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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Montpellier and La Grande-Motte. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the interesting Comedy Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an instagrammable park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fabre Museum, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Montpellier and set your GPS to La Grande-Motte. 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 32 min. Upon reaching La Grande-Motte, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in La Grande-Motte is Sunset Beach, an increasingly popular beach that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Carcassonne and Arles are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Château Comtal makes a great addition to your morning plans. This often recommended castle is a visually striking place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This spectacular castle offers a culturally significant encounter with Carcassonne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 19 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Roman Theatre Of Arles, an underrated archeological site known for its awe-inspiring features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Arles Amphitheatre, an interesting archeological site.

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

Marseille is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining option, venture to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Signature, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Traquenard, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Polikarpov. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Montpellier. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Calanques National Park. This romantic national park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Parc Borély and learn what makes this awe-inspiring park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Palais Longchamp. After exploring the palace, head to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This popular museum is a highlight in Marseille. As your day continues, stop by Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), known for its majestic features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Marseille is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Bistro Du Panier, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, AM par Alexandre Mazzia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Au Petit Nice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. L'unic Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Marseille and Avignon. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Les Petits Trains De Marseille is must-visit tramway and a great option for a daytime tour of the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Palais Des Papes. This interesting palace is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Jardin Des Doms. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lyon by reserving a table at Takao Takano. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Neuvième Art, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Mère Brazier, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L' Antiquaire offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Forest Society is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Pompette is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Valence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Lyon is complete without Place Bellecour. This captivating public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, another must-visit attraction.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Caluire-et-Cuire, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Valence by securing a table at Flaveurs. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Pic, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Les Cèdres, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Valence. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!