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

On day 2 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Toulon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valence, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Jardin Alexandre Ier. This breathtaking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Maritime Museum and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Mont Faron Cableway.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Valence by booking a table at Flaveurs, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Pic, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Les Cèdres, a local gem known for its delightful classic cuisine in Valence. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

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 3 places, which are Rive-de-Gier, Crémieu, and La Balme-les-Grottes. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Rive-de-Gier and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rive-de-Gier beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Espace Zoologique De Saint-martin-la-plaine. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop.

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

Savor the day by heading to Medieval City Of Crémieu, an intriguing historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Balme-les-Grottes. This drive usually takes around 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in La Balme-les-Grottes is The Caves Of La Balme, an underrated cave system that draws attention for its peaceful features.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Lyon. You’ll stay in Lyon for 1 night.

A top thing to do today is to explore Vieux Lyon, a must-see neighborhood in Lyon. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Make time for Lyon Cathedral, an interesting church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This church is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bernachon Chocolats, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Mère Léa, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The James Joyce Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Broc'bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, La Passagère is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nimes, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Check out the locally renowned public square, Place Bellecour. Afterward, continue to Fresque Des Lyonnais, a street art every traveler should visit. As you explore Lyon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Caluire-et-Cuire. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, an astonishing park known for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vaulx-en-velin. This car ride takes around 13 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a notable park in Vaulx-en-velin. 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 Nimes. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Nimes 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 Nimes.

Have a memorable dining experience in Nimes by booking a table at Duende, 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 consistently earns high praises, 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 in Nimes for its delicious creative cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at La Bonne Mousse, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O’flaherty’s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is News Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Nimes, there’s no need to rush. Experience La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, Nimes, and Aigues-Mortes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Let Jardin De La Fontaine set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this visually striking park before continuing your journey. Musée De La Romanité is your next stop. This frequently visited museum is one of the best-rated sights in Nimes.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 39 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Pont Du Gard, a popular monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sagriès. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Haribo Candy Museum, a well-known museum known for its photogenic features.

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

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

Dine in style at La Criée, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Vatel and Spa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nimes.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arles. This drive usually takes around 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Roman Theatre Of Arles, a worthwhile archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Arles Amphitheatre, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence.

Château Des Baux-de-provence is a locally renowned castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Carrières Des Lumières, an eye-catching art installation that’s well-regarded in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Arles. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Alpilles Natural Regional Park, an increasingly popular nature reserve that everyone visiting Arles should see.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Discover the culinary delights of Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Signature, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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!

Dive into day 8 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 Toulon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean set the tone for the day. Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) is your next stop. This captivating church is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Palais Longchamp. This culturally significant palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Calanques National Park.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Au Clair de la Vigne, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Toulon at Le Corsaire PUB, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Old Coucou, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Temple Beer offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Toulon. Bar Le Winny is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!