9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling east to Lyon, Annecy, Grenoble, Avignon, and Nice
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 Clermont-Ferrand, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Annecy, 1 night in Grenoble, 1 night in Avignon, and 2 nights in Nice. 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 Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Monte Carlo Casino, learn more about the unique Musée Océanographique De Monaco, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière.
As you hit the open road and drive through Clermont-Ferrand, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Annecy, Grenoble, Avignon, Nice, Monaco, Rougon, and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Clermont-Ferrand - Arrival day
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- place de Jaude
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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 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 Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Clermont-Ferrand, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Clermont-Ferrand tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Les Berthom, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Bar Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Viking Pub Counter offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Lyon
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Drive 178 km, 2 hours 42 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Place Bellecour
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Clermont-Ferrand covers several incredible sights, including a park, a church, and a public square. Start your adventure at Parc De La Tête D'or. This astonishing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a must-see church in the town.
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 Place Bellecour. This captivating public square offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lyon's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nuage café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Café du Rhône offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Agastache Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.
Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pompette, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3
- Lyon
- Annecy
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Lac d'Annecy
- Musée-Château d'Annecy
- Jardins de l'Europe d'Annecy
- Pont des Amours
- Le Pâquier d'Annecy
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Annecy. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Annecy, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Lyon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Lake Annecy. This serene lake is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée-château D'annecy, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Jardins De L'europe D'annecy, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its eye-catching features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Annecy, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Annecy. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4
- Annecy
- Grenoble
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Drive 113 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Bastille
- Jardin des Dauphins
- Museum of Grenoble
- musée de l'Ancien Évêché
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame
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On day 4 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 Grenoble. In the evening, you’ll end up in Grenoble, where you will stay for 1 night.
Annecy is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a park, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Fort De La Bastille and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Jardin Des Dauphins, a mesmerizing park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Musée De Grenoble, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Musée De L'ancien Évêché. When you're finished at the museum, Cathédrale Notre-dame awaits your visit. This church is a heritage-rich highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Grenoble. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Grenoble's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le Rousseau, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Au RENCARD is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Ciao a Te. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Grenoble tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Groove after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brasserie La Natation, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pub Shakesbeer also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5
- Grenoble
- Avignon
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Drive 225 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Pont d'Avignon
- Jardin des doms
- Palais des Papes
- Remparts d'Avignon
- Musée Lapidaire
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Avignon, 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 Avignon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Grenoble on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular historical landmark, Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Afterward, continue to Jardin Des Doms, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore Grenoble’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Palais Des Papes. This locally renowned palace is an essential stop. Following that, head to Remparts D'avignon, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Musée Lapidaire D'avignon, an intriguing museum in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Avignon. Avignon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Avignon. 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 Restaurant Pollen, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuisine de Papa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Barberousse Avignon offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Red Sky is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 6
- Avignon
- Nice
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Drive 270 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Musée Matisse
- Promenade du Paillon
- Fontaine du Soleil
- Castle Hill
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nice. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nice, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Avignon. Begin your sightseeing with Musée Matisse. This locally appreciated museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Promenade Du Paillon, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Avignon, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Fontaine Du Soleil. This intriguing monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Castle Hill, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nice, 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 Nice. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Bocal, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Makassar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Les Amoureux as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Nice.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Les Distilleries Idéales after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Diane's for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Wayne's Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7
- Nice
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Drive 46 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Musée océanographique de Monaco
- Prince's Palace of Monaco
- Collection Privée des Voitures de S A S Le Prince de Monaco
- Monte Carlo Casino
- Place du Casino
- Monte Carlo
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Nice, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Monaco is Monte Carlo. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the locally renowned Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a historic aquarium in Nice. Next, go to Prince's Palace Of Monaco.
After visiting Musée Océanographique De Monaco and Prince's Palace Of Monaco, have a stroll along Nice's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Private Cars Collection Of Hsh Prince Of Monaco. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Monte Carlo Casino is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Place Du Casino, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Nice.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nice.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nice's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Nice. If you're in the mood for something new, try Snug And Cellar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Vingt4. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nice.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Trafalbar Nice, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bay Side offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Nice
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 708 km, 8 hours 37 min
- Tunnel du Baou
- Place de l'église
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rougon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Clermont-Ferrand. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Nice. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cave and a public square. Begin your adventure at Tunnel Du Baou. This is a locally appreciated cave you should not miss. Another must-see is Place De L'église, a locally appreciated public square in Nice.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Clermont-Ferrand. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Fille à papa, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Le Dôme offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Centre Jaude is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Clermont-Ferrand.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, L’arrozoir offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Kokomo is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Des Beaux Arts is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 9
- Clermont-Ferrand - Departure day
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- Jardin Lecoq
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Jardin Lecoq, a detailed park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Clermont-Ferrand’s shopping center, the lively Carré Jaude. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Clermont-Ferrand.
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!
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