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

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 Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Montpellier’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Comedy Square. This romantic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a must-visit park 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 Fabre Museum, an often recommended museum. For a change of scene, check out Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, known for its romantic features.

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.

Sunset Beach is a worthwhile beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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 Arles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Château Comtal. This worthwhile castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, one of the town’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Cité De Carcassonne, one of the most astonishing places to see in Carcassonne. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 19 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Roman Theatre Of Arles, an increasingly popular archeological site that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Arles Amphitheatre, a picture-perfect archeological site that stands out in the town.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Marseille by reserving a table at Le Petit Nice. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Signature, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

Keep the evening going at Le Traquenard, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Dame Du Mont, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Polikarpov, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 4 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.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Marseille on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating national park, Calanques National Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Parc Borély. A visit to this park is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Marseille’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Palais Longchamp. This popular palace is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and learn why this church is renowned as one of the city's most locally renowned attractions.

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.

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

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.

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.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This up-and-coming tramway is a stunning place to see in Marseille.

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.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a notable historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Palais Des Papes, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings. Next, explore Jardin Des Doms, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area.

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 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Round off your dining experience by visiting L' Antiquaire, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Black Forest Society, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pompette 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!

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

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Lyon. Begin your sightseeing with 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 that enhances the city’s allure.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Valence by reserving a table at Flaveurs. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Pic, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Les Cèdres, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Valence. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!