11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon traveling west to Nimes, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, Beaune, and Valence
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 11-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Toulon, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Beaune, Auxerre, Versailles, Paris, Fontainebleau, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence.
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 Nimes, 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, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Beaune, Auxerre, Versailles, Paris, Fontainebleau, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, 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 – 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Toulon. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Espit Chupitos Toulon, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Aux 5 Parties Du Monde is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Dry Dock 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!
Day 2 – Toulon and Nimes
- Toulon
- Nîmes
- More
Drive 206 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Hotel des Arts (Mediterranean Center of Art)
- La Tour Royale
- Plage de Renécros
- 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting Hotel Des Arts (mediterranean Center Of Art), a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic art gallery is sure to impress. Next on your list is La Tour Royale, another must-visit landmark and often recommended monument renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Toulon by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Plage De Renécros. This mesmerizing beach is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.
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 Nimes. Nimes 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 Nimes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at La Galerie, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Annaba Café is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel des Tuileries. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nimes tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to La Bonne Mousse, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. O’flaherty’s is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, News Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- Lyon
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Museum Romanité
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nimes today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Musée De La Romanité. This instagrammable museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Jardin De La Fontaine and learn what makes this majestic park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
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 Sagriès may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Sagriès, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Spend your afternoon discovering Haribo Candy Museum, a popular museum known for its picture-perfect features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Pont Du Gard, an interesting monument that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lyon's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Nuage café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Rhône offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Agastache Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at L' Antiquaire, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Black Forest Society offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Pompette. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Lyon, Beaune, and Auxerre
- Lyon
- Beaune
- Auxerre
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Drive 303 km, 3 hours 20 min
- La Moutarderie Fallot
- Park Bouzaise
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- 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 - Beaune. 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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Lyon, featuring a romantic, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a sacred, and a symbolic. Start at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, an interesting church in the town.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Beaune. This car ride takes around 1 hour 36 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering La Moutarderie Fallot, an increasingly popular museum known for its history-steeped features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Park Bouzaise, an increasingly popular park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune and uncover the details of this eye-catching museum.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Auxerre, 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 Auxerre, 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Auxerre, Versailles, and Paris
- Auxerre
- Versailles
- Paris
- More
Drive 210 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Gardens of Versailles
- Palace of Versailles
- Arc de Triomphe
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Panthéon
- More
On day 5 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 Versailles and Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Auxerre and set your GPS to Versailles. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Versailles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Gardens Of Versailles, an interesting botanical garden that everyone visiting Versailles should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Palace Of Versailles. This visually striking palace is one of the most timeless attractions in the region.
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.
Take your self-guided tour to Arc De Triomphe, a timeless monument that everyone visiting Paris should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This noteworthy park is one of the most spectacular attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Panthéon, a picture-perfect monument, popular among locals as well as travelers.
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 Paris. Paris 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 Paris. 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 Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door 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 6 – Paris
- Paris
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Drive 11 km, 57 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée d'Orsay
- Louvre Museum
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Champ De Mars, a prime spot to begin your journey. This awe-inspiring park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Eiffel Tower, another must-visit landmark and world-famous monument renowned for its romantic 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 Tuileries Garden. This visually striking park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Musée D'orsay also adds charm to your journey, and Louvre Museum 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.
As you explore more of Paris, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mamie Paris provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 31 km, 1 hour 29 min
- La Villette
- Sacré-Cœur
- place de la Concorde
- Pont Alexandre III
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Paris, including a park, a church, a public square, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to La Villette. This impressive park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Sacré-cœur, which may be one of the most inviting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Paris on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Place De La Concorde, one of the city’s most extraordinary public square. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Pont Alexandre Iii and Notre-dame De Paris.
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 Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sherry Butt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Highlander, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 8 – Paris, Fontainebleau, and Beaune
- Paris
- Fontainebleau
- Beaune
- More
Drive 322 km, 4 hours
- Palais Garnier
- The Centre Pompidou
- Jardin des plantes
- Palace of Fontainebleau
- Louvre Museum
- More
On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Paris and Fontainebleau. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Beaune, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Continue your journey to Jardin Des Plantes, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Paris, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fontainebleau. This drive usually takes around 59 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Palace Of Fontainebleau. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Beaune. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 9 – Beaune, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, and Valence
- Beaune
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- Valence
- More
Drive 273 km, 3 hours 33 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- More
Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon, 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.
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 1 hour 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Caluire-et-Cuire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lyon. Your travel time is around 18 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Place Bellecour, a locally renowned public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Lyon Cathedral and admire its culturally significant features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Valence, 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 Valence's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Les Cèdres - Bertrand Frères, an iconic dining spot in Valence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.
Say good night to Valence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 10 – Valence, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and Toulon
- Valence
- Avignon
- Aix-en-Provence
- Toulon
- More
Drive 301 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- Jardin des doms
- Zoo Barben
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Avignon’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Avignon may take around 1 hour 22 min. Upon your arrival in Avignon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon) is a well-known historical landmark we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Palais Des Papes, a breathtaking palace that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Jardin Des Doms, a romantic park.
Set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Aix-en-Provence beckons with new experiences!
Zoo Barben is a well-known zoo we recommend making time to visit today.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Toulon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Holiday Inn Toulon - City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Corsaire PUB beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Goût-Thé II. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toulon tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Old Coucou. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Temple Beer offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Le Winny, another top-rated bar in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 11 – Toulon - departure day
- Toulon - Departure day
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- Sculpture de Bateau
- 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.
Set out on a day brimming with an instagrammable, a majestic, and a masterful. Start at the often recommended Sculpture De Bateau, a detailed art installation in Toulon.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulon.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Au Petit Marché, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Larhumbysoval offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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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