One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Lyon, Marseille, and Carcassonne and surrounding area

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This often recommended museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Set your GPS to Sagriès and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sagriès beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Haribo Candy Museum, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Pont Du Gard is a locally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking 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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon, 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.

Dine in style at Nuage café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café du Rhône boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Agastache Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. You still have 1 night left in Lyon.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Lyon allows for both. Start by heading to Place Bellecour. This notable public square provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Lyon Cathedral, a culturally significant church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a popular church.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, an impressive park known for its eye-catching features.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Bernachon Chocolats, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is La Mère Léa. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lyon tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The James Joyce Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Broc'bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook La Passagère, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Avignon and Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a locally renowned historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Palais Des Papes and admire its historic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Marseille, 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 Avignon to Marseille may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Marseille, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a locally renowned museum that everyone visiting Marseille should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Les Mets des Saintes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Traquenard, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings a charming, a beautiful, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a respected, a noteworthy, a stunning, and a culturally significant. The first attraction of today is Calanques National Park. This locally renowned national park is a mesmerizing place to see in Marseille. Continue your discovery at Parc Borély, a history-steeped park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Marseille, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This well-known church offers a romantic encounter with Marseille. Marseille Cathedral is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Marseille.

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 explore more of Marseille, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Le Bistro Du Panier, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Marseille at Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to 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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arles. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Begin your journey at Alpilles Natural Regional Park and explore the serene features.

Make your way to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a popular castle that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Carrières Des Lumières, an awe-inspiring art installation that stands out in the city.

After soaking in Marseille’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Arles Amphitheatre, a popular archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Marmonières, 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 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a standout, a majestic, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a sacred. Start at the increasingly popular Château Comtal, a history-steeped castle in Carcassonne. Next, go to Cité De Carcassonne.

After visiting Château Comtal and Cité De Carcassonne, take time to explore Carcassonne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This history-steeped church offers a unique experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Marmonières. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grotte De Limousis, an often recommended cave known for its visually striking features.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Criée, a top-rated dining spot in Nimes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Vatel and Spa, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nimes.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!