11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon traveling north to Marseille, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, Beaune, and Valence
Description
Included
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 Toulon, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Auxerre, Versailles, Paris, Beaune, Valence, and Avignon. 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 Toulon, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Auxerre, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Beaune, and 1 night in Valence. 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 Toulon, 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 Toulon, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Auxerre, Versailles, Paris, Beaune, Valence, and Avignon, 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!
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Day 1 – Toulon - arrival day
- Toulon - Arrival day
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- Stade Mayol
- More
Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Toulon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Toulon for 1 night 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.
Toulon 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 Stade Mayol 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 Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 La Maison Des Saveurs, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Quaizéro2 offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Le Lagon. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Toulon.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Espit Chupitos Toulon, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Aux 5 Parties Du Monde, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Dry Dock provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Toulon and Marseille
- Toulon
- Marseille
- More
Drive 66 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Jardin Alexandre Ier
- Musée National de la Marine
- Stade Mayol
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulon, 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 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Toulon, featuring a mesmerizing, a photogenic, and a historic. Start at Jardin Alexandre Ier, a worthwhile park in the city. Then, head to Hotel Des Arts (mediterranean Center Of Art) and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching art gallery.
There are many interesting places to see in Toulon and when you are ready for more, go to National Maritime Museum. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
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.
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 Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Traquenard after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Dame Du Mont, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Polikarpov also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon
- Marseille
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Lyon
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Drive 365 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Pont du Gard
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- More
On day 3 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 Les Baux-de-Provence and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of a charming, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a respected, a stunning, and a majestic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This well-known church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Château Des Baux-de-provence and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Carrières Des Lumières, another highlight in the village.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Les Baux-de-Provence and set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. 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 48 min. Upon reaching La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Du Gard, a popular monument that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Lyon, 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 Nuage café, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Agastache Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. 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 L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette 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 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Auxerre
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Auxerre
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Drive 315 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a masterful, and a profound. Start at the notable Place Bellecour, a history-steeped public square in Lyon. Next, go to Lyon Cathedral.
After visiting Place Bellecour and Lyon Cathedral, take time to explore Lyon's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This romantic church offers a unique experience.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park known for its instagrammable 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 Auxerre. Auxerre 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 Auxerre. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Auxerre, Versailles, and Paris
- Auxerre
- Versailles
- Paris
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Gardens of Versailles
- Palace of Versailles
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- 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 Versailles and Paris. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Versailles. This car ride takes around 1 hour 51 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Gardens Of Versailles, a notable botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Palace Of Versailles and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
Paris’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Versailles behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Paris welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Arc De Triomphe. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Eiffel Tower. This timeless monument is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Champ De Mars. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.
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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café De Paris V, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dirty Dick offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Little Red Door is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 7 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Tuileries Garden
- place de la Concorde
- Palais Garnier
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Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Louvre Museum. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée D'orsay, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Tuileries Garden, one of the city’s most widely recognized attractions, known for its enchanting features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Place De La Concorde. This romantic public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Palais Garnier, an interesting opera house, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Boucan. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mamie Paris, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 29 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- La Villette
- Jardin des plantes
- Panthéon
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Louvre Museum
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Sacré-cœur, a prime spot to begin your journey. This grand church is sure to impress. Next on your list is La Villette, another must-visit landmark and top-rated park renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Paris by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Jardin Des Plantes. This romantic botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Panthéon also adds charm to your journey, and Jardin Du Luxembourg wraps up your day with its history-steeped appeal.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Harp Bar, 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 Le Bistro des Augustins, 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 Le Petit Châtelet, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. 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 Sherry Butt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Highlander provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Sully offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 8 – Paris and Beaune
- Paris
- Beaune
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Drive 314 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Sainte Chapelle
- The Centre Pompidou
- Louvre Museum
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On day 8 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 Beaune, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. Whether you decide to explore Paris on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Notre-dame De Paris is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped church before continuing your journey. Sainte Chapelle is your next stop. This popular church is one of the best-rated sights in Paris.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Centre Georges Pompidou.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Beaune. 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 Beaune. 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.
Dine in style at Ermitage de Corton, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Bistrot du Coin boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Bout du Monde. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Beaune.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 9 – Beaune, Mont Sion, Néplier, and Valence
- Beaune
- Valence
- More
Drive 437 km, 4 hours 48 min
Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Mont Sion and Néplier, 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 Valence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Mont Sion. Some of the hamlet’s most loved attractions await.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune and set your GPS to Mont Sion. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Mont Sion, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Le Hameau Du Père Noël, an increasingly popular museum that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Néplier. This car ride takes around 12 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Le Site Des Ponts De La Caille, a frequently visited monument that everyone visiting Néplier should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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 Valence. Valence 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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Les Cèdres - Bertrand Frères, highly recommended for tonight's dining.
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 10 – Valence, Avignon, Marseille, and Toulon
- Valence
- Avignon
- Marseille
- Toulon
- More
Drive 309 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Calanques National Park
- More
On day 10 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 and Marseille. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulon, 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 Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a well-known historical landmark that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Palais Des Papes, a breathtaking palace that stands out in the city.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Marseille, 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 Avignon to Marseille may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Marseille, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Calanques National Park, a well-known national park in Marseille. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Holiday Inn Toulon - City Centre, an IHG Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Corsaire PUB offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Goût-Thé II. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Toulon.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Old Coucou after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Temple Beer for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Le Winny is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 11 – Toulon - departure day
- Toulon - Departure day
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- Stade Mayol
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Day 11 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Toulon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Toulon’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Prepare for a day full of a visually striking, a grand, and a noteworthy. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Sculpture De Bateau. This increasingly popular art installation is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulon.
You’ll then say farewell to Toulon. 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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