to magical Mont Saint-Michel. You’ve seen photos of this gorgeous island and now it is time to explore it in person.

You will love adding these towns to your list when exploring France by car!

Things to Do in Normandy

Stoll the Gardens of Fondation Claude Monet

The quaint village of Giverny is synonymous with Claude Monet. He lived and painted here from 1883 until his death in 1926.

You will feel as if you are walking through one of his paintings as you explore his vast gardens, see the famed waterlilies, and step into his home studio.

Giverny is one of the cutest towns in France. Check out the art galleries, cafes, and the church where Monet is buried.

Book Here: Giverny: Monet’s House and Gardens Guided Tour

Photograph the Alabaster Coast in Étretat

The white cliffs and unique rock formations here are incredible! Check out the Porte d’Aval arch and L’Aiguille (the Needle), a pillar rising from the sea.

One of the best viewpoints is found at the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. This tiny, stone church sits at the edge of a cliff and can be reached by a scenic staircase.

After viewing the cliffs from above, walk along the seaside promenade in town. There is a pretty, pebble beach bookended by the cliffs.

Discover the Jardins d’Etretat

Right next to the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, the Jardins d’Etretat was designed by landscape architect Alexandre Grivko. It features spiral hedges and interesting sculptures.

This is a unique stop on the best tour of France!

Marvel at the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

Set atop the island like a beacon to tourists, the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey was completed in 1523 but has a history dating back to the 10th century.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the top cultural attractions in the country and for good reason. Admire the mix of Romanesque and Gothic and take in views of the bay.

Book Here: Mont Saint-Michel: Entry Ticket to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Wander the Narrow Streets

Getting lost among the picturesque streets is one of the best things to do in Mont Saint-Michel. Pop into shops and grab a treat from a cafe.

If you want to try a local delicacy, head to La Mère Poulard and order a Normandy-style omelet. The famous and historic meal is expensive but delicious!

This is one of the road trip destinations in France for good reason!

Where To Stay In Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a small town, but there are still plenty of options for places to stay. Alternatively, you can stay on the mainland.

Affordable: Hôtel Vert. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Luxury: Auberge Saint Pierre. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Stop 3: The Loire Valley

Located in the middle stretch of the Loire River in central France, the Loire Valley comprises about 800 square kilometers (310 sq mi). This is truly one of the prettiest landmarks in France!

Due to its rich profusion of vineyards, artichoke and asparagus fields, and fruit orchards lining the banks of the river, it is known as the Cradle of the French and the Garden of France.

Upon seeing its lush beauty, you might think you have stumbled upon the Garden of Eden! This is why adding this region to the best itinerary for France is a must!

Beyond its dreamy landscape, a Loire Valley road trip encompasses a wide range of interesting things to do and sights to see. It is noted for its amazing architecture, historical towns, and delicious wines.

Some of the most notable historic towns include Amboise, Angers, Blois, Chartres, Chinon, Montsoreau, Orléans, and Tours. Any of these make great places to explore.

The Loire Valley is a must on many France road trip routes and you will quickly see why it is so popular!

Things to Do in the Loire Valley

Go Wine Tasting

Of course, you will want to sample some local wine while in the Loire Valley! As one of the top wine-producing regions in the world, there are many options to try.

Some of the smaller wine regions here include Sancerre, Muscadet, Chinon, and Pouilly-Fumé. Book a guided tour to learn all about the production of the wine and do a tasting.

Book Here: From Tours: Loire Valley Wineries Day Trip with Tastings

Visit as Many Chateaus as Possible

If you want to see some of the best castles in France, the Loire Valley is the place to be! The region is dotted with beautiful and historic chateaus you will quickly fall in love with.

Some of the most memorable and splendid castles are Château de Chambord, Château de Chaumont, Château de Chenonceau, and Château d’Amboise.

Each is picture-perfect with amazing architecture and stunning gardens. They are the ideal place for a princess photoshoot!

If you only have time for one chateau, I highly suggest either Château Chambord or Château Chenonceau. Both are grand with gorgeous grounds.

