One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon to Marseille, Lyon, and Nimes
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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 Toulon, Hyeres, Marseille, Saint-Péray, Colombier-le-Cardinal, Sainte-Colombe, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Générargues, Nimes, and Montpellier. 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 3 nights in Toulon, 1 night in Marseille, 2 nights in Lyon, and 1 night in Nimes. 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 Toulon, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Toulon, Hyeres, Marseille, Saint-Péray, Colombier-le-Cardinal, Sainte-Colombe, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Générargues, Nimes, and Montpellier, 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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Day 1 – Toulon - arrival day
- Toulon - Arrival day
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- Stade Mayol
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Toulon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Toulon for 2 nights 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.
Toulon 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 Stade Mayol 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 Toulon. 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 in Toulon. 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 La Maison Des Saveurs, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Quaizéro2, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Le Lagon. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulon this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Espit Chupitos Toulon is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Aux 5 Parties Du Monde, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Dry Dock. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Toulon and Hyeres
- Toulon
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Drive 92 km, 2 hours
- Musée National de la Marine
- Stade Mayol
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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Hyeres. You have 1 night left in Toulon. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Toulon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a tramway and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Mont Faron Cableway. Just a short distance away is National Maritime Museum, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Toulon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Holiday Inn Toulon - City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Corsaire PUB boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Goût-Thé II. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Toulon.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Old Coucou after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Temple Beer, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Winny also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3 – Toulon and Marseille
- Toulon
- Marseille
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Drive 85 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Palais Longchamp
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Stade Mayol
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Toulon, 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 2 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Calanques National Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the national park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Parc Borély. This locally renowned park is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, continue your journey to Palais Longchamp, a notable palace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 wonderful meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Mets des Saintes, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Traquenard after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Dame Du Mont, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Polikarpov also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4 – Marseille, Saint-Péray, Colombier-le-Cardinal, Sainte-Colombe, and Lyon
- Marseille
- Saint-Péray
- Colombier-le-Cardinal
- Sainte-Colombe
- Lyon
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Drive 356 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Château de Crussol
- Safari de Peaugres
- Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Saint-Péray, Colombier-le-Cardinal, and Sainte-Colombe, 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.
Today's adventure in Saint-Péray promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saint-Péray may take around 2 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Saint-Péray, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château De Crussol, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws visitors from near and far.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Colombier-le-Cardinal, 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 Saint-Péray to Colombier-le-Cardinal may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Colombier-le-Cardinal, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Safari De Peaugres is a curiosity-inducing safari park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Colombier-le-Cardinal, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sainte-Colombe. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Museum And Site Of Saint-romain-en-gal Vienne, a locally appreciated museum known for its breathtaking features.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Nuage café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Rhône offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Agastache Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 18 km, 56 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lyon for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon.
Lyon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Place Bellecour. Just a short distance away is Lyon Cathedral, a culturally significant church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lyon may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Lyon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that draws attention for its serene features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lyon.
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 a delicious meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The James Joyce Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Broc'bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Passagère is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 6 – Lyon, Générargues, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes
- Lyon
- Générargues
- Nîmes
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Drive 358 km, 5 hours 5 min
- The Bamboo Cevennes
- Pont du Gard
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Générargues, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Générargues. This car ride takes around 3 hours 10 min.
Make your way to The Bamboo Cevennes, a notable botanical garden that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Du Gard. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nimes. This car ride takes around 42 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Clock Tower, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Bonne Mousse is an excellent place to start. You could also check out O’flaherty’s, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is News Café. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 7 – Nimes, Montpellier, and Toulon
- Nîmes
- Montpellier
- Toulon
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Drive 294 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Comedy Square
- promenade of Peyrou
- Arc de Triomphe
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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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 Montpellier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulon, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Montpellier today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Montpellier. This drive usually takes around 50 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Comedy Square is a captivating public square we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour to Promenade Of Peyrou, a culturally significant public square that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Arc De Triomphe, a culturally significant monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a standout and truly unique botanical garden. End your sightseeing at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an intriguing park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Toulon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Au Petit Marché, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Larhumbysoval? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Access - TotalEnergies as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulon.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Best Western Plus Hôtel La Corniche, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Poupoune provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Côté Jardin offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Toulon - departure day
- Toulon - Departure day
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- Stade Mayol
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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 Toulon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Start your day at Parc Du Pré Sandin.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulon.
You’ll then say farewell to Toulon. 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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