One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling east to Nimes, Lyon, and Marseille
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Included
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 Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. 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 2 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Nimes, 2 nights in Lyon, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles, 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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Day 1 – Montpellier - arrival day
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Welcome to Montpellier, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 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 Montpellier. 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 in Montpellier. 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.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Triskell Montpellier after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kraken Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, and Nimes
- Montpellier
- La Grande-Motte
- Nîmes
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Comedy Square
- Planet Ocean World
- Sunset Beach
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Montpellier and La Grande-Motte. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Montpellier promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This romantic botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Comedy Square, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Planet Ocean World. This eye-catching aquarium is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Grande-Motte. This car ride takes around 20 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Sunset Beach, a worthwhile beach known for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La Bonne Mousse stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, O’flaherty’s offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. News Café is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3 – Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Lyon
- Nîmes
- Sagriès
- Lyon
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Drive 275 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Nimes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park and a museum. Begin your adventure at Jardin De La Fontaine. This is a notable park you should not miss. Another must-see is Musée De La Romanité, a curiosity-inducing museum in Nimes.
Sagriès’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Sagriès welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Haribo Candy Museum, an interesting museum that everyone visiting Sagriès should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sagriès, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Du Gard, a captivating monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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 Lyon. Lyon 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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 book a table at Nuage café, 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 Café du Rhône, 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 Agastache Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.
Continue your lively evening at L' Antiquaire, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Forest Society is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pompette ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 18 km, 56 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. You still have 1 night left in Lyon.
Lyon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Place Bellecour. Just a short distance away is Lyon Cathedral, a romantic church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the town’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lyon. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Parc De La Tête D'or, an extraordinary park that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lyon's best restaurants.
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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into The James Joyce Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Broc'bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook La Passagère, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5 – Lyon and Marseille
- Lyon
- Marseille
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Drive 315 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Old Port of Marseille
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Marseille. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marseille may take around 3 hours 3 min. Upon your arrival in Marseille, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Then, head to Old Port Of Marseille. This up-and-coming marina is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Les Petits Trains De Marseille. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the tramway. Next, continue your journey to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse, a well-known shopping mall.
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.
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.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6 – Marseille
- Marseille
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Drive 38 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
- Palais Longchamp
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s itinerary in Marseille covers several incredible sights, including a national park, a park, a church, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Calanques National Park. This popular national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic 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 Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This notable church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Marseille Cathedral, where you can take in its breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Palais Longchamp. This romantic palace offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
As you explore more of Marseille, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Bistro Du Panier, 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 Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, 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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille 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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Au Petit Nice, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Marengo offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. L'unic Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7 – Marseille, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Pont de Gau, and Montpellier
- Marseille
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Arles
- Montpellier
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Drive 198 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, and Pont de Gau, 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence. This car ride takes around 1 hour 11 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Château Des Baux-de-provence, a well-known castle known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Carrières Des Lumières, a well-known art installation that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, 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 Les Baux-de-Provence to Arles may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Arles Amphitheatre, an interesting archeological site in Arles. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, L'espace Van Gogh. This curiosity-inducing cultural center is a top recommendation in the area.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pont de Gau. This car ride takes around 29 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Ornithological Park Of Pont De Gau, a curiosity-inducing bird watching area that draws visitors from near and far.
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 explore more of Montpellier, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Banane offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Petit Troc is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Montpellier.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Black Out. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Petit Nice, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Montpellier - departure day
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
- Comedy Square
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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.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Montpellier's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Prepare for a day full of a stunning, a picture-perfect, a historic, and a majestic. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aqueduc Saint-clément. This often recommended monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
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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