9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan to Marseille, Lyon, Beaune, Paris, and Clermont-Ferrand
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Perpignan, Marseille, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Orléans, Clermont-Ferrand, and Béziers.
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 Perpignan, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Beaune, 2 nights in Paris, and 1 night in Clermont-Ferrand. 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 Perpignan, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Marseille, Avignon, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Beaune, Paris, Orléans, Clermont-Ferrand, and Béziers, 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
- Perpignan - Arrival day
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- Place de Catalogne
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Welcome to Perpignan, 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 Perpignan's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Perpignan 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 Catalogne or 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 Perpignan. 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 in Perpignan. 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 Le 17, a highly-rated dining destination in Perpignan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffalo Grill Perpignan. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Perpignan this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dry States, known for its inviting atmosphere. Black Pearl 66 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café De La Source provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Perpignan
- Marseille
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Drive 318 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Perpignan Cathedral
- Musée Hyacinthe-Rigaud
- Palais des rois de Majorque
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On day 2 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 Perpignan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Perpignan covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, and a palace. Start your adventure at Perpignan Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Musée Hyacinthe-rigaud, a must-see museum in the city.
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 Palace Of The Kings Of Majorca. This worthwhile palace offers an enriching experience.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Traquenard, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Dame Du Mont, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Polikarpov likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
- Avignon
- Lyon
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Drive 337 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with a stunning, an instagrammable, a charming, a respected, a culturally significant, and a grand in Marseille. Begin your sightseeing with Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This locally appreciated tramway is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), an interesting historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Palais Des Papes and admire its picture-perfect features.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Nuage café, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Café du Rhône? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Agastache Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.
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.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Beaune
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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On day 4 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 Beaune, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of a romantic, an enchanting, an eye-catching, a standout, a grand, a detailed, and a culturally significant. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Place Bellecour. This captivating public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Lyon Cathedral, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, one of the most notable places to see in Lyon. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that draws attention for its romantic features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Beaune, 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 Beaune's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Ermitage de Corton, a top-rated dining destination in Beaune. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistrot du Coin, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bout du Monde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Beaune this 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 5
- Beaune
- Paris
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Drive 314 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Panthéon
- Louvre Museum
- Tuileries Garden
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Paris. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Paris, 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 Beaune to Paris may take around 3 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Panthéon, an interesting monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Louvre Museum and admire its eye-catching features. When you’re ready, continue to Tuileries Garden, an impressive park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Notre-dame De Paris, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mumi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Imprévu Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café De Paris V after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dirty Dick for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Red Door is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Paris
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- place de la Concorde
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, an enchanting, a photogenic, a standout, a profound, a culturally significant, and a detailed in Paris. Begin your sightseeing with Sacré-cœur. This timeless church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Place De La Concorde, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Paris, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe. This timeless monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Eiffel Tower, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Champ De Mars and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most iconic 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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.
Make sure to book a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Sens Unique, 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 Le Caveau de l'isle. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Paris tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Boucan offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Mamie Paris is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 7
- Paris
- Orléans
- Clermont-Ferrand
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Drive 433 km, 4 hours 55 min
- Musée d'Orsay
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Orléans Cathedral
- Louvre Museum
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Paris and Orléans, 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 Clermont-Ferrand. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a respected, and a noteworthy! Start at Musée D'orsay, a top-rated museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Jardin Du Luxembourg, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Orléans, 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 Paris to Orléans may take around 1 hour 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Orléans, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Orléans Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the church before you continue to your next stop.
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 Clermont-Ferrand. Clermont-Ferrand 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Clermont-Ferrand's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Comptoir Des Saveurs, an iconic dining spot in Clermont-Ferrand. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand, a popular restaurant in Clermont-Ferrand. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Le 62, Bib Gourmand Michelin, terrasse ombragée, a hidden gem nestled in Clermont-Ferrand. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue your lively evening at Les Berthom, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Bar Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Viking Pub Counter ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Clermont-Ferrand
- Béziers
- Perpignan
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Drive 442 km, 4 hours 57 min
- place de Jaude
- Jardin Lecoq
- Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes
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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 Clermont-Ferrand and Béziers. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perpignan, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Clermont-Ferrand’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Place De Jaude. This visually striking public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Jardin Lecoq, a must-visit park in the city.
Set your GPS to Béziers and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Béziers beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Les 9 Écluses De Fonseranes, an interesting historical landmark known for its picture-perfect features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Perpignan, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Perpignan, 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 a delicious meal at Access - TotalEnergies, a highly-rated dining destination in Perpignan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Tartard, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Perpignan this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Perpignan and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 9
- Perpignan - Departure day
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- Escala monumental
- Perpignan Cathedral
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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 Perpignan before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Perpignan's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Today's adventure in Perpignan promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Escala Monumental. This picture-perfect monument is a highlight of any visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Perpignan.
Have a fantastic dining experience at EVEREST RESTAURANT, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arena Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Perpignan. 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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