9-Day France Road Trip from Montpellier traveling east to Marseille, Valence, and Lyon

On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in La Grande-Motte, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Montpellier for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience La Grande-Motte, and Montpellier to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Planet Ocean World. This extraordinary aquarium has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,786 visitors.

Next, make your way to Comedy Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews.

While in Montpellier, we also recommend a visit to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,915 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 travelers, this botanical garden is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Montpellier.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Montpellier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Grande-Motte may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in La Grande-Motte, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sunset Beach. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,416 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Montpellier.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Montpellier by booking a table at Reflet d'Obione, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern, and mediterranean menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Jardin des Sens, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Leclère, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Montpellier. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Black Out. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Petit Nice, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Marseille. You have 1 night left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Calanques National Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 visitors.

Next, make your way to Parc Borély. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,618 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Marseille Cathedral. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,714 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Palais Longchamp. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Marseille, 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 wonderful meal at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Une Table au Sud, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Coogee. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Au Petit Nice, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Marengo is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'unic Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Marseille, and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Old Port of Marseille. This seaport has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,120 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 visitors.

After soaking in Marseille’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 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Palais des Papes. This palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 616,210 people visit it every year.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Valence by securing a reservation at Flaveurs. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Pic, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cachette, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Sône, and Grenoble. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to La Sône and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Sône beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Fontaines Pétrifiantes Garden, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,128 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grenoble. This car ride takes around 52 min.

Take the opportunity to see Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,504 visitors.

Fort de La Bastille is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,303 travelers.

Grenoble is also the home of Musée de Grenoble. Around 3,100 people have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and 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 Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at L' Antiquaire, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Black Forest Society offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The James Joyce Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lyon for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon.

Make Place Bellecour one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lyon Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

After soaking in Vaulx-en-velin’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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,314 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vaulx-en-velin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at parc de la Tête d'Or, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction 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 return to Lyon and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cactus Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try L Bar food & drink, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Flair Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Broc'Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Phantom of the Opera offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!