5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Montpellier and Nimes
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Clermont-Ferrand, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Clermont-Ferrand, 1 night in Montpellier, and 1 night in Nimes. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Clermont-Ferrand, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Clermont-Ferrand, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Clermont-Ferrand - arrival day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Clermont-Ferrand, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Clermont-Ferrand's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Clermont-Ferrand is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Clermont-Ferrand. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Clermont-Ferrand. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les Berthom, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Bar Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Clermont-Ferrand. The Viking Pub Counter is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Clermont-Ferrand and Montpellier
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Montpellier
- More
Drive 357 km, 4 hours 17 min
- place de Jaude
- Montjuzet
- Jardin Lecoq
- More
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 Clermont-Ferrand. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Clermont-Ferrand, including a public square, a park, and an observation deck. Start your adventure at Place De Jaude. This well-known public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Montjuzet located in Clermont-Ferrand for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Panoramic Domes. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardin Lecoq. This park has a romantic appeal.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montpellier. 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 Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Palavasien, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Enfants Rouges, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Tord Boyaux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Triskell Montpellier, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Kraken Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Rebuffy ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Montpellier, Carcassonne, and Nimes
- Montpellier
- Carcassonne
- Nîmes
- More
Drive 356 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Comedy Square
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Montpellier and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Montpellier today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Comedy Square. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Montpellier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carcassonne may take around 1 hour 35 min. Upon your arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cité De Carcassonne. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Comtal. This frequently visited castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Galerie, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Annaba Café, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel des Tuileries, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Bonne Mousse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O’flaherty’s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, News Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 4 – Nimes, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Clermont-Ferrand
- Nîmes
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Clermont-Ferrand
- More
Drive 428 km, 4 hours 49 min
- Place Bellecour
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Clermont-Ferrand, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Lyon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lyon beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Place Bellecour, an interesting public square that draws attention for its detailed features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Palais De La Bourse De Lyon, a history-steeped palace that stands out in the city.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, another highlight in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand. Clermont-Ferrand offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Restaurant Fille à papa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Le Dôme boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Centre Jaude. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L’arrozoir after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kokomo, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Des Beaux Arts also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Clermont-Ferrand - departure day
- Clermont-Ferrand - Departure day
- More
- place de Jaude
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Clermont-Ferrand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Clermont-Ferrand’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Fée Maison, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in France
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.