6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling south to Marseille
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Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Nimes, Arles, Marseille, and Avignon.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 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, Nimes, Arles, Marseille, and Avignon, 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
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
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Say hello to Lyon! 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 Lyon for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Nuage café, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café du Rhône, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Agastache Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 27 km, 58 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Greet day 2 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lyon for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lyon allows for both. Start by heading to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This frequently visited museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Lyon Cathedral, an enchanting church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a well-known church.
After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Tête D'or. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bernachon Chocolats, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Mère Léa, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The James Joyce Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Broc'bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, La Passagère provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Lyon, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Nimes, Arles, and Marseille
- Lyon
- Nîmes
- Arles
- Marseille
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Drive 403 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Pont du Gard
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Arles Amphitheatre
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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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 La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Nimes, and Arles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Du Gard, a notable monument known for its history-steeped features.
Set your GPS to Nimes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nimes beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin De La Fontaine. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Roman Theatre Of Arles and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre, another highlight in the hamlet.
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.
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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Traquenard, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Dame Du Mont, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Polikarpov likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – 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
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start your adventure at Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This notable museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Palais Longchamp, a must-see palace in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Parc Borély. This notable park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Calanques National Park, where you can take in its eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This history-steeped church offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Avignon may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Avignon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Au Petit Nice offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Marengo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'unic Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Marseille and Lyon
- Marseille
- Lyon
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Drive 319 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Old Port of Marseille
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Marseille is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a marina, a tramway, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Old Port Of Marseille. Just a short distance away is Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a stunning tramway that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Marseille Cathedral, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Raffinerie is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mos - Maker Of Stories. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Lyon - departure day
- Lyon - Departure day
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- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Day 6 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Get ready for a day filled with a photogenic, a standout, and a symbolic in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Palais De La Bourse De Lyon, a frequently visited local hot spot.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Le Parloir, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Terroir offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cactus Bar.
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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