10-Day France Road Trip from Lyon traveling south to Nimes, Carcassonne, Montpellier, Nice, Marseille, and Avignon

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Lyon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Lyon for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Lyon 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 Place Bellecour or 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 Lyon. 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 in Lyon. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Vieille Canaille. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Lyon Cathedral is a great place to start. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. The minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caluire-et-Cuire.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at parc de la Tête d'Or, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nimes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.

Savor the flavors at Annaba Café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hôtel des Tuileries beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Vatel and Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting La bonne mousse, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of O’Flaherty’s, a bar catering to every mood and preference. News Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Aigues-Mortes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Jardin de La Fontaine. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sagriès. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Haribo Candy Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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 Carcassonne and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château Comtal. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Next up is Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Toulouse. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Take the opportunity to see Basilica of St. Sernin. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 visitors.

Jardin des Plantes is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Montpellier. Montpellier offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Les Enfants Rouges, an iconic dining spot in Montpellier. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Triskell Montpellier, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Rebuffy is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Black Out is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles, 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 Nice. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

After soaking in Montpellier’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Theatre of Arles. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,900 visitors.

Next, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre. This top attraction is a roman amphitheatre with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. Hosting 70,230 visitors every year, Musée départemental de l'Arles antique is one of the most popular places to visit in Arles. This archaeological museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,817 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nice, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nice.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Amoureux, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Snug And Cellar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Vingt4 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nice.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Riviera & Tours, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Les Distilleries Idéales offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Wayne's Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Monaco, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Nice for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Monaco and Nice to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Albert I Garden, a remarkable urban park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,739 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Castle Hill. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,646 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Nice, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Monaco, Monaco. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Journey into the unknown at Musée océanographique de Monaco, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,555 reviews. Every year, Musée océanographique de Monaco welcomes more than 675,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Prince's Palace of Monaco is a recommended place to visit. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 20,724 reviews.

After soaking in Nice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Monaco, Monaco. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 42 min. When you arrive in Monaco, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Monte Carlo Casino, a remarkable architectural structure where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,852 reviews.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Z Restaurant Tapas, 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 O’Neill’s Pub, 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 le kawa, a hidden gem nestled in Nice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cannes and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cannes. This drive usually takes around 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes. Previous visitors have rated this movie theater an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 18,284 reviews.

Vieux Port de Cannes is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,893 reviews.

Set your GPS to Marseille and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Marseille beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Palais Longchamp. This water tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Marseille, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors.

Centre Commercial Centre Bourse is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 16,249 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). Visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.

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.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at La dame du mont, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Polikarpov, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Au Petit Nice provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 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 Avignon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Continue your journey at Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,714 travelers from near and far.

Marseille is also the home of Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Borély. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,618 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Calanques National Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,632 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Avignon. Avignon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Carré du Palais, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Avenio, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le 17 Place aux Vins Avignon • Bar à vin / Caviste, known for its inviting atmosphere. Barberousse Avignon is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Red Sky provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Avignon, Valence, and Tain-l'Hermitage. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Jardin des doms. This popular urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Palais des Papes. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors, this palace deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Valence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc Jouvet. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,363 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lyon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Lyon, 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 delightful dinner at Cactus Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L Bar food & drink? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Flair Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Broc'Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Phantom of the Opera provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lyon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Lyon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Take home a piece of France with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Drop by the renowned Fresque des Lyonnais. This popular fresco has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The King Arthur, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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!