Book Here: Chambord: Entry Ticket to the Castle

Book Here: Chenonceau Castle Admission Ticket

Visit the Chartres Cathedral

Architecture lovers will swoon over the Chartres Cathedral, one of the most well-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Most of the stained glass is original and features a unique blue color.

The church holds the religious relic known as the Sancta Camisa, the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary when Jesus Christ was born.

Make sure to wander around the city of Chartres and check out some of the museums while you are there.

Where To Stay In The Loire Valley

There are numerous places to stay in the Loire Valley no matter your budget. You will have no trouble finding a cozy hotel where you can unwind after a day of exploring.

Affordable: La Maison De Rose. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Relais de Chambord. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Bordeaux

Situated on the Garonne River in southwestern France, Bordeaux is a beautiful port city and hub of the wine-growing region.

The city is full of amazing architecture! There are incredible museums, cathedrals, markets, parks, and more to explore.

Make sure to venture out of the city to the countryside around the city. There are many chateaus and wineries to check out.

A visit to this amazing city is one of my top France road trip ideas!

Things to Do in Bordeaux

Visit the Place de la Bourse

The Place de la Bourse is a popular square in Bordeaux with the Garonne River on one side and historic buildings on the other. In the middle is a fountain and statue.

The coolest feature of the square is the Miroir d’Eau. This huge reflecting pool creates a mirror image of the beautiful architecture.

Learn Wine History at La Cité du Vin

Anyone interested in wine will want to visit the La Cité du Vin which is housed in a unique, modern building. The museum is high-tech and has many cool interactive exhibits.

Learn about the history of wine, grape varieties, and the winemaking process. Do a tasting, take a workshop, and check out the restaurant or shop.

Book Here: La Cité du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting

Check Out the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

Art lovers will want to add the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts to the best trip to France itinerary. Wander the extensive collection to see paintings, sculptures, drawings, and more from notable European artists.

Take a Wine Tour in Saint-Émilion

Located just under an hour outside of the city, Saint-Émilion is home to a bunch of local wineries. You can check them out on your own or book a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Saint-Émilion and its vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town dates back to the Middle Ages and has many old churches and ruins.

Book Here: From Bordeaux: St. Emilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour

Where To Stay In Bordeaux

Bordeaux is full of both affordable and high-end places to stay. Many hotels are reasonably priced while still featuring great amenities.

Affordable: Golden Tulip Bordeaux Euratlantique. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Marty Hotel Bordeaux. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Rocamadour

You’re in for an amazing treat at your stop in Rocamadour! An assortment of buildings, namely pilgrimage churches and monastic structures, rise above the town in layers of cliffside.

You’ll immediately think you’ve stepped into some kind of fantasy movie upon seeing the mountainside town towering over a gorgeous French landscape.

Set in a gorge above the headwaters of the River Dordogne, Rocamadour has been a popular destination for centuries, drawing pilgrims, bishops, nobles, and kings to see its historical monuments.

Rocamadour has been a religious pilgrimage site for centuries, and it is dripping with rich history! If you are a history buff, Rocamadour is one of the best France itinerary ideas!

Things to Do in Rocamadour

Visit the Sanctuary of Rocamadour

The Sanctuary of Rocamadour is comprised of multiple religious buildings including the Crypt of Saint Amadour, the Basilica Saint-Sauveur, and chapels for many saints.

At the Chapel Notre-Dame, you will see the famous statue of the Black Madonna which has been linked to many miracles.

Above this chapel is the Durandel sword. According to legend, this weapon belonged to Roland, the nephew of King Charlemagne.

Wander the Old Town

Like with many of the other towns on this road trip guide in France, the best way to experience Rocamadour is by wandering around and taking in the sights.

Climb the 200+ steps of the Grand Escalier, try yummy Rocamadour goat cheese, photograph the Medieval architecture, and peruse the shops.

Attend the Hot-Air Balloon Festival

If you visit Rocamadour on the last weekend of September, you will be dazzled by 30 colorful hot-air balloons soaring over the valley.

Wake up early to view the sunrise takeoff. This is a fantastic photography opportunity! You can also book your own balloon ride at any time of the year with Rocamadour Aerostat.

