One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille to Lyon

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

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. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Get close to the spectacular Calanques National Park and the wonderful Place Bellecour. 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Old Port of Marseille
Calanques National ParkParc BorélyPalais LongchampCentre Commercial Centre BourseMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
Basilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeLes Petits Trains de MarseilleParc Émile DuclauxCathédrale La Major
Wall of the CanutsPalais de la Bourse de LyonPorte des Enfants du Rhôneparc de la Tête d'OrMini World Lyon
Parc des Berges du RhônePlace de la RépubliquePlace BellecourMusée Cinéma et MiniatureLyon Cathedral
Fresque des LyonnaisFresco "The library of the cityGallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-FourvièreParc des HauteursLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Pont du GardJardin de La FontaineMuseum Romanité
Porte d'Aix

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Marseille - Arrival day
  • More
  • 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.

Marseille 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 Old Port Of Marseille, 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 Marseille. 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 Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Chez Roger, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Mets des Saintes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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.

Continue your lively evening at Le Traquenard, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Dame Du Mont is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Polikarpov ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • 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 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Marseille. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Marseille. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Marseille!

Immerse yourself in Marseille’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Calanques National Park. This romantic national park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the respected features of Parc Borély, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Palais Longchamp, a notable palace. We also recommend visiting Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Marseille offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Savor the flavors at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. 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.

Continue your lively evening at Au Petit Nice, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Marengo is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, L'unic Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Marseille
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 323 km, 3 hours 36 min

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

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Lyon for 4 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Marseille covers several incredible sights, including a church, a tramway, and a park. Start your adventure at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This locally renowned church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a must-see tramway in the city.

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 Parc Émile Duclaux. This frequently visited park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Marseille Cathedral, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Lyon. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lyon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

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 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 Pompette, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • Wall of the Canuts
  • Palais de la Bourse de Lyon
  • Porte des Enfants du Rhône
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Mini World Lyon
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Lyon, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lyon will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Wall Of The Canuts is the perfect place to start. This street art is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Palais De La Bourse De Lyon, a locally appreciated palace, known for its photogenic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This noteworthy monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Parc De La Tête D'or and Mini World Lyon. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Savor the flavors at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bernachon Chocolats beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Mère Léa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The James Joyce Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Broc'bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, La Passagère also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 11 km, 36 min

  • Parc des Berges du Rhône
  • Place de la République
  • Place Bellecour
  • Musée Cinéma et Miniature
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, 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 2 nights left in Lyon, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Lyon. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a public square, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Parc Des Berges Du Rhône. This is a beloved park you should not miss. Another must-see is Place De La République, an increasingly popular public square in Lyon.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Place Bellecour. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, another of the village’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Lyon Cathedral, a visually striking place of interest in the village.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lyon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nosch, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Raffinerie. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mos - Maker Of Stories, another top-rated bar in the area.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 11 km, 41 min

  • Fresque des Lyonnais
  • Fresco "The library of the city
  • 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!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fresque Des Lyonnais is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable street art before continuing your journey. Fresco "the Library Of The City" is your next stop. This intriguing art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Lyon.

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 Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This historic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc Des Hauteurs and Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Le Parloir, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café Terroir offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cactus Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Dôme stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Lyon
  • Marseille
  • 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 the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Get ready for an exciting day in Lyon. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a park, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Pont Du Gard. This is a well-known monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park in Lyon.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Musée De La Romanité.

In the city of Marseille, 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Une Table au Sud, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Bovo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Marseille’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Friche La Belle De Mai offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Bar De La Plaine is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Marseille - Departure day
  • More
  • 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.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Marseille’s shopping center, the lively Centre Bourse. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Porte D'aix, a historic monument before you head out.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maison MV, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Coogee? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.