Relaxed 9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Lyon

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Nimes and beyond. With 2 nights left in Nimes, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. 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. Pont Du Gard is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-designated monument before continuing your journey. Pont Du Gard Museum is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum 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 picture-perfect museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée De La Romanité.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nimes and your accommodation.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nimes is Rouge, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

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

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.

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Nimes, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Nimes will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nimes today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Plage Rive Gauche. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Constancy Tower and learn what makes this culturally significant monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Gardette Gate. After exploring the point of interest, head to Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes. This intriguing castle is a highlight in Nimes. As your day continues, stop by Aigues Mortes, known for its history-steeped features.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Pinocchio, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Barjoe Nîmes, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Instant T, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Le Grau-du-Roi can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Tarascon and drive in the direction of the village of Les Baux-de-Provence for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Lyon, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Immerse yourself in Nimes’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Tarascon Castle. This picture-perfect castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Château Des Baux-de-provence, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Carrières Des Lumières, a locally renowned art installation. For a change of scene, check out Site Archéologique De Glanum, known for its awe-inspiring features.

In the city of Lyon, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Lyon by securing a reservation at Takao Takano. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at L' Antiquaire, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Society provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pompette offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Lyon is Vieux Lyon. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today’s itinerary in Lyon covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a church, a museum, a street art and much more! Start your adventure at Place Bellecour. This well-known public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Lyon Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.

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 Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This worthwhile museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Fresque Des Lyonnais, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Lyon, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bernachon Chocolats, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Mère Léa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The James Joyce Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Broc'bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Passagère offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Lyon as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lyon and visit amazing attractions in Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Lyon. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Make sure to visit La Croix-Rousse, a popular neighborhood in Caluire-et-Cuire. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities await you in Lyon on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing zoo, Lyon Zoo. Afterward, continue to Parc De La Tête D'or, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Lyon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This curiosity-inducing monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Wall Of The Canuts, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Lyon.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nosch, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Vieille Canaille. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Raffinerie stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mos - Maker Of Stories is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Lyon!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Lyon and beyond. With 1 night left in Lyon, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Grand Parc Miribel Jonage is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most well-known places to visit in Lyon.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This history-steeped museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière and Parc Des Hauteurs. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le Parloir, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Terroir offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cactus Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Dôme. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Mornas. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Nimes, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lyon, including a castle, a monument, a park, a palace, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at Fortress Mornas. This romantic castle is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Lyon. Then, wander over to Triumphal Arch. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Jardin Des Doms. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Lyon offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Palais Des Papes is a captivating spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the palace, don’t forget to check out the majestic Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating historical landmark.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Nimes. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Dine in style at Le Questel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Royal Hôtel - La Bodeguita boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Locanda Comptoir italien. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!