One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon traveling east to Annecy, Chamonix Mont Blanc, Grenoble, and Avignon
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Annecy, Chamonix Mont Blanc, Grenoble, and Avignon. 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 3 nights in Lyon, 1 night in Annecy, 1 night in Chamonix Mont Blanc, 1 night in Grenoble, and 1 night in Avignon. 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 Lyon, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or 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 Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place Bellecour.
As you hit the open road and drive through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Annecy, Chamonix Mont Blanc, Grenoble, and Avignon, 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
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Lyon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Lyon for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Lyon 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 Place Bellecour, or just 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 Lyon. 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 Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nuage café, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. 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 L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. Pompette is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Lyon
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 18 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Fresque des Lyonnais
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- La Croix-Rousse
- Vieux Lyon
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On day 2 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 will return to Lyon for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Make sure to visit La Croix-Rousse, a popular neighborhood in Caluire-et-Cuire. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Vieux Lyon today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Lyon. Begin your sightseeing with Parc De La Tête D'or. This extraordinary park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Fresque Des Lyonnais, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Lyon, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bernachon Chocolats, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Mère Léa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.
Continue your lively evening at The James Joyce Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Broc'bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Passagère ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Lyon
- Annecy
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Lac d'Annecy
- Musée-Château d'Annecy
- Jardins de l'Europe d'Annecy
- Pont des Amours
- Le Pâquier d'Annecy
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On day 3 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 Annecy. In the evening, you’ll end up in Annecy, where you will stay for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Lake Annecy. This frequently visited lake is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Musée-château D'annecy located in Lyon for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Jardins De L'europe D'annecy. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Pont Des Amours. For a change of pace, head to Le Pâquier D'annecy. As one of the most locally appreciated attractions in Lyon, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Annecy. Annecy 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 Annecy's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Head back to your accommodation in Annecy and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Annecy
- Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
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Drive 114 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Aiguille du Midi
- Compagnie du Mont Blanc
- Musée Alpin Chamonix
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bonneville and Chamonix Mont Blanc. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chamonix Mont Blanc, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Aiguille Du Midi. This frequently visited mountain range is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Compagnie Du Mont Blanc, a must-see ski resort in the region.
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 Musée Alpin Chamonix. This frequently visited museum offers an enriching experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chamonix Mont Blanc. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chamonix Mont Blanc. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
- Grenoble
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Bastille
- Musée dauphinois
- Fontaine du Lion
- Museum of Grenoble
- Téléphérique Grenoble - Bastille
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Grenoble. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Grenoble, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Chamonix Mont Blanc on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fort De La Bastille is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Musée Dauphinois is your next stop. This often recommended museum is one of the best-rated sights in Chamonix Mont Blanc.
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 Fontaine Du Lion. This heritage-rich monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée De Grenoble and Téléphérique Grenoble - Bastille.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Grenoble, 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 in Grenoble. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Le Rousseau, a top-rated dining destination in Grenoble. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Au RENCARD, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ciao a Te. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Grenoble this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Groove, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Brasserie La Natation offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pub Shakesbeer provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 6
- Grenoble
- Avignon
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Drive 225 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Jardin des doms
- Palais des Papes
- Calvet Museum
- Remparts d'Avignon
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Avignon, 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 Avignon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Grenoble, including a historical landmark, a park, a palace, a museum and much more! Start your day at Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This grand historical landmark is a captivating place to see in Grenoble. Then, wander over to Jardin Des Doms. If visually striking sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Palais Des Papes. This UNESCO world heritage-designated palace is a favorite among visitors.
Grenoble offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Musée Calvet (avignon, France) is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the breathtaking Remparts D'avignon. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated historical landmark in Grenoble.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Avignon. Avignon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Avignon, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Pollen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Cuisine de Papa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Avignon.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Barberousse Avignon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Avignon. The Red Sky 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 7
- Avignon
- Lyon
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 24 min
- SCA des Grands Vins de Pazac
- Pont du Gard Museum
- Pont du Gard
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Pazac and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Avignon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a winery, a museum, and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Sca Des Grands Vins De Pazac. Just a short distance away is Pont Du Gard Museum, an UNESCO world heritage-listed museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Pont Du Gard, one of the hamlet’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Nosch, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.
Cap off your dinner by heading to La Raffinerie, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mos - Maker Of Stories is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Lyon - Departure day
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- Place de la République
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lyon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Place De La République, an instagrammable public square before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Lyon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Rue de la République. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Terroir, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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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