Relaxed 14-Day France Road Trip from Nimes to Valence, Lyon, and Marseille

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Montpellier. This car ride takes around 54 min.

Drop by the renowned Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. This popular botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is promenade of Peyrou. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,308 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Arc de Triomphe. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Comedy Square. This square and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 travelers, this square is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Montpellier.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Valence. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Valence, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

When you’ve had your share of Valence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sainte-Colombe. Your travel time is around 54 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,677 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Saint-Étienne. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parc de l'Europe. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,524 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Saint-Étienne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rive-de-Gier may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Rive-de-Gier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rive-de-Gier, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,061 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Lyon. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lyon has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Lyon’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Lyon and visit amazing attractions in France that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in France.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nuits-Saint-Georges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Le Cassissium. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,349 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beaune. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Park Bouzaise. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,309 reviews.

La Moutarderie Fallot is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,107 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,805 reviews.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Lyon.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Cactus Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L Bar food & drink is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Flair Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lyon.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Broc'Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Phantom of the Opera, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lyon, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Lyon Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Musée Miniature et Cinéma. Musée Miniature et Cinéma is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 reviews.

Fresque des Lyonnais is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This fresco is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Bartholdi Fountain. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,741 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Palais de la Bourse de Lyon, a famous sightseeing destination in Lyon. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,206 travelers.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bouchon Tupin, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The King Arthur, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Betty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at MOS - Maker of Stories, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Vaulx-en-velin, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Vaulx-en-velin will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 visitors.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is another popular attraction you could visit today. This minor basilica has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,363 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vaulx-en-velin. This car ride takes around 21 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mini World Lyon. Previous visitors have rated this miniature park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,637 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Vaulx-en-velin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bron. Your travel time is around 11 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, iFLY Lyon is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,468 visitors.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lyon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Institut Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Culina Hortus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière". With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Lyon and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 11 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Marseille and visit amazing attractions in France that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in France.

When you're ready to see some sights, Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is a great place to start. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 16,249 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Friche la Belle de Mai. The bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,400 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Palais Longchamp. This water tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cassis. This car ride takes around 39 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Calanque de Port-Miou. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,728 reviews.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Une Table au Sud, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Coogee? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Les 3 Frères as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Marengo, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, L'unic Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Friche la Belle de Mai. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 12 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Marseille, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Calanques National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,632 visitors.

Parc Borély is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

Marseille Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,714 visitors.

Les Petits Trains de Marseille is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 travelers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Dine in style at The Queen Victoria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, O'Malley boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Bouchon Provençal. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Marseille.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Marseille. The bars in Marseille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!