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

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Description

Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Avignon, Marseille, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Carcassonne. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Nimes, 2 nights in Lyon, 2 nights in Marseille, and 1 night in Carcassonne. 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 Nimes, 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 Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), learn more about the unique Palais Des Papes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pont Du Gard.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Avignon, Marseille, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Carcassonne, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin de La Fontaine
Museum RomanitéHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
parc de la Tête d'OrPlace BellecourLyon CathedralLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Pont d'AvignonPalais des PapesMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanCentre Commercial Centre Bourse
Calanques National ParkParc BorélyBasilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeCathédrale La MajorPalais Longchamp
Alpilles Natural Regional ParkChâteau des Baux-de-ProvenceCarrières des LumièresArles Amphitheatre
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseGrotte de Limousis
Porta Augusta

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nîmes - Arrival day
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  • Jardin de La Fontaine
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Say hello to Nimes! 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 Nimes for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Jardin De La Fontaine 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 Nimes. 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 Nimes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at La Galerie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Annaba Café boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel des Tuileries. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Bonne Mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nîmes
  • Sagriès
  • Lyon
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Drive 273 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Museum Romanité
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Pont du Gard
  • More

On day 2 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 Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day with a visit to Musée De La Romanité. This often recommended museum is a must-visit in the city.

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!

Haribo Candy Museum is a captivating museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Sagriès, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Head to Pont Du Gard, a locally renowned monument in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. 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 Lyon's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Nuage café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café du Rhône beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Agastache Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into L' Antiquaire. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pompette, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lyon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • More

Drive 18 km, 55 min

  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Place Bellecour
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Lyon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Place Bellecour. This notable public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Lyon Cathedral, one of the town’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Lyon. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Keep the evening going at The James Joyce Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Broc'bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is La Passagère, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lyon
  • Avignon
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 334 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Palais des Papes
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Avignon and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Avignon. Your travel time is around 2 hours 19 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a locally renowned historical landmark known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Palais Des Papes, a locally renowned palace that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

When you’ve had your share of Avignon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Marseille. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Next, make your way to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse, another highlight in the city.

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 Marseille. Marseille 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 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 delicious dinner at Chez Roger, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Mets des Saintes offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le Traquenard is an excellent place to start. You could also check out La Dame Du Mont, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Polikarpov. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 38 km, 1 hour 43 min

  • Calanques National Park
  • Parc Borély
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Cathédrale La Major
  • Palais Longchamp
  • More

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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Marseille, including a national park, a park, a church, a palace and much more! Start your day with a visit to Calanques National Park. This interesting national park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc Borély, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Marseille 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 Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), one of the city’s most notable church. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Marseille Cathedral and Palais Longchamp.

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 Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Bistro Du Panier, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Au Petit Nice, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Marengo, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'unic Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Marseille
  • Arles
  • Les Baux-de-Provence
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 336 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Alpilles Natural Regional Park
  • Château des Baux-de-Provence
  • Carrières des Lumières
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

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 Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arles. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Alpilles Natural Regional Park, an often recommended nature reserve that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Upon reaching Les Baux-de-Provence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Les Baux-de-Provence should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This breathtaking art installation is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Arles Amphitheatre, a locally renowned archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 245 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

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.

Start by visiting Château Comtal, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cité De Carcassonne, another must-visit landmark and impressive castle renowned for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Carcassonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This enchanting church is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marmonières. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Grotte De Limousis, an up-and-coming cave that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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 highly-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Vatel and Spa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying 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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Nîmes - Departure day
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  • Porta Augusta
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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 Nimes before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Nimes's best shopping area, Carré d'Art. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nimes today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Auguste Gate. This history-steeped historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top.

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

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Barjoe Nîmes, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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!

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