One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling west to Marseille, Carcassonne, and Nimes
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Nice, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 2 nights in Nimes. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Nice, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Monte Carlo Casino, learn more about the unique Pont Du Gard, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Musée Océanographique De Monaco.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nice, Monaco, Marseille, Castelnau-le-Lez, Carcassonne, Gruissan, Nimes, Saint-Jean-du-Gard, Générargues, Sagriès, and Les Baux-de-Provence, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Nice - Arrival day
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- Jardin Albert 1er
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Nice and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Nice for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Nice is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Albert I Garden, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Nice. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Bocal, a top-rated dining destination in Nice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Makassar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Amoureux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nice this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Les Distilleries Idéales, known for its inviting atmosphere. Diane's is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wayne's Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Nice
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Drive 171 km, 4 hours 25 min
- Castle Hill
- Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
- Parc Phœnix
- Mercantour National Park
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Nice. You’ll stay in Nice for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Nice. Begin your sightseeing with Castle Hill. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Nice, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Parc Phœnix. This intriguing botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Mercantour National Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Nice by securing a reservation at La Chèvre d'Or. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Flaveur, celebrated for its delectable creative 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 Pure & V, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Trafalbar Nice, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bay Side is another popular option for a drink or two.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3
- Nice
- Marseille
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Musée océanographique de Monaco
- Monte Carlo Casino
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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 Monaco. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.
Nice is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, an aquarium, and a casino. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Prince's Palace Of Monaco and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a historic aquarium that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Monte Carlo Casino, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit AM par Alexandre Mazzia, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Signature, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Traquenard offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Polikarpov is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 4
- Marseille
- Carcassonne
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Drive 321 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Cathédrale La Major
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Castle Park Grammont
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Marseille and Castelnau-le-Lez. 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.
Marseille is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Marseille Cathedral, a well-known church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Castle Park Grammont. This park is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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!
Day 5
- Carcassonne
- Nîmes
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Réserve Africaine de Sigean
- Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan, 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Carcassonne, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Château Comtal, a curiosity-inducing castle in the town. Then, head to Cité De Carcassonne and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Carcassonne, and when you are ready for more, go to Réserve Africaine De Sigean. This is one of the town’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the wildlife reserve, visit the beloved Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Duende in Nimes by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Duende delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Rouge, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.
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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Nîmes
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Drive 194 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Steam train of Cevennes
- The Bamboo Cevennes
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Pont du Gard
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, Générargues, Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You still have 1 night left in Nimes.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Nimes, including a heritage railway, a botanical garden, a park, a museum, a monument and much more! Start your day at Steam Train Of Cevennes. This instagrammable heritage railway is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Nimes. Then, wander over to The Bamboo Cevennes. If stunning sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Jardin De La Fontaine. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.
Nimes offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Haribo Candy Museum is a popular spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the romantic Pont Du Gard. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known monument.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nimes.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Criée, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Vatel and Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 7
- Nîmes
- Nice
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Museum Romanité
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Nimes and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nice, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Musée De La Romanité, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Château Des Baux-de-provence, another must-visit landmark and popular castle renowned for its enchanting features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Nimes by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This mesmerizing art installation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Nimes experience.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nice, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Nice, 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.
Savor the flavors at Hôtel West End Nice, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Z Restaurant Tapas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café de Nice. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nice tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Nice - Departure day
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- Promenade du Paillon
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nice before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Promenade Du Paillon. This often recommended park is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Nice's best shopping area, Cours Saleya Market. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nice.
Dine in style at Restaurant La Planxa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, O’Neill’s Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Nice. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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