Cheap 12-Day France Road Trip from Lyon to Auxerre, Paris, Beaune, Grenoble, Marseille, and Nimes and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights. 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Place Bellecour is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Café du Rhône, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Vieille Canaille, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

L' Antiquaire is an excellent example of a great bar in Lyon offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Black Forest Society, another of locals’ go-to bars in Lyon. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Lyon, The James Joyce Pub is for you.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Caluire-et-Cuire. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Caluire-et-Cuire and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Cactus Bar, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is L Bar food & drink, 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 Flair Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Broc'Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, The Phantom of the Opera is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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 Lyon. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Auxerre, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,540 visitors.

Lyon Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 travelers.

Lyon is also the home of Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Around 25,765 people have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Parc des Hauteurs. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 1,241 reviews, a visit to this urban park is a great idea.

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.

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

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 1: Paris. You'll stay in Paris for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Paris, 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 Auxerre to Paris may take around 1 hour 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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

L'Imprévu Café offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Le Petit Châtelet. Or, try Restaurant Guy Savoy, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café de Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the town of Beaune, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Beaune, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Paris.

Make Musée d'Orsay your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,115 reviews. More than 3,651,616 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Tuileries Garden. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this garden every year.

Louvre Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 visitors. Up to 2,825,000 travelers come to Paris every year to see Louvre Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Louvre Museum, the perfect next stop is Jardin du Luxembourg. This urban park is rated an average of 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Le Bistrot du Coin, 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 Le Bout du Monde - 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 Rest O Bar, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the town of Beaune!

Day 6 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 — Grenoble. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Grenoble, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Grenoble. This car ride takes around 2 hours 51 min.

Make Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,504 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Parc Paul Mistral. With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 4,848 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Musée de Grenoble is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,100 visitors.

When you’re finished at Musée de Grenoble, the perfect next stop is Fort de La Bastille. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,303 reviews.

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

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, Grenoble 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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Bar Au RENCARD, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Ciao a Te offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Brasserie La Natation stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Pub Shakesbeer offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Cartel Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 7 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 Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Marseille and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Marseille beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Palais Longchamp. This popular water tower has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. Rated 3.9 out of 5 stars by 16,249 visitors, this shopping mall deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,053 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 local and international travelers.

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 mouthwatering delights of Marseille, 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.

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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, AM par Alexandre Mazzia promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La dame du mont, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Polikarpov. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Au Petit Nice, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 8 of your affordable vacation in France, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in France, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Calanques National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,632 visitors.

Parc Borély is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is also highly recommended by travelers. This church building has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 visitors.

Marseille Cathedral is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.

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 La Ciotat may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in La Ciotat, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like La Grande Plage. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,446 visitors.

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

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.

Une Table au Sud 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, Coogee offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Les 3 Frères, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Marseille, Bar Marengo. L'unic Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Friche la Belle de Mai, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Nimes, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

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: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alpilles Natural Regional Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,184 reviews.

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: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château des Baux-de-Provence. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,346 visitors.

Next, make your way to Carrières des Lumières. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 visitors.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arles Amphitheatre. This extraordinary roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

Next, make your way to Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This archaeological museum welcomes around 70,230 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,817 reviews.

Nimes 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.

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 Annaba Café, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Hôtel des Tuileries, 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 Hotel Vatel and Spa, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La bonne mousse, known for its inviting atmosphere. O’Flaherty’s is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, News Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Nimes on day 10 of your affordable vacation in France. You’ll continue your stay in Nimes for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in France, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

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.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Musée de la Romanité. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont du Gard. This arch bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and set your GPS to Sagriès. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Sagriès, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Haribo Candy Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 17,011 visitors.

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

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, 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 Pinocchio - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Barjoe Nîmes promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2: Avignon and Orange. You'll stay in Lyon for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

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 Avignon. Your travel time is around 46 min.

Journey into the unknown at Jardin des doms, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon) is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Avignon is Palais des Papes. This spectacular palace gets over 616,210 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Avignon offers an experience you will remember.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Orange. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Triumphal arch. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Orange, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,483 visitors.

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.

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.

Discover the heart of Lyon through its culinary scene, starting with Bouchon Tupin. 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 The King Arthur, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Ninkasi Gerland, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting MOS - Maker of Stories, a prime location for a drink.

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 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Lyon.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Lyon’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of France with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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 Betty's Bar, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Dam's Pub is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurant Gastronomique Christian Tetedoie, 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!