Cheap 10-Day France Road Trip from Lyon to Auxerre, Paris, Beaune, Nimes, Marseille, and Toulon and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Lyon and begin your adventure in France.

Lyon is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in France, Lyon is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Place Bellecour. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 visitors.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in France shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Lyon is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Café du Rhône stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Vieille Canaille, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at L' Antiquaire and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Black Forest Society is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit The James Joyce Pub, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in France!

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Auxerre, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a great place to start. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 visitors.

When you’re finished at parc de la Tête d'Or, head to Lyon Zoo. This one-of-a-kind zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,722 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the town of Auxerre. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Auxerre, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Auxerre. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 3 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Paris. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Paris, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Auxerre and set your GPS to Paris. 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 56 min. Upon reaching Paris, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Champ de Mars is a great place to start. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 travelers. Every year, 6,207,303 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Paris.

We also recommend a stop at Arc de Triomphe. This site gets more than 2,743,823 visitors annually. The triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Sacré-Cœur. This church building is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 reviews. As a top-rated attraction, it's no surprise that 11,000,000 people visit Sacré-Cœur every year.

Place de la Concorde is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Paris has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Paris on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in France shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Paris is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Discover the heart of Paris through its culinary scene, starting with L'Imprévu Café. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Le Petit Châtelet, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Guy Savoy, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café de Paris V. Alternatively, go to Dirty Dick, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 4 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 1 wonderful destinations — Paris. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Beaune, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Musée d'Orsay, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 71,115 reviews. Every year, Musée d'Orsay welcomes more than 3,651,616 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Tuileries Garden is a recommended place to visit. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 92,172 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Paris is Louvre Museum. This spectacular art museum gets over 2,825,000 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Paris offers an experience you will remember.

Jardin du Luxembourg is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Paris. This urban park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 94,043 reviews.

Beaune offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Beaune has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Le Bistrot du Coin, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Le Bout du Monde is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Le Rest O Bar, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across France. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in France!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 3: Sainte-Colombe, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes. You'll stay in Nimes for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you arrive in Sainte-Colombe, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,677 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Lyon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Your travel time is around 2 hours 8 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pont du Gard. This extraordinary arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Nimes. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Nimes, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Make the most of your budget vacation in France by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Nimes that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Annaba Café, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Hôtel des Tuileries is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Hotel Vatel and Spa.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La bonne mousse, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O’Flaherty’s. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at News Café, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Marseille, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Marseille, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Pont de Gau, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Pont de Gau, 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 Pont de Gau may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Pont de Gau, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,347 visitors.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pont de Gau behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Arles Amphitheatre. Previous visitors have rated this roman amphitheatre an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,060 reviews.

After soaking in Arles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Les Baux-de-Provence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Les Baux-de-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Château des Baux-de-Provence. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,346 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Carrières des Lumières. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Marseille has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Marseille on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Marseille, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Chez Roger stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La dame du mont, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Polikarpov is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Au Petit Nice is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

A road trip vacation in Pont de Gau can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in France!

Day 7 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Marseille, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Make Calanques National Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Marseille. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Parc Borély is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Marseille Cathedral. A trip to this popular catholic cathedral is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 12,714 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Palais Longchamp. This water tower enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 local and international travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Marseille. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Marseille offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in France worth remembering for a lifetime.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Marseille offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Une Table au Sud, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Coogee, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Les 3 Frères, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Bar Marengo, considered one of the best bars in Marseille. You can also enjoy drinks at L'unic Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Friche la Belle de Mai, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Marseille.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Marseille. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Toulon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,053 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Old Port of Marseille. This seaport has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,120 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 16,249 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Porte d'Aix. With an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 4,944 travelers, this sightseeing destination is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Marseille.

Toulon offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

A cheap, budget vacation in Toulon should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Toulon, try some of our top recommendations.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Au Petit Marché, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Havana Café - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Manofica, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Espit Chupitos Toulon, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Aux 5 Parties du Monde is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dry Dock also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in France! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Toulon!

Day 9 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aix-en-Provence. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Promenade de la Torse. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,529 visitors.

After soaking in Aix-en-Provence’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 56 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon) one of your first sightseeing stops in Avignon. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Jardin des doms is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This urban park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Palais des Papes. This palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors. Up to 616,210 people travel to this site annually.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Lyon. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Lyon, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Lyon offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Cactus Bar, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? L Bar food & drink offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Flair Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Broc'Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Phantom of the Opera is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Lyon.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Lyon’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Lyon is the remarkable Fresque des Lyonnais. This fresco and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,927 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Lyon, consider a top-rated restaurant like Bouchon Tupin, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The King Arthur is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Ninkasi Gerland, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Lyon.

You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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!