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

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Montpellier and begin your adventure in France.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Arc de Triomphe, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

Find your way to your hotel in Montpellier. 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.

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 Montpellier.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Les Enfants Rouges, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Montpellier.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Triskell Montpellier is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Rebuffy, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Black Out. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 Montpellier as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Lyon for 5 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Jardin des plantes de Montpellier, a remarkable botanical garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,446 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 travelers.

Comedy Square is another must-visit attraction. This renowned square offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,883 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Planet Ocean World. This well-loved aquarium boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 8,786 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 new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lyon has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at Café du Rhône, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Forest Society for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The James Joyce Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Lyon, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lyon will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Make Wall of the Canuts one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,157 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Porte des Enfants du Rhône. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,967 visitors.

When you’re finished at Porte des Enfants du Rhône, head to parc de la Tête d'Or. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Lyon Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,722 visitors.

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

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Cactus Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L Bar food & drink is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Flair Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Broc'Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Phantom of the Opera is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Lyon, where you'll stay for 3 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 Lyon, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palais de la Bourse de Lyon. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,206 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Bartholdi Fountain. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,741 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Place Bellecour. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,540 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 visitors.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Bouchon Tupin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The King Arthur boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Betty's Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to MOS - Maker of Stories, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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.

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc de la Cerisaie. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,172 reviews.

Fresque des Lyonnais is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fresco is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,927 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,363 reviews.

Parc des Hauteurs is another outstanding experience in Lyon. Around 1,241 travelers have rated this urban park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is not far away. This minor basilica is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Lyon. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Lyon 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 Lyon to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Dam's Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Gastronomique Christian Tetedoie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Livestation DIY - Lyon. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Lyon 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.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bron. Your travel time is around 19 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Musée Lumière is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,920 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Great Mosque of Lyon. This mosque has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,127 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at iFLY Lyon. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,468 visitors.

Set your GPS to Vaulx-en-velin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vaulx-en-velin beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Mini World Lyon. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,637 visitors.

Grand Parc Miribel Jonage is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,314 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Institut Restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Culina Hortus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière". With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

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 Lyon. The bars in Lyon 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 Lyon!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Mornas and drive in the direction of the town of Orange for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Avignon, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mornas may take around 2 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Mornas, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Fortress Mornas. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,159 visitors.

Orange’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Mornas behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Orange welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Triumphal arch, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,483 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palais des Papes. This palace gets 616,210 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Annaba Café, 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 Hôtel des Tuileries, 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 Hotel Vatel and Spa, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La bonne mousse, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, O’Flaherty’s offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, News Café provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 8, 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 1 night left in Nimes, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the hamlet.

La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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.

Sagriès’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Sagriès welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sagriès, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Uzès. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La vallée de l'Eure à Uzès. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Uzès, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,022 visitors.

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

Exploring the food culture in Nimes 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.

Dine in style at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Pinocchio boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Barjoe Nîmes. 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 and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip 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 city of Nimes and end it in the city of Montpellier. You’ll stay in Montpellier 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Jardin de La Fontaine is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Musée de la Romanité. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 travelers. Every year, 25,271 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Nimes.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aigues-Mortes. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,652 reviews.

Next up is Aigues mortes. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,818 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Aigues-Mortes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Grau-du-Roi. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Plage Rive Gauche. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,501 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Montpellier. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Georges Café Montpellier, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Joseph offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Puja. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Montpellier.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Montpellier and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the evening going at Le Petit Nice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Espit Chupitos Montpellier, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience 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 Montpellier.

As your final day in France unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Montpellier’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of France. Keep the spirit of your trip to France alive with these special 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 Montpellier is the remarkable Aqueduc Saint-Clément. This aqueduct and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,224 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 Montpellier or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Carolans Irish Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Leon offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Les Bains de Montpellier.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Montpellier 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.