One-Week France Road Trip from Nimes to Lyon, Grenoble, Marseille, and Carcassonne and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Nimes and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Nimes for 1 night 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.

Nimes 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 Clock Tower or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Nimes. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.

Savor the flavors at Annaba Café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hôtel des Tuileries beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Vatel and Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Musée de la Romanité. Over 25,271 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews.

Jardin de La Fontaine is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.

When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Haribo Candy Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Sagriès. Rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Café du Rhône, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The James Joyce Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Bron. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Grenoble. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Place Bellecour. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Lyon Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at parc de la Tête d'Or, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Grenoble, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Grenoble.

Savor the flavors at Bar Au RENCARD, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ciao a Te beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Grenoble tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Brasserie La Natation, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Pub Shakesbeer offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pub des copains provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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 Avignon and Marseille. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Grenoble, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Avignon may take around 2 hours 16 min. Upon your arrival in Avignon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Palais des Papes. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors, this palace deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Avignon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marseille. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 visitors.

Next, make your way to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Marseille. Marseille offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La dame du mont. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Polikarpov offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Au Petit Nice, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Kick off the day at Calanques National Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Parc Borély. Parc Borély is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 reviews.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,714 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Palais Longchamp, a famous water tower in Marseille. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Une Table au Sud, a highly-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Coogee, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les 3 Frères. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Marengo after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to L'unic Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Friche la Belle de Mai also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Saint-Martin-de-Crau and Arles. 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.

Saint-Martin-de-Crau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Saint-Martin-de-Crau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arboretum "The Garden of Gaston". This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 746 visitors.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Make L'espace Van Gogh your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,003 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Roman Theatre of Arles. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,900 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Arles Amphitheatre is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 visitors.

When you’re finished at Arles Amphitheatre, the perfect next stop is Jardin d'été. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,025 reviews.

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.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. 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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 travelers from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Narbonne.

Take the opportunity to see Réserve Africaine de Sigean. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 18,879 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nimes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nimes. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a highly-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Pinocchio, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Barjoe Nîmes. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nimes 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 Nimes’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

Make Auguste gate one of your first sightseeing stops in Nimes. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,056 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nimes.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Instant T, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Questel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Royal Hôtel - La Bodeguita.

You’ll then say farewell to Nimes. 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!