12-Day France Road Trip from Marseille traveling west to Valence, Lyon, Nimes, and Carcassonne

Welcome to Marseille, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Marseille's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Marseille 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 Friche la Belle de Mai 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 Marseille. 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 Marseille. 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 wonderful meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.

Continue your lively evening at Le Traquenard, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La dame du mont is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Polikarpov ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille), a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Marseille Cathedral. Marseille Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,714 reviews.

Les Petits Trains de Marseille is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,053 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Parc Borély. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,618 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Calanques National Park, a famous park in Marseille. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 travelers.

You can learn more about Marseille today by going on a tour. Marseille offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, AM par Alexandre Mazzia, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Marseille is Signature, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Au Petit Nice, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Marengo is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'unic Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Marseille, and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kick off the day at Centre Commercial Centre Bourse, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars in 16,249 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean is a museum with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 reviews.

Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Palais des Papes is a recommended place to visit. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 616,210 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Avignon is Jardin des doms. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Avignon offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valence, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valence. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Valence by securing a reservation at Flaveurs. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Pic, 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 La Cachette, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Rive-de-Gier, Ceyrins, and Crémieu, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rive-de-Gier. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,061 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rive-de-Gier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ceyrins may take around 1 hour 9 min. Upon your arrival in Ceyrins, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Domaine des Fauves. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,857 visitors.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, head to Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,363 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Porte des Enfants du Rhône, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,967 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, parc de la Tête d'Or is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Vaulx-en-velin. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Vaulx-en-velin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,314 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cactus Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L Bar food & drink? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Flair Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Broc'Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Phantom of the Opera. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Continue your journey at Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 travelers from near and far.

Lyon is also the home of Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Fresque des Lyonnais. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Nimes by booking a table at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Rouge, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Nimes. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La bonne mousse stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, O’Flaherty’s offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. News Café is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Nimes, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Kick off the day at Jardin de La Fontaine, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Musée de la Romanité. Musée de la Romanité is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 reviews. Attracting more than 25,271 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

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 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont du Gard. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

Set your GPS to Sagriès and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sagriès beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sagriès, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nimes.

As you explore more of Nimes, 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 La Criée, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Vatel and Spa, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

On day 8 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 Montpellier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 3 nights.

After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montpellier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 51 min. When you arrive in Montpellier, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 visitors.

Next, make your way to Comedy Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews.

While in Montpellier, we also recommend a visit to Arc de Triomphe. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 travelers, this botanical garden is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Montpellier.

Make your way to Planet Ocean World, perhaps the most famous aquarium in Montpellier. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,786 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Carcassonne by reserving a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern, and creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Toulouse. You still have 2 nights left in Carcassonne.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Carcassonne and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of St. Sernin. This minor basilica is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Toulouse, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,287 visitors.

Square Charles de Gaulle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,579 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Couvent des Jacobins. Visitors have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,770 reviews.

Grand Rond is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an urban park rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,069 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Jardin des Plantes, perhaps the most famous park in Toulouse. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Carcassonne and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Carcassonne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Carcassonne, and Marmonières to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Continue your journey at Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,201 travelers from near and far.

Carcassonne is also the home of Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilique Saint Nazaire. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Marmonières. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Marmonières, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Grotte de Limousis. Over 15,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this show cave an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,361 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Carcassonne.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Métairie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Arles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 15 min.

Drop by the renowned Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This popular archaeological museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,817 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 70,230 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is L'espace Van Gogh. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,003 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Roman Theatre of Arles. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 local and international travelers.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Petit Nice Passedat, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les 3 Frères offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café l'Écomotive is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Friche la Belle de Mai, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Bar de la Plaine is another popular option for a drink or two.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 12 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Marseille before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Journey into the unknown at Palais Longchamp, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable water tower has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Marseille.

Dine in style at Chez Marinette, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Roy René - Restaurant Marseille boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Marseille. 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!