One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Carcassonne, Marseille, Lyon, and Valence

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

Montpellier is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a park, a museum, a botanical garden, a beach and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Comedy Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fabre Museum, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. When you're finished at the botanical garden, Sunset Beach awaits your visit. This beach is a stunning highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Carcassonne by securing a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne and Arles. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the intriguing Château Comtal, an UNESCO world heritage-listed castle in Carcassonne. Next, go to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne.

After visiting Château Comtal and Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cité De Carcassonne. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle offers a unique experience. Roman Theatre Of Arles is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Arles Amphitheatre, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-designated places to visit in Carcassonne.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Signature, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Marseille. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Traquenard is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Dame Du Mont, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Polikarpov. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

On day 4 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Marseille. Your adventure starts at Calanques National Park, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Parc Borély. This popular park is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Marseille's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Palais Longchamp. This enchanting palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean is also worth visiting, along with Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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 delicious meal at Le Bistro Du Panier, a highly-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille and Avignon, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Marseille’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This breathtaking tramway is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Palais Des Papes, a notable palace. For a change of scene, check out Jardin Des Doms, known for its instagrammable features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon, 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Lyon by securing a reservation at Takao Takano. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pompette, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 6 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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valence, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lyon, including a public square, a church, and a park. Start your day at Place Bellecour. This culturally significant public square is a captivating place to see in Lyon. Then, wander over to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. If culturally significant sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Parc De La Tête D'or. This majestic park is a favorite among visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Flaveurs, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pic is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Valence. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Les Cèdres. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Roque-sur-Cèze, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Sautadet Falls. This frequently visited waterfall is a serene place to see in Valence. Continue your discovery at Pont Du Gard, a visually striking monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Valence, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Haribo Candy Museum. This captivating museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Valence. Next, make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Valence.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Reflet d'Obione in Montpellier by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Reflet d'Obione delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jardin des Sens, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Leclère, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!