12-Day France Road Trip from Montpellier traveling east to Marseille, Lyon, Valence, and Nimes

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Montpellier, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Montpellier, and La Grande-Motte. You still have 1 night left in Montpellier.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 visitors.

When you’re finished at Jardin des plantes de Montpellier, head to Comedy Square. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,915 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Planet Ocean World. This aquarium is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,786 visitors.

La Grande-Motte’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Montpellier behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. La Grande-Motte welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Sunset Beach your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,416 reviews.

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

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Montpellier by booking a table at Reflet d'Obione, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern, and mediterranean menu. For a different culinary experience in Montpellier, Jardin des Sens shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Leclère is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Montpellier. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Black Out. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Petit Nice, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Marseille. You have 2 nights left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Calanques National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 visitors.

When you’re finished at Calanques National Park, head to Parc Borély. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,618 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,714 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This famous museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers.

Your discoveries in Marseille do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Marseille on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Une Table au Sud offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coogee. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Au Petit Nice, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Marengo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, L'unic Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Marseille, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Palais Longchamp. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

Continue your journey at Friche la Belle de Mai. This bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,400 travelers from near and far.

Marseille is also the home of Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 16,249 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Cassis. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Cassis, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Calanque de Port-Miou. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,728 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Petit Nice Passedat, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les 3 Frères? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café l'Écomotive as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Friche la Belle de Mai is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar de la Plaine, offering a different kind of charm.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Avignon, and Orange, 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 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Avignon. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palais des Papes. This palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers from near and far. Approximately 616,210 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Avignon.

Avignon is also the home of Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Avignon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Orange. This drive usually takes around 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Triumphal arch, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,483 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Neuvième Art is one of the best restaurants for creative, and modern cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Mère Brazier. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The James Joyce Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Make Musée Miniature et Cinéma one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,540 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lyon Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Place Bellecour. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.

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 16 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,314 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cactus Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider L Bar food & drink, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flair Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Broc'Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Phantom of the Opera is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Lyon for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Wall of the Canuts, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fresco has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,157 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Bartholdi Fountain is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,741 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Lyon is Fresque des Lyonnais. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Lyon offers an experience you will remember.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Lyon. This minor basilica promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,363 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

You can learn more about Lyon today by going on a tour. Lyon 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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bouchon Tupin, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The King Arthur, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Betty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting MOS - Maker of Stories, a prime location for a drink.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Rive-de-Gier, Glandieu, and Ceyrins. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glandieu, 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 Rive-de-Gier to Glandieu may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Glandieu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,061 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rive-de-Gier and set your GPS to Glandieu. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Glandieu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Glandieu Falls. This extraordinary waterfall has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,034 visitors.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Flaveurs in Valence by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Flaveurs delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Pic, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cachette, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Aigues-Mortes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Jardin de La Fontaine. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Musée de la Romanité. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sagriès, 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 Nimes to Sagriès may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sagriès, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Haribo Candy Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

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 Montpellier. Montpellier 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 Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Diligence, an iconic dining spot in Montpellier. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of DELI'S COFFEE, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le 1789 Restaurant - Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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