7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Marseille, Lyon, and Montpellier
Description
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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 Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Montpellier, 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 Perpignan, 2 nights in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, and 1 night in Montpellier. 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), learn more about the unique Palais Des Papes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pont Du Gard.
As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Montpellier, 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!
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 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 Perpignan. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Perpignan, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Le 17, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Buffalo Grill Perpignan. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Perpignan tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dry States, known for its inviting atmosphere. Black Pearl 66 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café De La Source provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Perpignan
- Salses-le-Château
- Marseille
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Drive 325 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Le Castillet
- Perpignan Cathedral
- Palais des rois de Majorque
- Salses Fortress
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Perpignan and Salses-le-Château, 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.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Perpignan. Your adventure starts at Le Castillet, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Perpignan Cathedral. This frequently visited church is known for its respected appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Perpignan's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Palace Of The Kings Of Majorca. This historic palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salses-le-Château. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Salses Fortress, an underrated castle that draws attention for its culturally significant 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 Marseille. Marseille 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Chez Roger, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Mets des Saintes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.
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 and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
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Drive 41 km, 1 hour 52 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Palais Longchamp
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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On day 3 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.
Start your adventure at Calanques National Park. This notable national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Parc Borély, a must-see park 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 Palais Longchamp. This captivating palace offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This inviting church offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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 explore more of Marseille, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Au Petit Nice, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Marengo offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. L'unic Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4
- Marseille
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Avignon
- Lyon
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Drive 350 km, 4 hours 25 min
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Les Baux-de-Provence and Avignon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a popular castle that everyone visiting Les Baux-de-Provence should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This picture-perfect art installation is one of the most popular attractions in the region.
Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a notable historical landmark that everyone visiting Avignon should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Palais Des Papes. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Nuage café, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Agastache Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pompette is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Montpellier
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 53 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, an interesting church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Place Bellecour, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your journey at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the peaceful features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Palavasien, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Enfants Rouges is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Tord Boyaux. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Montpellier tonight.
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.
Say good night to Montpellier and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Montpellier
- Carcassonne
- Perpignan
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Drive 426 km, 4 hours 51 min
- Pont du Gard
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Perpignan. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 1 hour 11 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Du Gard, a popular monument known for its enchanting features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carcassonne, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Carcassonne may take around 2 hours 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Cité De Carcassonne is a spectacular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Château Comtal, a history-steeped castle that’s well-regarded in the area.
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 Perpignan. Perpignan 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 Perpignan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Access - TotalEnergies, a top-rated dining spot in Perpignan. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Tartard, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Perpignan.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Perpignan - Departure day
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- Escala monumental
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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.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Perpignan's best shopping area, Centre Commercial Carrefour Claira. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Perpignan, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Escala Monumental, an intriguing monument in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Perpignan.
Have a fantastic dining experience at EVEREST RESTAURANT, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arena Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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