One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes traveling north to Lyon, Valence, Montpellier, and Toulouse

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 1 night in Valence, 1 night in Montpellier, and 1 night in Toulouse. 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 Pont Du Gard, learn more about the unique Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place Bellecour.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Valence, Largentière, Montpellier, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Béziers, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin de La Fontaine
Museum RomanitéFontaine PradierHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-FourvièreLa Basilique Notre Dame de FourvièreFresque des Lyonnaisparc de la Tête d'OrGrand Parc Miribel Jonage
Place BellecourLyon CathedralMusée Cinéma et Miniature
Grotte Chauvet 2 - ArdècheGrotte Aven Forestière : Grotte en ArdècheAven d'Orgnac
esplanade Charles de GaulleComedy SquareArc de TriompheCité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de Carcassonne
Basilica of St. SerninCouvent des JacobinsJardin des PlantesLes 9 Écluses de Fonseranes
Espeisses Woods

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nîmes - Arrival day
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  • Jardin de La Fontaine
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Welcome to Nimes, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Nimes's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Nimes. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Galerie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Annaba Café offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hôtel des Tuileries is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nimes.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Bonne Mousse, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. O’flaherty’s is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, News Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nîmes
  • Lyon
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 24 min

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

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 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Nimes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum and a monument. Begin your adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This is a curiosity-inducing museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Fontaine Pradier, a locally appreciated monument in Nimes.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Haribo Candy Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Pont Du Gard, another of the city’s well-known attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Le Neuvième Art, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Lyon is Mère Brazier, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious classic menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L' Antiquaire after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Society, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pompette also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 39 km, 1 hour 53 min

  • Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • Fresque des Lyonnais
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Grand Parc Miribel Jonage
  • 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!

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the increasingly popular Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière, a history-steeped museum in Lyon. Next, go to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.

After visiting Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière and Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, have a stroll along Lyon's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Fresque Des Lyonnais. This breathtaking street art offers a unique experience. Parc De La Tête D'or is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, one of the most majestic places to visit in Lyon.

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

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

Dine in style at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bernachon Chocolats boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Mère Léa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The James Joyce Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Broc'bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Passagère also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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
  • Valence
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Place Bellecour
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • Musée Cinéma et Miniature
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Valence, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the locally renowned Place Bellecour, a visually striking public square in Lyon. Next, go to Lyon Cathedral.

After visiting Place Bellecour and Lyon Cathedral, have a stroll along Lyon's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience.

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

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Valence by booking a table at Flaveurs. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Pic, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Les Cèdres, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Valence
  • Montpellier
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche
  • Grotte Aven Forestière : Grotte en Ardèche
  • Aven d'Orgnac
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Largentière. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Montpellier, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Valence on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable cave system, Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche. Afterward, continue to Grotte Aven Forestière : Grotte En Ardèche, a cave every traveler should visit.

As you explore Valence’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Aven D'orgnac. This often recommended cave is an essential stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier's best restaurants.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Montpellier by securing a table at Reflet d'Obione. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and mediterranean menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Jardin des Sens, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Leclère, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Montpellier. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Triskell Montpellier. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Kraken Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Montpellier
  • Toulouse
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Comedy Square
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Montpellier and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Montpellier on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Esplanade Charles De Gaulle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable park before continuing your journey. Comedy Square is your next stop. This well-known public square is one of the best-rated sights in Montpellier.

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 Arc De Triomphe. This breathtaking monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cité De Carcassonne and Château Comtal.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra in Toulouse by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Py-r, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Hedone, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Moloko, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Botanist Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Toulouse. Melting Pot Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Toulouse
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 305 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes
  • More

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 Toulouse and Béziers. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of St. Sernin. This well-known church is a breathtaking place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Couvent Des Jacobins, a historic monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. This locally appreciated botanical garden offers a romantic encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Les 9 Écluses De Fonseranes to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Toulouse.

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.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Nimes by securing a reservation at Duende. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Rouge, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Nîmes - Departure day
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  • Espeisses Woods
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Espeisses Woods. This locally appreciated park is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Nimes’s shopping center, the lively La Coupole des Halles. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.

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

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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