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

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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. 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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Itinerary summary

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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 MediterraneanBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
Basilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeLes Petits Trains de MarseilleCathédrale La Major
Wall of the Canutsparc de la Tête d'OrMini World LyonLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Parc des Berges du RhônePlace de la RépubliquePlace BellecourMusée Cinéma et MiniatureLyon CathedralLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-FourvièreParc des HauteursLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Pont du GardJardin de La FontaineMuseum RomanitéLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Porte d'AixBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde

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Day 1

Day 1 – Marseille - arrival day

  • Marseille - Arrival day
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  • Old Port of Marseille
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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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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 delicious dinner at Chez Roger, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Mets des Saintes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

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 Marseille. The bars in Marseille 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 Le Traquenard, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Dame Du Mont. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Polikarpov, another top-rated place in the area.

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
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Marseille allows for both. Start by heading to Calanques National Park. This interesting national park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Parc Borély, a visually striking park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Palais Longchamp, a notable palace. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Centre Commercial Centre Bourse.

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.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

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 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Au Petit Nice is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Marengo, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'unic Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Marseille and Lyon

  • Marseille
  • Lyon
  • 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 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 Marseille. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a tramway, a park, and a church. Begin your adventure at Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This is an underrated tramway you should not miss. Another must-see is Parc Émile Duclaux, an intriguing park in Marseille.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Marseille Cathedral.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Lyon. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nuage café, 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 Café du Rhône, 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 Agastache 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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at L' Antiquaire, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Society provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pompette offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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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

  • Wall of the Canuts
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Mini World Lyon
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lyon and visit amazing attractions in Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lyon today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Wall Of The Canuts. This history-steeped street art will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Palais De La Bourse De Lyon and learn what makes this heritage-rich palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.

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. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, an up-and-coming monument that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Parc De La Tête D'or. This romantic park is one of the most famous attractions in the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vaulx-en-velin. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Mini World Lyon, an intriguing miniature park that everyone visiting Vaulx-en-velin should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, 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 Bernachon Chocolats, 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 La Mère Léa. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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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
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • 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.

Today’s route brings a visually striking, a romantic, a breathtaking, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, a masterful, and a sacred. The first attraction of today is Place De La République. This locally appreciated public square is a photogenic place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Place Bellecour, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This beloved museum offers a visually striking encounter with Lyon. Lyon Cathedral is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lyon.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Mulatière. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Begin your journey at Parc Des Berges Du Rhône and explore the majestic features.

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

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 highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. 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, stop at some of Lyon’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

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.

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!

Discover a day packed with a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a historically significant, a charming, and an idyllic in Lyon. Begin your sightseeing with Fresque Des Lyonnais. This underrated street art is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Fresco "the Library Of The City", another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’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 Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parc Des Hauteurs, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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, 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 Restaurant Le Parloir, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Terroir, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Cactus Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Dôme, where the evening is just getting started.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

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Day 7

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

  • Lyon
  • Nîmes
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 397 km, 4 hours 43 min

  • Pont du Gard
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Museum Romanité
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

On day 7 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Pont Du Gard, a locally renowned monument that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nimes, 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 La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Nimes may take around 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nimes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine, an interesting park that draws attention for its noteworthy features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Musée De La Romanité, a standout museum that stands out in the hamlet.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Marseille. 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.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Don’t miss out on dining at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Une Table au Sud, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Bovo. 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 Friche La Belle De Mai, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Bar De La Plaine is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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 8

Day 8 – Marseille - departure day

  • Marseille - Departure day
  • More
  • Porte d'Aix
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 monument 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 eager to try something different, consider Coogee, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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