One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris

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Photo of reflection of a bridge on Nantes Brest canal in Pontivy Brittany France.
Photo of castle of the Dukes of Brittany (Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne) in Nantes, France.
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris
One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nantes to Paris
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 8-day relaxed road trip in France! Nantes, Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire, Le Mans, Paris, and Angers await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in France, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 3 nights in Nantes and 4 nights in Paris, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Your journey starts in Nantes, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in France to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in France already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Eiffel Tower and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Louvre Museum.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this France road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in France.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in France even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in France includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in France today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Nantes - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Nantes, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Nantes and begin your adventure in France.

Nantes is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Nantes. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Nantes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gigg's Irish Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Parallèle as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nantes.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Nantes.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Chat Noir, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in France. Enjoy your first taste of Nantes as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Nantes
  • Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire
  • More

Drive 14 km, 39 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Botanical Garden
  • Parc de la Roche
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nantes and visit amazing attractions in Nantes and Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Nantes, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Check out the underrated park, Île De Versailles (nantes). Afterward, continue to Botanical Garden, a botanical garden every traveler should visit. As you explore Nantes’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Le Lieu Unique. This worthwhile cultural center is an essential stop. Following that, head to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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 Nantes, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cigale, a highly-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Abbaye de Villeneuve. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Les Berthom, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Coffee House, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bateau-lavoir likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Nantes
  • Sarthe
  • Paris
  • More

Drive 401 km, 4 hours 28 min

  • Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans
  • Cathedral of Saint Julian of Le Mans
  • Cité Plantagenêt
  • More

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Paris for 4 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Le Mans.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Mans may take around 1 hour 54 min. Upon your arrival in Le Mans, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Mans is Museum Of The 24 Hours Of Le Mans, a beloved museum that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cathedral Of Saint Julian Of Le Mans, a picture-perfect church that stands out in the city.

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 Cité Plantagenêt, a locally appreciated historical landmark that offers a unique experience.

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

Exploring the food culture in Paris 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, 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 Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café, 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 dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café De Paris V, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dirty Dick is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Little Red Door is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 13 km, 49 min

  • Palais Garnier
  • Louvre Museum
  • place de la Concorde
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • More

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

Experience Palais Garnier, a captivating opera house in the city. Then, head to Louvre Museum and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Paris, and when you are ready for more, go to Place De La Concorde. This is one of the city’s most impressive masterful spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the famous Tuileries Garden. Not far away, you'll also find Musée D'orsay. This museum is a romantic highlight in Paris.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Paris offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Paris has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Sens Unique boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Caveau de l'isle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Boucan is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mamie Paris offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 7 km, 33 min

  • Jardin des plantes
  • Panthéon
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Sainte Chapelle
  • Notre-Dame de Paris
  • More

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Check out the well-known botanical garden, Jardin Des Plantes. Afterward, continue to Panthéon, 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 top-rated park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Sainte Chapelle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Notre-dame De Paris, an interesting church in the city.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Paris, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.

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

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.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 33 km, 1 hour 37 min

  • Champ de Mars
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Sacré-Cœur
  • La Villette
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. 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 Paris!

Make a stop at Champ De Mars. This timeless park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Eiffel Tower located in Paris for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Arc De Triomphe. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sacré-cœur. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this church. Next up is La Villette, a highly recommended park.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Nantes. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Nantes 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 Paris to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Granite, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Guy Savoy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Saint James Paris. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Paris’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Klein Holland, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tiger is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The 46 Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Paris
  • Angers
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 389 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
  • Angers Cathedral
  • Château d'Angers
  • Balzac Park
  • More

Day 7 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!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Angers, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Paris to Angers may take around 2 hours 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Angers, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Des Plantes D'angers. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Angers Cathedral. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Château D'angers. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle. Next, take your journey to Balzac Park, an increasingly popular park.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Nantes. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in France.

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 Nantes, 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 Le 1, a top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'instinct gourmand, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Macallan - Irish Pub Nantes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Nantes. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Plein Sud is an excellent place to start. You could also check out 4.44 Bar Lounge, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Délirium Café. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Nantes - Departure day
  • More
  • Éloge du Pas de Côté
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Nantes.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Nantes’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Éloge Du Pas De Côté, a photogenic art installation before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Nantes, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bar Ile, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Bouchon offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Nantes and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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