7-Day France Road Trip from Marseille traveling east to Lyon, Valence, and Monaco
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.
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 Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Valence, and 2 nights in Monaco. 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 Marseille, 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 Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Cannes, Antibes, and Monaco, 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
- Marseille - Arrival day
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- Palais Longchamp
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Welcome to Marseille, 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 Marseille's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Palais Longchamp 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 Marseille. 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 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.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La dame du mont, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Polikarpov offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Au Petit Nice provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Lyon
- Marseille
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Drive 344 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Calanques National Park
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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On day 2 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 Marseille. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 visitors.
Next, make your way to Calanques National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.
While in Marseille, we also recommend a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Lyon, 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.
Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café du Rhône, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vieille Canaille. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. The James Joyce Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Valence
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 118 km, 2 hours 5 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Valence, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Make Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Lyon Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year.
Place Bellecour is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Lyon. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take the opportunity to see parc de la Tête d'Or. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valence, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valence.
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 4
- Monaco
- Cannes
- Antibes
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Drive 412 km, 5 hours 9 min
- Vieux Port de Cannes
- Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes
- Bay of Antibes Billionaires
- Salis beach
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cannes and Antibes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Monaco, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
After soaking in Valence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cannes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 28 min. When you arrive in Cannes, it's time to take a break from the road.
When you're ready to see some sights, Vieux Port de Cannes is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,893 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes. This movie theater has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 18,284 travelers.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Monaco, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Monaco. This drive usually takes around 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bay of Antibes Billionaires. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,407 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Monaco. Monaco offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Monaco's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Steak 'n Shake Monaco, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Bionda offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Tavernetta. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Monaco.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Blue Gin. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 5
- Monaco
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Drive 9 km, 27 min
- Musée océanographique de Monaco
- Collection Privée des Voitures de S A S Le Prince de Monaco
- Princess Grace Japanese Garden
- Grimaldi Forum
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Monaco for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Make Musée océanographique de Monaco one of your first sightseeing stops in Monaco. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,555 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This museum attracts 675,000 visitors every year.
Your discoveries in Monaco do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Monaco on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Monaco's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Casa del Caffe, a highly-rated dining destination in Monaco. If you're eager to try something different, consider Starbucks Coffee, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Maya Jah. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Monaco this evening.
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
- Marseille
- Monaco
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Drive 223 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Jardin Exotique de Monaco
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Monaco, 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 Marseille. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Prince's Palace of Monaco. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 20,724 reviews.
When you arrive in Monaco, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Monte Carlo Casino, a remarkable architectural structure where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,852 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 Marseille's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Une Table au Sud, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Coogee, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les 3 Frères. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Marengo, known for its inviting atmosphere. L'unic Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Friche la Belle de Mai provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7
- Marseille - Departure day
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- Old Port of Marseille
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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 Marseille before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Marseille’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.
Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of France with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.
Make Old Port of Marseille your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this seaport an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,120 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Marseille.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Queen Victoria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, O'Malley offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Marseille. 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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