Cheap 9-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne to Avignon, Lyon, Nimes, and Montpellier

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

Carcassonne is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a town in France, Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point one of your first sightseeing stops in Carcassonne. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 467 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Carcassonne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Carcassonne and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 visitors.

When you’re finished at Basilique Saint Nazaire, head to Musée de l'Ecole. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 287 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This point of interest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,201 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Château Comtal. This famous castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Carcassonne. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Carcassonne offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in France worth remembering for a lifetime.

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, Carcassonne 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular V and B Carcassonne, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Auberge des Lices is another great hotspot for culinary gems.

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

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 2 destinations: Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence. You'll stay in Avignon for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, 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 2 hours 18 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Jardin d'été is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,025 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Roman Theatre of Arles. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,900 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Arles Amphitheatre. The roman amphitheatre has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Les Baux-de-Provence. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Château des Baux-de-Provence your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Carrières des Lumières. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

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

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Continue your lively evening at Le 17 Place aux Vins Avignon • Bar à vin / Caviste, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Barberousse Avignon is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Red Sky ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Avignon, Vaison-la-Romaine, and Orange. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Palais des Papes. This palace gets 616,210 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 36,931 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Avignon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vaison-la-Romaine. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Roman Bridge. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,024 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vaison-la-Romaine, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Orange. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Triumphal arch. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Orange, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,483 visitors.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Keep the evening going at L' Antiquaire, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Society, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The James Joyce Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Ready for day 5 of your road trip vacation in France? Discover more of Lyon and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,765 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,363 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Porte des Enfants du Rhône. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,967 reviews.

Parc de la Tête d'Or is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vaulx-en-velin. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Drop by the renowned Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 12,314 visitors.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Lyon is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Cactus Bar, 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 L Bar food & drink - 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 Flair Restaurant, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Broc'Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, The Phantom of the Opera is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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 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 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Lyon.

Drop by the renowned Place Bellecour. This popular square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Lyon Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors, this catholic cathedral deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,540 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Fresque des Lyonnais. This fresco and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,927 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La bonne mousse, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, O’Flaherty’s offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out News Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 7 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 city of Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Jardin de La Fontaine, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Musée de la Romanité is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,534 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 25,271 visitors per year.

After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sagriès. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Sagriès, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Haribo Candy Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 17,011 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, 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 Sagriès to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pont du Gard, a remarkable arch bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 29,439 reviews.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Montpellier has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Montpellier 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 Montpellier offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Triskell Montpellier, known for its lively atmosphere. Kraken bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 8 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 — Montpellier. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Carcassonne, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This much-appreciated square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,915 reviews.

Next up is Comedy Square. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Arc de Triomphe. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

Jardin des plantes de Montpellier is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,446 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Planet Ocean World. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,786 reviews.

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.

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.

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

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

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Carcassonne.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Carcassonne is the remarkable Portail des Jacobins. This gate and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 296 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Carcassonne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The Celt features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, L'Oliveraie is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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!