Cheap 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille traveling north to Lyon, Nimes, and Carcassonne

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Description

Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 7-day cheap road trip in France, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Marseille, Avignon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Nimes, Sagriès, Aigues-Mortes, Carcassonne, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence, where every turn is a new discovery.

Explore France for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap France travel package promises an exhilarating 7-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 3 nights in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Nimes, and 1 night in Carcassonne. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across France and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in France at the lowest price!

On arrival in Marseille, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in France. France offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in France, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.

This affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 7-day vacation in France. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 6 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in France with CDW insurance.

You can customize your France travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in France and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind France's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in France offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in France with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in France fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Old Port of Marseille
Calanques National ParkParc BorélyPalais LongchampMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
Pont d'AvignonPalais des Papesparc de la Tête d'OrPlace BellecourBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
La Basilique Notre Dame de FourvièreMusée Cinéma et MiniatureLyon Cathedral
Jardin de La FontaineHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
Cité de CarcassonneArles Amphitheatre
Porte d'AixBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde

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Day 1

Day 1 – Marseille - arrival day

  • Marseille - Arrival day
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  • Old Port of Marseille
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Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Marseille and begin your adventure in France.

More than a city in France, Marseille 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.

Marseille is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Old Port Of Marseille or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Chez Roger, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Les Mets des Saintes, 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 Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Le Traquenard, considered one of the best bars in Marseille. You can also enjoy drinks at La Dame Du Mont, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Polikarpov, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Marseille.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Marseille

  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 41 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Calanques National Park
  • Parc Borély
  • Palais Longchamp
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Marseille. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a majestic, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a respected, a noteworthy, a symbolic, and a stunning. 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. Calanques National Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing national park before continuing your journey. Parc Borély is your next stop. This interesting park 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 Palais Longchamp. This history-steeped palace is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille).

Make your vacation in France more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in France and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

Discover the heart of Marseille through its culinary scene, starting with Le Bistro Du Panier. 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 Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Au Petit Nice offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Marseille, check out Bar Marengo. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at L'unic Bar.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Marseille, Avignon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon

  • Marseille
  • Avignon
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 347 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Palais des Papes
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Place Bellecour
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Avignon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. You'll stay in Lyon 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. Avignon, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Marseille to Avignon may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Avignon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a well-known historical landmark in Avignon. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Palais Des Papes. This interesting palace is a top recommendation in the area.

Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Parc De La Tête D'or, a widely recognized park known for its serene features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lyon may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Lyon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Place Bellecour, a well-known public square that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

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.

Nuage café 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, Café du Rhône offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Agastache Restaurant, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at L' Antiquaire, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Forest Society, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pompette provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Lyon and Nimes

  • Lyon
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 273 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • Musée Cinéma et Miniature
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • More

Day 4 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 — Lyon. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Nimes, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Lyon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Just a short distance away is Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, a picture-perfect museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lyon Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at La Galerie, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Annaba Café is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Hôtel des Tuileries, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Keep the evening going at La Bonne Mousse, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to O’flaherty’s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is News Café, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Aigues-Mortes, and Carcassonne

  • Nîmes
  • Sagriès
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 290 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Pont du Gard
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Aigues-Mortes. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Jardin De La Fontaine. This notable park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

Sagriès’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Sagriès welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Haribo Candy Museum. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Du Gard, a popular monument known for its enchanting features.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Carcassonne, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Brasserie a 4 Temps, 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 La Rapière - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Le Domaine d'Auriac promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Carcassonne, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Marseille

  • Carcassonne
  • Arles
  • Les Baux-de-Provence
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 328 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Carcassonne, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Cité De Carcassonne. This visually striking castle is an extraordinary place to see in Carcassonne.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arles. This car ride takes around 2 hours 17 min.

Arles Amphitheatre is a well-known archeological site we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Les Baux-de-Provence, 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 Arles to Les Baux-de-Provence may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Château Des Baux-de-provence and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Carrières Des Lumières, another highlight in the town.

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.

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 Marseille that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Une Table au Sud, 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 Café Bovo, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Friche La Belle De Mai, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Bar De La Plaine is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Marseille - departure day

  • Marseille - Departure day
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  • Porte d'Aix
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 7 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Marseille.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Marseille's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Marseille is the remarkable Porte D'aix. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 4,944 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Marseille, consider a top-rated restaurant like Maison MV, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Coogee is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Le Petit Nice Passedat, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Marseille.

You’ll then say farewell to Marseille. 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!

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