One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Montpellier, 2 nights in Avignon, and 2 nights in Aix-en-Provence. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Montpellier, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) and Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, learn more about the unique Le Sentier Des Ocres, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Marseille Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Avignon, Apt, Roussillon, Gargas, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Arles, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Say hello to Montpellier! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Montpellier for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Montpellier is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Arc De Triomphe, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Montpellier. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Le Palavasien, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Enfants Rouges beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Tord Boyaux. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Montpellier tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Montpellier
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Planet Ocean World
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Musée Fabre
- Montpellier Cathedral
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Montpellier. You’ll stay in Montpellier for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is Planet Ocean World. This underrated aquarium is a photogenic place to see in Montpellier. Continue your discovery at Comedy Square, a romantic public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Montpellier, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This often recommended park offers a visually striking encounter with Montpellier. Next, make your way to Fabre Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Montpellier Cathedral, an often recommended church that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a beloved botanical garden in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Montpellier.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Visit L'Esplanade Charles de Gaulle in Montpellier for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what L'Esplanade Charles de Gaulle has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Montpellier. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Banane offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Troc. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Montpellier.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Black Out stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Espit Chupitos Montpellier is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3
- Montpellier
- Avignon
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Drive 97 km, 1 hour 46 min
- Remparts d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- Jardin des doms
- Musée du Petit Palais
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On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Avignon, where you will stay for 2 nights.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Montpellier on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated historical landmark, Remparts D'avignon. Afterward, continue to Palais Des Papes, a palace every traveler should visit.
As you explore Montpellier’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Doms. This often recommended park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Musée Du Petit Palais, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Avignon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Avignon. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Pollen, a top-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuisine de Papa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Barberousse Avignon offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Red Sky is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Avignon
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Drive 123 km, 2 hours 35 min
- Sénanque Abbey
- Le Sentier des Ocres
- Mines Bruoux
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Avignon, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Sénanque Abbey. This beloved monastery is a monumental place to see in Avignon. Continue your discovery at Le Sentier Des Ocres, a serene hiking area with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Avignon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mines Bruoux. This beloved cave offers a heritage-rich encounter with Avignon. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Avignon.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Avignon.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Avignon's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Carré du Palais, a popular restaurant in Avignon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Avignon at Avenio, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated BAR DU CHANGE. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Avignon tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at O'collins's Irish Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Gambrinus offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Avignon
- Aix-en-Provence
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Drive 90 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Musée Granet
- Hôtel de Caumont
- Fontaine de la Rotonde
- forum des Cardeurs
- Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Aix-en-Provence. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aix-en-Provence. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Avignon today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Musée Granet. This visually striking museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hôtel De Caumont and learn what makes this historic museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Fontaine De La Rotonde. After exploring the monument, head to Place Des Cardeurs. This intriguing public square is a highlight in Avignon. As your day continues, stop by Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence, known for its picture-perfect features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Aix-en-Provence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Aix-en-Provence, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Savor the flavors at Côté Cour, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Château de Beaupré beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aix-en-Provence tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Le Brigand, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Céleste is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, St James Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Say good night to Aix-en-Provence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Aix-en-Provence
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Drive 75 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
- Old Port of Marseille
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Palais Longchamp
- Le Panier
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On day 6 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Aix-en-Provence, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Aix-en-Provence for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Marseille to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
A top thing to do today is to explore Le Panier, a must-see neighborhood in Marseille. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Aix-en-Provence. Begin your sightseeing with Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This well-known church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Marseille Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Aix-en-Provence, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Old Port Of Marseille. This intriguing marina is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Palais Longchamp is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Aix-en-Provence and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aix-en-Provence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at O'Gustus restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Aix-en-Provence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Temps, a popular restaurant in Aix-en-Provence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le bouche à Oreille, a hidden gem nestled in Aix-en-Provence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Say good night to Aix-en-Provence and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Aix-en-Provence
- Montpellier
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
- L'espace Van Gogh
- Saint-Trophime Primatial Catholic Church
- Roman Theatre of Arles
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Jardin d'été
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Arles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Aix-en-Provence includes a museum, a cultural center, a church, an archeological site, a park and much more! Musée Départemental De L'arles Antique is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to L'espace Van Gogh, a locally appreciated cultural center, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Saint-trophime Primatial Catholic Church, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Aix-en-Provence. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Roman Theatre Of Arles. If you’re looking for more, Arles Amphitheatre is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Jardin D'été, a place of instagrammable interest in the town.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Montpellier. Montpellier offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Balthazar café & restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Georges Café Montpellier. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Du Port, a prime location for a drink.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 8
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Aqueduc Saint-clément. This curiosity-inducing monument is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Odysseum. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.
If you're in the mood for something new, try La Diligence, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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!
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