9-Day France Road Trip from Clermont-Ferrand traveling east to Valence, Marseille, Nimes, and Lyon

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Clermont-Ferrand and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Clermont-Ferrand for 1 night 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.

Clermont-Ferrand 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 place de Jaude 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Les BerThoM, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Bar Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Viking Pub Counter also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Valence. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral, a remarkable catholic cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,232 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Panoramic Domes. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,215 travelers.

L'Aventure Michelin is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,701 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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 vibrant destinations - Avignon and Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palais des Papes. This palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers from near and far. Approximately 616,210 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Avignon.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marseille. This car ride takes around 1 hour 15 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars in 16,249 reviews.

Continue your journey at Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers from near and far.

Marseille is also the home of Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Marseille. Marseille offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, 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 AM par Alexandre Mazzia, 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 La dame du mont, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Polikarpov offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Au Petit Nice provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Marseille has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Marseille by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Calanques National Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Parc Borély is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,618 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.

Marseille Cathedral is another outstanding experience in Marseille. Around 12,714 travelers have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Palais Longchamp is not far away. This water tower is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Marseille, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Marseille below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Une Table au Sud, a highly-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're eager to try something different, consider Coogee, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les 3 Frères. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Marengo offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, L'unic Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Friche la Belle de Mai is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Les Baux-de-Provence and Arles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Les Baux-de-Provence. 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 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Les Baux-de-Provence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Château des Baux-de-Provence. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,346 visitors.

Next, make your way to Carrières des Lumières. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 22,791 reviews.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Les Baux-de-Provence behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Arles Amphitheatre. This popular roman amphitheatre has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nimes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Annaba Café, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hôtel des Tuileries? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hotel Vatel and Spa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nimes.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Nimes, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Largentière.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche. This art gallery is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,350 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Courry, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Générargues may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Générargues, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grotte de la Cocalière. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,740 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Générargues. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Bamboo Cevennes. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,234 reviews.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pinocchio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Barjoe Nîmes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nimes.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Musée de la Romanité. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews. Each year, 25,271 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Jardin de La Fontaine. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

After soaking in Nimes’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 33 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café du Rhône, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clermont-Ferrand, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fresque des Lyonnais. This fresco is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make parc de la Tête d'Or one of your first sightseeing stops in Caluire-et-Cuire. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Clermont-Ferrand. Clermont-Ferrand offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Clermont-Ferrand, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Clermont-Ferrand - Le Brézet, a top-rated dining destination in Clermont-Ferrand. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Lard De Vivre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bar d'O. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Clermont-Ferrand this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at L’Arrozoir, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Kokomo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Des Beaux Arts, another top-rated place in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Clermont-Ferrand before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Clermont-Ferrand’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in France, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of France home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Jardin Lecoq. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,878 visitors.

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

Savor the flavors at La Gourmandine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Compt(o)ir beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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!