Cheap 12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Lyon, Avignon, Marseille, Nice, Nimes, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, and Cahors

Day 2 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 — Clermont-Ferrand. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Lyon, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a charming, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a historic, a stunning, a majestic, and a picturesque in Clermont-Ferrand. Begin your sightseeing with Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This beloved church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Montjuzet, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Clermont-Ferrand, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Panoramic Domes. This captivating observation deck is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find L'aventure Michelin, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L' Antiquaire after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Society, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pompette also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 3 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 city of Avignon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Place Bellecour is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most interesting places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Lyon Cathedral, a popular church, known for its enchanting features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This history-steeped church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, an impressive park known for its peaceful features.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Avignon, 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 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Barberousse Avignon offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Avignon. The Red Sky is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Avignon and Aix-en-Provence. You'll stay in Marseille for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Get ready for a day filled with an awe-inspiring, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a charming in the charming city of Avignon. Your adventure starts at Palais Des Papes, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Des Doms. This frequently visited park is known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Avignon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This history-steeped historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Aix-en-Provence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Aix-en-Provence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your self-guided tour starts at Zoo Barben, a locally renowned zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 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!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Fontaine De La Rotonde, an increasingly popular monument that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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, Marseille 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Le Traquenard after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to La Dame Du Mont for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Polikarpov is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Marseille. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Nice, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a history-steeped, an inviting, a symbolic, a romantic, and a picturesque. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Marseille Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic church before continuing your journey. Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean is your next stop. This captivating museum 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 Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This enchanting church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Calanques National Park.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les Distilleries Idéales stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Diane's offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Wayne's Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in France? Discover more of Nice 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!

Start your adventure at Albert I Garden. This underrated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Castle Hill located in Nice for an enchanting atmosphere.

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

Head to Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a well-known aquarium in Monaco. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Prince's Palace Of Monaco. This captivating palace is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Monte Carlo Casino is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped casino in the region.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, 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 Snug And Cellar - 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 Le Vingt4, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Trafalbar Nice, considered one of the best bars in Nice. You can also enjoy drinks at Bay Side, known for its fun atmosphere.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Nimes, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Nimes, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Les Baux-de-Provence and Tarascon.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence. This car ride takes around 2 hours 41 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a popular castle that everyone visiting Les Baux-de-Provence should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This mesmerizing art installation is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

After soaking in Les Baux-de-Provence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tarascon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Tarascon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Tarascon Castle and explore the respected features.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Bonne Mousse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O’flaherty’s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, News Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 8 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 3 wonderful destinations — Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Carcassonne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with a visually striking, a standout, a romantic, a gorgeous, a grand, and a detailed. Start at the intriguing Musée De La Romanité, a historic museum in Nimes. Next, go to Jardin De La Fontaine.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sagriès. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Haribo Candy Museum, a locally renowned museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Pont Du Gard is a popular monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Carcassonne 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Carcassonne, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the town'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.

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.

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

On day 9 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Carcassonne and Toulouse. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Château Comtal. This beloved castle provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Cité De Carcassonne, a culturally significant castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire, a worthwhile church.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toulouse may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Toulouse, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular church that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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

Savor the culinary delights of Bordeaux, 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.

Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, 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!

On day 10 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Bordeaux and Lormont. You'll stay in Cahors for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bordeaux, including a monument, a park, a public square, an art installation and much more! Start your adventure at Monument Aux Girondins. This often recommended monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jardin Public located in Bordeaux for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Place De La Bourse. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Miroir D'eau. This art installation has a romantic appeal.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Cité Du Vin. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

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