One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice to Aix-en-Provence

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Photo of French Riviera coast with medieval town Villefranche sur Mer, Nice region, France.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day self-drive holiday in France. Along the way, Nice, Monaco, Cannes, Vallauris, Aix-en-Provence, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, Roussillon, Apt, Marseille, Grasse, and Villeneuve-Loubet invite you to discover their unique blend of culture, scenery, and memorable experiences.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in France, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 4 nights in Nice and 3 nights in Aix-en-Provence, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Your journey starts in Nice, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in France to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in France already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Monte Carlo Casino.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this France road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in France.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in France even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in France includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in France today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Nice - Arrival day
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  • Old Town (Vieux Nice)
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Nice, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Nice and begin your adventure in France.

Nice is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Nice. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nice, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Le Bocal, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Makassar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les Amoureux. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nice.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Nice and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Les Distilleries Idéales, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Diane's, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Wayne's Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in France. Enjoy your first taste of Nice as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Nice
  • Monaco
  • More

Drive 46 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Le Jardin Exotique
  • Prince's Palace of Monaco
  • Musée océanographique de Monaco
  • Monte Carlo Casino
  • Place du Casino
  • Monte Carlo
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nice and visit amazing attractions in Nice and Monaco, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Nice, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

A visit to Monte Carlo is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Le Jardin Exotique is an ideal stop early in the day. This underrated botanical garden is a must-visit in the city.

Nice’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Monaco behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Nice welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Prince's Palace Of Monaco, an interesting palace in Monaco. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Musée Océanographique De Monaco. This well-known aquarium is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Monte Carlo Casino is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking casino in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the worthwhile Place Du Casino and discover what makes this public square unique.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nice and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Nice, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Snug And Cellar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Vingt4. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nice tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Nice.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Trafalbar Nice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bay Side offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Nice
  • Cannes
  • Vallauris
  • More

Drive 74 km, 1 hour 46 min

  • Marché Forville
  • Vieux Port de Cannes
  • Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes
  • National Picasso Museum
  • Rue d'Antibes
  • La Croisette
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 3 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Nice and beyond. With 1 night left in Nice, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Rue d'Antibes, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit La Croisette, a street offering another perspective on the town.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cannes may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Cannes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Marché Forville is a beloved food market we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nice.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hôtel West End Nice, an iconic dining spot in Nice. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Z Restaurant Tapas, a popular restaurant in Nice. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café de Nice, a hidden gem nestled in Nice. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Nice. The bars in Nice make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Nice as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Nice
  • Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Drive 175 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Musée Granet
  • Place des Quatre-Dauphins
  • Hôtel de Caumont
  • Fontaine de la Rotonde
  • place d'Albertas
  • More

Day 4 of your easy, relaxed road trip through France lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Aix-en-Provence. By evening, drive toward the Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Aix-en-Provence beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Musée Granet, an often recommended museum in Aix-en-Provence. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Place Des Quatre-dauphins. This frequently visited public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Hôtel De Caumont is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Fontaine De La Rotonde and discover what makes this monument unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Place D'albertas, a visually striking public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Aix-en-Provence. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in France.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Côté Cour, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Château de Beaupré beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aix-en-Provence tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Aix-en-Provence. The bars in Aix-en-Provence make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Brigand, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Céleste offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
  • Roussillon
  • arrondissement of Apt
  • More

Drive 204 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Vaucluse Spring
  • Le Sentier des Ocres
  • Sénanque Abbey
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Aix-en-Provence will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

When you’ve had your share of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Roussillon. Your travel time is around 57 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Le Sentier Des Ocres, a popular hiking area known for its serene features.

Set your GPS to Apt and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Apt beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Apt is Sénanque Abbey, an underrated monastery that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Aix-en-Provence and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Aix-en-Provence has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at O'Gustus restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Aix-en-Provence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Temps, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le bouche à Oreille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aix-en-Provence this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Aix-en-Provence and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting St James Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 102 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Old Port of Marseille
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Calanques National Park
  • Le Panier
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Aix-en-Provence and visit amazing attractions in Marseille, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Aix-en-Provence, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Marseille is brimming with adventures. Le Panier is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Marseille. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aix-en-Provence. This car ride takes around 56 min.

Savor the day by heading to Old Port Of Marseille, a beloved marina that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Calanques National Park, yet another well-known place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Aix-en-Provence.

Exploring the food culture in Aix-en-Provence offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Nino Café, a top-rated dining destination in Aix-en-Provence. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Mado, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Jardin d'Amalula. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aix-en-Provence this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Aix-en-Provence and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Marseille can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Grasse
  • Villeneuve-Loubet
  • Nice
  • More

Drive 209 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Musée International de la Parfumerie (MIP)
  • Grasse Cathedral
  • Escoffier Museum of Culinary Arts
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in France offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Grasse and end it in Nice. You’ll stay in Nice for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in France.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grasse. This car ride takes around 1 hour 48 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Musée International De La Parfumerie (mip), a worthwhile museum known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Grasse Cathedral, a worthwhile church.

Villeneuve-Loubet’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Grasse behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Villeneuve-Loubet welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Escoffier Museum Of Culinary Arts, a beloved museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Nice. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Nice, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant La Planxa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, O’Neill’s Pub offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Véranda is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nice.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Nice and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Nice - Departure day
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  • Castle Hill
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Nice.

For a shopping spree in Nice, we recommend the lively Cours Saleya Market. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Castle Hill. This notable park is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Nice, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider le kawa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Nice and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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