11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nimes, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, and Cahors

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Clermont-Ferrand. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Clermont-Ferrand is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Clermont-ferrand Cathedral, a beloved church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Montjuzet, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Panoramic Domes. This observation deck is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Clermont-Ferrand at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit L'aventure Michelin.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lyon by reserving a table at Takao Takano. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Mère Brazier, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lyon and Avignon, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Marseille. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Lyon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Place Bellecour. This visually striking public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), another UNESCO world heritage-designated attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Palais Des Papes, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Jardin Des Doms. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As you explore more of Marseille, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Marseille by reserving a table at Le Petit Nice. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Signature, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Traquenard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Dame Du Mont, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Polikarpov provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Marseille. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nice, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Marseille Cathedral. This interesting church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This popular church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Calanques National Park, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at La Chèvre d'Or in Nice by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, La Chèvre d'Or offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Flaveur, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Pure & V, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Les Distilleries Idéales. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Diane's, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Wayne's Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Nice, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nice, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a well-known aquarium in the city. Then, head to Prince's Palace Of Monaco and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Nice, and when you are ready for more, go to Monte Carlo Casino. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the casino, visit the frequently visited Albert I Garden. Not far away, you'll also find Castle Hill. This park is a romantic highlight in Nice.

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

As you explore more of Nice, 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 a wonderful meal at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Nice. If you're in the mood for something new, try Snug And Cellar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Vingt4. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nice.

Keep the evening going at Trafalbar Nice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bay Side, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Les Baux-de-Provence and Tarascon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Nice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Château Des Baux-de-provence is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Carrières Des Lumières is your next stop. This locally renowned art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Nice.

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 Tarascon Castle. This instagrammable castle is a sight to behold.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Nimes by securing a table at Duende. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Rouge, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Nimes. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at La Bonne Mousse, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O’flaherty’s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is News Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 7 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 Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Nimes, including a museum, a park, and a monument. Start your day at Musée De La Romanité. This heritage-rich museum is a frequently visited place to see in Nimes. Then, wander over to Jardin De La Fontaine. If enchanting sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Haribo Candy Museum. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

Nimes offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Pont Du Gard is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Carcassonne and Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the up-and-coming Château Comtal, a symbolic castle in Carcassonne. Next, go to Cité De Carcassonne.

After visiting Château Comtal and Cité De Carcassonne, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Jardin Des Plantes. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a unique experience. Basilica Of St. Sernin is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bordeaux. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mushroom Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Whose Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux and Lormont, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cahors. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, an art installation, a museum, a park, a monument and much more! Begin your adventure at Place De La Bourse. This is a well-known public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Miroir D'eau, a notable art installation in Bordeaux.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to La Cité Du Vin. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Jardin Public, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Monument Aux Girondins, a historic place of interest in the city.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Cahors by securing a reservation at L'Ô à la Bouche. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!