11-Day France Road Trip from Montpellier to Marseille, Monaco, Toulon, Valence, Lyon, Avignon, and Toulouse and surrounding area

Welcome to Montpellier, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Montpellier 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 Aqueduc Saint-Clément or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Montpellier. 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.

Dine in style at Les Enfants Rouges, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-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 Montpellier, and La Grande-Motte. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,446 visitors.

Comedy Square is another popular attraction you could visit today. This square has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 visitors.

Esplanade Charles de Gaulle is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 visitors.

Planet Ocean World is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,786 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Montpellier, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Grande-Motte. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Drop by the renowned Sunset Beach. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,416 visitors.

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 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.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Traquenard after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La dame du mont for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Polikarpov is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Arles, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Marseille for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Alpilles Natural Regional Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,184 visitors.

When you arrive in Les Baux-de-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Château des Baux-de-Provence is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,346 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Carrières des Lumières. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,791 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Arles. 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 1 hour 9 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arles Amphitheatre. This extraordinary roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Une Table au Sud, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coogee. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Au Petit Nice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. L'unic Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Monaco, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean one of your first sightseeing stops in Marseille. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church building is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palais Longchamp. This water tower has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Calanques National Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 19,632 previous visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Monaco, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Monaco, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Steak 'n Shake Monaco, an iconic dining spot in Monaco. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Bionda, a popular restaurant in Monaco. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Tavernetta, a hidden gem nestled in Monaco. 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 Blue Gin, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Monaco, and Nice, 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 Toulon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Prince's Palace of Monaco, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,029 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Musée océanographique de Monaco. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,908 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 675,000 people visit it every year.

Monte Carlo Casino is another must-visit attraction. This renowned architectural structure offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 35,526 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards France, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nice. This drive usually takes around 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Albert I Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,739 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Castle Hill. Castle Hill is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,646 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Au Petit Marché, a popular restaurant in Toulon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Toulon at Havana Café, 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 Manofica. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Toulon tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Espit Chupitos Toulon. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Aux 5 Parties du Monde, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Dry Dock provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 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 Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valence, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Toulon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aix-en-Provence. Your travel time is around 56 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hôtel de Caumont. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,520 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Fontaine de la Rotonde. This fountain has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,851 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 59 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Palais des Papes. This palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 616,210 people visit it every year.

Jardin des doms is another must-visit attraction. This renowned urban park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Say good night to Valence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Grenoble. 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grenoble. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Jardin des Dauphins. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,062 reviews.

Fort de La Bastille 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 7,303 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,504 reviews.

Musée de Grenoble is another outstanding experience in Grenoble. Around 3,100 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café du Rhône, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vieille Canaille. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The James Joyce Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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

Kick off the day at Place Bellecour, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Lyon Cathedral. Lyon Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

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 22 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make parc de la Tête d'Or one of your first sightseeing stops in Caluire-et-Cuire. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Avignon. Avignon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Avignon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Carré du Palais, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Avenio beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Avignon tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le 17 Place aux Vins Avignon • Bar à vin / Caviste, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Barberousse Avignon. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Red Sky, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nimes, and Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying 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 Nimes. This drive usually takes around 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nimes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toulouse may take around 2 hours 49 min. Upon your arrival in Toulouse, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Grand Rond. This extraordinary urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,069 visitors.

Next, make your way to Basilica of St. Sernin. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

While in Toulouse, we also recommend a visit to Square Charles de Gaulle. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,579 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Toulouse, 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Carcassonne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Carcassonne beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Château Comtal is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,201 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Cité de Carcassonne. The fortress has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Musée de l'Ecole. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 287 reviews.

Basilique Saint Nazaire is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this church, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Montpellier, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Balthazar café & restaurant, 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 Georges Café Montpellier, 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 Restaurant la Jalade, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Black Out, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Petit Nice is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Espit Chupitos Montpellier also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Montpellier's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

Take the opportunity to see Arc de Triomphe. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,323 visitors.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Diligence, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, DELI'S COFFEE offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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!