One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon traveling west to Avignon, Lyon, Nimes, Carcassonne, and Marseille

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Photo of freedom square or Place de la Liberte in the centre of Toulon city in France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Toulon, Avignon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Sagriès, Nimes, Gruissan, Carcassonne, Montpellier, and Marseille.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Toulon, 1 night in Avignon, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Nimes, 1 night in Carcassonne, and 1 night in Marseille. 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 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, Avignon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Sagriès, Nimes, Gruissan, Carcassonne, Montpellier, and Marseille, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Toulon - Arrival day
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  • Parc des Lices
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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 discovering what to see in Toulon 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 Parc Des Lices. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Toulon. Make yourself at home and unwind 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 Toulon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Maison Des Saveurs, an iconic dining spot in Toulon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Quaizéro2, a popular restaurant in Toulon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Le Lagon, a hidden gem nestled in Toulon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Espit Chupitos Toulon, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Aux 5 Parties Du Monde provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dry Dock offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Toulon
  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 181 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • Musée National de la Marine
  • Stade Mayol
  • Mont Faron cableway
  • Jardin du Las
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Toulon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Avignon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

National Maritime Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Stade Mayol, an increasingly popular stadium, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Mont Faron Cableway, a romantic tramway, also available for your discovery today.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Avignon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Avignon is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Avignon.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Pollen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Cuisine de Papa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Avignon.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Barberousse Avignon offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Red Sky, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Avignon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 248 km, 3 hours 15 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 1 night.

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 Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 2 hours 27 min.

Savor the day by heading to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lyon. This car ride takes around 24 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Spend some time admiring the grand features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Lyon Cathedral. This captivating church is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Place Bellecour. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. L' Antiquaire is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Society, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pompette. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Lyon
  • Sagriès
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 273 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Pont du Gard
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Museum Romanité
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lyon behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 28 min. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and set your GPS to Sagriès. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Sagriès, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Haribo Candy Museum, a notable museum known for its eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nimes. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Jardin De La Fontaine is a well-known park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Musée De La Romanité, an eye-catching museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at La Bonne Mousse. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O’flaherty’s, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, News Café provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Nîmes
  • Gruissan
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 255 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Gruissan, Narbonne, and Carcassonne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

As you explore Gruissan’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gruissan. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, an underrated nature reserve that everyone visiting Gruissan should see.

When you’ve had your share of Gruissan, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Narbonne. Your travel time is around 42 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Narbonne is Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a popular wildlife reserve that draws attention for its enchanting features.

When you’ve had your share of Narbonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Carcassonne. Your travel time is around 51 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cité De Carcassonne and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Château Comtal, another highlight in Carcassonne.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Carcassonne
  • Montpellier
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 321 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Comedy Square
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Montpellier. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Marseille, where you'll spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Montpellier may take around 1 hour 46 min. Upon your arrival in Montpellier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier is an underrated botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Arc De Triomphe, a breathtaking monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Comedy Square, a romantic public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic and truly unique park.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, 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 Les Mets des Saintes, 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 Hôtel Maison Montgrand 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Traquenard, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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 France.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Marseille
  • Avignon
  • Toulon
  • More

Drive 283 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Palais des Papes
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Calanques National Park
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Avignon and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Toulon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your day at Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Then, wander over to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). If romantic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Calanques National Park. This eye-catching national park is a favorite among visitors.

Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Palais Des Papes and explore the UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulon. Check in and relax 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 Toulon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Toulon - Departure day
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  • Sculpture de Bateau
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Sculpture De Bateau, a detailed art installation before you head out.

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

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.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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