9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Montpellier, and Carcassonne and surrounding area

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 3 places, which are Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Musée De La Romanité, a beloved museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Jardin De La Fontaine, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sagriès may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Sagriès, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Haribo Candy Museum, a captivating museum that draws visitors from near and far.

La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sagriès behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Pont Du Gard, an interesting monument that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Lyon by securing a table at Takao Takano. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Le Neuvième Art, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Mère Brazier, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic cuisine in Lyon. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, L' Antiquaire stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pompette is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Lyon and Avignon. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Lyon Cathedral is an essential stop in Lyon. This interesting church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, a picture-perfect museum, promising a delightful encounter.

After soaking in Lyon’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 2 hours 21 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Palais Des Papes, a locally renowned palace that everyone visiting Avignon should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Marseille is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Start your culinary exploration in Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit AM par Alexandre Mazzia, 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 Signature, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Marseille. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nice, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Catch Marseille Cathedral before the crowds roll in. This stunning church is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), an interesting church. For a change of scene, check out Calanques National Park, known for its awe-inspiring features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Nice. Nice offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Nice by booking a table at La Chèvre d'Or, a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Nice, Flaveur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Pure & V is known as a top local spot in Nice for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Les Distilleries Idéales, known for its inviting atmosphere. Diane's is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Wayne's 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 France.

On day 5 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Monaco and Nice. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Nice, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Old Town (Vieux Nice) is a fantastic place you can explore today in Monaco. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Monaco-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Catch Castle Hill before the crowds roll in. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Monaco, Monaco. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a notable aquarium that everyone visiting Monaco should see. Next, head to Prince's Palace Of Monaco. This visually striking palace is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Monte Carlo Casino, a history-steeped casino popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

Nice is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Nice.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a popular restaurant in Nice. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nice at Snug And Cellar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Vingt4. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Nice tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Trafalbar Nice after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bay Side, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Arles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arles. This car ride takes around 2 hours 43 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arles is L'espace Van Gogh, a beloved cultural center that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Saint-trophime Primatial Catholic Church, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Roman Theatre Of Arles, a beloved archeological site that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Arles Amphitheatre, a nearby archeological site, highly recommended by other travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Begin your culinary exploration in Montpellier by securing a reservation at Reflet d'Obione. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jardin des Sens, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Leclère, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Triskell Montpellier, known for its lively atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Montpellier are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Check out the worthwhile park, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. Afterward, continue to Comedy Square, a public square every traveler should visit. As you explore Montpellier’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Arc De Triomphe. This beloved monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Promenade Of Peyrou, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a locally appreciated botanical garden in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a harmony of flavors at La Table de Franck Putelat in Carcassonne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, La Table de Franck Putelat offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 3 places, which are Carcassonne, Générargues, and Anduze. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes, where will spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Carcassonne is only getting started when you visit Château Comtal, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This up-and-coming castle is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Carcassonne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This culturally significant castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Générargues. This car ride takes around 2 hours 27 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Bamboo Cevennes. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Anduze. This drive usually takes around 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Parc Des Cordeliers is a frequently visited park we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Nimes. Nimes 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Nimes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Rouge, a local favorite known for its delightful creative cuisine in Nimes. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for creative foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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