7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Saint-Étienne, Montpellier, Marseille, and Lyon

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Clermont-Ferrand. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Saint-Étienne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Clermont-ferrand Cathedral is an ideal stop early in the day. This underrated church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Montjuzet, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Clermont-Ferrand 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 Panoramic Domes, a captivating observation deck in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for L'aventure Michelin.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Saint-Étienne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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 Saint-Étienne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Du Minho, an iconic dining spot in Saint-Étienne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Au Bureau Saint Etienne, a popular restaurant in Saint-Étienne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Bouche Pleine, a hidden gem nestled in Saint-Étienne. 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 Thunderbird Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Smoking Dog is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pampille provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Montpellier’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Camargue Regional Natural Park, an interesting nature reserve that everyone visiting Arles should see.

When you’ve had your share of Montpellier, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 1 hour 6 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Arles Amphitheatre, a captivating archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Arles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Les Baux-de-Provence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Les Baux-de-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château Des Baux-de-provence, a captivating castle known for its symbolic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Carrières Des Lumières, a locally renowned art installation.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Marseille. Marseille offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Marseille by securing a table at Le Petit Nice. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit AM par Alexandre Mazzia, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Signature, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Marseille. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Traquenard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Dame Du Mont, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Marseille and Avignon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) has to offer. This is an interesting church you should not miss. Another must-see is Marseille Cathedral, a well-known church in Marseille.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Palais Des Papes, a captivating palace that everyone visiting Avignon should see. Next, head to Jardin Des Doms. This enchanting park is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and relax 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 a true cultural experience.

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 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at L' Antiquaire, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Clermont-Ferrand, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Lyon is complete without Place Bellecour. This popular public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, another must-visit attraction.

Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 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!

Our first attraction recommendation in Caluire-et-Cuire is Parc De La Tête D'or, an astonishing park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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

Clermont-Ferrand is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Clermont-Ferrand.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Auberge du Pont, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Apicius, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Clermont-Ferrand is L'Ostal, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into L’arrozoir. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kokomo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Des Beaux Arts, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!