Cheap 12-Day France Road Trip from Montpellier to Marseille, Valence, Beaune, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Nimes

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

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

Kick off the day at Arc de Triomphe, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

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, Montpellier is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Discover the heart of 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.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Montpellier, Triskell Montpellier. Le Rebuffy 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 Black Out, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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 1 charming destinations — Montpellier. 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 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to La Panacée. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,916 visitors.

Next, make your way to Montpellier Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,457 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. This botanical garden is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 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.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at Chez Roger, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss AM par Alexandre Mazzia, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La dame du mont, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Polikarpov provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Au Petit Nice offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Marseille.

Make Calanques National Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

When you’re finished at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille), the perfect next stop is Palais Longchamp. This water tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

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.

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

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 4 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Beaune, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Valence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lyon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Lyon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, head to Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,540 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 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 16 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 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.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Le Bistrot du Coin, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Le Bout du Monde offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Le Rest O Bar is the perfect spot for you!

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 — Fontainebleau and Paris. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Paris, where you'll be spending 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Fontainebleau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Fontainebleau beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Palace of Fontainebleau is a great place to start. This château is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 21,054 visitors.

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 Fontainebleau to Paris may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin des plantes. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sainte Chapelle. This chapel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,376 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Notre-Dame de Paris. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 visitors. Up to 12,000,000 people visit this place of interest annually.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at L'Imprévu Café, 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 Petit Châtelet - 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 Restaurant Guy Savoy, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café de Paris V, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in France, you’ll go deep into Paris 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 Paris — 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Sacré-Cœur. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,527 visitors. Each year, around 11,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Tuileries Garden. This top attraction is a garden with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Musée d'Orsay. Hosting 3,651,616 visitors every year, Musée d'Orsay is one of the most popular places to visit in Paris. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Eiffel Tower. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 travelers. Around 6,207,303 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Champ de Mars. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 travelers.

Your discovery of Paris does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Paris 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Paris, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Saint James Paris, 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 Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail - 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 To Restaurant Paris, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Paris, Prescription Cocktail Club. Alternatively, visit Sherry Butt, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Highlander, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 7 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 Paris! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Panthéon. This mausoleum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Paris, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 visitors.

Jardin du Luxembourg is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Louvre Museum. Visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 260,788 reviews. Louvre Museum receives around 2,825,000 visitors every year.

Palais Garnier is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an opera house rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,053 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic La Villette, perhaps the most famous commune of france in Paris. This attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 56,497 travelers.

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.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Alliance, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Bombardier is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Le Bistrot Du Perigord.

Tiger is an excellent example of a great bar in Paris offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Bisou. , another of locals’ go-to bars in Paris. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Paris, Le Requin Chagrin is for you.

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

On day 8 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2: Paris and Versailles. You'll stay in Auxerre for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Pont Alexandre III. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,899 visitors.

Place de la Concorde is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 travelers.

Paris is also the home of Arc de Triomphe. This triumphal arch gets more than 2,743,823 visitors on an annual basis. Around 193,235 people have rated this triumphal arch an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Palace of Versailles your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 119,665 reviews. More than 4,741,758 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Gardens of Versailles. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,133 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this french formal garden every year.

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

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

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

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

Kick off the day at Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre - Baie 129, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stained glass window is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,232 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Église Saint-Eusèbe. Église Saint-Eusèbe is a church with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 129 reviews.

Set your GPS to Vézelay and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vézelay beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Abbey of la Madaleine. This monastery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,850 visitors.

Lyon 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.

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 Café du Rhône. 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 Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Vieille Canaille, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting L' Antiquaire, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Black Forest Society, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The James Joyce Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 10 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 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Avignon, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Nimes.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 2 hours 20 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Palais des Papes, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 616,210 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This car ride takes around 32 min.

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

Nimes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Nimes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Jardin de La Fontaine one of your first sightseeing stops in Nimes. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

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, Nimes 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Annaba Café, 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 Hôtel des Tuileries - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Hotel Vatel and Spa promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La bonne mousse. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, O’Flaherty’s offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook News Café, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Les Baux-de-Provence and Arles. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night.

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 Les Baux-de-Provence. Your travel time is around 51 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château des Baux-de-Provence. This extraordinary point of interest 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 point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Les Baux-de-Provence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 28 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Obélisque d'Arles. This extraordinary obelisk has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 658 visitors.

Next, make your way to L'espace Van Gogh. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,003 reviews.

While in Arles, we also recommend a visit to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,060 reviews.

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

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.

Georges Café Montpellier offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Le Joseph. Or, try Le Puja, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Keep the evening going at Le Petit Nice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Espit Chupitos Montpellier, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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 Montpellier.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Montpellier’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 Montpellier is the remarkable Comedy Square. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Montpellier, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at O'Carolans Irish Pub, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Cafe Leon features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Les Bains de Montpellier is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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!