Cheap 9-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling east to Marseille, Valence, Lyon, and Nimes

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city 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 city 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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Carcassonne, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

Restaurant La Marquière is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 680 customers.

Brasserie a 4 Temps is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,551 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Adélaïde, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,584 reviews.

Comte Roger is an excellent example of a great bar in Carcassonne offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,143 customers.

You can also hang out at The Celt, another of locals’ go-to bars in Carcassonne. The Celt is among the best city bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 1,000 customers having rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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 this cheap holiday destination in France, Carcassonne. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the town of Carcassonne!

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

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 city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Auberge des Lices is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 908 customers.

Le Blé Noir is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 932 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Le Parc Franck Putelat, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 621 reviews.

One great example is La Métairie. This bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices and has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 756 customers.

Buffalo Grill Carcassonne is another popular bar in Carcassonne. If you ask the 3,813 customers who have rated it an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars, Buffalo Grill Carcassonne is the perfect place to hang out for a drink or two.

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

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 exploring 2 wonderful destinations — Arles and Marseille.

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive in Arles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This archaeological museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Arles, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,817 visitors. Around 70,230 people visit this attraction every year.

L'espace Van Gogh is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,003 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Roman Theatre of Arles. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews.

Arles Amphitheatre is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a roman amphitheatre rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,060 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Marseille. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Marseille, 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.

One musty-try restaurant is L'Épuisette. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 830 customers.

Twist Avenue is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 618 reviews. Twist Avenue is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Coogee. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 533 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Bistrot l’Horloge, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,794 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is O'Malley, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,796 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

La Caravelle is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

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

Day 4 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Marseille. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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 spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

Visit the popular Le Bouchon Provençal. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,207 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in France is Chez Roger. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,502 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Nul Part Ailleurs. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,400 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Le Café de la Banque is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers.

Bar Bu is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. Bar Bu has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 648 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Marseille.

You might also want to cap the night off at The Queen Victoria, a fascinating bar that 3,995 customers have rated 4 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

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 road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Marseille and Valence. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Valence.

Take the opportunity to see Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 visitors.

Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 travelers.

Marseille is also the home of Marseille Cathedral. Around 12,714 people have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palais Longchamp. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,768 reviews, a visit to this water tower is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Marseille is also your chance to admire Friche la Belle de Mai. This must-visit bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,400 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Valence. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Valence should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Valence, try some of our top recommendations.

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

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Lyon, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Lyon, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Bron, and Lyon.

Bron’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Valence behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min. Bron welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make iFLY Lyon one of your first sightseeing stops in Bron. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,468 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bron 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 16 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, parc de la Tête d'Or is a great place to start with. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 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 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Lyon has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Lyon is L Bar food & drink. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,758 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Lyon, Bouchon Tupin is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 969 diners.

Black Forest Society is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 500 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Livestation DIY - Lyon. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière" is another of the best bars in the city of Lyon that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,225 customers.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Nimes.

Set your GPS to Nimes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nimes beckons with new experiences!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Nimes. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Nimes, 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 Nimes offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

Visit the popular The Bird. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 659 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in France is Restaurant Skab. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 591 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,576 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Nimes, O’Flaherty’s. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,377 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. This bar has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

Le Questel is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 575 customers.

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

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 exploring 4 wonderful destinations — Nimes, Aigues-Mortes, Le Grau-du-Roi, and Carcassonne.

Make Musée de la Romanité one of your first sightseeing stops in Nimes. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This museum attracts 25,271 visitors every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carcassonne. This car ride takes around 1 hour 54 min.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in France, treat 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.

We recommend a local favorite like La Rapière. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 816 customers.

Buffalo Grill Salvaza Carcassonne is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Carcassonne. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 2,650 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Carcassonne you might want to check out is V and B Carcassonne. V and B Carcassonne is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 745 reviews.

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

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.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, 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.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Carcassonne, consider a top-rated restaurant like Le Domaine d'Auriac. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 426 customers.

L'Oliveraie is an excellent alternative if you feel like eating something else. This restaurant serves a variety of savory and budget-friendly dishes and has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 529 customers.

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!