13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in France and Spain With Itinerary from Nice to Marseille, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Barcelona, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence

On day 2 of your European tour in France and Spain, you’ll start and end your day in Villefranche-sur-Mer, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Villefranche-sur-Mer in France. Nice remains your base for 1 night more.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Old Town (Vieux Nice), a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Castle Hill is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Ascenseur Du Château, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular observation deck renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Nice by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Albert I Garden. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Nice experience. We also recommend visiting Marc Chagall National Museum, an increasingly popular museum.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Villefranche-sur-Mer, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Villefranche-sur-Mer, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Grotte Du Lazaret, a frequently visited archeological site in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

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

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Nice to the fullest!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Marseille in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, your home for 2 nights.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Marseille.

Marseille’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nice behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 16 min. Marseille welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Marseille is Marseille Cathedral, a locally renowned church that draws attention for its historic features.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Old Port Of Marseille, an underrated marina that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a nearby tramway, highly recommended by other travelers.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Marseille. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across France and Spain.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Traquenard, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in France and Spain has in store for you! You will be staying in Marseille for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Cours Julien is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Marseille, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

To truly experience Marseille, make sure to drop by Calanques National Park. This locally renowned national park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Parc Émile Duclaux, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), one of the most interesting places to see in Marseille. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Palais Longchamp. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this palace offers.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Bistro Du Panier, 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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, 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 AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Au Petit Nice offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Marengo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'unic Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Marseille to the fullest!

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Montpellier in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Montpellier, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Marseille to Montpellier may take around 1 hour 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Montpellier, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Comedy Square is a locally renowned public square we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an enchanting park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Fabre Museum, an eye-catching museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a serene and truly unique botanical garden. End your sightseeing at Montpellier Cathedral, a locally appreciated church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Palavasien, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Montpellier at Les Enfants Rouges, 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 Le Tord Boyaux. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Montpellier tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Montpellier to the fullest!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across France and Spain. Today's main destinations are Carcassonne in France, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carcassonne. This car ride takes around 1 hour 42 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Musée De L'ecole, an often recommended museum in Carcassonne. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Cité De Carcassonne. This famous castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Porte Narbonnaise is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most breathtaking monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the frequently visited Château Comtal and discover what makes this castle unique.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Carcassonne's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across France and Spain. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Barcelona in Spain. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Barcelona where you'll spend 3 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Spain! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Barcelona may take around 3 hours 10 min. Upon your arrival in Barcelona, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Casa Batlló, a globally renowned museum known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Plaça De Catalunya, a world-famous public square.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Mercat De La Boqueria and uncover the details of this photogenic food market. Make sure to also explore Plaça Sant Jaume, a locally renowned public square.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Spain's delectable cuisine at one of Barcelona's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Dine in style at 2254 Barcelona Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Porteño Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cerveseria Catalana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Barcelona.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Casa Gràcia. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 8, you will wake up in Barcelona with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Barcelona before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across France and Spain.

Park Güell brings Barcelona's character to life. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sagrada Família, another UNESCO world heritage-listed attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Arc De Triomf, one of the city’s most extraordinary attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museu Picasso. This historic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc, an extraordinary fountain, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Montjuïc Castle before you head back to your hotel.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Barcelona. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gallery Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Barcelona. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Prado De Flores. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Barcelona this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Les Gens Que J'aime after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bobby's Free, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Greet day 9 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Girona in Spain. You will return to Barcelona for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

When you’ve had your share of Barcelona, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Girona. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sant Pere De Galligants. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Arab Baths Of Girona. This intriguing historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Girona Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Girona Museum Of Art, an intriguing museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Museo De Historia De Los Judíos, known for its inviting features.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Barcelona. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Spain in a new light.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Els 4Gats, a top-rated dining spot in Barcelona. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar El Born, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ocaña. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Barcelona.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Manchester offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dry Martini is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Icebarcelona is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Aix-en-Provence in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aix-en-Provence, your home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence. 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. Upon reaching Aix-en-Provence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Musée Granet. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Place Des Quatre-dauphins. This intriguing public square is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Hôtel De Caumont. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Place D'albertas, an often recommended public square. Conclude your sightseeing at Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence, known for its picture-perfect features.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Côté Cour, a top-rated dining destination in Aix-en-Provence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Château de Beaupré, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aix-en-Provence this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Brigand, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Céleste is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, St James Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 12 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Saint Tropez in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nice, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint Tropez. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Phare De Saint-tropez, an increasingly popular sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far.

Next, explore Annonciade Museum, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the art museum, make time to go to Gendarmerie Nationale.

When you arrive in Sainte Maxime, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tour Portalet. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hôtel West End Nice, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Z Restaurant Tapas is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café de Nice. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nice tonight.

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