One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nice traveling west to Nimes, Carcassonne, and Marseille
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Nice, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Nimes, Le Grau-du-Roi, Aigues-Mortes, Sagriès, Carcassonne, Montpellier, Marseille, and Monaco.
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, 2 nights in Nimes, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 1 night in Marseille. 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 Monte Carlo Casino are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Nice, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Nimes, Le Grau-du-Roi, Aigues-Mortes, Sagriès, Carcassonne, Montpellier, Marseille, and Monaco, 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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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Nice - arrival day
- Nice - Arrival day
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- Jardin Albert 1er
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Say hello to Nice! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Nice for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 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 in Nice. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bocal, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Makassar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Les Amoureux. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nice.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Les Distilleries Idéales, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Diane's, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Wayne's Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Nice
- Nice
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Drive 171 km, 4 hours 25 min
- Castle Hill
- Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice
- Parc Phœnix
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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Nice. You have 1 night left in Nice. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a majestic, an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, and a majestic. Whether you decide to explore Nice on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Castle Hill is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic park before continuing your journey. Cathédrale Saint-nicolas De Nice is your next stop. This often recommended church is one of the best-rated sights in Nice.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Parc Phœnix. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a sight to behold.
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 Nice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Snug And Cellar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Vingt4 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nice.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Trafalbar Nice. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bay Side, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3 – Nice, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, and Nimes
- Nice
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Arles
- Nîmes
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Drive 298 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
- Castle Hill
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Les Baux-de-Provence 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Set your GPS to Les Baux-de-Provence and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Les Baux-de-Provence beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Château Des Baux-de-provence, a captivating castle known for its culturally significant features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Carrières Des Lumières, a locally renowned art installation that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Les Baux-de-Provence to Arles may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arles Amphitheatre, a notable archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Musée Départemental De L'arles Antique, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.
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 explore more of Nimes, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Bonne Mousse, known for its inviting atmosphere. O’flaherty’s is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, News Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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 – Nimes, Le Grau-du-Roi, Aigues-Mortes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Sagriès
- Nîmes
- Le Grau-du-Roi
- Aigues-Mortes
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Drive 166 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Plage Rive Gauche
- Pont du Gard
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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On day 4 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Nimes for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Le Grau-du-Roi, Aigues-Mortes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s route brings a charming, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a historically significant, a symbolic, and a detailed. The first attraction of today is Jardin De La Fontaine. This well-known park is a romantic place to see in Nimes.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Le Grau-du-Roi. 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 54 min. Upon reaching Le Grau-du-Roi, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Plage Rive Gauche.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aigues-Mortes. This car ride takes around 9 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes, an intriguing castle that everyone visiting Aigues-Mortes should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 54 min.
Head to Pont Du Gard Museum, a beloved museum in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Pont Du Gard. This interesting monument is a top recommendation in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nimes and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nimes's best restaurants.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5 – Nimes and Carcassonne
- Nîmes
- Carcassonne
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Museum Romanité
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
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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 - Nimes and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with a photogenic and a historic. Start at the increasingly popular Musée De La Romanité, a history-steeped museum in Nimes.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nimes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carcassonne may take around 2 hours 1 min. Upon your arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Basilique Saint Nazaire and explore the majestic features. Next, make your way to Château Comtal, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a history-steeped castle.
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.
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 a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 6 – Carcassonne, Montpellier, and Marseille
- Carcassonne
- Montpellier
- Marseille
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Drive 323 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Arc de Triomphe
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Planet Ocean World
- Cité de Carcassonne
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Montpellier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montpellier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive in Montpellier, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to Arc De Triomphe, a frequently visited monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Comedy Square, a romantic public square that stands out in the city. Next, visit Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an increasingly popular park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Planet Ocean World, a nearby aquarium, which is highly recommended by other 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Chez Roger, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Mets des Saintes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Traquenard, known for its lively atmosphere. La Dame Du Mont is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Polikarpov offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7 – Marseille, Monaco, and Nice
- Marseille
- Monaco
- Nice
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Drive 253 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Musée océanographique de Monaco
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Princess Grace Japanese Garden
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On day 7 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 Nice, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Monaco, Monaco. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Monaco. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a notable aquarium that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Prince's Palace Of Monaco, where you can soak in the history-steeped surroundings. Next, explore Monte Carlo Casino, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the casino, make time to go to Princess Grace Japanese Garden. This mesmerizing botanical garden is well worthwhile the visit.
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 Nice. Nice 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nice's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel West End Nice, a top-rated dining destination in Nice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Z Restaurant Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café de Nice. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nice this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Nice - departure day
- Nice - Departure day
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- Promenade du Paillon
- Castle Hill
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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.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Nice’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start your day with a visit to Promenade Du Paillon. This often recommended park is a must-visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nice.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant La Planxa, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try O’Neill’s Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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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