One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Aix-en-Provence

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Photo of chaos de Nimes, Nimes le vieux- famous touristic site in France.
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Experience France like never before on this 8-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Nimes, Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, Apt, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Marseille, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and Les Baux-de-Provence. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in France.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Nimes, Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, Apt, Roussillon, Lourmarin, Marseille, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and Les Baux-de-Provence. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Nimes and 3 nights in Aix-en-Provence. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Nimes, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Palais Des Papes.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Pont Du Gard. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Carrières Des Lumières. Get close to the spectacular Calanques National Park and the wonderful Jardin De La Fontaine. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Clock Tower
castellum divisoriumJardin de La Fontainetemple of Diana
Remparts d'AvignonPalais des PapesJardin des domsPont du Gard MuseumPont du Gard
Roman Theatre of ArlesArles AmphitheatreFontaine de la RotondeHôtel de CaumontParoisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
Sénanque AbbeyLe Sentier des OcresPont JulienChâteau de Lourmarin
Basilica of Notre-Dame of la GardeCathédrale La MajorOld Port of MarseilleCalanques National Park
Site Archéologique de GlanumCarrières des LumièresChâteau des Baux-de-Provence
Museum Romanité

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nîmes - Arrival day
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  • Clock Tower
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Nimes, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Nimes and begin your adventure in France.

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 just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nimes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Keep the evening going at La Bonne Mousse, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O’flaherty’s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is News Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Nimes as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nîmes
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Drive 2 km, 35 min

  • castellum divisorium
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • temple of Diana
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Nimes. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Nimes. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Nimes!

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Castellum Divisorium (nîmes). This increasingly popular archeological site is a history-steeped place to see in Nimes. Continue your discovery at Jardin De La Fontaine, a history-steeped park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Nimes, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Temple Of Diana. This curiosity-inducing archeological site offers a symbolic encounter with Nimes. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Nimes.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Nimes has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at La Criée, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Vatel and Spa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Nîmes
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Drive 105 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • Palais des Papes
  • Jardin des doms
  • Pont du Gard Museum
  • Pont du Gard
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nimes and visit amazing attractions in Avignon and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Nimes. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the beloved Remparts D'avignon, a culturally significant historical landmark in Nimes. Next, go to Palais Des Papes.

After visiting Remparts D'avignon and Palais Des Papes, have a stroll along Nimes's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Jardin Des Doms. This enchanting park offers a unique experience. Pont Du Gard Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Pont Du Gard, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Nimes.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Nimes has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pinocchio, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Barjoe Nîmes, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of L'Instant T, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Nîmes
  • Aix-en-Provence
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Drive 113 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Roman Theatre of Arles
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • Fontaine de la Rotonde
  • Hôtel de Caumont
  • Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
  • More

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

Nimes is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Roman Theatre Of Arles, a locally appreciated archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Arles Amphitheatre, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal. Continue your exploration at Fontaine De La Rotonde. This monument is one of the town’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Nimes at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hôtel De Caumont. After exploring the museum, head to the locally appreciated Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Aix-en-Provence. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aix-en-Provence, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Côté Cour, a highly-rated dining destination in Aix-en-Provence. If you're eager to try something different, consider Château de Beaupré, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aix-en-Provence this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at Le Brigand, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Céleste, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Drive 158 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Sénanque Abbey
  • Le Sentier des Ocres
  • Pont Julien
  • Château de Lourmarin
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Aix-en-Provence and beyond. With 2 nights left in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Aix-en-Provence. Begin your sightseeing with Sénanque Abbey. This curiosity-inducing monastery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Le Sentier Des Ocres, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Aix-en-Provence, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Pont Julien. This locally appreciated monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Château De Lourmarin, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at O'Gustus restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Aix-en-Provence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Temps, a popular restaurant in Aix-en-Provence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le bouche à Oreille, a hidden gem nestled in Aix-en-Provence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Aix-en-Provence. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the evening going at St James Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Aix-en-Provence!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Aix-en-Provence
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Cathédrale La Major
  • Old Port of Marseille
  • Calanques National Park
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Aix-en-Provence will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Aix-en-Provence, including a church, a marina, and a national park. Start your day with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This popular church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Marseille Cathedral, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Aix-en-Provence 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 Old Port Of Marseille, an underrated marina in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Calanques National Park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Aix-en-Provence and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Aix-en-Provence.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nino Café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Mado is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Jardin d'Amalula. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aix-en-Provence tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Aix-en-Provence and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Nîmes
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Site Archéologique de Glanum
  • Carrières des Lumières
  • Château des Baux-de-Provence
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Immerse yourself in Aix-en-Provence’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Site Archéologique De Glanum. This culturally significant archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Carrières Des Lumières, a must-visit art installation in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a notable castle.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Nimes. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Questel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Royal Hôtel - La Bodeguita? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Locanda Comptoir italien as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nimes.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Nimes and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Nîmes - Departure day
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  • Museum Romanité
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Nimes.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Nimes’s popular marketplace, Carré d'Art. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Musée De La Romanité. This beloved museum is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Nimes or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try 3 Brasseurs Nîmes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Nimes and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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