5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier to Marseille and Nimes and surrounding area
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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 Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Marseille, Avignon, Nimes, and Carcassonne.
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 Montpellier, 1 night in Marseille, 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 Montpellier, 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 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 Calanques National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Marseille, Avignon, Nimes, and Carcassonne, 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
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Say hello to Montpellier! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Montpellier for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe or taking a stroll in the city center. 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 Montpellier. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Triskell Montpellier after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kraken Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Montpellier
- La Grande-Motte
- Marseille
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 51 min
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- Planet Ocean World
- Sunset Beach
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 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 La Grande-Motte. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start by visiting Comedy Square, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its awe-inspiring features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Montpellier by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This idyllic botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Planet Ocean World also adds charm to your journey.
After soaking in Montpellier’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Grande-Motte. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in La Grande-Motte, it's time to take a break from the road.
Sunset Beach is an underrated beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Discover the culinary delights of Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Signature, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3
- Marseille
- Avignon
- Nîmes
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Drive 179 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Calanques National Park
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Palais des Papes
- Pont d'Avignon
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On day 3 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 Marseille and Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Marseille. Begin your sightseeing with Calanques National Park. This well-known national park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
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 Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Palais Des Papes and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), 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 Nimes. Nimes 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Rouge, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Nimes. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at La Bonne Mousse. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O’flaherty’s, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, News Café provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4
- Nîmes
- Carcassonne
- Montpellier
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Drive 349 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Museum Romanité
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes and Carcassonne, 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Musée De La Romanité is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day.
Set your GPS to Carcassonne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Carcassonne beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Basilique Saint Nazaire, an up-and-coming church that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cité De Carcassonne, an UNESCO world heritage-designated castle that stands out in the city. Next, visit Château Comtal, a frequently visited castle that offers a unique experience.
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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Reflet d'Obione in Montpellier by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Reflet d'Obione delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jardin des Sens, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Leclère, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Black Out is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Petit Nice, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Espit Chupitos Montpellier. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Say good night to Montpellier and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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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 Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Odysseum. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start by visiting Aqueduc Saint-clément, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic monument is sure to impress.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Balthazar café & restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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