12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in France and Spain With Itinerary from Nice to Nimes, Barcelona, Valencia, Sitges, Carcassonne, and Marseille

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, 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 to see in Nice in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Nice is the magnificent #ilovenice. Around 972 visitors have rated this excellent sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Castle Hill on this leg of your adventure in France. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 17,646 travelers.

The remarkable Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice is known to be one of the best places to visit in Nice, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,225 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Nice by exploring the captivating Parc Phœnix. With a stellar average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 9,938 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Nice exploration list!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nimes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Nimes. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Nimes’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in France and Spain.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Bonne Mousse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O’flaherty’s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, News Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Nimes as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across France and Spain. Today's main destinations are Nimes in France and Figueres in Spain, 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 Barcelona. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Musée De La Romanité is a travelers’ favorite in Nimes, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors. More than 25,271 people visit this extraordinary museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Nimes, don’t miss Jardin De La Fontaine, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 reviews.

After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Figueres, Spain. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 33 min. When you arrive in Figueres, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Figueres today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Dalí Theatre And Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 44,728 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Barcelona.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Barcelona. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across France and Spain.

Start your culinary exploration in Barcelona by securing a reservation at Lasarte. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit ABaC, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Cocina Hermanos Torres, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Casa Gràcia, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in France and Spain has in store for you! You will be staying in Barcelona for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A tour of Barcelona is not complete without a visit to the famous Park Güell. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 200,348 travelers.

Make the most of your Barcelona travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Sagrada Família. This church and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 262,289 travelers and gets around 4,527,427 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible La Pedrera for an experience worth remembering. This local museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 95,521 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Plaça De Catalunya. This amazing site is a wonderful public square with more than 192,246 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across France and Spain by rewarding yourself with a taste of Barcelona’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Gallery Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Prado De Flores. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Barcelona tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Les Gens Que J'aime, known for its lively atmosphere. Bobby's Free is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Barcelona, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 5, you will wake up in Barcelona with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Barcelona before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across France and Spain.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Montjuïc Castle. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 54,889 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Montjuïc Castle is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This fountain and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,567 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing food market, Mercat De La Boqueria. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 181,799 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Cathedral Of The Holy Cross And Saint Eulalia, an outstanding castle, is one place you should visit while in Barcelona considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,874 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Plaça Sant Jaume and discover what makes this local public square and wonder one of the best attractions in Barcelona. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 17,501 travelers.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Barcelona boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Spain.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Els 4Gats, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar El Born offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ocaña. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Manchester after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dry Martini for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Icebarcelona is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France and Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Barcelona in Spain. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valencia, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Palau De La Música Catalana. This outstanding concert hall and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 45,390 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Palau De La Música Catalana is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Arc De Triomf is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This monument and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 85,715 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Parc De La Ciutadella. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 71,839 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Barcelona, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Peníscola / Peñíscola may take around 2 hours 29 min. Upon your arrival in Peníscola / Peñíscola, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A tour of Peníscola / Peñíscola is not complete without a visit to the famous Peniscola Castle. This incredible castle and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 67,342 travelers.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Valencia’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Valencia. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Experience a harmony of flavors at El Poblet in Valencia by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, El Poblet offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ricard Camarena, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Fierro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pub Pasos after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Clann Bar Tapas for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Negrito is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Valencia. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Valencia is the fantastic Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Instal·lacions Dels Jardins Del Túria has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 37,810 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Mercado De Colón. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 41,417 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of L'oceanogràfic, a standout aquarium and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 88,408 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding City Of Arts And Sciences. This science center is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 136,843 visitor reviews.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Valencia. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Savor the flavors at USUAL resto-bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Casa Ripoll beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurante La Cepa Vieja (Valencia). With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Valencia tonight.

Keep the evening going at Bar Cosmo Valencia, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Casa Pepe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cafe De Las Horas, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across France and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Valencia in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Sitges where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated food market and attraction in Valencia — Mercat Central. About 86,775 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Llotja De La Seda is another top sight in Valencia that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved historical landmark in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,788 visitors.

Plaça De La Reina (valència) is a spectacular public square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Valencia, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,399 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Plaça De La Mare De Déu. Because of its allure and charm, around 36,033 visitors have rated this attraction and public square an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Serrano Towers. Echoing its popularity, 44,087 travelers have awarded this famous monument and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Valencia and set your GPS to Sitges. 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 3 hours 8 min. Upon reaching Sitges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Sitges. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Sitges's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Casa Hidalgo, a highly-rated dining destination in Sitges. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Taberna del Puerto, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mare Nostrum2. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Sitges this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pub Voramar, a prime location for a drink.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, 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 to see in Arles in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arles. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

In Arles, the extraordinary Arles Amphitheatre awaits. This attraction is a valued archeological site that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 travelers' reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence.

Château Des Baux-de-provence is a travelers’ favorite in Les Baux-de-Provence, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.

In Les Baux-de-Provence, don’t miss Carrières Des Lumières, a great art installation and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,791 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, 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 Carcassonne to Arles may take around 2 hours 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Arles the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding nature reserve, Alpilles Natural Regional Park. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,184 visitors.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Marseille of your choice.

As the sun sets on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Marseille's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Marseille has them.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Chez Roger, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Marseille at Les Mets des Saintes, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Marseille tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Traquenard, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Dame Du Mont offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. Polikarpov is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Marseille to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across France and Spain. Today's main destinations are Marseille in France, 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 Nice. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Marseille, including the outstanding Marseille Cathedral. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews, this fascinating church and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Marseille is also home to the captivating Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 19,446 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Marseille. This extraordinary church and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Calanques National Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing national park and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Nice. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across France and Spain by rewarding yourself with a taste of Nice’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Snug And Cellar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Vingt4 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nice.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Trafalbar Nice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bay Side offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

As the night falls in Nice, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.