5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling south to Marseille

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Description

Explore the best of France on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Avignon, and Nimes. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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.

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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Place Bellecour
parc de la Tête d'OrLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Palais des PapesMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanPalais LongchampParc BorélyCalanques National ParkBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
Basilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeJardin de La FontainePont du Gard
Place de la RépubliqueLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

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Day 1

Day 1 – Lyon - arrival day

  • 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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Lyon. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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.

Savor the flavors at Nuage café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café du Rhône beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Agastache Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pompette is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Marseille

  • Lyon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • Marseille
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Drive 348 km, 4 hours 15 min

  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon, 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 Marseille. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a charming, a stunning, and a grand. Start at the worthwhile Fresque Des Lyonnais, an instagrammable street art in Lyon. Next, go to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Marseille and Avignon

  • 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
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your day at Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Then, wander over to Palais Longchamp. If enchanting sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parc Borély. This history-steeped park is a favorite among visitors.

Marseille offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Calanques National Park is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the national park, don’t forget to check out the inviting Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating church in Marseille.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

Make your way to Palais Des Papes, a notable palace that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Bistro Du Panier, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Au Petit Nice after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Marengo, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, L'unic Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Marseille, Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon

  • 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
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Marseille, Nimes, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Nimes. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. Upon reaching Nimes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park that draws attention for its enchanting features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Du Gard, a locally renowned monument known for its visually striking 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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bernachon Chocolats offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Mère Léa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Lyon - departure day

  • Lyon - Departure day
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  • Place de la République
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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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.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Lyon’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

Start your day at Place De La République. This visually striking public square is an often recommended place to see in Lyon.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.

Dine in style at Nosch, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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