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

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!

Visiting Calanques National Park is always a good idea. This interesting national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of Parc Borély, a must-see park 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 Palais Longchamp. This locally renowned palace offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

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.

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.

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

Day 3 of your easy, relaxed road trip through France lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Marseille. By evening, drive toward the Lyon, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Make time for Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), a well-known church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Les Petits Trains De Marseille, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Parc Émile Duclaux. This park is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Marseille at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Marseille Cathedral.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Lyon. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in France.

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 lovely dining experience at Nuage café, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Café du Rhône, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Agastache Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lyon tonight.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like L' Antiquaire, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pompette offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lyon and visit amazing attractions in Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin, just outside the city. You still have 3 nights left in Lyon, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

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.

Wall Of The Canuts is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This historic street art is sure to impress. Next on your list is Palais De La Bourse De Lyon, another must-visit landmark and underrated palace renowned for its respected features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 6 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Caluire-et-Cuire is Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, an underrated monument that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Parc De La Tête D'or, an eye-catching park that stands out in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Vaulx-en-velin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Caluire-et-Cuire to Vaulx-en-velin may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mini World Lyon.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bernachon Chocolats offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Mère Léa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Lyon.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Broc'bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. La Passagère is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Lyon, where you’ll be staying for another 2 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.

Check out the worthwhile public square, Place De La République. Afterward, continue to Place Bellecour, a public square every traveler should visit. As you explore Lyon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This curiosity-inducing museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Lyon Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to La Mulatière. 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 8 min. Upon reaching La Mulatière, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Parc Des Berges Du Rhône, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nosch, 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 Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, 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 Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at La Raffinerie after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mos - Maker Of Stories is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lyon, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Whatever your travel style is, Fresque Des Lyonnais is an essential stop in Lyon. This curiosity-inducing street art provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fresco "the Library Of The City", an eye-catching art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière, a locally appreciated museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Parc Des Hauteurs. Round off your day at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, another gem in Lyon with visually striking features to discover.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Marseille. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Marseille that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Lyon to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le Parloir, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café Terroir? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cactus Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Dôme offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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