One-Week Relaxed France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille to Lyon
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Description
Experience France like never before on this 8-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, La Mulatière, and Nimes. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in France.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, La Mulatière, and Nimes. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Marseille and 4 nights in Lyon. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Marseille, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Parc De La Tête D'or. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille).
Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Pont Du Gard. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Get close to the spectacular Calanques National Park and the wonderful Place Bellecour. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Marseille - Arrival day
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- Old Port of Marseille
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Marseille and begin your adventure in France.
Marseille 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 Old Port Of Marseille, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Marseille. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Mets des Saintes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Marseille’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Traquenard, known for its lively atmosphere. La Dame Du Mont is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Polikarpov offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Marseille as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Marseille
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 31 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Palais Longchamp
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Marseille. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Marseille. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Marseille!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Marseille. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Calanques National Park is the perfect place to start. This national park is one of the most well-known places to visit in Marseille. Next, head to Parc Borély, a captivating park, known for its detailed features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Palais Longchamp. This history-steeped palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Centre Commercial Centre Bourse and Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Marseille, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Savor the flavors at Le Bistro Du Panier, 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.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Marseille and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Au Petit Nice, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Marengo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'unic Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Marseille can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
- Lyon
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Drive 323 km, 3 hours 36 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Parc Émile Duclaux
- Cathédrale La Major
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Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Marseille. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Lyon, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Marseille covers several incredible sights, including a church, a tramway, and a park. Start your adventure at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This well-known church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Les Petits Trains De Marseille, a must-see tramway in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Parc Émile Duclaux. This often recommended park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Marseille Cathedral, where you can take in breathtaking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Lyon in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 4 nights.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lyon, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Don’t miss out on dining at Nuage café, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Lyon.
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 Pompette. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!
Day 4
- Lyon
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 10 min
- Wall of the Canuts
- Palais de la Bourse de Lyon
- Porte des Enfants du Rhône
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Mini World Lyon
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Lyon, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lyon will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Wall Of The Canuts is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking street art before continuing your journey. Palais De La Bourse De Lyon is your next stop. This underrated palace is one of the best-rated sights in Lyon.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This symbolic monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc De La Tête D'or and Mini World Lyon.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Lyon.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bernachon Chocolats offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss La Mère Léa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Lyon.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Lyon and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Broc'bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Passagère is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Lyon!
Day 5
- Lyon
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Drive 11 km, 36 min
- Parc des Berges du Rhône
- Place de la République
- Place Bellecour
- Musée Cinéma et Miniature
- Lyon Cathedral
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Lyon and visit amazing attractions in La Mulatière and Lyon destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Lyon. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lyon, including a park, a public square, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day at Parc Des Berges Du Rhône. This idyllic park is an up-and-coming place to see in Lyon. Then, wander over to Place De La République. If instagrammable sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Place Bellecour. This romantic public square is a favorite among visitors.
Lyon offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Musée Miniature Et Cinéma is an increasingly popular spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Lyon Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular church.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lyon.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Lyon has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Nosch, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vieille Canaille. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lyon.
Continue your lively evening at La Raffinerie, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mos - Maker Of Stories ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!
Day 6
- Lyon
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Drive 11 km, 41 min
- Fresque des Lyonnais
- Fresco "The library of the city
- Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
- Parc des Hauteurs
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Lyon, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Fresque Des Lyonnais. This curiosity-inducing street art is a gorgeous place to see in Lyon. Continue your discovery at Fresco "the Library Of The City", a picture-perfect art installation with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Lyon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This intriguing museum offers a breathtaking encounter with Lyon. Next, make your way to Parc Des Hauteurs to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a notable church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lyon.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Lyon offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Exploring the food culture in Lyon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Le Parloir, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Terroir, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cactus Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Dôme, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.
Day 7
- Lyon
- Marseille
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Drive 397 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Pont du Gard
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
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Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Nimes and the city of Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lyon, including a monument, a park, and a museum. Start your day at Pont Du Gard. This romantic monument is a well-known place to see in Lyon. Then, wander over to Jardin De La Fontaine. If history-steeped sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Musée De La Romanité. This standout museum is a favorite among visitors.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Marseille. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Marseille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Have a fantastic dining experience at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Une Table au Sud offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Bovo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Marseille’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Friche La Belle De Mai is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar De La Plaine, offering a different kind of charm.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.
Day 8
- Marseille - Departure day
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- Porte d'Aix
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Marseille.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Marseille’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Centre Bourse. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Porte D'aix. This curiosity-inducing monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Marseille or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Marseille and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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