Relaxed 12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tours to Orléans and Le Mans

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Tours. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Tours. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Tours!

Let Jardin Botanique De Tours set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing botanical garden before continuing your journey. Château De Tours is your next stop. This underrated castle is one of the best-rated sights in Tours.

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 Tours Cathedral. This history-steeped church is a sight to behold.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Tours. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Tours that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Tours to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Tours, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Au Café d' en face, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Escapade. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Bar Jazz Le Strapontin, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le P Tit Soleil, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Belle Époque likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Tours, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Tours will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Blois is brimming with adventures.

After soaking in Tours’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Blois. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Blois, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Bishopric Rose Garden, a frequently visited botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Blois Cathedral and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Château De Blois, a locally renowned castle beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tours and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Tours, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at L’atelier gourmand, an iconic dining spot in Tours. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Au Lapin Qui Fume, a popular restaurant in Tours. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Dînette, a hidden gem nestled in Tours. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip in France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tours, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Olivet. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Parc Floral De La Source, an intriguing botanical garden that everyone visiting Olivet should see.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Orléans may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Orléans, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Orléans Cathedral and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Hôtel Groslot, another highlight in Orléans.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Orléans. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Orléans offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant des Plantes, a top-rated dining spot in Orléans. If you're in the mood for something new, try Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Paul & Juliette. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Orléans.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Moog, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Java Pop. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Charbon, another top-rated place in the area.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Orléans and visit amazing attractions in Chartres, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Orléans, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Orléans and set your GPS to Chartres. 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 4 min. Upon reaching Chartres, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Maison Picassiette, a beloved art installation known for its remarkable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Old Chartres Fortifications, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Notre-dame De Chartres and uncover the details of this history-steeped church.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Orléans.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Orléans, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Parenthèse, an iconic dining spot in Orléans. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tawouk & Falafel, a popular restaurant in Orléans. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Saint Vincent, a hidden gem nestled in Orléans. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Orléans and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L'antidote, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Orléans as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Le Mans for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Mans. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans, a frequently visited museum known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans, a worthwhile church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Cité Plantagenêt and uncover the details of this visually striking historical landmark.

In Le Mans, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in France.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Tontons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'épi'Curieux offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L' Office is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Le Mans.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Le Mans and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Luna Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mojito Royal, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Lodge Irish Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Le Mans as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 9 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Le Mans and beyond. With 2 nights left in Le Mans, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Saumur’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Le Mans behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. Saumur welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Saumur is Musée Des Blindés, an often recommended military museum that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Caves Louis De Grenelle, a picture-perfect wine cellar that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Château De Saumur, a captivating castle that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Le Mans and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Le Mans offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Auberge des 7 Plats, a top-rated dining destination in Le Mans. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La plancha gourmande, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Savourez. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Le Mans this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Le Mans and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Elephant Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Vaudeville offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Barouf, another top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.