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 the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Nice for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Villefranche-sur-Mer in France to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

A top thing to do today is to explore Old Town (Vieux Nice), a must-see neighborhood in Villefranche-sur-Mer. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Nice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Grotte Du Lazaret is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic archeological site before continuing your journey. Castle Hill is your next stop. This popular park is one of the best-rated sights in Nice.

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 Ascenseur Du Château. This enchanting observation deck is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Albert I Garden and Marc Chagall National Museum.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Nice's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Nice has them.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Nice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Snug And Cellar, a popular restaurant in Nice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Vingt4, a hidden gem nestled in Nice. 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, Trafalbar Nice offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bay Side is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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 3 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, 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 to see in Marseille in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day at Marseille Cathedral. This stunning church is a notable place to see in Nice. Then, wander over to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Nearby, you’ll also find Old Port Of Marseille. This enchanting marina is a favorite among visitors.

Nice offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Les Petits Trains De Marseille is an underrated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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.

Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Traquenard offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Polikarpov 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!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Marseille. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

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.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Marseille on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable national park, Calanques National Park. Afterward, continue to Parc Émile Duclaux, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Marseille’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This locally renowned church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Palais Longchamp, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

Savor the flavors at Le Bistro Du Panier, 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 Au Petit Nice. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook L'unic 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Montpellier in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, your home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the well-known Comedy Square, a romantic public square in Marseille. Next, go to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle.

After visiting Comedy Square and Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, have a stroll along Marseille's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Fabre Museum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Montpellier Cathedral, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Marseille.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Montpellier. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across France and Spain by rewarding yourself with a taste of Montpellier’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Palavasien, 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 Les Enfants Rouges, 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 Tord Boyaux, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Triskell Montpellier, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Kraken Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take in the ambiance of Montpellier as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France and Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Carcassonne in France. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Musée De L'ecole. This worthwhile museum is an instagrammable place to see in Montpellier. Continue your discovery at Cité De Carcassonne, an UNESCO world heritage-listed castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Montpellier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Porte Narbonnaise. This intriguing monument offers an UNESCO world heritage-designated encounter with Montpellier. Next, make your way to Château Comtal 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 Montpellier.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Spain! Enjoy your evening in Carcassonne to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the town center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across France and Spain. Today's main destinations are Barcelona in Spain, 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 Barcelona. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Casa Batlló. This world-famous museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Plaça De Catalunya, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Carcassonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Mercat De La Boqueria. This timeless food market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Plaça Sant Jaume, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Barcelona’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, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Barcelona. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Casa Gràcia, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Hemingway Gin & Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Barcelona. Bloody Mary Cocktail Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the night falls in Barcelona, 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 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.

Barcelona is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Park Güell, an iconic park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sagrada Família, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Arc De Triomf. This monument is one of the city’s most extraordinary spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Barcelona at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museu Picasso. After exploring the museum, head to the widely recognized Magic Fountain Of Montjuïc. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Montjuïc Castle, a place of culturally significant interest in Barcelona.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in France and Spain, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Barcelona. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gallery Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Whiskeria - Whisky & Cocktail Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Prado De Flores is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Barcelona.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Les Gens Que J'aime after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bobby's Free for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Old Fashioned Gin Tonic & Cocktail Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Barcelona as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

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

Barcelona is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monastery, a historical landmark, a church, a museum, a street and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Sant Pere De Galligants and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Arab Baths Of Girona, a culturally significant historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Girona Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Girona Museum Of Art. When you're finished at the museum, Museo De Historia De Los Judíos awaits your visit. This museum is an inviting highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a street - the worthwhile Cases De L'onyar.

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

Dine in style at Els 4Gats, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar El Born boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ocaña. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Barcelona.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Manchester, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dry Martini. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Icebarcelona, another top-rated place in the area.

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!

On day 11 of your multi-country road trip across France and Spain, 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 to see in Aix-en-Provence in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aix-en-Provence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Avignon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Musée Granet is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout museum before continuing your journey. Place Des Quatre-dauphins is your next stop. This increasingly popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Avignon.

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 Hôtel De Caumont. This romantic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Place D'albertas and Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Aix-en-Provence. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Brigand, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Céleste offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out St James Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Saint Tropez in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nice, your home for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Tour Portalet, a symbolic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Citadelle De Saint-tropez - Musée D'histoire Maritime, one of the village’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Annonciade Museum. When you're finished at the art museum, Gendarmerie Nationale awaits your visit.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Nice. 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 12 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Nice's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of France to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Nice has them.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hôtel West End Nice, a popular restaurant in Nice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nice at Z Restaurant Tapas, 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 Café de Nice. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nice tonight.

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!