Luxury 12-Day France Road Trip from Marseille traveling west to Valence, Lyon, Nimes, and Carcassonne

Your luxury holiday in France begins as soon as you reach the city of Marseille. There, you’ll pick up the luxury rental vehicle of your choice and hit the roads!

Journey into the unknown at Friche la Belle de Mai, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,400 reviews.

Tonight, you will be treated to a stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Marseille. We have picked out three of the most exclusive luxury lodging and hotel options for you to choose from.

In Marseille, delicious dining experiences are never far from reach. Take your pick and consider whether you need to book a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Traquenard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La dame du mont offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Polikarpov is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day luxury vacation in France and look forward to more fantastic days to come!

Day 2 of your luxury road trip in France begins and concludes in the city of Marseille. Set out by car to explore incredible attractions in the nearby area. After a day filled with sightseeing, you'll return to Marseille, where you still have 1 night nights remaining.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 visitors.

When you’re finished at Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille), head to Marseille Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,053 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Parc Borély. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Calanques National Park. This famous park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 travelers.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Marseille.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 3-star Michelin-awardee, AM par Alexandre Mazzia, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Marseille is Signature, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Au Petit Nice, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Marengo is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'unic Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Wake up to day 3 of your luxury road trip holiday in France! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the town of Valence, where you'll be staying for 1 night. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Marseille, and Avignon.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. This shopping mall is rated an average of 3.9 out of 5 stars in 16,249 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 reviews.

After soaking in Marseille’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 8 min. When you arrive in Avignon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a remarkable point of interest 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 Palais des Papes. This palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 616,210 people visit it every year.

Jardin des doms is another must-visit attraction. This renowned urban park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,201 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Valence. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.

Treat yourself after a day of exploration. Make a reservation at the finest dining and drinking spots in Valence.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pic in Valence by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Pic offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Flaveurs, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cachette, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.

Wake up to day 4 of your luxury holiday in France! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Rive-de-Gier, Ceyrins, and Crémieu. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rive-de-Gier. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,061 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rive-de-Gier and set your GPS to Ceyrins. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Ceyrins, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Domaine des Fauves. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 3,857 reviews.

After soaking in Ceyrins’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Crémieu. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Crémieu, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Medieval city of Crémieu. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,601 visitors.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Lyon. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.

After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of France, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Lyon so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Day 5 of your luxury road trip in France is another opportunity to explore what this region has to offer. Start your day with a drive to visit the amazing attractions in the surrounding area of Lyon. After a day of sightseeing, return to the city, where you still have 1 night left to enjoy. End your evening with a fulfilling dinner at one of the finest restaurants in Lyon, savoring the local culinary delights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lyon, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,363 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Caluire-et-Cuire, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vaulx-en-velin may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,314 reviews.

When you’ve completed everything you want to see and do, you will drive back to your luxury accommodation in Lyon.

After a long day of exploring, it’s a great idea to relax with a lovely dinner or a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Lyon for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cactus Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L Bar food & drink, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Flair Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Broc'Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Phantom of the Opera is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.

On day 6 of your luxury holiday in France, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Lyon. The day's journey will conclude in Nimes, a city that offers you comfort and relaxation for 2 nights. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in France.

Make Place Bellecour one of your first sightseeing stops in Lyon. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Lyon Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This catholic cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,228 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Musée Miniature et Cinéma. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,540 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Fresque des Lyonnais. A trip to this popular fresco is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 4,927 previous visitors.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Nimes. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.

After a long day of exploring, it’s a great idea to relax with a lovely dinner or a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Nimes for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Nimes. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Rouge. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La bonne mousse, known for its inviting atmosphere. O’Flaherty’s is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, News Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Lyon, France and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 7 of your luxury road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in the city of Nimes, but jump in the car to visit amazing attractions in the nearby area. After a day of sightseeing, you'll drive back to Nimes, where you still have 1 night left.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,878 visitors.

Musée de la Romanité is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 visitors. Musée de la Romanité attracts up to 25,271 visitors every year.

La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sagriès, 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 La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Sagriès may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sagriès, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 17,011 visitors.

When you’re done exploring the best attractions, you’ll drive back to your luxury accommodation near the city of Nimes.

After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of France, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Nimes so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Criée, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hotel Vatel and Spa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nimes tonight.

Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.

Wake up to day 8 of your luxury road trip holiday in France! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the town of Carcassonne, where you'll be staying for 3 nights. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Montpellier.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Montpellier, 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 Nimes to Montpellier may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Montpellier, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,915 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Comedy Square. This square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,883 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Arc de Triomphe. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,323 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Planet Ocean World. This aquarium is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,786 visitors.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Carcassonne. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.

Discover a world of culinary delights in Carcassonne, where top-notch dining experiences await at every corner. Consider whether you need to make a reservation in advance to secure a table at your preferred restaurant.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern, and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.

On day 9 of your stress-free luxury holiday in France, you will explore the surroundings of Carcassonne. You have 2 nights left in Carcassonne, giving you enough time to explore the region.

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toulouse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 12 min. When you arrive in Toulouse, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of St. Sernin. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 visitors.

Square Charles de Gaulle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,579 visitors.

Couvent des Jacobins is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,770 visitors.

Grand Rond is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,069 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Jardin des Plantes. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,847 travelers.

When you’ve completed everything you want to see and do, you will drive back to your luxury accommodation in Carcassonne.

Exploring new destinations can leave you craving great food and drinks. Satisfy your cravings and unwind by visiting the finest restaurants and bars in Carcassonne.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at V and B Carcassonne, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Auberge des Lices? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Adélaïde as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

Raise a toast to another amazing day of your luxury holiday in Toulouse, France and seize the opportunity to celebrate.

On day 10 of your luxurious vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend most of the day exploring attractions outside of the town. After a long day of sightseeing, you'll drive back to Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château Comtal. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.

Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,201 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

Basilique Saint Nazaire is another outstanding experience in Carcassonne. Around 4,146 travelers have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marmonières. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Make Grotte de Limousis your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this show cave an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,361 reviews. More than 15,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

When you’re done exploring the best attractions, you’ll drive back to your luxury accommodation near the town of Carcassonne.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Carcassonne. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant La Marquière, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in France!

Wake up to day 11 of your luxury holiday in France! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in Arles. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,817 visitors and gets around 70,230 visits every year.

L'espace Van Gogh is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,003 travelers.

Arles is also the home of Roman Theatre of Arles. Around 1,900 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Arles Amphitheatre. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 13,060 reviews, a visit to this roman amphitheatre is a great idea.

Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Marseille. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.

After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Marseille. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Petit Nice Passedat, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les 3 Frères, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café l'Écomotive, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Friche la Belle de Mai, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Bar de la Plaine. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in France!

Today is the last day of your 12-day luxury holiday in France and it’s soon time to start your journey home. This is your chance to get one last glimpse of Marseille before saying goodbye.

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

Make the most of what's left of your luxury vacation and head out to the stunning Palais Longchamp. This extraordinary water tower and attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews, and is an excellent choice for your last sightseeing in Marseille.

Treat yourself to a final feast. Savor the unique flavors of Marseille one last time before you head to the airport.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Chez Marinette, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Roy René - Restaurant Marseille offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You will then say farewell to Marseille and begin your journey home. We wish you safe travels and a warm welcome home, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos from your luxury holiday in France in your luggage!