7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling east to Nimes, Lyon, and Avignon

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Château Comtal. This intriguing castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne, an impressive castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Basilique Saint Nazaire. Round off your day at Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point, another gem in Carcassonne with romantic features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nimes, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nimes's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Nimes. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Rouge. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Bonne Mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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 Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This beloved museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Jardin De La Fontaine, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sagriès. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Haribo Candy Museum, an interesting museum that everyone visiting Sagriès should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sagriès and set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. 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 15 min. Upon reaching La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Du Gard, an interesting monument that draws visitors from near and far.

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 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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 your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin. You still have 1 night left in Lyon.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a church and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This interesting church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lyon Cathedral, which may be one of the most majestic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lyon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Place Bellecour, one of the city’s most locally renowned public square.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Caluire-et-Cuire, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

Vaulx-en-velin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Caluire-et-Cuire behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Vaulx-en-velin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a notable park that everyone visiting Vaulx-en-velin 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 Lyon.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bernachon Chocolats, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Mère Léa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The James Joyce Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Broc'bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. La Passagère likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Avignon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tarascon. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Tarascon Castle, an often recommended castle in Tarascon. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Tarascon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Begin your journey at Château Des Baux-de-provence and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Carrières Des Lumières, another highlight in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arles. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Roman Theatre Of Arles, a worthwhile archeological site in Arles. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Arles Amphitheatre. This interesting archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des Lices, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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