11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Marseille, Valence, Lyon, and Nimes

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start by visiting Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Comedy Square, another must-visit landmark and popular public square renowned for its enchanting features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Montpellier by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This romantic park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Montpellier experience. We also recommend visiting Planet Ocean World, a curiosity-inducing aquarium. Nearby, you'll also find Sunset Beach, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Montpellier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Begin your culinary exploration in Montpellier by securing a reservation at Reflet d'Obione. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jardin des Sens, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Leclère, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Black Out, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Petit Nice, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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 Tarascon, Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Montpellier. Begin your sightseeing with Tarascon Castle. This increasingly popular castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Arles Amphitheatre, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Montpellier, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Château Des Baux-de-provence. This popular castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Carrières Des Lumières, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Alpilles Natural Regional Park 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 drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Marseille, AM par Alexandre Mazzia shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Signature is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Marseille. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Traquenard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La Dame Du Mont, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Polikarpov provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Marseille for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Marseille is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a national park, a park, a church, a shopping mall, a palace and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Calanques National Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Parc Borély, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. When you're finished at the shopping mall, Palais Longchamp awaits your visit. This palace is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Au Petit Nice, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Marengo is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'unic Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Marseille for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Cassis and Marseille.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Calanque De Port-miou is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching marina before continuing your journey. Marseille Cathedral is your next stop. This notable church is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.

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 Les Petits Trains De Marseille. This eye-catching tramway is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Old Port Of Marseille and Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Une Table au Sud, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Bovo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Maison MV. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Valence. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your adventure at Fontaine De La Rotonde. This is a curiosity-inducing monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Zoo Barben, a captivating zoo in Marseille.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). From there, take a leisurely stroll to Palais Des Papes, another of the city’s notable attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Valence, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Valence. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Flaveurs in Valence by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Flaveurs delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Pic, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Les Cèdres, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Rive-de-Gier, Crémieu, and La Balme-les-Grottes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lyon, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Valence today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Espace Zoologique De Saint-martin-la-plaine. This breathtaking zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Medieval City Of Crémieu and learn what makes this history-steeped historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved The Caves Of La Balme.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Lyon. Lyon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lyon's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Neuvième Art is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Mère Brazier. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting L' Antiquaire, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Society is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pompette also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lyon has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Lyon by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Immerse yourself in Lyon’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière. This respected museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the inviting features of Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, an underrated museum. For a change of scene, check out Lyon Cathedral, known for its enchanting features.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The James Joyce Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Broc'bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Passagère provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, and Valence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nimes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a public square, a street art, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Place Bellecour. This popular public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Fresque Des Lyonnais, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Lyon on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or, an extraordinary park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Grand Parc Miribel Jonage and Parc Jouvet.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Nimes, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Rouge, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nimes.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Bonne Mousse is an excellent place to start. You could also check out O’flaherty’s, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is News Café. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Nimes and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nimes, Sagriès, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and Aigues-Mortes, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Nimes is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Jardin De La Fontaine, a locally renowned park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Musée De La Romanité, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Haribo Candy Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Nimes at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Pont Du Gard. After exploring the monument, head to the underrated Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Savor the flavors at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Balthazar café & restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Georges Café Montpellier. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Montpellier tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Du Port, where the evening is just getting started.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.