7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling east to Montpellier, Marseille, and Nimes
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Perpignan, 1 night in Montpellier, 2 nights 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 Perpignan, 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. Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pont Du Gard, learn more about the unique Carrières Des Lumières, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Calanques National Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Collioure, Thuir, Salses-le-Château, Montpellier, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Marseille, Avignon, Nimes, Sagriès, and Aigues-Mortes, 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
- Perpignan - Arrival day
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- Sports Park
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Say hello to Perpignan! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Perpignan for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Perpignan 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 Sports Park, or just 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 Perpignan. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Perpignan, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Le 17, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Buffalo Grill Perpignan. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Perpignan.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dry States after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Pearl 66 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café De La Source is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Perpignan
- Montpellier
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Palais des rois de Majorque
- Royal Castle of Collioure
- Tomb of Antonio Machado
- CAVES BYRRH
- Salses Fortress
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Perpignan, Collioure, Thuir, and Salses-le-Château. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Montpellier. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the up-and-coming Palace Of The Kings Of Majorca, a culturally significant palace in Perpignan. Next, go to Château Royal De Collioure.
Caves Byrrh is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Salses Fortress, one of the most historic places to visit in Perpignan.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montpellier. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Montpellier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Montpellier by securing a table at Reflet d'Obione. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and mediterranean menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Jardin des Sens, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Leclère, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Montpellier. 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Triskell Montpellier after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Kraken Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Rebuffy is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3
- Montpellier
- Marseille
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Drive 194 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Roman Theatre of Arles
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
- Alpilles Natural Regional Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Montpellier today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Roman Theatre Of Arles. This picture-perfect archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Arles Amphitheatre and learn what makes this historic archeological site unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Château Des Baux-de-provence. After exploring the castle, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This captivating art installation is a highlight in Montpellier. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the curiosity-inducing Alpilles Natural Regional Park. Enjoy exploring this incredible nature reserve at your own pace.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 symphony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Le Petit Nice delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Signature, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Traquenard, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Polikarpov. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4
- Marseille
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Drive 38 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- Palais Longchamp
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Calanques National Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring national park before continuing your journey. Parc Borély is your next stop. This well-known park is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This enchanting church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Centre Commercial Centre Bourse and Palais Longchamp.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Bistro Du Panier, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, AM par Alexandre Mazzia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Au Petit Nice, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Marengo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, L'unic Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Marseille
- Nîmes
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Cathédrale La Major
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Palais des Papes
- Pont d'Avignon
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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 Marseille and Avignon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Marseille Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect church before continuing your journey. Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean is your next stop. This interesting museum is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Palais Des Papes. This historic palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon).
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 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Nimes by booking a table at Duende, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Nimes, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Rouge is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Nimes. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Bonne Mousse stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, O’flaherty’s offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. News Café is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Nîmes
- Perpignan
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Drive 294 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
- Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes
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On day 6 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 Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Aigues-Mortes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perpignan, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Jardin De La Fontaine. This notable park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Haribo Candy Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Pont Du Gard, one of the most popular places to see in Nimes. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this castle offers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Perpignan. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Perpignan, 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Perpignan by booking a table at Le Garriane. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to La Galinette, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Manat, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7
- Perpignan - Departure day
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- Place de Catalogne
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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 Perpignan before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Perpignan’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Perpignan.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arena Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Perpignan. 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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