7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Nimes, Lyon, and Avignon
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Lastours, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Rive-de-Gier, Avignon, Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. 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 Carcassonne, 1 night in Nimes, 2 nights 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 Carcassonne, 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 Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Lastours, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Rive-de-Gier, Avignon, Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles, 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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Day 1 – Carcassonne - arrival day
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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- Portail des Jacobins
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Welcome to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Carcassonne is a beautiful town 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 Portail Des Jacobins or taking a stroll in the town 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 Carcassonne. 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 in Carcassonne. 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.
Dine in style at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Rapière boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Carcassonne, Marmonières, Lastours, and Nimes
- Carcassonne
- Lastours
- Nîmes
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Grotte de Limousis
- Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, Marmonières, and Lastours, 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This majestic church is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Cité De Carcassonne, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Château Comtal, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its grand features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marmonières may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Marmonières, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Grotte De Limousis, a beloved cave in Marmonières. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lastours. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours, a worthwhile castle that everyone visiting Lastours should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Rouge, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nimes.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Bonne Mousse, known for its lively atmosphere. O’flaherty’s is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, News Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3 – Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- Lyon
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Museum Romanité
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nimes, featuring a photogenic, a historically significant, a romantic, an enchanting, a culturally significant, and a remarkable. Start at Musée De La Romanité, a frequently visited museum in the city. Then, head to Jardin De La Fontaine and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped park.
After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sagriès. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Haribo Candy Museum. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking in Sagriès’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Du Gard. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Neuvième Art in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Le Neuvième Art offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Mère Brazier, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing classic cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Takao Takano, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Vaulx-en-Velin
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Drive 50 km, 1 hour 57 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Place Bellecour
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Greet day 4 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, Lyon, and Vaulx-en-velin.
Today’s route brings a romantic, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a monumental, a culturally significant, and a masterful. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This locally renowned church is a visually striking place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Lyon Cathedral, an inviting church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This locally renowned public square offers a visually striking encounter with Lyon.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lyon, 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 Caluire-et-Cuire to Lyon may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lyon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, an extraordinary park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Vaulx-en-velin, 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 Vaulx-en-velin may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a captivating 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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The James Joyce Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Broc'bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Passagère provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5 – Lyon, Rive-de-Gier, and Avignon
- Lyon
- Rive-de-Gier
- Avignon
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Drive 269 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- Jardin des doms
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rive-de-Gier and Avignon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Avignon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rive-de-Gier behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 18 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Espace Zoologique De Saint-martin-la-plaine, an increasingly popular zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 2 hours 18 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a captivating historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Palais Des Papes and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features. When you’re ready, continue to Jardin Des Doms, a curiosity-inducing park beloved by locals and tourists alike.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Avignon's best restaurants.
Start your culinary exploration in Avignon by securing a reservation at La Vieille Fontaine. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit La Mirande, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Pollen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Barberousse Avignon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Avignon. The Red Sky is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
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.
Day 6 – Avignon, Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, and Carcassonne
- Avignon
- Tarascon
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Arles
- Carcassonne
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Drive 288 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Palais des Papes
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Tarascon’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking in Avignon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tarascon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Tarascon, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Tarascon Castle, a locally appreciated castle in Tarascon. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a notable castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Carrières Des Lumières, a breathtaking art installation that stands out in the town.
Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Les Baux-de-Provence behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Roman Theatre Of Arles, a locally appreciated archeological site known for its breathtaking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Arles Amphitheatre, a popular archeological site that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Carcassonne by securing a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Auberge des Lices, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Carcassonne - departure day
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Cité de Carcassonne
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Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point. This beloved castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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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