Where To Stay In Rocamadour

Rocamadour has great affordable hotels where you will feel right at home.

Affordable: Hotel Beau Site. Check Rates: Booking.com

Affordable: Hôtel Restaurant du Château. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Lyon

What would the best road trip in France be without a stop at Lyon, the third-largest city in France? There’s a reason the area is famous.

The ancient Romans recognized its strategic location at the confluence of two navigable rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. Two Roman Emperors were even born in this city: Claudius and Caracalla.

Lyon is a large World Heritage Site with Roman ruins, a Renaissance old town, historic industrial neighborhoods, and the 19th-century Presqu’île quarter.

Because of its fascinating and lengthy history, there is no limit to what you can do and see while in Lyon!

The food scene is epic as well! The famous food critic Curnonsky referred to Lyon as “the gastronomic capital of the world.” Make sure to sample some of Lyon’s delicious cuisine.

Parking in Lyon

Parking is not super easy in Lyon and you will usually have to pay. That said, there are plenty of car parks and street parking is available.

Many of the parking garages are connected to public transport. Since Lyon is not car-friendly, park at a facility on the outskirts of town and utilize the park-and-ride services to get around.

Street parking is metered and the prices vary by zone. It is free on Sunday and for the whole month of August!

Things to Do in Lyon

Explore Vieux Lyon

Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is a beautiful Renaissance quarter drenched in history. Wander the narrow streets, admire colorful buildings, and discover secret passageways called traboules. This is a great stop on your driving itinerary for France!

In the heart of the district is the Gothic Lyon Cathedral on the Saône River. Its groundbreaking was in 1180 and it was completed in 1480.

Vieux Lyon is one of the most popular places to explore in Lyon. Take pictures and pause at small boutiques and bakeries.

Sample Local Dishes

Like I said, Lyon is known for its delicious food so make sure to come hungry! There are a ton of Lyonnais dishes to try no matter your food preferences.

Quenelle is a popular fish dumpling usually stuffed with creamed pike and covered in creamy langoustine sauce. Many restaurants make it fresh from scratch.

Salade Lyonnaise is a tasty frisée salad with bacon, soft poached eggs, and croutons topped with a Dijon mustard and walnut oil dressing.

For dessert, you can try the pink-colored tarte aux pralines or coussin de Lyon, a green marzipan filled with chocolate ganache.

If you want to shop for individual ingredients, meats, cheeses, and baked goods, check out the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. This food market is full of things to sample.

Not sure where to start? You can book a guided food tour!

Book Here: Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

Discover Art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is housed in a former abbey and is one of the largest fine art galleries in France. You will find artwork and antiquities from around the world and many time periods.

Where To Stay In Lyon

As a large city, there are plenty of places to stay in Lyon.

Affordable: Hotel Elysée. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Maison Nô – Hôtel et Rooftop. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: Chambéry

An Alpine town in southeastern France, Chambéry is both historic, gorgeous, and a fantastic stop on your France road trip itinerary!

There’s always lots to do and see in these beautiful French towns, and Chambéry is no exception! Make sure you plan well for Chambéry, as you are likely to be torn between all the wonderful attractions!

Chambéry has a long and fascinating history. You will feel a strong Italian influence in the arts, food, and architecture, which is not surprising as the city was only annexed by France in 1871.

If you want one of the best, most rounded-out France travel itineraries, then do not forget to visit Chambéry.

Things to Do in Chambéry

Walk Around the Historic Center

Chambéry’s historic center dates back to the 15th century and is a wonderful place to wander around or sit at a cafe.

One of the most famous Chambéry landmarks is the Fountain of the Elephants. Built in 1838, it features four massive elephants and is topped with a statue of General Count de Boigne.

Visit the Chambéry Castle

The Chambéry Castle, or Château des Ducs de Savoie, is an impressive, must-see building. Book a guided tour to see the inside.

With a history going back to the 11th century, this is a fascinating place to explore. Today it is used for council offices.

