5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling south to Marseille
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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 Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Avignon, and Nimes.
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 Lyon and 2 nights in Marseille. 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 Lyon, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palais Des Papes, learn more about the unique Pont Du Gard, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.
As you hit the open road and drive through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Avignon, and Nimes, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
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Welcome to Lyon, 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 Lyon's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Lyon is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Place Bellecour or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Lyon. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nuage café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café du Rhône offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Agastache Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Forest Society for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pompette is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Marseille
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Drive 348 km, 4 hours 15 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Fresque des Lyonnais
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a street art and a church. Start your day with a visit to Fresque Des Lyonnais. This beloved street art is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the instagrammable features.
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 Marseille. Marseille 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Mets des Saintes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Le Traquenard, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Dame Du Mont is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Polikarpov ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
- Avignon
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Drive 239 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Palais des Papes
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Palais Longchamp
- Parc Borély
- Calanques National Park
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Marseille, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Start by visiting Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Palais Longchamp, another must-visit landmark and popular palace renowned for its enchanting features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Marseille by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Parc Borély. This enchanting park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Calanques National Park also adds charm to your journey.
Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Palais Des Papes, a well-known palace that everyone visiting Avignon should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Marseille.
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.
Dine in style at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Marseille.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Au Petit Nice, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Marengo is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'unic Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Marseille
- Nîmes
- Lyon
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Drive 403 km, 4 hours 58 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Pont du Gard
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille, Nimes, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Marseille’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity.
When you’ve had your share of Marseille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nimes. Your travel time is around 1 hour 35 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Jardin De La Fontaine, an interesting park that everyone visiting Nimes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.
Begin your journey at Pont Du Gard and explore the visually striking features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bernachon Chocolats boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Mère Léa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5
- Lyon - Departure day
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- Place de la République
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Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lyon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Lyon's best shopping area, Part-Dieu Mall. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Start your adventure at Place De La République. This beloved public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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!
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