One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling west to Marseille, Carcassonne, and Nimes

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Photo of French Riviera coast with medieval town Villefranche sur Mer, Nice region, France.
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 Nice, France.
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Photo of scenic view of waterfall of Castle Hill in Nice, Cote d'Azur, France.
Photo of beautiful young woman enjoying the cityscape of Nice, French Riviera, France.
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Photo of basilique Notre-Dame de Nice France.
Photo of Nice, France.
Photo of Nice, France.
Photo of The Vallon des Auffes - fishing haven with small old houses, Marseilles, France.
Photo of The aerial view of Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde in Marseille, a port city in southern France.
Photo of Fantastic vacation place, stunning viewpoint on the cliffs, Calanques de Port Pin bay with yachts and sailing boats, Calanques National Park near Cassis, Provence, South France, Europe.
Photo of Marseille. Palais de Longchamp with fountains and sculptures, in sunny day, view from the right side.
Photo of Colorful kayaks in the famous French fjords,Calanques national park, Calanque d'En Vau bay, Cassis,Marseille, Southern France, Europe.
Photo of Saint Jean Castle and Cathedral de la Major and the Vieux port in Marseille, France.
Photo of Cathedral de la Major - one of the main church and local landmark in Marseille, France.
Photo of City of Marseille harbor and Notre Dame de la Garde church on the hill flower and palm view, southern France.
Photo of promenade of the Old Vieux Port in the city center of Marseilles, France.
Photo of Palais du Pharo in a summer day in Marseilles, France.
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Photo of Breathtaking viewpoint on the cliffs, Calanques D'En Vau bay, Calanques National Park near Cassis fishing village, Provence, South France, Europe.
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Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of the Gambetta square in Carcassonne, France.
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Photo of Carcassonne a fortified French town in the Aude department, Carcassonne, France.
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Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
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Photo of aerial view of Roman Amphitheater in medieval town Nimes in France.
Photo of chaos de Nimes, Nimes le vieux- famous touristic site in France.
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Photo of Ancient aqueduct of Pont du Gard, Unesco World Heritage site, Nimes, France.
Photo of Le Nymphée with sculpture group at the park Les Jardin de la Fontaine in Nimes, France.
Photo of view at Eglise Saint Paul in Nimes, France.
Photo of morning street view with roman amphitheater building in Nimes city on Southern France.
Photo of Roman amphitheater in Nimes, France.
Photo of  Occitanie, Pradier fountain and Arena of Nimes, France.
Photo of park Jardin de la Fontaine in city of Nimes in Southern France.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Nice, Monaco, Marseille, Castelnau-le-Lez, Carcassonne, Gruissan, Nimes, Saint-Jean-du-Gard, Générargues, Sagriès, and Les Baux-de-Provence.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Nice, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 2 nights in Nimes. 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 Nice, 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Monte Carlo Casino, learn more about the unique Pont Du Gard, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Musée Océanographique De Monaco.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nice, Monaco, Marseille, Castelnau-le-Lez, Carcassonne, Gruissan, Nimes, Saint-Jean-du-Gard, Générargues, Sagriès, and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin Albert 1er
Castle HillCathédrale Saint-Nicolas de NiceParc PhœnixMercantour National Park
Prince's Palace of MonacoMusée océanographique de MonacoMonte Carlo Casino
Cathédrale La MajorBasilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeCastle Park Grammont
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneRéserve Africaine de SigeanLe Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
Steam train of CevennesThe Bamboo CevennesJardin de La FontaineHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
Museum RomanitéChâteau des Baux-de-ProvenceCarrières des Lumières
Promenade du Paillon

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nice - Arrival day
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  • Jardin Albert 1er
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Say hello to Nice! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Nice for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Nice 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 Albert I Garden, or just 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 Nice. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Bocal, a top-rated dining destination in Nice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Makassar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Amoureux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nice this evening.

Keep the evening going at Les Distilleries Idéales, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Diane's, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Wayne's Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nice
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Drive 171 km, 4 hours 25 min

  • Castle Hill
  • Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
  • Parc Phœnix
  • Mercantour National Park
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Nice has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Nice by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nice, including a park, a church, a botanical garden, a national park and much more! Start your adventure at Castle Hill. This interesting park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice located in Nice for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Parc Phœnix. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Mercantour National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this national park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Chèvre d'Or, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Flaveur, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nice is Pure & V, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Continue your lively evening at Trafalbar Nice, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bay Side is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Nice
  • Marseille
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Prince's Palace of Monaco
  • Musée océanographique de Monaco
  • Monte Carlo Casino
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Monaco. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Nice promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Prince's Palace Of Monaco. This enchanting palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée Océanographique De Monaco, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Monte Carlo Casino, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Marseille. Marseille offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Signature, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Marseille. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Traquenard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Dame Du Mont is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Polikarpov also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Marseille
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 321 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Cathédrale La Major
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Castle Park Grammont
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Marseille and Castelnau-le-Lez. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Marseille, including a church and a park. Start your day at Marseille Cathedral. This respected church is an interesting place to see in Marseille. Then, wander over to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). If inviting sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Castle Park Grammont. This idyllic park is a favorite among visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Carcassonne by securing a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Carcassonne
  • Nîmes
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
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On day 5 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 Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a castle, a wildlife reserve, and a nature reserve. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This locally appreciated castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cité De Carcassonne located in Carcassonne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Réserve Africaine De Sigean. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the wildlife reserve, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this nature reserve.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Nimes by booking a table at Duende. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Rouge, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Bonne Mousse after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to O’flaherty’s, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, News Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Nîmes
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Drive 194 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Steam train of Cevennes
  • The Bamboo Cevennes
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Pont du Gard
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Nimes, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Nimes is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Steam Train Of Cevennes, an increasingly popular heritage railway that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find The Bamboo Cevennes, enchanting visitors with its majestic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin De La Fontaine. This park is one of the village’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Nimes at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Haribo Candy Museum. After exploring the museum, head to the notable Pont Du Gard.

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

As you explore more of Nimes, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Criée, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Vatel and Spa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nimes tonight.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Nîmes
  • Nice
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Museum Romanité
  • Château des Baux-de-Provence
  • Carrières des Lumières
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Nimes and Les Baux-de-Provence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This increasingly popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Château Des Baux-de-provence, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Carrières Des Lumières, one of the most interesting places to see in Nimes. This art installation is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nice. Nice offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hôtel West End Nice, an iconic dining spot in Nice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Z Restaurant Tapas, a popular restaurant in Nice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café de Nice, a hidden gem nestled in Nice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Nice - Departure day
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  • Promenade du Paillon
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Promenade Du Paillon, a noteworthy park before you head out.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Nice’s popular marketplace, Avenue Jean Médecin. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nice.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant La Planxa, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, O’Neill’s Pub is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Nice. 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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