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.

Start by visiting Comedy Square, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Montpellier by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Fabre Museum. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Montpellier experience. We also recommend visiting Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a frequently visited botanical garden. Nearby, you'll also find Sunset Beach, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Arles, 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 route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Château Comtal. This up-and-coming castle is a visually striking place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, an UNESCO world heritage-designated 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 impressive castle offers an UNESCO world heritage-designated encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Roman Theatre Of Arles to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Arles Amphitheatre, a popular archeological site that’s sure to impress. 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’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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Le Petit Nice offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Signature, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Traquenard, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Dame Du Mont is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Polikarpov is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

Start your adventure at Calanques National Park. This well-known national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected 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 Palais Longchamp. This popular palace offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). These sights offer 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 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.

Savor the flavors at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Marseille and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Marseille on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile tramway, Les Petits Trains De Marseille. Afterward, continue to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a historical landmark every traveler should visit.

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 Des Papes. This well-known palace is an essential stop. Following that, head to Jardin Des Doms, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Mère Brazier, a local gem known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Place Bellecour, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This popular church is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lyon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Parc De La Tête D'or. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Flaveurs, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, Pic, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Valence is Les Cèdres, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic menu.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, La Roque-sur-Cèze, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Valence. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a waterfall, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Sautadet Falls. This is a beloved waterfall you should not miss. Another must-see is Pont Du Gard, a popular monument in Valence.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Haribo Candy Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Jardin De La Fontaine, another of the village’s locally renowned attractions.

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.

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.

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.

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