One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier to Perpignan, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Marseille and surrounding area

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Photo of lighthouse and old fishing port of Grau du Roi in Camargue zoological nature reserve, Montpellier, South of France.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Perpignan, 1 night in Bordeaux, 1 night in Toulouse, and 2 nights in Marseille. 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 Montpellier, 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palais Des Papes, learn more about the unique Dune Of Pilat, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pont Du Gard.

As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Perpignan, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, Toulouse, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Marseille, Avignon, Sagriès, and Nimes, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Arc de Triomphe
Jardin des plantes de MontpellierMontpellier CathedralMusée Fabreesplanade Charles de GaulleComedy Square
Cité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de Carcassonneplace de la Boursemiroir d'eau
Monument aux GirondinsCité du Vinjardin publicDune of Pilat
L'espace Van GoghJardin d'étéChâteau des Baux-de-ProvenceCarrières des Lumières
Calanques National ParkParc BorélyPalais LongchampMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
Palais des PapesPont d'AvignonPont du GardHaribo Candy MuseumJardin de La Fontaine
Aqueduc Saint-Clément

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Montpellier - Arrival day
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  • Arc de Triomphe
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Montpellier and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Montpellier for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe, or just 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 Montpellier. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Palavasien, a top-rated dining spot in Montpellier. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Enfants Rouges, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Tord Boyaux. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Montpellier.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Triskell Montpellier, known for its lively atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Montpellier
  • Perpignan
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Drive 170 km, 2 hours 18 min

  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Montpellier Cathedral
  • Musée Fabre
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Comedy Square
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Montpellier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Perpignan, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Montpellier today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This mesmerizing botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Montpellier Cathedral and learn what makes this breathtaking church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Fabre Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This beloved park is a highlight in Montpellier. As your day continues, stop by Comedy Square, known for its enchanting features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Perpignan, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Perpignan. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le 17, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Buffalo Grill Perpignan is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Perpignan.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Dry States, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Pearl 66, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café De La Source provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Perpignan
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 457 km, 4 hours 50 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • More

On day 3 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 Carcassonne and Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Perpignan, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Cité De Carcassonne, a widely recognized castle in the town. Then, head to Château Comtal and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Perpignan, and when you are ready for more, go to Place De La Bourse. This is one of the town’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the interesting Miroir D'eau.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Brun offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Whose Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Toulouse
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Drive 382 km, 4 hours 27 min

  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Cité du Vin
  • jardin public
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux, Lormont, and Arcachon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bordeaux is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a museum, a park, a sand dunes and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Monument Aux Girondins and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, La Cité Du Vin, a romantic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Jardin Public, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Dune Of Pilat.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moloko, known for its lively atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Marseille
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Drive 416 km, 4 hours 58 min

  • L'espace Van Gogh
  • Jardin d'été
  • Château des Baux-de-Provence
  • Carrières des Lumières
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Marseille. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Toulouse covers several incredible sights, including a cultural center, a park, a castle, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at L'espace Van Gogh. This beloved cultural center is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Jardin D'été, a must-see park in the town.

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 Château Des Baux-de-provence. This well-known castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Carrières Des Lumières, where you can take in breathtaking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, 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 Les Mets des Saintes, 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 Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Traquenard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Dame Du Mont is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Polikarpov also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Marseille
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Drive 41 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Calanques National Park
  • Parc Borély
  • Palais Longchamp
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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Day 6 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Marseille. You have 1 night left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Marseille is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Calanques National Park, a well-known national park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parc Borély, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Palais Longchamp. This palace is one of the city’s most locally renowned 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 Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. After exploring the museum, head to the notable Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille).

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Marseille
  • Montpellier
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Palais des Papes
  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Pont du Gard
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Avignon, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Montpellier. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palais Des Papes is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking palace before continuing your journey. Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon) is your next stop. This notable historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.

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 Pont Du Gard. This UNESCO world heritage-designated monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Haribo Candy Museum and Jardin De La Fontaine.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Montpellier. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Banane, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Black Out, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Petit Nice. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Espit Chupitos Montpellier, another top-rated place in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Montpellier - Departure day
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  • Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Aqueduc Saint-clément, an awe-inspiring monument before you head out.

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

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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