Cheap 12-Day France Road Trip from Nimes traveling north to Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Poitiers, Orléans, Paris, Auxerre, and Lyon

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

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

Make Jardin de La Fontaine your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.

Make the most of your budget vacation in France by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Nimes that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Annaba Café offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Hôtel des Tuileries. Or, try Hotel Vatel and Spa, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at La bonne mousse and try some of its cocktails and snacks. O’Flaherty’s is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit News Café, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2: Nimes and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You'll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Musée de la Romanité. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors and gets around 25,271 visits every year.

Fontaine Pradier is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This fountain has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 704 travelers.

La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Pont du Gard Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,292 reviews.

Next up is Pont du Gard. This arch bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,439 visitors.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in France by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Carcassonne that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, La Rapière is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Le Domaine d'Auriac, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Day 3 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 — Carcassonne and Toulouse. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bordeaux, where you'll be spending 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château Comtal. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Cité de Carcassonne is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Basilica of St. Sernin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

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.

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

L'Oiseau Bleu offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Restaurant Le Plana. Or, try Le Confidentiel, 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 Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Bar à Vin is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Comtesse 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!

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lormont and Bordeaux. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Poitiers, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned place de la Bourse. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is miroir d'eau. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors, this reflecting pool deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Monument aux Girondins. This column has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,483 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is jardin public. This urban park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 local and international travelers.

Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Cité du Vin. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,487 visitors.

Poitiers 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.

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

Discover the heart of Poitiers through its culinary scene, starting with Le 16 Carnot. 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 Oh le Bistro, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Holly's Diner, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Zinc, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Café des Arts offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, La Taverne Du Geek provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Orléans, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Orléans, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Amboise, Chenonceaux, Cheverny, and Chambord.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Amboise. This car ride takes around 1 hour 32 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Château d'Amboise. This extraordinary château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,016 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amboise and set your GPS to Chenonceaux. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Chenonceaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Chenonceau. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Chenonceaux, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,253 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cheverny. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Château de Cheverny, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,031 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Orléans. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Orléans, 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, Orléans 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular Crêperie Bretonne - Restaurant de spécialités de Galettes et Crêpes fait maison, à base de produits frais & Bar breton, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Parenthèse is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Ma-Dam Restaurant coréen traiteur salon de thé orléans.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Moog, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Java Pop, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Charbon provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Versailles and Paris. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Paris, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Gardens of Versailles, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This french formal garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,133 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Palace of Versailles. Palace of Versailles is a château with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 119,665 reviews. Attracting more than 4,741,758 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Versailles, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Paris may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Paris, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Palais Garnier. This opera house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,053 reviews.

Continue your journey at Jardin du Luxembourg. This urban park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 travelers from near and far.

Paris is also the home of Panthéon. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,649 visitors.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at L'Imprévu Café, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Le Petit Châtelet, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Restaurant Guy Savoy, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Round off your dining experience by visiting Café de Paris V, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dirty Dick, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Little Red Door likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Paris. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like La Villette. This extraordinary commune of france has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 56,497 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sacré-Cœur. This church building welcomes around 11,000,000 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 118,527 reviews.

While in Paris, we also recommend a visit to Arc de Triomphe. Hosting around 2,743,823 visitors every year, Arc de Triomphe is one of the best places to visit. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 193,235 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Eiffel Tower. This attraction gets around 6,207,303 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 322,389 travelers, this lattice tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Paris.

Make your way to Champ de Mars, perhaps the most famous urban park in Paris. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.

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 culinary delights of Paris, 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 Saint James Paris, 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 Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, To Restaurant Paris promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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.

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

Day 8 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 Louvre Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 visitors. Louvre Museum welcomes around 2,825,000 visitors every year.

Musée d'Orsay is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 71,115 visitors. Musée d'Orsay attracts up to 3,651,616 visitors every year.

Tuileries Garden is also highly recommended by travelers. This garden has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 visitors.

Place de la Concorde is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Pont Alexandre III. This deck arch bridge has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,899 travelers.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in France sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in France. France has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in France that will fill you with new inspiration.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Alliance, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The Bombardier offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Le Bistrot Du Perigord is the perfect spot for you!

Visit Tiger, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Bisou. Serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Paris. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Le Requin Chagrin.

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: Paris. You'll stay in Auxerre for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Notre-Dame de Paris your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,788 reviews. More than 12,000,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Sainte Chapelle. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this chapel every year.

Centre Georges Pompidou is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 55,213 visitors. Up to 3,273,867 travelers come to Paris every year to see Centre Georges Pompidou with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Centre Georges Pompidou, the perfect next stop is Jardin des plantes. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

Auxerre offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Auxerre has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Bourg En Bresse, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Lyon, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bourg En Bresse, 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 Bourg En Bresse may take around 2 hours 42 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bourg En Bresse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at royal monastery of Brou, a remarkable secularized monastery where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,801 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 55,949 visitors.

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 Bourg En Bresse to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to parc de la Tête d'Or. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Caluire-et-Cuire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lyon. Your travel time is around 18 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Place Bellecour. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

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.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. The James Joyce Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lyon and Avignon. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Nimes, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 visitors.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is another popular attraction you could visit today. This minor basilica has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 2 hours 26 min.

Make Palais des Papes your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this palace an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews. More than 616,210 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Nimes, 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 Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes, 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 Pinocchio - 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 Barjoe Nîmes, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

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 Nimes.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Nimes’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Nimes is the remarkable Clock Tower. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 496 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Nimes, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at L'Instant T, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Le Questel features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Royal Hôtel - La Bodeguita is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Nimes. 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!