5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes traveling north to Lyon and Avignon
Description
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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 Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence. 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 Nimes, 1 night in Lyon, and 1 night in Avignon. 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 Nimes, 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 Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pont Du Gard, learn more about the unique Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place Bellecour.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, 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
- Nîmes - Arrival day
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- Jardin de La Fontaine
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Welcome to Nimes, 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 Nimes's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Nimes 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 Jardin De La Fontaine 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 Nimes. 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 Nimes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Galerie, a popular restaurant in Nimes. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nimes at Annaba Café, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hôtel des Tuileries. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nimes tonight.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- Lyon
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Drive 281 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Museum Romanité
- Espeisses Woods
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes, Sagriès, 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 Nimes’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Musée De La Romanité. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Espeisses Woods, a must-visit park in the city.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nimes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sagriès may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Sagriès, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Haribo Candy Museum, a notable museum that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sagriès, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Du Gard, a locally renowned monument that draws visitors from near and far.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nuage café, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Avignon
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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On day 3 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 Avignon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the locally renowned Place Bellecour, a visually striking public square in Lyon. Next, go to Lyon Cathedral.
After visiting Place Bellecour and Lyon Cathedral, take time to explore Lyon's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This visually striking church offers a unique experience.
Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, an astonishing park known for its eye-catching 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 Avignon. Avignon 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Avignon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Pollen, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuisine de Papa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Barberousse Avignon offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Red Sky. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4
- Avignon
- Aix-en-Provence
- Nîmes
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Drive 195 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Palais des Papes
- Jardin des doms
- Pont d'Avignon
- Fontaine de la Rotonde
- Zoo Barben
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On day 4 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 Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Avignon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Palais Des Papes is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Avignon. Next, head to Jardin Des Doms, an up-and-coming park, known for its stunning features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Avignon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aix-en-Provence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Fontaine De La Rotonde, a curiosity-inducing monument in Aix-en-Provence. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence. 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 4 min. Upon reaching Aix-en-Provence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Zoo Barben, a captivating zoo in Aix-en-Provence.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nimes's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Criée, 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 Hotel Vatel and Spa, 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 Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Nîmes - Departure day
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- Porta Augusta
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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 Nimes before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Nimes’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing La Coupole des Halles. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Start by visiting Auguste Gate, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout historical landmark 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 Nimes.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pinocchio, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Barjoe Nîmes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Nimes. 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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