One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon to Avignon, Marseille, and Arles

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore La Croix-Rousse, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Caluire-et-Cuire. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Vieux Lyon, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Caluire-et-Cuire.

Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile museum is an instagrammable place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a symbolic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Lyon Cathedral. This notable church offers a history-steeped 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.

Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the majestic features.

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

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

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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The James Joyce Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Broc'bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Passagère provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Lyon, there’s no need to rush. Experience Annecy to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Annecy. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Jardins De L'europe D'annecy, an increasingly popular 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 ready, continue to Le Pâquier D'annecy, a curiosity-inducing park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Lake Annecy, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Nosch, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vieille Canaille is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Raffinerie stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mos - Maker Of Stories is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Aix-en-Provence and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aix-en-Provence may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Fontaine De La Rotonde is an up-and-coming monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence, a stunning church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marseille. This car ride takes around 41 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), a locally renowned church 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 Calanques National Park and admire its awe-inspiring features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Mets des Saintes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

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.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Marseille and Arles. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Arles, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Les Petits Trains De Marseille, an often recommended tramway in the city. Then, head to Old Port Of Marseille and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking marina.

After exploring the museum, visit the notable Marseille Cathedral.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Roman Theatre Of Arles, an increasingly popular archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Arles Amphitheatre, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

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

Arles 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 Arles.

Make sure to reserve a table at Manade Fernay - Mas des Jasses de la Ville - Arles Camargue, an iconic dining spot in Arles. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Pont de Gau, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and Orange are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arles and set your GPS to Pont de Gau. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Pont de Gau, 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 hamlet's best attractions, visit Ornithological Park Of Pont De Gau, an up-and-coming bird watching area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pont de Gau behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Port Gardian - Le Port De La Camargue - Port De Plaisance is an underrated marina we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Orange. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Triumphal Arch, a beloved monument known for its heritage-rich features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and relax 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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le Parloir, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Terroir, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cactus Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Dôme, known for its lively atmosphere.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!