Explore the Surrounding Nature

Surrounded by mountains and lakes, there are plenty of chances to get out of the city and into nature.

The Chartreuse Mountains are perfect for a scenic drive. Do a hike or check out one of the idyllic mountain villages.

You will want to stop by Bourget Lake. It is the largest natural lake in France and is absolutely beautiful! Take a walk along the waterfront or take a dip at one of the beaches.

Where To Stay In Chambéry

There are a ton of great hotels in Chambéry from affordable to luxury.

Affordable: Hotel le Cinq Hyper. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Château de Candie. Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Petit Hôtel Confidentiel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 8: Colmar

An absolute gem of a town in the Alsace, you will love adding Colmar to your road trip through France itinerary! The photos of the town are fit for a postcard of a fairytale.

Quaint, half-timbered Medieval and Renaissance-style houses line a quiet river and vivid flowers dot the landscape with shocking colors in the summer.

Colmar is situated in the Grand Est region of northeastern France near the border of Germany. The now quaint town has a long, dark, but altogether fascinating history involving many wars.

If you visit France in December, you will love discovering one of the best Christmas markets in France!

Colmar is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in France!

Things to Do in Colmar

Take a Stroll Through Old Colmar and Little Venice

Yes, Colmar is another town where you will want to just wander, photograph the adorable buildings, and find history on every corner!

Some notable buildings to visit in this area include the Old Customs House (Koifhus) in the pretty Place de l’Ancienne Douane and St. Martin’s Church, a Gothic church completed in 1365.

Petite Venise, or Little Venice, sits at the southern end of Old Colmar on the Launch River. This is one of the most darling parts of town full of the iconic wood-timbered houses.

You will quickly see why Colmar inspired movies like Beauty and the Beast and Howl’s Moving Castle.

Book Here: Colmar: Highlights Walking Tour and Wine Tasting

Pop Into Some of the Museums

There are a ton of interesting and unique museums in Colmar!

Housed in a 13th-century convent, the Unterlinden Museum covers about 7,000 years of history. You will love all the art, historic artifacts, and architecture of the building.

At the Musee Bartholdi, you will see work by sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi who is most famous for creating the Statue of Liberty. The museum is found in the house where he was born.

The Toy Museum of Colmar, or Musée du Jouet, is really cool, especially if you are traveling with kids. There is an awesome collection of vintage and more modern toys through the decades.

Eat and Drink Alsace Specialties

The Alsace region in France offers delicious food and you will want to eat your way through it all! Consider doing a wine tasting as well to sample the region’s white wine.

Alsatian food has a strong German influence and is delicious! A bretzel, or pretzel in English, covered in butter and salt is a classic treat. Grab one from a cafe and eat it as you walk around.

For a complete meal, order baeckeoffe, a casserole with potatoes, onions, and meat like beef or pork. You might also like spätzle, sausage with sauerkraut, or tarte flambée which is similar to a pizza.

Where To Stay In Colmar

Colmar has a lot of comfortable and classy hotel options for reasonable prices.

Affordable: Colmar Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 9: Reims

If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’re going to be very excited to add Reims to your France road trip itinerary! It is about a four-hour drive from Colmar and holds just as much history.

Reims is known as the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine region. There are many champagne houses in Reims, and many of them provide tastings and cellar tours.

Admire the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

The current Reims Cathedral was completed in 1275 and then restored and reopened in 1938 after being damaged in WWI.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the top attraction in Reims and welcomes over a million visitors per year. Take time to admire the Gothic architecture from the outside and inside.

Interestingly, this cathedral was the location of the coronation of many of France’s kings!

Book Here: Reims: Guided Tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims

Do a Champagne Tasting

Of course, a champagne tasting is one of the most popular things to do in Reims!

You can order a glass of local champagne at any restaurant in the city, but consider taking a guided tour. Head out into the countryside to visit vineyards, tour cellars, and do an informed tasting.

Some of the best champagne houses in Reims are Maison Ruinart, Taittinger, Veuve Cliquot, and G.H. Mumm.

