If you’re heading to France for ten days, you might be wondering where to go given the multitude of options and limited time. How about embarking on a road trip? Although ten days might seem brief to fully explore France, a carefully crafted itinerary can allow you to experience a lot without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
This 10-day road trip itinerary through France features a mix of cities, mountains, lakes, castles, and lavender fields. It includes both popular destinations and hidden gems. We have personally explored all the locations recommended in this road trip plan.
France offers a rich tapestry of experiences—savor the sparkling Crémant, delve into royal history, bask in the Mediterranean warmth, and enjoy stunning seaside sunsets.
A Road Trip Through France: An Overview
Embarking on a road trip is a fantastic way to maximize your time and see numerous attractions. While France’s main roads are well-maintained, taking detours on older routes can reveal unexpected treasures.
France is steeped in history, and you’ll notice distinct architectural styles and atmospheres in each region you visit. From the terracotta hues of Aix-en-Provence to the majestic whites of the Loire Valley, and the charming gingerbread-style buildings of Normandy, every area has its unique character.
10-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through France
This road trip kicks off in Paris at the start of July, covering both well-known and off-the-beaten-path locations. Your journey will include Paris, the Palace of Versailles, Beaune in Burgundy, Annecy near Lake Annecy and the Alps, the lavender fields of the Valensole plateau, Aix-en-Provence, Montpellier, Tours, Omaha Beach, and Deauville in Normandy.
Day 1 – Explore Paris
Begin your adventure in Paris, and plan to stay for at least one night. If it’s your first visit to Paris, a few days is ideal to fully experience the city’s renowned landmarks. Parking can be tricky in Paris, so it’s best to rent your car from the airport on your first driving day or pick it up in the city.
We opted for the express train from the airport to central Paris, staying close to the Arch de Triomphe without needing hotel parking. For a first-time visitor or anyone interested in exploring different neighborhoods, I recommend reading about the best areas to stay in Paris.
Day 2 – The Palace of Versailles
A slight detour from your route brings you to the Palace of Versailles, a quintessential piece of French history. Situated about 45 minutes from Paris, arriving early will help you avoid the crowds. In July, be prepared for heat—bring water, sunscreen, and a hat or umbrella. Secure skip-the-line tickets and dedicate at least half a day to explore the palace.
Day 3 – Experience Beaune in Burgundy
If you’re a red wine enthusiast, Beaune, the wine capital of France, is a must-visit. Located between Lyon and Dijon, this charming town offers fantastic food and wine tours. After leaving Paris, we decided to spend our first night in Beaune, chosen by a simple coin flip. The town’s small size is outweighed by its charm and culinary delights.
For a summer visit, consider a hotel with a pool. We stayed at the Novotel Hotel, centrally located with a pool just a short walk from the city center. The drive from the Palace of Versailles to Beaune takes about 3 hours, giving you ample time to explore.
Day 4 – Two Nights in Annecy
After enjoying Beaune, head to Annecy, known as the French Venice, for a blend of mountain and lake activities. Annecy offers both adventure and relaxation by its beautiful lake and the surrounding Alps. Choose a hotel with parking; we recommend Hotel Le Clos Marcel in Duingt, just outside of Annecy.
Annecy, with its clear waters and stunning views of the Alps, is perfect for either hiking or relaxing by the lake. The drive from Beaune to Annecy takes about 2.5 hours.
Day 5 – Lavender Fields on Valensole
No trip through Provence is complete without visiting the lavender fields. Lavender blooms until mid-July, so time your visit accordingly. The drive from Annecy to the Valensole Plateau, known for its picturesque lavender fields, takes around 2.5 hours.
Day 6 – Discover Aix-en-Provence
Following the lavender fields, head to Aix-en-Provence. This vibrant town, known for its charming streets and historical architecture, is a quintessential Provence experience. A drive from Valensole to Aix-en-Provence takes about an hour.
Aix-en-Provence is rich in culture and history, and you might want to extend your stay. We stayed at the Odalys hotel, which offered a kitchenette and pool, perfect for a midday break during the city’s siesta.
Day 7 – Explore Montpellier
Montpellier, situated on the Mediterranean coast, is a blend of old and new. This lively city, France’s third-largest after Nice and Marseille, offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. We spent four nights here, enjoying the architecture, local beaches, and cultural spots.
A two-hour drive from Aix-en-Provence leads you to Montpellier. The city’s diverse offerings include museums, a zoo, and wine tours. Although the Mediterranean water was unusually cold, our hotel with a pool was a great comfort.
Day 8 – Tours in the Loire Valley
Tours, the capital of the Loire Valley, is steeped in royal history and home to many castles. This region is famous for its historic sites and architectural beauty. The drive from Montpellier to Tours takes approximately 6.5 hours. In Tours, you can enjoy the local cuisine and visit nearby castles.
Day 9 – Omaha Beach in Normandy
A visit to Omaha Beach, a significant WWII site, is a poignant end to your trip. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and bring a windbreaker. The drive from Tours to Omaha Beach is around 3 hours. Explore the main memorials and consider visiting the white cliffs of Etretat.
Day 10 – Conclude in Deauville
End your journey in Deauville, known for its elegant seaside charm. Often referred to as the “queen of the Norman beaches,” Deauville offers luxury, beautiful architecture, and a touch of glamour. The drive from Omaha Beach to Deauville takes just over an hour. Stay in one of the town’s upscale hotels and enjoy a final night in style.
Your road trip in France can also be reversed, starting in Normandy and ending in Paris. The drive from Deauville to Charles de Gaulle Airport takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
During our trip, we chose to stay in budget-friendly hotels for shorter stays and splurge on more luxurious accommodations for longer stays. While French highways are well-maintained, taking scenic side roads can lead to delightful discoveries, like the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct.
