Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille to Nice

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Photo of The aerial view of Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde in Marseille, a port city in southern France.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Marseille, Avignon, Cassis, Nice, and Aix-en-Provence. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Marseille and 2 nights in Nice. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Marseille, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Palais Des Papes.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Calanques National Park. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Get close to the spectacular Castle Hill and the wonderful Marseille Cathedral. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Marseille - Arrival day
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  • Le Panier
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Marseille and begin your adventure in France.

Marseille 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 Le Panier, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Marseille. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Marseille and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Le Traquenard, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Dame Du Mont is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Polikarpov ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Marseille as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 16 km, 1 hour 17 min

  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Cathédrale La Major
  • Les Petits Trains de Marseille
  • Old Port of Marseille
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Palais Longchamp
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This notable church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Marseille Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Les Petits Trains De Marseille, one of the most intriguing places to see in Marseille. This tramway is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Old Port Of Marseille. Wander around and soak in the stunning atmosphere this marina offers. Then, head to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the well-known Palais Longchamp, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Marseille. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Marseille that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Marseille to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Marseille, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at AM par Alexandre Mazzia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Marseille’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 199 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Jardin des doms
  • Palais des Papes
  • Basilique Saint-Pierre
  • Musée Lapidaire
  • Collection Lambert Avignon
  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Marseille, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Marseille will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Today’s itinerary in Marseille covers several incredible sights, including a park, a palace, a church, a museum, an art gallery, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Jardin Des Doms. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Palais Des Papes, 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 Église Saint Pierre (avignon). This up-and-coming church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Musée Lapidaire D'avignon, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Hotel Caumont and Remparts D'avignon. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Marseille.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Une Table au Sud, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Bovo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Maison MV as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Marseille.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Friche La Belle De Mai stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Bar De La Plaine offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Marseille
  • Nice
  • More

Drive 241 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Calanques National Park
  • Calanque de Port-Miou
  • Domaine du Paternel
  • More

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Marseille and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Cassis and the city of Nice. You’ll stay in Nice for 2 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Calanques National Park. This locally renowned national park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Calanque De Port-miou, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Marseille 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 Domaine Du Paternel, an up-and-coming sightseeing destination in the city.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Nice. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Nice offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Bocal, an iconic dining spot in Nice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Makassar, a popular restaurant in Nice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les Amoureux, a hidden gem nestled in Nice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Nice’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Les Distilleries Idéales, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Diane's offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Wayne's Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Marseille can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Nice
  • More

Drive 11 km, 51 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
  • place Masséna
  • Promenade du Paillon
  • Castle Hill
  • Old Town (Vieux Nice)
  • Carre d'Or
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Nice. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Nice. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Nice!

Don’t miss Old Town (Vieux Nice) in Nice today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Carre d'Or, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Nice.

Today’s itinerary in Nice covers several incredible sights, including a church, a public square, and a park. Start your adventure at Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice. This curiosity-inducing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Place Masséna, a must-see public square 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 Promenade Du Paillon. This locally appreciated park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Castle Hill, where you can take in standout features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a popular restaurant in Nice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nice at Snug And Cellar, 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 Le Vingt4. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nice tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Nice. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Trafalbar Nice, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bay Side offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Nice
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 207 km, 2 hours 51 min

  • Musée Granet
  • Hôtel de Caumont
  • Fontaine de la Rotonde
  • forum des Cardeurs
  • Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Today’s agenda in Nice includes a museum, a monument, a public square, a church and much more! Musée Granet is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Hôtel De Caumont, an up-and-coming museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Fontaine De La Rotonde, a grand monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Nice. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the underrated Place Des Cardeurs. If you’re looking for more, Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

In the city of Marseille, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Savor the flavors at Coogee, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice Passedat beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café l'Écomotive. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Marseille. The bars in Marseille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Marseille - Departure day
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  • Cours Julien
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Marseille.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Marseille’s popular marketplace, Centre Bourse. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Cours Julien, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Marseille. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Marseille or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Marseille and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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