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

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

Perpignan is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in France, Perpignan 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 de Catalogne. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 161 visitors.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Le 17, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Buffalo Grill Perpignan is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa.

Dry States is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Black pearl 66 is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Café de la Source, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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 3 charming destinations — Perpignan, Collioure, and Salses-le-Château. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Perpignan Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,336 visitors.

Next, make your way to Palace of the Kings of Majorca. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 6,906 reviews.

Upon reaching Collioure, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château Royal de Collioure. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,884 visitors.

Next, make your way to Tomb of Antonio Machado. This top attraction is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,690 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Salses-le-Château, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Salses Fortress. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,683 reviews.

Montpellier 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Montpellier, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Discover the heart of Montpellier through its culinary scene, starting with Les Enfants Rouges. 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 Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Keep the evening going at Triskell Montpellier, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Kraken bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Rebuffy, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Montpellier, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Make Comedy Square one of your first sightseeing stops in Montpellier. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,883 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Esplanade Charles de Gaulle is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Planet Ocean World. This aquarium has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 8,786 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Montpellier, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont du Gard. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Café du Rhône, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, 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 Vieille Canaille, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The James Joyce Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 4 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in France, you’ll go deep into Lyon and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Lyon — 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Continue your journey at Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 travelers from near and far.

Lyon is also the home of Place Bellecour. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,560 visitors.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Lyon. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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

Discover the heart of Lyon through its culinary scene, starting with Cactus Bar. 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 L Bar food & drink, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Flair Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Broc'Bar offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Lyon, check out The Phantom of the Opera. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits.

A road trip vacation in Lyon 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 is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Grenoble, and La Sône. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Valence, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Sône. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Make Fort de La Bastille your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,303 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Musée de Grenoble. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,100 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,504 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Sône. This drive usually takes around 51 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Fontaines Pétrifiantes Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,128 visitors.

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

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

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Avignon, 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 Valence to Avignon may take around 1 hour 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Avignon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palais des Papes. This palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers from near and far. Approximately 616,210 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Avignon.

Avignon is also the home of Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

Set your GPS to Marseille and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Marseille beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Zoo Barben. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,386 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: Marseille. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 34 min. When you arrive in Marseille, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Fontaine de la Rotonde. This extraordinary fountain has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,851 visitors.

Marseille 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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Chez Roger, 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 Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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.

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

Day 7 means another chance to make the best memories in Marseille. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Marseille and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 2 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

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 Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. A trip to this popular shopping mall is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 3.9 out of 5-star rating as given by 16,249 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, 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 Une Table au Sud - 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 Coogee, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Au Petit Nice is an excellent example of a great bar in Marseille offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Bar Marengo, another of locals’ go-to bars in Marseille. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Marseille, L'unic Bar is for you.

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

Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cassis, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Cassis. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the village.

Kick off the day at Marseille Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Les Petits Trains de Marseille. Les Petits Trains de Marseille is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 reviews.

Old Port of Marseille is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This seaport is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,120 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors.

Your discovery of Cassis does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Cassis on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular Le Petit Nice Passedat, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Les 3 Frères is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Café l'Écomotive.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Friche la Belle de Mai, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Le Bar de la Plaine, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment.

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

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 1: Arle. You'll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arles may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Arles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,060 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Roman Theatre of Arles. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,900 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to L'espace Van Gogh. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,003 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This archaeological museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,817 visitors. Visiting Musée départemental de l'Arles antique means you'll be one of 70,230 people who do so every year.

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

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, Carcassonne 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Brasserie a 4 Temps, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Rapière is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Le Domaine d'Auriac.

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

On day 10 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Carcassonne, and Narbonne. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Perpignan, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Basilique Saint Nazaire is a great place to start. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Château Comtal. The castle has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

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

Journey into the unknown at Réserve Africaine de Sigean, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 18,879 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Perpignan. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Perpignan, 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 Perpignan offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Perpignan!

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 Perpignan.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Perpignan’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Perpignan is the remarkable Escala monumental. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 114 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Perpignan, consider a top-rated restaurant like La Rotonde, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Brioche Dorée is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Au Fût et à mesure Perpignan Centre, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Perpignan.

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!