9-Day France Road Trip from Lyon traveling east to Mulhouse, Mâcon, Marseille, Monaco, and Nimes

Welcome to Lyon, 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 Lyon's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Lyon 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 Bellecour 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 Lyon. 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 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.

Dine in style at Café du Rhône, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vieille Canaille. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to L' Antiquaire, known for its inviting atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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 - Lyon, and Caluire-et-Cuire. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Mulhouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lyon Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors.

Next, make your way to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This top attraction is a minor basilica with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

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 22 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Mulhouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Shamrock after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Pub Murphy's for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Quille is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Colmar, and Munster, 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 Mâcon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Colmar. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Drop by the renowned Petite Venise in Colmar. This popular neighborhood has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,311 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Parc du Champ de Mars. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,547 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Munster, 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 Colmar to Munster may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Munster, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc naturel régional des Ballons des Vosges. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 22,175 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mâcon, 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 Mâcon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mâcon.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Avignon, and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Mâcon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 5 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Palais des Papes. Palais des Papes is a palace with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 reviews. Attracting more than 616,210 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marseille. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Palais Longchamp. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors.

When you’re finished at Palais Longchamp, head to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

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 Marseille. Marseille 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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Traquenard, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, La dame du mont provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Polikarpov offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Marseille, and Cannes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Monaco, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Make Marseille Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church building every year.

Calanques National Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cannes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes. This extraordinary movie theater is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 18,284 visitors.

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

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

Dine in style at Steak 'n Shake Monaco, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Bionda boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out La Tavernetta. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Monaco.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Blue Gin, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Nice, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Monaco for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nice, and Monaco to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Journey into the unknown at Prince's Palace of Monaco, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable palace has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,029 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Musée océanographique de Monaco is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,908 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 675,000 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Monaco is Monte Carlo Casino. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 35,526 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Monaco offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking in Monaco’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nice, France. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 34 min. When you arrive in Nice, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Castle Hill. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,646 visitors.

Albert I Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This urban park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,739 travelers.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Casa del Caffe, a popular restaurant in Monaco. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Monaco at Maya Jah, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Sensais. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Monaco tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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 Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Monaco and set your GPS to Les Baux-de-Provence, France. 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 2 hours 51 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 sightseeing destination 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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Les Baux-de-Provence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arles may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Arles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arles Amphitheatre. This extraordinary roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Nimes, 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Galerie, a top-rated dining spot in Nimes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Annaba Café, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel des Tuileries. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Nimes.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La bonne mousse, known for its inviting atmosphere. O’Flaherty’s is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, News Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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 4 vibrant destinations - Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and La Roque-sur-Cèze. 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.

Make Jardin de La Fontaine one of your first sightseeing stops in Nimes. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes 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 33 min. Upon reaching Sagriès, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars from 17,011 visitors.

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 Lyon. Lyon 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 Lyon, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cactus Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L Bar food & drink? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Flair Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.

Keep the evening going at Broc'Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Phantom of the Opera, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, 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 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lyon before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Lyon’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Make Wall of the Canuts one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,157 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try The King Arthur, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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!