12-Day France Road Trip from Nice traveling north to Avignon, Beaune, Paris, Bourges, Lyon, and Marseille

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Nice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Nice 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.

Nice 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 Albert I Garden 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 Nice. 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 Nice. 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.

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Les Amoureux, 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Riviera & Tours offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Les Distilleries Idéales is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Wayne's Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nice. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Avignon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nice 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 2 hours 32 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Musée Matisse. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars in 4,470 reviews.

Parc Phœnix is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tram stop is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 9,938 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Asian Arts Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,411 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Avignon, 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 Avignon, 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.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Carré du Palais, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Avenio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Avignon.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le 17 Place aux Vins Avignon • Bar à vin / Caviste, known for its lively atmosphere. Barberousse Avignon is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Red Sky offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Avignon and Sainte-Colombe. 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 road trip and head to your next destination, Sainte-Colombe. This car ride takes around 2 hours 5 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Jardin des doms. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 visitors.

When you’re finished at Jardin des doms, head to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Palais des Papes. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors. Visiting Palais des Papes means you'll be one of 616,210 people who do so every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Sainte-Colombe. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 5 min. Upon reaching Sainte-Colombe, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,677 reviews.

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

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

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Le Bistrot du Coin, an iconic dining spot in Beaune. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bout du Monde, a popular restaurant in Beaune. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Rest O Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Beaune. 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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Versailles, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Gardens of Versailles. This french formal garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,133 visitors.

Palace of Versailles is another popular attraction you could visit today. This château has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 119,665 visitors. Palace of Versailles attracts up to 4,741,758 visitors every year.

Marie-Antoinette's Estate is also highly recommended by travelers. This point of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,865 visitors.

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

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at L'Imprévu Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Petit Châtelet, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Guy Savoy. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café de Paris V, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dirty Dick provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Red Door offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Kick off the day at Champ de Mars, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Eiffel Tower. Eiffel Tower is a lattice tower with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews. Attracting more than 6,207,303 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Arc de Triomphe is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. In a single year, this triumphal arch hosts approximately 2,743,823 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Tuileries Garden. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Musée d'Orsay, a famous art museum in Paris. This attraction welcomes 3,651,616 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 travelers.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Saint James Paris, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out To Restaurant Paris. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Prescription Cocktail Club. Alternatively, go to Sherry Butt, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Highlander provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin des plantes. This extraordinary botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,461 visitors.

Next, make your way to Jardin du Luxembourg. This top attraction is an urban park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Panthéon. This mausoleum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Notre-Dame de Paris. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 travelers. Around 12,000,000 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Louvre Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 travelers. It’s estimated that 2,825,000 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Paris has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in France by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at Alliance, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Bombardier offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bistrot Du Perigord is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tiger, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bisou. Is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Requin Chagrin provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Sacré-Cœur. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,527 visitors. Attracting more than 11,000,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Sacré-Cœur, head to Palais Garnier. This one-of-a-kind opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,053 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit place de la Concorde. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Pont Alexandre III. This deck arch bridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,899 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Les Invalides. This famous building complex is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 30,459 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Paris, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Paris below.

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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Jules Verne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kitchen Galerie Bis is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Au Pied de Cochon. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Harry's New York Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Experimental Cocktail Club for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Cheverny, Chambord, and Chenonceaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bourges. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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

Drop by the renowned Parc du château de Cheverny. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 442 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Château de Cheverny. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors, this château deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Paris, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chambord may take around 2 hours 5 min. Upon your arrival in Chambord, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Château de Chambord your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,219 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bourges, 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 Bourges. 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.

Renowned as a restaurant, it offers an exceptional menu. This restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Nestled in the heart of the city, is an ideal choice for discerning foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Say good night to Bourges and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Place Bellecour. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 reviews.

After soaking in Bourges’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 22 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like parc de la Tête d'Or. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at Café du Rhône, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at L' Antiquaire, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Black Forest Society. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The James Joyce Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Les Baux-de-Provence, and 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 Lyon to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 2 hours 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Pont du Gard, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château des Baux-de-Provence. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.

Carrières des Lumières is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 22,791 visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La dame du mont. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Polikarpov offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Au Petit Nice, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nice. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Les Petits Trains de Marseille your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Old Port of Marseille is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This seaport has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,120 visitors.

When you’re finished at Old Port of Marseille, the perfect next stop is Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Palais Longchamp. This water tower is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nice, 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 Nice, 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.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Z Restaurant Tapas, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, O’Neill’s Pub is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at le kawa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nice tonight.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nice 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 Nice’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in France, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of France home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Langouste, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Nice. 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!