One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling east to Montpellier, Lyon, and Avignon

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 2 places, which are Carcassonne and Marmonières. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Montpellier, where will spend 1 night.

Visiting Château Comtal is always a good idea. This worthwhile castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a must-see castle in the town.

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 Cité De Carcassonne. This famous castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire, where you can take in visually striking features.

Set your GPS to Marmonières and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Marmonières beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Grotte De Limousis, a worthwhile cave that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Reflet d'Obione in Montpellier by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Reflet d'Obione delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jardin des Sens, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Leclère, 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Triskell Montpellier, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kraken Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Rebuffy likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Nimes. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nimes. This drive usually takes around 56 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Nimes is Espeisses Woods, an up-and-coming park that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Jardin De La Fontaine, a remarkable park that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Carré D'art, an often recommended museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Musée De La Romanité, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Lyon is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Lyon.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Lyon by reserving a table at Takao Takano. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Mère Brazier, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pompette, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire.

Lyon is brimming with adventures.

Musée Miniature Et Cinéma makes a great addition to your morning plans. This up-and-coming museum is an eye-catching place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Lyon Cathedral, a visually striking church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This interesting public square offers a detailed encounter with Lyon. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lyon.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône is an often recommended monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, an eye-catching park that’s well-regarded in the area.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Broc'bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. La Passagère 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!

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Lyon and Vaulx-en-velin. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Enjoy all that Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière has to offer. This is an increasingly popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a popular church in Lyon.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Fresque Des Lyonnais. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Wall Of The Canuts, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Vaulx-en-velin. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Vaulx-en-velin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a captivating park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nosch, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Raffinerie, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Mos - Maker Of Stories also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Tarascon. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Tarascon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tarascon Castle. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Les Baux-de-Provence may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Château Des Baux-de-provence, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Carrières Des Lumières and admire its instagrammable features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arles. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Roman Theatre Of Arles and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre, another highlight in Arles.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des Lices, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!