One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling west to Marseille, Carcassonne, and Nimes

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Nice has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Nice by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nice, including a park, a church, and a botanical garden. Start your day with a visit to Castle Hill. This captivating park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Nice on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Parc Phœnix, one of the city’s most often recommended botanical garden.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Nice as you explore Nice Etoile Shopping Center. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Nice Etoile Shopping Center offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nice by reserving a table at La Chèvre d'Or. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Flaveur, renowned for its delectable creative 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 Pure & V, 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 Nice.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Monaco. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Monaco today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Nice’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Monaco, Monaco. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Monaco, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Prince's Palace Of Monaco, a notable palace that everyone visiting Monaco should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Musée Océanographique De Monaco. This standout aquarium is one of the most captivating attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Monte Carlo Casino, a standout casino, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Le Petit Nice delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Signature, 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 Le Traquenard, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Dame Du Mont. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Polikarpov, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 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 Marseille and Castelnau-le-Lez. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Marseille Cathedral. This culturally significant church is a captivating place to see in Marseille. Then, wander over to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). If visually striking sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley.

Set your GPS to Castelnau-le-Lez and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castelnau-le-Lez beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Castle Park Grammont. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Carcassonne by securing a reservation at La Table de Franck Putelat. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 3 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Château Comtal. This symbolic castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Cité De Carcassonne, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

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

Take your self-guided tour to Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a locally renowned wildlife reserve that everyone visiting Narbonne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Narbonne and set your GPS to Gruissan. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Gruissan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan is a frequently visited nature reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Nimes by securing a reservation at Duende. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, celebrated for its delectable 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 Rouge, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at La Bonne Mousse, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O’flaherty’s is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, News Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your day with a visit to Jardin De La Fontaine. This popular park is a must-visit in the village.

When you’ve had your share of Nimes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Saint-Jean-du-Gard. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Steam Train Of Cevennes, an often recommended heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Saint-Jean-du-Gard and set your GPS to Générargues. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Générargues, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Bamboo Cevennes, a well-known botanical garden known for its romantic features.

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

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

Dine in style at La Criée, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Vatel and Spa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes and Les Baux-de-Provence. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nice, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the locally appreciated Musée De La Romanité, a photogenic museum in Nimes.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Château Des Baux-de-provence, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Carrières Des Lumières and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nice. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dine in style at Hôtel West End Nice, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Z Restaurant Tapas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café de Nice. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nice.

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