5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Nimes and Lyon

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Photo of lighthouse and old fishing port of Grau du Roi in Camargue zoological nature reserve, Montpellier, South of France.
Photo of Montpellier one of the most "young" cities in France.
Photo of tourist standing with main fountain on the background in Montpellier city, France.
Photo of view from Chateau d'eau du Peyrou ,Montpellier, France.
Photo of jardin des plantes de Montpellier is a public botanical garden in Montpellier city, France.
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Photo of fountain in Antigone district of Montpellier ,France.
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Photo of the place de la comacdie in Montpellier with sun, France.
Triumphal Arch or Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier city in France
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.
Photo of Museum of fine arts in Nimes ,France.
Photo of Lyon cityscape from Saone river with colorful houses and river, France.
Photo of summer view over Vieux Lyon, with famous cathedral Fourviere, and Croix Rousse in Lyon, France.
Photo of Pedestrian Saint Georges footbridge and the Saint Georges church in Lyon, France.
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drone photo Saint-Jean-Baptiste cathedral Lyon France europe
Photo of morning view on Jacobins square and beautiful fountain in Lyon city, France.
Photo of woman walking on the famous Bellecour square with Louis king statue traveling in Lyon city in France.
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Photo of La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, a catholic cathedral in the city of Lyon, France.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Nimes, and 1 night in Lyon. 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 Montpellier, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or and Pont Du Gard are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place Bellecour, learn more about the unique Jardin De La Fontaine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Haribo Candy Museum.

As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Sainte-Colombe, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Days
Destination
Attractions
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Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Arc de Triomphe
Comedy Squareesplanade Charles de GaulleJardin des plantes de MontpellierPlanet Ocean WorldSunset Beach
Museum RomanitéJardin de La FontaineHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
Place Bellecourparc de la Tête d'OrMuseum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
Aqueduc Saint-Clément

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Montpellier - Arrival day
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  • Arc de Triomphe
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Welcome to Montpellier, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Montpellier. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Palavasien, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les Enfants Rouges offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Tord Boyaux is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Montpellier.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Montpellier
  • Nîmes
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Drive 76 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Comedy Square
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Planet Ocean World
  • Sunset Beach
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Montpellier and La Grande-Motte. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Montpellier is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a park, a botanical garden, an aquarium, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Comedy Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Planet Ocean World. When you're finished at the aquarium, Sunset Beach awaits your visit. This beach is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Nimes. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Rouge. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Bonne Mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 3

Day 3

  • Nîmes
  • Lyon
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Museum Romanité
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Pont du Gard
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Nimes on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Musée De La Romanité is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Jardin De La Fontaine is your next stop. This notable park is one of the best-rated sights in Nimes.

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 Haribo Candy Museum. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Pont Du Gard.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Lyon, Le Neuvième Art shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Mère Brazier is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

  • Lyon
  • Montpellier
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Drive 322 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Place Bellecour
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
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On day 4 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 Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Sainte-Colombe. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a public square, a park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Place Bellecour. This popular public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc De La Tête D'or, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lyon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Museum And Site Of Saint-romain-en-gal Vienne, an increasingly popular museum in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Reflet d'Obione, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Jardin des Sens, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Montpellier is Leclère, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Black Out, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Petit Nice, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Montpellier - Departure day
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  • Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier 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, begin at Aqueduc Saint-clément. This often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Montpellier’s shopping center, the lively Rue de la Loge. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Balthazar café & restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Georges Café Montpellier.

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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