Relaxed 10-Day France Road Trip from Marseille to Nimes and Lyon

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Marseille and begin your adventure in France.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Friche la Belle de Mai. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,400 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Marseille. 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Chez Roger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, AM par Alexandre Mazzia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Marseille. The bars in Marseille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La dame du mont, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Polikarpov offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Au Petit Nice. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Marseille as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Marseille, and meet locals along the way!

Make Calanques National Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Parc Borély. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,618 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

When you’re finished at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille), the perfect next stop is Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palais Longchamp. This water tower is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Une Table au Sud, a highly-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Coogee, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les 3 Frères. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Marengo. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, L'unic Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Friche la Belle de Mai, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Marseille 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!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cassis, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This extraordinary shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars by 16,249 visitors.

Next, make your way to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,053 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Cassis by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the village’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Queen Victoria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, O'Malley is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Bouchon Provençal. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Marseille. The bars in Marseille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Les Baux-de-Provence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arles may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Arles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Alpilles Natural Regional Park, 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 8,184 reviews.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Château des Baux-de-Provence. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.

Next, make your way to Carrières des Lumières. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,791 reviews.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Arles Amphitheatre. Previous visitors have rated this roman amphitheatre an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,060 reviews.

Musée départemental de l'Arles antique is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,817 reviews. The attraction welcomes 70,230 visitors every year.

The attraction gets an estimated 70,230 visitors every year.

In the city of Nimes, 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Annaba Café, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hôtel des Tuileries, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Vatel and Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La bonne mousse, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O’Flaherty’s. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at News Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, 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 La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and beyond. With 3 nights left in Nimes, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the hamlet.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 39 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pont du Gard. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Pont du Gard Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,292 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sagriès, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Sagriès may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sagriès, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Haribo Candy Museum, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 17,011 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sagriès and set your GPS to Uzès. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 11 min. Upon reaching Uzès, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is La vallée de l'Eure à Uzès. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,022 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pinocchio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Barjoe Nîmes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nimes.

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.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Nimes. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Nimes!

Drop by the renowned Espeisses Woods. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,395 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Jardin de La Fontaine. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Carré d'Art. This museum has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,211 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Musée de la Romanité, drawing over 25,271 yearly visitors. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 local and international travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Nimes. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Nimes that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Nimes to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at L'Instant T, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Questel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Royal Hôtel - La Bodeguita as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nimes.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Nimes and visit amazing attractions in France that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in France.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Grau-du-Roi. This drive usually takes around 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Plage Rive Gauche, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 3,501 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Le Grau-du-Roi, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aigues-Mortes. Your travel time is around 8 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Salin d’Aigues-Mortes is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 2,534 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Constancy Tower. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,615 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,652 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Aigues mortes. This sightseeing destination is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,818 reviews.

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

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

Savor the flavors at La Locanda Comptoir italien, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider 3 Brasseurs Nîmes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Nimes.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Lyon. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 41 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lyon, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Musée Miniature et Cinéma is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. Visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Place Bellecour is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Lyon. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Lyon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café du Rhône, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lyon.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The James Joyce Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 9 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Caluire-et-Cuire and end it in the city of Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Porte des Enfants du Rhône. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,967 reviews.

Continue your journey at parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 travelers from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Caluire-et-Cuire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vaulx-en-velin. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Make Grand Parc Miribel Jonage your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,314 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bron. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Make iFLY Lyon your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,468 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Marseille. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nul Part Ailleurs, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Caravelle offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Beer District Marseille. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Caluire-et-Cuire can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Marseille.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Marseille’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in France, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of France home with you through these charming souvenirs.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Marseille is the remarkable Porte d'Aix. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 4,944 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Marseille or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at La Riviera - Restaurant Marseille, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, O'BRADY'S IRISH PUB beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Marseille and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.