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

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Marseille. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Make Calanques National Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Marseille. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Parc Borély is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. A trip to this popular point of interest is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 9,053 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 local and international travelers.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in France sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in France. France has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in France that will fill you with new inspiration.

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 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.

Au Petit Nice offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Bar Marengo is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit L'unic Bar, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

A road trip vacation in Marseille 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 touring 1 wonderful destinations — Arles. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Carcassonne, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arles. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This archaeological museum typically receives around 70,230 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,817 reviews.

Continue your journey at Roman Theatre of Arles. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,900 travelers from near and far.

Arles is also the home of Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles. Rated 4 out of 5 stars by 2,004 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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 town.

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 town offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, 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 Rapière - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights.

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 4 of your affordable vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the town. With 1 night left in Carcassonne, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

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

Make Jardin des Plantes one of your first sightseeing stops in Toulouse. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Pont-Neuf is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This deck arch bridge is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,845 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Couvent des Jacobins. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,770 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Square Charles de Gaulle. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.3 out of 5-star rating as given by 4,579 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Basilica of St. Sernin. This minor basilica enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 local and international travelers.

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

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Montpellier. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Arc de Triomphe, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,323 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Comedy Square. Comedy Square is a square with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 reviews.

Esplanade Charles de Gaulle is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,915 visitors.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Nimes should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Nimes, try some of our top recommendations.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La bonne mousse after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to O’Flaherty’s, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, News Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. 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.

Take the opportunity to see Jardin de La Fontaine. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nimes, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sagriès may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Sagriès, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Pont du Gard is a great place to start. This arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,439 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Pont du Gard Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,292 travelers.

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.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at L' Antiquaire, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Black Forest Society offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The James Joyce Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 town of Valence, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Valence, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Vaulx-en-velin.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Place Bellecour, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Lyon Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 travelers.

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is another must-visit attraction. This renowned minor basilica offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Caluire-et-Cuire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Caluire-et-Cuire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make parc de la Tête d'Or one of your first sightseeing stops in Caluire-et-Cuire. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 50,621 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,314 reviews.

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 town.

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

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 offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Marseille, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Valence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Avignon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.

Palais des Papes is another popular attraction you could visit today. This palace has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 visitors. Palais des Papes attracts up to 616,210 visitors every year.

Jardin des doms is also highly recommended by travelers. This urban park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

Aix-en-Provence’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 44 min. Aix-en-Provence welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Zoo Barben. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,386 reviews.

After soaking in Avignon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aix-en-Provence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 44 min. When you arrive in Aix-en-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Fontaine de la Rotonde. This fountain is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,851 reviews.

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 your preferred affordable place to stay.

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

Discover the heart of Marseille through its culinary scene, starting with Le Petit Nice Passedat. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Les 3 Frères, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Café l'Écomotive, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friche la Belle de Mai after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Bar de la Plaine for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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