Cheap One-Week France Road Trip from Grenoble to Besancon, Mulhouse, Lyon, and Marseille and surrounding area

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

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc Paul Mistral. This park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 4,848 reviews.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Bar Au RENCARD, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Ciao a Te is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux.

Brasserie La Natation offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Pub Shakesbeer is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Le Cartel Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Grenoble. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Besancon, where you'll stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 737 reviews.

Musée de Grenoble is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,100 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Fort de La Bastille. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,303 reviews.

Jardin des Dauphins is another outstanding experience in Grenoble. Around 3,062 travelers have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Les Gamins, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, L' Ô à la bouche is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Green Man, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Titty Twister Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The coffee Brass'éliande offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar de l'U, 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 3 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Mulhouse, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Mulhouse, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Colmar and Strasbourg.

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

Kick off the day at Petite Venise in Colmar, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This neighborhood is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 39,311 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Colmar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Strasbourg. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

Kick off the day at Parc de l'Orangerie, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,139 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,268 reviews.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Mulhouse has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Mulhouse on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Mulhouse, 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.

Volfoni Mulhouse offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Winstub Factory. Or, try Au Bureau Mulhouse, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Shamrock, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pub Murphy's is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, La Quille also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. 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.

After soaking in Caluire-et-Cuire’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 22 min. When you arrive in Lyon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like parc de la Tête d'Or. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lyon. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Place Bellecour is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

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.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Café du Rhône, 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 Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Vieille Canaille promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at L' Antiquaire, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Society provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The James Joyce Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 1: Marseille. You'll stay in Marseille for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Marseille may take around 3 hours 8 min. Upon your arrival in Marseille, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Friche la Belle de Mai. This popular bar has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,400 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Palais Longchamp. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 visitors, this water tower deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Calanques National Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,632 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 local and international travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Marseille. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Marseille, 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 Marseille. 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 Chez Roger, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, 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 AM par Alexandre Mazzia, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, La dame du mont stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Polikarpov offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Au Petit Nice is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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 exciting road trip across France is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Marseille and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 1 night left in Marseille.

Cannes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours. Cannes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marché Forville, a remarkable market hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,739 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Vieux Port de Cannes. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,893 travelers.

Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes is another must-visit attraction. This renowned movie theater offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 18,284 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Mandelieu-la-Napoule. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to château de la Napoule. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,688 visitors.

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

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

Une Table au Sud offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Coogee. Or, try Les 3 Frères, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Bar Marengo, considered one of the best bars in Marseille. You can also enjoy drinks at L'unic Bar, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Friche la Belle de Mai, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Marseille.

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

Day 7 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 — Avignon and Vaison-la-Romaine. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Grenoble, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 travelers.

Palais des Papes is another must-visit attraction. This renowned palace offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers and attracting 616,210 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Vaison-la-Romaine’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Vaison-la-Romaine welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Roman Bridge. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,024 visitors.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Grenoble has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Grenoble 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, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at restaurant brasserie L'Albatros Grenoble, 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 La Ferme à Dédé - 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 Little copains, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Continue your lively evening at Pub des copains, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. BLIND PIG is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 8 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Grenoble.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Grenoble’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 Grenoble is the remarkable Porte Saint-Laurent. This door and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 184 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Grenoble, consider a top-rated restaurant like La Cuisine des Tontons, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Les copains d'abord is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Café de France, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Grenoble.

You’ll then say farewell to Grenoble. 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!