One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon traveling north to Marseille, Lyon, Nimes, and Carcassonne
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Toulon, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Sagriès, Nimes, Carcassonne, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence.
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 Toulon, 1 night in Marseille, 2 nights in Lyon, 1 night in Nimes, 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 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Toulon, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, Sagriès, Nimes, Carcassonne, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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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Welcome to Toulon, 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 Toulon's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Toulon. 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Maison Des Saveurs, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Quaizéro2 offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Le Lagon is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulon.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Espit Chupitos Toulon. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Aux 5 Parties Du Monde offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dry Dock, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Toulon and Marseille
- Toulon
- Marseille
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Drive 160 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Musée National de la Marine
- Stade Mayol
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Toulon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Toulon includes a museum, a tramway, and a beach. National Maritime Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Mont Faron Cableway, an often recommended tramway, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Plage De Renécros, a mesmerizing beach, also available for your discovery today.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Chez Roger, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Mets des Saintes? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Marseille.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Traquenard, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Polikarpov. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3 – Marseille and Lyon
- Marseille
- Lyon
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Drive 343 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Place Bellecour
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On day 3 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 Marseille and Lyon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Marseille covers several incredible sights, including a national park, a park, and a church. Start your adventure at Calanques National Park. This well-known national park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Parc Borély, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This interesting church offers an enriching experience.
When you’ve had your share of Marseille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lyon. Your travel time is around 3 hours 8 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Place Bellecour, a well-known public square known for its romantic 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Nuage café, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Forest Society for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Pompette is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 4 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Vaulx-en-Velin
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 48 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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Wake up to day 4 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!
Discover a day packed with a romantic, an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a stunning, and a grand in Lyon. Begin your sightseeing with Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This captivating church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Lyon Cathedral, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
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 Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 15 min.
Begin your journey at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the eye-catching features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vaulx-en-velin. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lyon's best restaurants.
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 excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The James Joyce Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Broc'bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Passagère. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 5 – Lyon, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes
- Lyon
- Sagriès
- Nîmes
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Pont du Gard
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 2 hours 26 min.
Make your way to Pont Du Gard, an interesting monument that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.
After soaking in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sagriès. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to Haribo Candy Museum, a well-known museum that draws attention for its photogenic features.
Nimes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sagriès behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Nimes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Jardin De La Fontaine, a well-known park in Nimes. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Musée De La Romanité. This intriguing museum is a top recommendation in the area.
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.
As you explore more of Nimes, 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.
Savor the flavors at La Galerie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Annaba Café beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel des Tuileries. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Bonne Mousse, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, O’flaherty’s is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, News Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Nimes and Carcassonne
- Nîmes
- Carcassonne
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Drive 206 km, 2 hours 29 min
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. 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.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nimes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carcassonne may take around 2 hours 6 min. Upon your arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Spend your afternoon discovering Cité De Carcassonne, an extraordinary castle known for its visually striking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Basilique Saint Nazaire, a beloved church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Château Comtal and uncover the details of this history-steeped castle. Make sure to also explore Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a frequently visited castle that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 7 – Carcassonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Toulon
- Carcassonne
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Toulon
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Drive 392 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Cité de Carcassonne
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Toulon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Arles allows for both.
When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 2 hours 17 min.
Head to L'espace Van Gogh, a beloved cultural center in Arles. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Arles Amphitheatre. This locally renowned archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.
Les Baux-de-Provence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Arles behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Les Baux-de-Provence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Château Des Baux-de-provence and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Carrières Des Lumières, another highlight in the town.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulon, 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 Toulon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Holiday Inn Toulon - City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Corsaire PUB offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Goût-Thé II is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulon.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Old Coucou, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Temple Beer, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Le Winny provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Toulon’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Start your day with a visit to Parc Du Pré Sandin. This up-and-coming park is a must-visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulon.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Larhumbysoval, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
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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