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

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

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

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, Clermont-Ferrand 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.

One musty-try restaurant is Lard De Vivre. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 505 customers.

Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,818 reviews. Five Guys Clermont-Ferrand is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is La Gourmandine. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,134 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at The Still Irish Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,220 customers.

Les BerThoM is another great place to hang out and unwind. This bar offers various drinks at affordable prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,164 customers.

If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Le Compt(o)ir, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 667 customers.

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 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Clermont-Ferrand and Valence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Valence.

Drop by the renowned Clermont-Ferrand Cathedral. This popular catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,232 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Panoramic Domes. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,215 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to L'Aventure Michelin. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,701 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Valence, 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 Clermont-Ferrand to Valence may take around 2 hours 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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

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, Valence 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.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in France.

A road trip vacation in Clermont-Ferrand can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination 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 3 wonderful destinations — Marseille, Avignon, and Marseille.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Avignon may take around 1 hour 22 min. Upon your arrival in Avignon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Palais des Papes. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 visitors, this palace deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Avignon, 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 1 hour 15 min. Upon your arrival in Marseille, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

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

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try L'Épuisette, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 830 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Twist Avenue, so you'll want to drop by this place. Twist Avenue serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 618 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Marseille is Coogee. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 533 customers.

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. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,796 customers.

La Caravelle is another top-rated bar where you can 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 to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Marseille!

On day 4 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in France, you’ll go deep into Marseille, making the most of your 1 night in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Marseille, and meet locals along the way!

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.

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.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Le Bouchon Provençal. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,207 customers.

Chez Roger is another local-favorite restaurant in Marseille. Chez Roger serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,502 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Nul Part Ailleurs is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Marseille. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 of 5 stars from around 1,400 customers.

Le Café de la Banque offers many snacks and liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,223 customers.

If you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Marseille, check out Bar Bu. This bar is an excellent place to hang out and relax after a busy day, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 648 customers.

To ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination, visit The Queen Victoria. The Queen Victoria offers affordable drinks and snacks and has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 3,995 reviews.

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Arles, and Nimes. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Nimes.

When you’ve had your share of Marseille, 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 1 hour 11 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.

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.

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

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.

O’Flaherty’s is one of the best bars in Nimes and the perfect place for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,377 customers.

You may also want to check out Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your celebrations. Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Le Questel. Le Questel has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 575 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Nimes, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alès, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 47 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nimes and your accommodation.

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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is La Locanda Comptoir italien. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,356 customers.

Pinocchio is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,253 customers.

Amorino Gelato - Nîmes has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 681 reviews.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Nimes, La bonne mousse. This bar offers a variety of liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 428 customers.

Barjoe Nîmes is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. This bar has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,311 customers.

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

Day 7 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 Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Lyon.

When you're ready to see some sights, Musée de la Romanité is a great place to start with. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 visitors. Musée de la Romanité attracts more than 25,271 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Jardin de La Fontaine. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 travelers.

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 2 hours 29 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

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

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is L Bar food & drink. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,758 customers.

Bouchon Tupin is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 969 customers.

L'Institut Restaurant has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 853 reviews.

After dinner, visit Black Forest Society and experience the nightlife in the city of Lyon. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 500 customers.

You can also hang out at Livestation DIY - Lyon. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Locals recommend Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière", so definitely check it out too. Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière" is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,225 bar-goers.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, and Clermont-Ferrand. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Clermont-Ferrand.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 25,765 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fresque des Lyonnais. This fresco is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,927 visitors.

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 16 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at parc de la Tête d'Or, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Clermont-Ferrand. 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 1 hour 53 min. Upon reaching Clermont-Ferrand, unwind, observe, and explore. 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. Clermont-Ferrand has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Clermont-Ferrand on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Clermont-Ferrand : L'Odevie is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,126 customers.

Le Bistrot d'à Côté 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 4.6 out of 5 stars by 819 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Lard et la Manière, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 814 reviews.

Experience the local nightlife scene. Au Fût et à mesure is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 457 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like Bar Des Beaux Arts. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 593 bar-goers.

The Viking Pub Counter is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 403 customers.

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 Clermont-Ferrand.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Clermont-Ferrand’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Clermont-Ferrand, consider a top-rated restaurant like Restaurant Le Dôme. This restaurant has a menu of appetizing and affordable meals and is rated at an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 858 customers.

Le Boeuf Café 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 593 customers.

Another popular restaurant you could check out is La Vache qui Tète. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 633 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of France and your fun memories in Clermont-Ferrand.

You’ll then say farewell to Clermont-Ferrand. 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!