11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Montpellier, and Carcassonne and surrounding area

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of a visually striking, a respected, a charming, a mesmerizing, a majestic, and a noteworthy. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Jardin De La Fontaine, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sagriès. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Haribo Candy Museum is a captivating museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sagriès, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Pont Du Gard and explore the visually striking features.

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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Neuvième Art is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Mère Brazier. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. Pompette is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lyon 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 Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon.

Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, an enchanting, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a detailed, and a culturally significant in the charming town of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Place Bellecour, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This captivating church is known for its enchanting appeal.

After soaking in Vaulx-en-velin’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 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a locally renowned park known for its visually striking features.

When you’ve had your share of Vaulx-en-velin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Begin your journey at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the serene features.

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 satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The James Joyce Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Broc'bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Passagère provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 4 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lyon and Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a standout, a stunning, and a culturally significant! Start at Lyon Cathedral, a popular church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal.

Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lyon behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 23 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Palais Des Papes, a notable palace that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Le Petit Nice offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Signature, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Traquenard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Polikarpov 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.

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Marseille has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Marseille by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Discover a day packed with a charming, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a symbolic, a masterful, and a sacred in Marseille. Begin your sightseeing with Palais Longchamp. This popular palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Marseille, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This increasingly popular tramway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Marseille Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most interesting attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Au Petit Nice offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Marengo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'unic Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Marseille, including a park, a shopping mall, and a national park. Start your adventure at Parc Borély. This well-known park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse located in Marseille for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Calanques National Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 explore more of Marseille, 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 Une Table au Sud, 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 Café Bovo, 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 Maison MV, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Friche La Belle De Mai, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bar De La Plaine provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

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 - Monaco. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Monaco. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Monaco, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Monaco. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Prince's Palace Of Monaco and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Musée Océanographique De Monaco, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the aquarium, continue to Monte Carlo Casino, a romantic casino.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nice, 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 Nice, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a memorable dining experience in Nice by booking a table at La Chèvre d'Or, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Nice, Flaveur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Pure & V is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Nice. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Les Distilleries Idéales, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Diane's is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Wayne's Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Arles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nice 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 2 hours 36 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin D'été, an up-and-coming park known for its idyllic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Roman Theatre Of Arles, a locally appreciated archeological site that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Arles Amphitheatre and uncover the details of this culturally significant archeological site.

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 Montpellier. Montpellier 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 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Montpellier by securing a reservation at Reflet d'Obione. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jardin des Sens, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Leclère, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Triskell Montpellier, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Kraken Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Rebuffy offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Montpellier, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Montpellier, featuring a charming, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a historic, a culturally significant, and a majestic. Start at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an intriguing park in the city. Then, head to Comedy Square and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Montpellier and when you are ready for more, go to Arc De Triomphe. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots. After exploring the monument, visit the intriguing Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the locally appreciated Planet Ocean World, a locally appreciated aquarium in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Carcassonne today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Château Comtal. This romantic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cité De Carcassonne and learn what makes this visually striking castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Réserve Africaine De Sigean. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the wildlife reserve before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Narbonne and set your GPS to Gruissan. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Gruissan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a worthwhile nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Nimes by securing a table at Duende. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Rouge, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Nimes. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!