One-Week France Road Trip from Lyon traveling east to Marseille, Monaco, Nimes, Grenoble, and Dijon
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Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Bron, Marseille, Nice, Monaco, Nimes, Avignon, Grenoble, Cluny, Cormatin, Dijon, Vougeot, Beaune, and Savigny-lès-Beaune. Set off on the ultimate European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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 Lyon, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Monaco, 1 night in Nimes, 1 night in Grenoble, and 1 night in Dijon. 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 Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Bron, Marseille, Nice, Monaco, Nimes, Avignon, Grenoble, Cluny, Cormatin, Dijon, Vougeot, Beaune, and Savigny-lès-Beaune, 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!
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Day 1 – Lyon - arrival day
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
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Welcome to Lyon, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Lyon's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Lyon. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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.
Make sure to book a table at Café du Rhône, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Vieille Canaille. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at L' Antiquaire, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Black Forest Society. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The James Joyce Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Bron, and Marseille
- Marseille
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Vaulx-en-Velin
- Bron
- More
Drive 356 km, 4 hours 11 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- More
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 4 vibrant destinations - Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, and Bron. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a remarkable minor basilica where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.
Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.
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.
Make sure to book a table at Chez Roger, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Marseille at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is AM par Alexandre Mazzia. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Marseille tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La dame du mont after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Polikarpov, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Au Petit Nice also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Marseille, Nice, and Monaco
- Monaco
- Marseille
- Nice
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 21 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Calanques National Park
- Castle Hill
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille and Nice, 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 Monaco. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Calanques National Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,632 visitors.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nice, 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 Marseille to Nice may take around 2 hours 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nice, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Drop by the renowned Castle Hill. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,646 visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Monaco. Monaco offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Monaco. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Steak 'n Shake Monaco, a top-rated dining destination in Monaco. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Tavernetta, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa del Caffe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Monaco this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Blue Gin, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 4 – Monaco and Nimes
- Nîmes
- Monaco
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Musée océanographique de Monaco
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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On day 4 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 Monaco and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Prince's Palace of Monaco. This much-appreciated palace is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 20,724 reviews.
Next up is Musée océanographique de Monaco. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,555 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Musée océanographique de Monaco welcomes 675,000 visitors annually.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Monaco.
Make Monte Carlo Casino your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this architectural structure an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,852 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nimes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Annaba Café, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hôtel des Tuileries, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Vatel and Spa, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at La bonne mousse. Alternatively, go to O’Flaherty’s, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, News Café provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Nimes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Nimes, Avignon, and Grenoble
- Grenoble
- Avignon
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Drive 319 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- The Chartreuse Mountains
- Bastille
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Avignon and Grenoble. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Grenoble, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors.
Next, make your way to Palais des Papes. This top attraction is a palace with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors. Palais des Papes welcomes 616,210 yearly visitors.
Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Grenoble.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Chartreuse Mountains. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,210 reviews.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Grenoble's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Bar Au RENCARD, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ciao a Te offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Grenoble.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Brasserie La Natation, known for its lively atmosphere. Pub Shakesbeer is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Cartel Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6 – Grenoble, Les Matis, Cluny, Cormatin, and Dijon
- Dijon
- Cluny
- Cormatin
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Drive 321 km, 4 hours
- Cluny Abbey
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Les Matis, Cluny, and Cormatin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dijon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Grenoble, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Matis. Your travel time is around 1 hour 49 min.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Touroparc Zoo. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 6,212 reviews.
Set your GPS to Cluny and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cluny beckons with new experiences!
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cluny Abbey. This abbey is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,920 visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dijon. Dijon offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you explore more of Dijon, 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 Maison Millière - Restaurant Boutique Bar à vin et Salon de thé, a top-rated dining destination in Dijon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistrot Burger, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café de l'Industrie. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dijon this evening.
Keep the evening going at Barberousse Dijon, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Beer Country, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Blue Dog, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7 – Dijon, Vougeot, Beaune, Savigny-lès-Beaune, and Lyon
- Lyon
- Vougeot
- Beaune
- Savigny-lès-Beaune
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Drive 213 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Clos de Vougeot Castle
- Park Bouzaise
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- Chateau de Savigny-les-Beaune
- More
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 3 vibrant destinations - Vougeot, Beaune, and Savigny-lès-Beaune. 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.
After soaking in Dijon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Vougeot. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Vougeot, it's time to take a break from the road.
Kick off the day at Clos de Vougeot, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This winery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,880 reviews.
Beaune’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vougeot behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Beaune welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Park Bouzaise, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,309 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at La Moutarderie Fallot. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,107 travelers.
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,805 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lyon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cactus Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L Bar food & drink? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Flair Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Broc'Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Phantom of the Opera offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Lyon - departure day
- Lyon - Departure day
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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.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Lyon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Take home a piece of France with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Fresque des Lyonnais, a remarkable fresco where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,927 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
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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