One-Week Relaxed France Road Trip from Marseille to Lyon

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Uncover the beauty of France on this 8-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, La Mulatière, and Nimes. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, La Mulatière, and Nimes. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Marseille, and 4 nights in Lyon. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Marseille, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Parc De La Tête D'or. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille).

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Pont Du Gard. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Marseille - arrival day

  • Marseille - Arrival day
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  • Old Port of Marseille
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Marseille and begin your adventure in France.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Old Port Of Marseille. This seaport is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,120 visitors.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Marseille. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Traquenard, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Dame Du Mont, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Polikarpov likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Marseille as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Marseille

  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 35 km, 1 hour 31 min

  • Calanques National Park
  • Parc Borély
  • Palais Longchamp
  • Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at Calanques National Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Parc Borély. Parc Borély is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 reviews.

Palais Longchamp is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars by 16,249 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a famous museum in Marseille. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Marseille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Une Table au Sud offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coogee. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Marseille and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Au Petit Nice, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, L'unic Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Marseille can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Marseille, and Lyon

  • Lyon
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 323 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Les Petits Trains de Marseille
  • Cathédrale La Major
  • More

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Marseille. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Lyon, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Make Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) one of your first sightseeing stops in Marseille. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Les Petits Trains De Marseille is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Parc Émile Duclaux. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,372 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Marseille Cathedral. A trip to this popular catholic cathedral is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 12,714 previous visitors.

In the city of Lyon, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lyon has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café du Rhône, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vieille Canaille. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at L' Antiquaire, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Black Forest Society offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The James Joyce Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin

  • Lyon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • Vaulx-en-Velin
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • Mur des Canuts
  • Parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Mini World Lyon
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Lyon and beyond. With 3 nights left in Lyon, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wall Of The Canuts. This fresco is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lyon, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,157 visitors.

Palais De La Bourse De Lyon is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,206 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

Drop by the renowned Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,967 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Parc De La Tête D'or. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Set your GPS to Vaulx-en-velin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vaulx-en-velin beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Mini World Lyon, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable miniature park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,637 reviews.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lyon, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cactus Bar, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L Bar food & drink, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Flair Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Lyon and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Broc'bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Phantom Of The Opera is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Lyon!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Lyon, and La Mulatière

  • Lyon
  • La Mulatière
  • More

Drive 11 km, 36 min

  • Parc des Berges du Rhône
  • Place de la République
  • Place Bellecour
  • Musée Cinéma et Miniature
  • Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lyon and visit amazing attractions in La Mulatière, and Lyon destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Lyon. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Kick off the day at Place De La République, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 991 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Place Bellecour. Place Bellecour is a square with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 reviews.

Musée Miniature Et Cinéma is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,540 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Mulatière, 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 Lyon to La Mulatière may take around 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Mulatière, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc Des Berges Du Rhône. This urban park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 744 reviews.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lyon has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to book a table at Bouchon Tupin, 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 The King Arthur, 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 Ninkasi Gerland. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Lyon. The bars in Lyon make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mos - Maker Of Stories, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Lyon

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 11 km, 41 min

  • Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
  • Parc des Hauteurs
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Lyon, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Fresque Des Lyonnais. This fresco is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,927 reviews.

Continue your journey at Fresco "the Library Of The City". This sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 374 travelers from near and far.

Lyon is also the home of Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,363 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Des Hauteurs. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,241 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this minor basilica.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across France. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in France.

Exploring the food culture in Lyon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at Betty's Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dam's Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Gastronomique Christian Tetedoie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Lyon!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Lyon, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Nimes, and Marseille

  • Marseille
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 397 km, 4 hours 43 min

  • Pont du Gard
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Museum Romanité
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the hamlet of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and drive in the direction of the city of Nimes for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Marseille, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 2 hours 26 min. Upon your arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Pont Du Gard one of your first sightseeing stops in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Jardin De La Fontaine. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

Next, make your way to Musée De La Romanité. This museum welcomes around 25,271 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Marseille. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Le Petit Nice Passedat, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les 3 Frères beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café l'Écomotive. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Marseille and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Friche La Belle De Mai, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Bar De La Plaine, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Marseille as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Marseille - departure day

  • Marseille - Departure day
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  • Porte d'Aix
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Marseille.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Marseille’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Marseille is the remarkable Porte D'aix. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 4,944 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Marseille or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Roy René - Restaurant Marseille, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Marseille and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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