One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille traveling north to Avignon and Arles
Description
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Marseille, Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Apt, Gargas, Roussillon, Nimes, Arles, Aigues-Mortes, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Maussane-les-Alpilles. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Marseille, 2 nights in Avignon, and 2 nights in Arles. 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 Marseille, 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. Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Pont Du Gard, learn more about the unique Carrières Des Lumières, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Calanques National Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Marseille, Cassis, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Apt, Gargas, Roussillon, Nimes, Arles, Aigues-Mortes, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Maussane-les-Alpilles, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Marseille - Arrival day
- More
Say hello to Marseille! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Marseille for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Marseille is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Marseille. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Mets des Saintes, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.
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 to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Marseille
- Cassis
- More
Drive 103 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Calanque de Port-Miou
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start your adventure at Calanques National Park. This locally renowned national park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parc Borély located in Marseille for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Its romantic features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cassis. This car ride takes around 41 min.
Head to Calanque De Port-miou, an often recommended marina in Cassis. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Marseille and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
- Aix-en-Provence
- Avignon
- More
Drive 121 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Hôtel de Caumont
- Fontaine de la Rotonde
- Jardin des doms
- Palais des Papes
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Avignon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aix-en-Provence behind. This drive usually takes around 58 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Hôtel De Caumont, a frequently visited museum that everyone visiting Aix-en-Provence should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Fontaine De La Rotonde. This enchanting monument is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.
Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aix-en-Provence behind. This drive usually takes around 58 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jardin Des Doms, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palais Des Papes, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Avignon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Avignon, 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Pollen, a top-rated dining spot in Avignon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Cuisine de Papa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Avignon.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Barberousse Avignon, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Red Sky likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Avignon
- arrondissement of Apt
- Gargas
- Roussillon
- More
Drive 147 km, 3 hours 13 min
- Sénanque Abbey
- Mines Bruoux
- Le Sentier des Ocres
- Pont Julien
- Forêt des cèdres du Luberon
- More
Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Avignon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Apt, 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 Avignon to Apt may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Apt, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Sénanque Abbey is an up-and-coming monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pont Julien, a breathtaking monument that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Forêt Des Cèdres Du Luberon, an eye-catching nature reserve.
Gargas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Apt behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Gargas welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Mines Bruoux, a worthwhile cave that draws visitors from near and far.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gargas and set your GPS to Roussillon. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Roussillon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Le Sentier Des Ocres. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the hiking area before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Avignon.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Avignon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Carré du Palais, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Avenio is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at BAR DU CHANGE. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Avignon tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like O'collins's Irish Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. The Gambrinus is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Avignon
- Nîmes
- Arles
- More
Drive 123 km, 2 hours 39 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- Pont du Gard Museum
- Pont du Gard
- Arles Amphitheatre
- More
Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Arles, 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 Arles. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nimes today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Nimes. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Nimes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin De La Fontaine. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Musée De La Romanité. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Du Gard Museum, an underrated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Pont Du Gard and admire its visually striking features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and set your GPS to Arles. 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 53 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Arles Amphitheatre, a locally renowned archeological site that everyone visiting Arles should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Arles. Arles offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Arles's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Manade Fernay - Mas des Jasses de la Ville - Arles Camargue, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Arles.
Head back to your accommodation in Arles and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Arles
- Aigues-Mortes
- Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
- More
Drive 129 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Aigues mortes
- Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes
- Constancy Tower
- Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau
- Port Gardian - Le port de la Camargue - Port de plaisance
- More
Greet day 6 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Arles for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Aigues-Mortes, Pont de Gau, and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aigues-Mortes. This car ride takes around 49 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Aigues Mortes, an intriguing castle known for its enchanting features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes, an often recommended castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Constancy Tower and uncover the details of this picture-perfect monument.
Set your GPS to Pont de Gau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pont de Gau beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Ornithological Park Of Pont De Gau, an up-and-coming bird watching area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pont de Gau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Port Gardian - Le Port De La Camargue - Port De Plaisance and explore the romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Arles and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Arles, 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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7
- Arles
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Marseille
- More
Drive 124 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Site Archéologique de Glanum
- Mas de la Dame
- Carrières des Lumières
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- More
On day 7 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 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Maussane-les-Alpilles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Your self-guided tour starts at Site Archéologique De Glanum, an increasingly popular archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Arles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Les Baux-de-Provence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 5 min. When you arrive in Les Baux-de-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.
Mas De La Dame is an intriguing vineyard we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Les Baux-de-Provence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arles behind. This drive usually takes around 5 min. Les Baux-de-Provence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Carrières Des Lumières is a well-known art installation we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a history-steeped castle that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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 reserve a table at Une Table au Sud, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café Bovo, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Maison MV, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friche La Belle De Mai, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Bar De La Plaine is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Marseille - Departure day
- More
Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Marseille before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Marseille’s popular marketplace, Les Terrasses du Port. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Marseille.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Petit Nice Passedat, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Marseille. 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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