10-Day France Road Trip from Nimes traveling east to Marseille and Lyon
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Nimes, Sagriès, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Marseille, Cassis, La Ciotat, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Bron, and Largentière. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Nimes, 3 nights in Marseille, and 3 nights in Lyon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Nimes, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Parc de la Tête d'Or and Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, Sagriès, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Marseille, Cassis, La Ciotat, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Bron, and Largentière, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Nîmes - Arrival day
- More
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Nimes and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Nimes for 2 nights 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.
Nimes 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 Jardin de La Fontaine or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Nimes. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Annaba Café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hôtel des Tuileries offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hotel Vatel and Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nimes.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La bonne mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’Flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- More
Drive 75 km, 1 hour 46 min
- Pont du Gard
- Pont du Gard Museum
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Museum Romanité
- More
Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the hamlet.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Musée de la Romanité. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors. Attracting more than 25,271 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
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.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 3
- Marseille
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- More
Drive 149 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 3 nights.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arles. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This archaeological museum gets 70,230 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,817 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 reviews.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Arles to Les Baux-de-Provence may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château des Baux-de-Provence. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.
Continue your journey at Carrières des Lumières. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 travelers from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Marseille, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at La dame du mont, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Polikarpov offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. Au Petit Nice is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4
- Marseille
- More
Drive 38 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
- Palais Longchamp
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Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Marseille. You have 2 nights left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Calanques National Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Parc Borély. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 travelers.
Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church building offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 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 Marseille Cathedral. This well-loved catholic cathedral boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 12,714 reviews.
When there’s still energy left for exploring, Palais Longchamp awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a water tower, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 previous visitors.
One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Marseille has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Marseille offers and add your favorites to your France travel package below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Marengo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, L'unic Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. Friche la Belle de Mai is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5
- Marseille
- Cassis
- La Ciotat
- More
Drive 86 km, 2 hours
- Calanque de Port-Miou
- La Grande Plage
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- More
Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Marseille for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Cassis, La Ciotat, and Marseille.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars in 16,249 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to 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.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cassis may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Cassis, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take the opportunity to see Calanque de Port-Miou. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,728 visitors.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Ciotat. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Grande Plage. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 7,446 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Marseille and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Queen Victoria, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? O'Malley offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bouchon Provençal. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6
- Lyon
- Aix-en-Provence
- Avignon
- More
Drive 351 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Fontaine de la Rotonde
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- More
On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aix-en-Provence may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fontaine de la Rotonde. Previous visitors have rated this fountain an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,851 reviews.
Hôtel de Caumont is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,520 reviews.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aix-en-Provence and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Avignon, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors.
Palais des Papes is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 616,210 people visit this palace every year.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon's best restaurants.
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.
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, The James Joyce Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 1 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Porte des Enfants du Rhône
- Wall of the Canuts
- Fresque des Lyonnais
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- More
On day 7 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Caluire-et-Cuire, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Lyon for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Take the opportunity to see Wall of the Canuts. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,157 visitors.
Fresque des Lyonnais is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This fresco has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 travelers.
Lyon is also the home of Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Around 25,765 people have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
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 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is parc de la Tête d'Or. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.
Porte des Enfants du Rhône is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,967 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lyon.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cactus Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider L Bar food & drink, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flair Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Broc'Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Phantom of the Opera is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Lyon
- Vaulx-en-Velin
- Bron
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Grand Parc Miribel Jonage
- iFLY Lyon
- Place Bellecour
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- Lyon Cathedral
- More
Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Lyon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Journey into the unknown at Place Bellecour, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Musée Miniature et Cinéma is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,540 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Lyon is Lyon Cathedral. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Lyon offers an experience you will remember.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vaulx-en-velin, 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 Lyon to Vaulx-en-velin may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make Grand Parc Miribel Jonage one of your first sightseeing stops in Vaulx-en-velin. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,314 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Bron’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vaulx-en-velin behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Bron welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at iFLY Lyon, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,468 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bouchon Tupin, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The King Arthur, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Betty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at MOS - Maker of Stories, a top-rated bar in the area.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 9
- Nîmes
- Largentière
- More
Drive 307 km, 4 hours 27 min
- Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche
- Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche
- Aven d'Orgnac
- More
On day 9 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 Largentière. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Largentière.
Journey into the unknown at Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Gorges de l'Ardèche, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,611 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche is a recommended place to visit. This art gallery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,350 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Largentière is Aven d'Orgnac. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,830 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Largentière offers an experience you will remember.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nimes. Nimes 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nimes.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 10
- Nîmes - Departure day
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- Espeisses Woods
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Day 10 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nimes before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Nimes’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.
Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Espeisses Woods. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,395 visitors.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nimes.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Nimes. 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!
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