9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulon traveling west to Valence, Lyon, Nimes, and Marseille

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 Rive-de-Gier and Glandieu. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Rive-de-Gier promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

After soaking in Valence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rive-de-Gier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Rive-de-Gier, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Espace Zoologique De Saint-martin-la-plaine, an increasingly popular zoo that everyone visiting Rive-de-Gier should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glandieu, 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 Rive-de-Gier to Glandieu may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Glandieu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Glandieu Falls, an increasingly popular waterfall in Glandieu. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Takao Takano offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Le Neuvième Art, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Mère Brazier, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional classic menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at L' Antiquaire. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Society, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pompette provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

On day 4 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Lyon for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s agenda in Lyon includes a street art and a church. Fresque Des Lyonnais is must-visit street art and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a locally renowned church, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a notable park known for its gorgeous features.

Caluire-et-Cuire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vaulx-en-velin behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Caluire-et-Cuire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Parc De La Tête D'or and explore the awe-inspiring features.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bernachon Chocolats beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Mère Léa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The James Joyce Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Broc'bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Passagère provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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 Lyon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, an enchanting, a picture-perfect, a heritage-rich, a majestic, a masterful, and a profound! Start at Place Bellecour, a well-known public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lyon Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. This museum is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.

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 Nimes. Nimes 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 Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a memorable dining experience in Nimes by booking a table at Duende, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Nimes, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-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, Rouge is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Nimes. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Bonne Mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. 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!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, Nimes, and Aigues-Mortes. You still have 1 night left in Nimes.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Nimes, including a park and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Jardin De La Fontaine. This captivating park is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée De La Romanité, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make your way to Pont Du Gard, a locally renowned monument that draws attention for its visually striking features.

After soaking in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sagriès. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Haribo Candy Museum, a popular museum 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 return to Nimes and your accommodation.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Criée, an iconic dining spot in Nimes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hotel Vatel and Spa, a popular restaurant in Nimes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, a hidden gem nestled in Nimes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Marseille. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Arles 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. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Camargue Regional Natural Park, a notable nature reserve that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Arles Amphitheatre, an interesting archeological site that draws attention for its respected features.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Des Baux-de-provence. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This locally renowned art installation is a traveler-favorite in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 Marseille's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, AM par Alexandre Mazzia, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Marseille is Signature, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Le Traquenard, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Dame Du Mont is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Polikarpov provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a historically significant, a sacred, a majestic, a remarkable, and a picturesque in Marseille. Begin your sightseeing with Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This popular museum 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.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Marseille, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Palais Longchamp. This captivating palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Parc Borély, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Calanques National Park and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most locally renowned attractions.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Au Clair de la Vigne, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Corsaire PUB is another top choice with a popular menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Old Coucou after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Temple Beer for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar Le Winny is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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