One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Saint-Étienne, Montpellier, Marseille, and Lyon

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Clermont-Ferrand. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Saint-Étienne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Clermont-ferrand Cathedral is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Panoramic Domes, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Clermont-Ferrand 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 L'aventure Michelin, an underrated museum in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Du Minho, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Au Bureau Saint Etienne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Bouche Pleine. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Saint-Étienne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Thunderbird Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Smoking Dog, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pampille likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Montpellier’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Camargue Regional Natural Park and explore the instagrammable features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arles. This car ride takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Arles Amphitheatre, a notable archeological site known for its culturally significant features.

When you’ve had your share of Arles, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. Your travel time is around 27 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a captivating castle in Les Baux-de-Provence. Explore its symbolic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Carrières Des Lumières. This well-known art installation is a top recommendation in the area.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Le Petit Nice offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Signature, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Traquenard, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Dame Du Mont offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. Polikarpov is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Marseille. You have 1 night left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Calanques National Park is an ideal stop early in the day. This popular national park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc Borély, which may be one of the most masterful 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 Palais Longchamp, a captivating palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille).

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at AM par Alexandre Mazzia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Au Petit Nice is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Marengo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'unic Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 places, which are Marseille and Avignon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 1 night.

Les Petits Trains De Marseille leaves a lasting impression. This tramway is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Marseille.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Avignon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Marseille to Avignon may take around 1 hour 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Avignon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a well-known historical landmark in Avignon. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Palais Des Papes. This locally renowned palace is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Jardin Des Doms is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most enchanting park in the region.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Lyon by securing a table at Takao Takano. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Le Neuvième Art, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Mère Brazier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Lyon. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pompette is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clermont-Ferrand, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the well-known Place Bellecour and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, an inviting church that draws visitors from far and near.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Tête D'or. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Clermont-Ferrand. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Clermont-Ferrand 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 Clermont-Ferrand.

Begin your culinary exploration in Clermont-Ferrand by securing a reservation at Auberge du Pont. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Apicius, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover L'Ostal, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L’arrozoir stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Kokomo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Des Beaux Arts is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!