12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling north to Marseille, Valence, Dijon, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Nimes

On day 2 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 Nice. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Ascenseur Du Château. This locally appreciated observation deck is a romantic place to see in Nice. Continue your discovery at Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice, a stunning church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Nice, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Castle Hill. This locally renowned park offers a mesmerizing encounter with Nice. Next, make your way to Waterfall to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Nice.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Mets des Saintes, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Traquenard is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Dame Du Mont, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Polikarpov. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 3 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 Valence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This is an underrated tramway you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Port Of Marseille, a worthwhile marina in Marseille.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Parc Borély. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), a romantic place of interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Valence. Valence offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Les Cèdres - Bertrand Frères, a top pick for dinner tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dijon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Valence. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Lyon Cathedral. This locally renowned church is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Valence's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Place Bellecour. This history-steeped public square offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Parc De La Tête D'or is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dijon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bar Brasserie restaurant Au Grand Café Dijon, a popular restaurant in Dijon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dijon at Maison Millière - Restaurant Boutique Bar à vin et Salon de thé, 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 Bistrot Burger. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dijon tonight.

Keep the evening going at Barberousse Dijon, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Beer Country, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Blue Dog, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Dijon and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Fontainebleau and Paris, 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 3 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Palace Of Fontainebleau. This well-known castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Jardin Des Plantes, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Sainte Chapelle, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Dijon. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Notre-dame De Paris. Wander around and soak in the inviting atmosphere this church offers.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mumi, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café De Paris V, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dirty Dick is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Little Red Door 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!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Champ De Mars. This globally renowned park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eiffel Tower, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Paris, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Tuileries Garden. This top-rated park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Musée D'orsay, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Louvre Museum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Dine in style at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Sens Unique boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Caveau de l'isle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Boucan, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mamie Paris likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Paris on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating opera house, Palais Garnier. Afterward, continue to Sacré-cœur, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Paris’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to La Villette. This impressive park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Jardin Du Luxembourg, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Panthéon, a captivating monument in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Bistro des Augustins is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Petit Châtelet. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sherry Butt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Highlander, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Paris and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Auxerre, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your journey to Arc De Triomphe, one of the city’s most iconic spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the iconic Palace Of Versailles.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Auxerre. Auxerre offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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 Châteauneuf and Beaune. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Auxerre includes a castle and a museum. Château De Châteauneuf is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune, a locally renowned museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to La Moutarderie Fallot, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Nuage café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Rhône offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Agastache Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.

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, Pompette provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Pont Du Gard Museum, a worthwhile museum that is worthwhile a visit in the hamlet. Nearby, you’ll find Pont Du Gard, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is one of the hamlet’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lyon at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Jardin De La Fontaine.

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

Dine in style at La Galerie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Annaba Café boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel des Tuileries. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Bonne Mousse offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, O’flaherty’s is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. News Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Tarascon and Les Baux-de-Provence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nice. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Nimes on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Tarascon Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic castle before continuing your journey. Château Des Baux-de-provence is your next stop. This well-known castle is one of the best-rated sights in Nimes.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Carrières Des Lumières. This gorgeous art installation is a sight to behold.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nice. Nice offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Snug And Cellar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Vingt4. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nice tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Trafalbar Nice, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bay Side is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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