11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Strasbourg traveling south to Metz, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, Marseille, and Mâcon
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 11-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Strasbourg, Metz, Paris, Auxerre, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Marseille, Hyeres, Sanary-sur-Mer, Avignon, Mâcon, and Colmar. 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 2 nights in Strasbourg, 1 night in Metz, 1 night in Paris, 1 night in Auxerre, 1 night in Lyon, 3 nights in Marseille, and 1 night in Mâcon. 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 Strasbourg, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Strasbourg, Metz, Paris, Auxerre, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Marseille, Hyeres, Sanary-sur-Mer, Avignon, Mâcon, and Colmar, 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
- Strasbourg - Arrival day
- More
- Parc de l'Orangerie
- More
Say hello to Strasbourg! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Strasbourg for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Strasbourg 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 Parc De L'orangerie 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 Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg. 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 Le Baeckeoffe d'Alsace, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Blue Moon Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Zehnerglock. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Strasbourg tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Canapé Queer Bar Strasbourg, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Mandragore offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Local. 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 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Strasbourg
- Metz
- More
Drive 169 km, 2 hours 15 min
- place Kléber
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
- Alsatian Museum
- Barrage Vauban
- Square Louise-Weiss
- More
On day 2 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 Strasbourg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Metz, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Strasbourg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Place Kléber. This culturally significant public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg, another inviting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Alsatian Museum, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Barrage Vauban. This romantic monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Square Louise-weiss, an up-and-coming public square, and take a stroll around 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 Metz. Metz 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 explore more of Metz, 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 book a table at L'envol Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Metz. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Metz at CHEZ BAPTISTE, 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 BOULANGERIE ANGE. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Metz tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Les Berthom Metz, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Fo'rhum is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Churchill Bar Metz also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 3
- Metz
- Paris
- More
Drive 336 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Musée d'Orsay
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Metz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Paris. Your travel time is around 3 hours 27 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Musée D'orsay, a famous museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Place De La Concorde and admire its detailed features. When you’re ready, continue to Tuileries Garden, a top-rated park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Louvre Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café De Paris V, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dirty Dick. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Little Red Door, another top-rated place in the area.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4
- Paris
- Auxerre
- More
Drive 187 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Paris. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Auxerre. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, an enchanting, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a masterful, a sacred, and a symbolic. Start at the famous Jardin Du Luxembourg, a romantic park in Paris. Next, go to Sacré-cœur.
After visiting Jardin Du Luxembourg and Sacré-cœur, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Arc De Triomphe. This history-steeped monument offers a unique experience. Eiffel Tower is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Champ De Mars, one of the most romantic places to visit in Paris.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Auxerre. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Auxerre. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Auxerre.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Auxerre
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- More
Drive 314 km, 3 hours 35 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Place Bellecour
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
After soaking in Auxerre’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 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a famous park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lyon, 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 Caluire-et-Cuire to Lyon may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lyon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière is a notable church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Lyon Cathedral, a majestic church that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Place Bellecour, a history-steeped public square.
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.
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 Nuage café, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 6
- Lyon
- Marseille
- More
Drive 319 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Friche la Belle de Mai
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- More
Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille, 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.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marseille. This car ride takes around 3 hours 10 min.
Friche La Belle De Mai is an often recommended cultural center we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour. Next, stop by Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a visually striking tramway.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Traquenard, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Dame Du Mont is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Polikarpov 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.
Day 7
- Marseille
- More
Drive 40 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
- Palais Longchamp
- More
On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings a romantic, a picturesque, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a historic, a remarkable, a sacred, and a culturally significant. The first attraction of today is Calanques National Park. This interesting national park is a peaceful place to see in Marseille. Continue your discovery at Parc Borély, a romantic park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Marseille, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This locally renowned church offers a visually striking encounter with Marseille. Marseille Cathedral is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Marseille.
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 delightful dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.
Keep the evening going at Au Petit Nice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Marengo, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'unic Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 8
- Marseille
- Hyères
- Toulon
- More
Drive 202 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Plage de la Capte
- Parc Olbius Riquier
- Stade Mayol
- Circuit Paul Ricard
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- More
Greet day 8 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 Toulon, Hyeres, Sanary-sur-Mer, and Marseille.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Toulon. This car ride takes around 1 hour 16 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Plage De La Capte, a worthwhile beach that everyone visiting Toulon should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Circuit Paul Ricard.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Hyeres, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Hyeres, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc Olbius Riquier, an intriguing botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.
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 Toulon may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Toulon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Stade Mayol, a beloved stadium in Toulon. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Une Table au Sud? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Bovo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.
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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 9
- Marseille
- Avignon
- Mâcon
- More
Drive 403 km, 4 hours 29 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Jardin des doms
- Palais des Papes
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- 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 Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Mâcon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille 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 1 hour 8 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Jardin Des Doms. This increasingly popular park is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Palais Des Papes. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Mâcon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Mâcon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 10
- Mâcon
- Colmar
- Strasbourg
- More
Drive 427 km, 4 hours 36 min
- Colmar
- Fontaine dédiée à l'Amiral Bruat
- Parc du Champ de Mars
- Statue de la Liberté
- More
On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Colmar. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Strasbourg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mâcon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Colmar may take around 3 hours 30 min. Upon your arrival in Colmar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Petite Venise In Colmar, a captivating street that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Fontaine Dédiée À L'amiral Bruat, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings. Next, explore Parc Du Champ De Mars, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Statue De La Liberté. This photogenic monument is well worthwhile the visit.
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 Strasbourg. Strasbourg 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 explore more of Strasbourg, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Cloche à Fromage RESTAURANT, a top-rated dining destination in Strasbourg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The XX - Wine Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Origin, coffee shop végétal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Strasbourg this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Schluch after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Michel - Café - Brasserie for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Douanier is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 11
- Strasbourg - Departure day
- More
- Parc de la Citadelle
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
- More
Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Strasbourg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Parc De La Citadelle is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Strasbourg.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Strasbourg.
Dine in style at Black & Wine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Cannibale boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Strasbourg. 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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