9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille traveling west to Montpellier, Toulouse, Nimes, Lyon, and Avignon

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Marseille on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned national park, Calanques National Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Parc Borély. A visit to this park is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Marseille’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Palais Longchamp. This interesting palace is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and learn why this church is renowned as one of the city's most popular attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Le Petit Nice offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Signature, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Au Petit Nice, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Marengo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, L'unic Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Arles today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Alpilles Natural Regional Park, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve known for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence.

Château Des Baux-de-provence is a well-known castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Carrières Des Lumières, a picture-perfect art installation that’s well-regarded in the area.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Roman Theatre Of Arles and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre, another highlight in the city.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Reflet d'Obione, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Jardin des Sens is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Montpellier. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Leclère. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Triskell Montpellier, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Kraken Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Le Rebuffy likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Montpellier, 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 1 hour 43 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Cité De Carcassonne, an astonishing castle that everyone visiting Carcassonne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This history-steeped castle is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Château Comtal, an UNESCO world heritage-listed castle, popular among locals as well as travelers. Basilique Saint Nazaire is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular church before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, 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 Toulouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra in Toulouse by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Py-r, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Hedone, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Moloko, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Botanist Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse and Gruissan, 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Toulouse, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Couvent Des Jacobins, a curiosity-inducing monastery in the city. Then, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.

There are many interesting places to see in Toulouse and when you are ready for more, go to Jardin Des Plantes. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Toulouse and set your GPS to Gruissan. 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 40 min. Upon reaching Gruissan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a beloved nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nimes is Rouge, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Bonne Mousse offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, O’flaherty’s is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. News Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. 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.

Start your adventure at Jardin De La Fontaine. This well-known park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sagriès, 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 Nimes to Sagriès may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sagriès, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Haribo Candy Museum, a popular museum known for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Sagriès’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.

Pont Du Gard is an interesting monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pont Du Gard Museum, an UNESCO world heritage-designated museum that’s well-regarded 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 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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Lyon by securing a reservation at Takao Takano. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into L' Antiquaire. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pompette, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Place Bellecour is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting public square before continuing your journey. Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière is your next stop. This notable church is one of the best-rated sights in Lyon.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park that draws attention for its serene features.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Avignon by booking a table at La Vieille Fontaine, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Avignon, La Mirande shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Pollen is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Avignon. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, known for its lively atmosphere. Barberousse Avignon is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Red Sky offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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.

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 Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the locally renowned Palais Des Papes, a historic palace in Avignon. Next, go to Jardin Des Doms.

After visiting Palais Des Papes and Jardin Des Doms, take time to explore Avignon's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This enchanting historical landmark offers a unique experience.

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 Aix-en-Provence. Your travel time is around 46 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Fontaine De La Rotonde, an underrated monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Une Table au Sud, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Bovo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Maison MV is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Friche La Belle De Mai, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Bar De La Plaine offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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