7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling east to Perigueux, Lyon, Marseille, and Carcassonne

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Duras, Le Périer, and Perigueux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Perigueux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duras may take around 2 hours 12 min. Upon your arrival in Duras, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Castle Of The Dukes Of Duras, an often recommended sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Duras should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Le Périer. This car ride takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to The Grand Etang La Jemaye, an underrated lake that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Le Périer, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Perigueux. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Périgueux Cathedral is an increasingly popular church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Perigueux. Perigueux offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Perigueux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Clermont-Ferrand, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Perigueux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Clermont-Ferrand. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive in Clermont-Ferrand, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Puy Pariou. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the volcano before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Panoramic Domes. This well-known observation deck is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Jardin Lecoq. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Lyon, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at Nuage café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café du Rhône boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Agastache Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lyon.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 4 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, a historically significant, a sacred, a grand, and a masterful in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Place Bellecour. This well-known public square is known for its enchanting appeal.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lyon and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Traquenard offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Polikarpov is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Marseille. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Marseille is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a park, a national park, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Just a short distance away is Parc Borély, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Calanques National Park, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Palais Longchamp.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pau, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Cité De Carcassonne, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Basilique Saint Nazaire, another must-visit landmark and underrated church renowned for its symbolic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Carcassonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This enchanting castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Château Comtal also adds charm to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pau's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Resto Dit Vin, an iconic dining spot in Pau. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant L' Ardoise, a popular restaurant in Pau. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Monkey Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Pau. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.