13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling west to Marseille, Grenoble, Lyon, Valence, Carcassonne, and Nimes

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Nice. You’ll stay in Nice for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Nice is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a church, a botanical garden, a national park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Castle Hill and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice, a historic church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Parc Phœnix, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Mercantour National Park.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Nice as you explore Cours Saleya Market. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Cours Saleya Market offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Chèvre d'Or, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Flaveur is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Nice. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Pure & V. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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 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, Monaco. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nice today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Prince's Palace Of Monaco. This romantic palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Musée Océanographique De Monaco and learn what makes this picture-perfect aquarium unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Monte Carlo Casino.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Marseille, AM par Alexandre Mazzia shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Signature is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Marseille. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Traquenard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Dame Du Mont, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Polikarpov provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille and Avignon, 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 Grenoble. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Marseille. Begin your sightseeing with Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This locally renowned church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Marseille Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Marseille, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This interesting historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Palais Des Papes, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Tohu Bohu in Grenoble by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Tohu Bohu offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Maison Aribert, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Fantin Latour - Stéphane Froidevaux, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

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

Say good night to Grenoble and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

On day 5 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 Grenoble. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Grenoble promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Parc Paul Mistral. This instagrammable park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Fort De La Bastille, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Musée De Grenoble, one of the city’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Jardin Des Dauphins. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit The Chartreuse Mountains, an increasingly popular mountain range, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at L' Antiquaire, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Forest Society is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pompette ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. You still have 1 night left in Lyon.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This interesting park is an idyllic place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Parc De La Tête D'or, an eye-catching park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Fresque Des Lyonnais. This up-and-coming street art offers a respected encounter with Lyon. Next, make your way to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière, an up-and-coming museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lyon.

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

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 Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bernachon Chocolats offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Mère Léa 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 The James Joyce Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Broc'bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Passagère 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Lyon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Place Bellecour. This interesting public square is a detailed place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Lyon Cathedral, an enchanting church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This beloved museum offers a visually striking encounter with Lyon. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lyon.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valence by securing a table at Flaveurs. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Pic, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Les Cèdres, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Valence. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Montpellier. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Valence, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Comedy Square, a notable public square in the city. Then, head to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle and soak in the ambiance of this romantic park.

There are many interesting places to see in Valence, and when you are ready for more, go to Fabre Museum. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited heritage-rich spots of interest.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Carcassonne by securing a reservation at La Table de Franck Putelat. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Carcassonne. You have 1 night left in Carcassonne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a church, a castle, and a monument. Start your adventure at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This locally appreciated church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cité De Carcassonne located in Carcassonne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Porte Narbonnaise. Its UNESCO world heritage-designated features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this castle. Next up is Château Comtal, a highly recommended castle.

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 Carcassonne's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Narbonne, Gruissan, and Béziers. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in the charming region of Carcassonne. Your adventure starts at Réserve Africaine De Sigean, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan. This increasingly popular nature reserve is known for its peaceful appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Carcassonne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Les 9 Écluses De Fonseranes. This culturally significant historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Plateau Des Poètes is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nimes. Nimes 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Nimes by booking a table at Duende. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Rouge, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at La Bonne Mousse, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O’flaherty’s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is News Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Nimes for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, Nimes, and Aigues-Mortes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. 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. Pont Du Gard is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this UNESCO world heritage-listed monument before continuing your journey. Haribo Candy Museum is your next stop. This well-known museum 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 Jardin De La Fontaine. This history-steeped park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée De La Romanité and Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Criée, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Vatel and Spa? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nimes.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Tarascon and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Nice. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Nimes is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle and an art installation. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Tarascon Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Château Des Baux-de-provence, a history-steeped castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Carrières Des Lumières, one of the town’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel West End Nice, a highly-rated dining destination in Nice. If you're eager to try something different, consider Z Restaurant Tapas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café de Nice. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nice this evening.

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