7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Lyon, Marseille, and Nimes

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Bags included
Hotel
Select dates to customize hotels
Car rental
Customizable
Tours & tickets
Customizable
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

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 Montpellier, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Nimes, Arles, and Carcassonne. 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 Montpellier, 2 nights in Lyon, 1 night in Marseille, and 1 night in Nimes. 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 Montpellier, 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 Montpellier, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Nimes, Arles, and Carcassonne, 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!

Read more

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1 – Montpellier - arrival day

  • Montpellier - Arrival day
  • More
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • More

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Montpellier and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Montpellier for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe or taking a stroll in the city 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Palavasien, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Enfants Rouges offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Tord Boyaux. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Montpellier.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Triskell Montpellier. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kraken Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Rebuffy, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Montpellier and Lyon

  • Montpellier
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 310 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • promenade of Peyrou
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Comedy Square
  • Planet Ocean World
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Montpellier, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Montpellier, including a public square, a park, and an aquarium. Start your day at Promenade Of Peyrou. This romantic public square is a locally appreciated place to see in Montpellier. Then, wander over to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Comedy Square. This history-steeped public square is a favorite among visitors.

Montpellier offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Planet Ocean World is an increasingly popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nuage café, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to L' Antiquaire, known for its inviting atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pompette provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire

  • Lyon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • More

Drive 18 km, 55 min

  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Place Bellecour
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

On day 3 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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. You still have 1 night left in Lyon.

Lyon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Place Bellecour. Just a short distance away is Lyon Cathedral, a culturally significant church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the town’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caluire-et-Cuire. This car ride takes around 16 min.

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.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bernachon Chocolats offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Mère Léa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Broc'bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Passagère is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Lyon and Marseille

  • Lyon
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 326 km, 3 hours 46 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Marseille and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Marseille beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Palais Longchamp, a well-known palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and admire its enchanting features. When you’re ready, continue to Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a beloved tramway beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. 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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

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.

Say good night to Marseille and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Marseille, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes

  • Marseille
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 200 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Parc Borély
  • Calanques National Park
  • Cathédrale La Major
  • Pont du Gard
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

On day 5 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, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Marseille, including a park, a national park, and a church. Start your day with a visit to Parc Borély. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Calanques National Park, which may be one of the most eye-catching 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 Marseille Cathedral, one of the city’s most locally renowned church.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 1 hour 32 min.

Pont Du Gard is a locally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nimes. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin De La Fontaine, a captivating park known for its grand features.

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 Nimes. Nimes 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Galerie, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Annaba Café? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel des Tuileries as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nimes.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Bonne Mousse after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O’flaherty’s for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, News Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Nimes, Arles, Carcassonne, and Montpellier

  • Nîmes
  • Arles
  • Carcassonne
  • Montpellier
  • More

Drive 411 km, 4 hours 43 min

  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Arles and Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, 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 Arles allows for both.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arles Amphitheatre, a locally renowned archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Arles, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cité De Carcassonne. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Comtal. This underrated castle is a traveler-favorite in the town.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Banane is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Petit Troc. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Montpellier tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Black Out. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Espit Chupitos Montpellier, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Montpellier - departure day

  • Montpellier - Departure day
  • More
  • Aqueduc Saint-Clément
  • Comedy Square
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Montpellier's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Montpellier. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Aqueduc Saint-clément is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Montpellier.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.