Cheap 11-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne to Nimes, Lyon, Valence, and Marseille

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

Carcassonne is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a town in France, Carcassonne 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Portail des Jacobins. This gate is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 296 visitors.

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

Start your foodie adventure at Brasserie a 4 Temps, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to La Rapière, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Le Domaine d'Auriac, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

Ready for day 2 of your road trip vacation in France? Discover more of Carcassonne and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Drop by the renowned Basilique Saint Nazaire. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Cité de Carcassonne. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors, this fortress deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,201 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Château Comtal. This castle and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,823 local and international travelers.

Marmonières’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Marmonières welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Grotte de Limousis is a great place to start. This show cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,361 visitors. Grotte de Limousis attracts more than 15,000 visitors every year.

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

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

V and B Carcassonne offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Auberge des Lices.

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

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Narbonne, Gruissan, and Montpellier. You'll stay in Nimes for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Narbonne. Your travel time is around 1 hour 6 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Réserve Africaine de Sigean. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 18,879 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Narbonne and set your GPS to Gruissan. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Gruissan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,758 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gruissan and set your GPS to Montpellier. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Montpellier, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Comedy Square. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,883 visitors.

Next, make your way to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,915 visitors.

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

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La bonne mousse offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, O’Flaherty’s is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. News Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 4 of your exciting road trip across France is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Nimes and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Nimes.

When you’ve had your share of Nimes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Largentière. Your travel time is around 1 hour 30 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Grotte Chauvet 2 - Ardèche, a remarkable art gallery where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,350 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Aven d'Orgnac. This show cave has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,830 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Générargues. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make The Bamboo Cevennes your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,234 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nimes and your accommodation.

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. Nimes has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at La Criée, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Hotel Vatel and Spa, 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 Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Jardin de La Fontaine. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 visitors.

Sagriès’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Sagriès welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Haribo Candy Museum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sagriès, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Pont du Gard your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this arch bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Pont du Gard Museum. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,292 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Lyon is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The James Joyce Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the town of Valence, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Valence, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin.

Make Place Bellecour one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lyon Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

After soaking in Lyon’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 22 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is parc de la Tête d'Or. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

After soaking in Caluire-et-Cuire’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Vaulx-en-velin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Vaulx-en-velin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,314 visitors.

Valence 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. Valence has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Valence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Palais des Papes is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. The attraction welcomes 616,210 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Jardin des doms. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,201 reviews.

The attraction gets an estimated 616,210 visitors every year.

Set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 44 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Aix-en-Provence beckons with new experiences!

Make Zoo Barben one of your first sightseeing stops in Aix-en-Provence. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,386 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Avignon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aix-en-Provence may take around 44 min. Upon your arrival in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Fontaine de la Rotonde is a great place to start. This fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,851 visitors.

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.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Marseille, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Traquenard, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La dame du mont offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Marseille. Polikarpov is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 8 of your affordable vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Marseille, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 2 nights left in Marseille, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 visitors.

Centre Commercial Centre Bourse is another popular attraction you could visit today. This shopping mall has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 16,249 visitors.

Parc Borély is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

Calanques National Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cassis. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Calanque de Port-Miou. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,728 visitors.

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

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to AM par Alexandre Mazzia, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Une Table au Sud - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Coogee promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Visit Au Petit Nice, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Bar Marengo serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Marseille. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is L'unic Bar.

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

Day 9 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in France. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Marseille and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Marseille, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,714 visitors.

Les Petits Trains de Marseille is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,446 reviews.

Palais Longchamp is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a water tower rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Friche la Belle de Mai, perhaps the most famous bar in Marseille. This attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,400 travelers.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in France. To have the best affordable travel experience in France, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in France unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in France.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Marseille is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Le Petit Nice Passedat, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Les 3 Frères is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Café l'Écomotive, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Friche la Belle de Mai, considered one of the best bars in Marseille. You can also enjoy drinks at Le Bar de la Plaine, known for its fun atmosphere.

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

Day 10 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 — Arles. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Carcassonne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arles, 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 Marseille to Arles may take around 1 hour 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to L'espace Van Gogh. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,003 visitors.

Roman Theatre of Arles is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,900 visitors.

Arles Amphitheatre is also highly recommended by travelers. This roman amphitheatre has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

Jardin d'été is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,025 reviews.

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

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

Restaurant La Marquière 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, La Métairie offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Carcassonne.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Carcassonne is the remarkable André Chénier Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 169 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Carcassonne, consider a top-rated restaurant like Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The Celt is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is L'Oliveraie, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Carcassonne.

You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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!