Book Here: From Reims: Morning Champagne Tour and Tastings

Visit Palais du Tau

Set right next to the Reims Cathedral, the Palais du Tau is another awesome piece of architecture. This palace is where kings stayed and hosted festivities during their coronation.

It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum.

Photograph Art Deco Buildings

Because Reims was greatly destroyed during WWI, much of it was rebuilt in the ’20s and ’30s in the Art Deco style. It is fun to spot this more modern architecture among much older buildings.

Some of the best Art Deco examples in Reims are the Carnegie Library, Villa Demoiselle, the Halles Boulingrin, and the Reims Opera.

Where To Stay In Reims

As a larger city, Reims is not short on places to stay. There are great affordable options if you are on a budget or more luxury hotels too.

Affordable: Séjours & Affaires Reims Clairmarais. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Best Western Premier Hotel de la Paix. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 10: Chantilly

Resting in the valley of the Nonette, in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, Chantilly is a beautiful commune.

You may recognize the name from famous things like Chantilly cream and Chantilly lace, both of which get their names from this lovely French town.

There is so much to do and see in Chantilly. It’s no wonder that it is considered an important tourist destination for a road trip in the Paris area!

Things to Do in Chantilly

Visit the Château de Chantilly

For most people, the amazing Château de Chantilly is the top reason to visit Chantilly. It is comprised of the Petite and Grand Chateaus.

The current castle was completed in 1882 by Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale.

When you visit, admire the architecture, tour the art gallery of the Musée Condé, and stop by the Grand Stables with its Living Museum of the Horse. There are also 115 hectares of gardens and parks to explore.

Interestingly, the chateau was featured in the 1985 James Bond movie A View to a Kill. Pink Floyd performed here in 1994 too!

Indulge in Chantilly Cream

What would a trip to Chantilly be without dining on scrumptious desserts with Chantilly cream? This decadent food is very similar to whipped cream except that it has more sugar and vanilla added.

There are plenty of bakeries and restaurants in town where you can order a dessert topped with this sweet treat.

Wander in the Chantilly Forest

Want to feel like a woodland fairy? Head into the Chantilly Forest. A former hunting ground, it is still used by horseback riders.

Walk along tree-lined paths and discover the Castle of the White Queen on the pretty Comelles Ponds. This little castle looks like it was pulled from a fairytale.

Where To Stay In Chantilly

Even though it is a small town, there are still great options for hotels in Chantilly.

Mid-Range: Manoir des Cavaliers BnB. Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Auberge du Jeu de Paume. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 11: End Your France Road Trip in Paris

You will end your France road trip back in Paris. You can spend more time in the romantic City of Lights or return your rental car and fly home.

Keep in mind that you can easily do Paris at the beginning or end of your first time to France itinerary. You can also skip Paris altogether to save money or if you have been there before.

Driving Tips for France

Here are a few quick tips on how to travel France by car.

• Use Auto Europe when renting a car. This site compares rates across a variety of popular car rental websites including Hertz, Europcar, Alamo, Enterprise, and more. This is what I use and suggest for a road trip through France itinerary.
• You must have car insurance! In France, you need at least third-party liability insurance when renting a car. Many travel credit cards include rental insurance or you can purchase directly from the rental company. Having insurance will potentially save you money and headaches later.
• Pay attention to transmission type when renting. Manual transmission is the most popular in France but automatic cars are available, although usually for a high price. Do not try to learn manual on the go!
• Be prepared for tolls. Many highways have costly tolls so make sure to work these into your budget for driving through France.
• There are three main speed limits. Speed limits are not always marked so you must know what it is based on where you are. On autoroutes (highways) is it 130km/hr (80 mph). On N and D roads, it is 80km/hr (50mph). In cities and towns, it is 50km/hr (30mph). The speed limit also lowers in bad weather.

I hope you have a fantastic time on your France road trip! This plan does not include much of southern France or the Provence region, so you will have to come back!

France travel by car is a wonderful experience! You will love the landscapes, quaint towns, and bustling cities.

I hope you have learned how to plan a trip to France! I am happy to answer any questions you may have about planning a road trip in France in the comments below!

Next, check out the best one-week in Europe itineraries.