7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes traveling north to Lyon

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Photo of chaos de Nimes, Nimes le vieux- famous touristic site in France.
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Photo of Nimes Arena aerial panoramic view, France.
Photo of Ancient aqueduct of Pont du Gard, Unesco World Heritage site, Nimes, France.
Photo of Le Nymphée with sculpture group at the park Les Jardin de la Fontaine in Nimes, France.
Photo of view at Eglise Saint Paul in Nimes, France.
Photo of morning street view with roman amphitheater building in Nimes city on Southern France.
Photo of Roman amphitheater in Nimes, France.
Photo of  Occitanie, Pradier fountain and Arena of Nimes, France.
Photo of park Jardin de la Fontaine in city of Nimes in Southern France.
Photo of Museum of fine arts in Nimes ,France.
Photo of Lyon cityscape from Saone river with colorful houses and river, France.
Photo of summer view over Vieux Lyon, with famous cathedral Fourviere, and Croix Rousse in Lyon, France.
Photo of Pedestrian Saint Georges footbridge and the Saint Georges church in Lyon, France.
Photo of tourist walks through the center of Lyon's old town, France.
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drone photo Saint-Jean-Baptiste cathedral Lyon France europe
Photo of morning view on Jacobins square and beautiful fountain in Lyon city, France.
Photo of woman walking on the famous Bellecour square with Louis king statue traveling in Lyon city in France.
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Photo of La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, a catholic cathedral in the city of Lyon, France.
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Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Nimes, La Roque-sur-Cèze, Lyon, Colombier-le-Cardinal, Sainte-Colombe, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, and Montpellier. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Nimes and 4 nights in Lyon. 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 Nimes, 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. Parc De La Tête D'or and Pont Du Gard are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, learn more about the unique Place Bellecour, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin De La Fontaine.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, La Roque-sur-Cèze, Lyon, Colombier-le-Cardinal, Sainte-Colombe, Caluire-et-Cuire, Vaulx-en-velin, and Montpellier, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Jardin de La Fontaine
Espeisses WoodsMuseum RomanitéPont du GardSautadet Falls
Glandieu FallsSafari de PeaugresMuseum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
Place BellecourMusée Cinéma et MiniatureLyon Cathedralparc de la Tête d'OrMini World Lyon
Wall of the CanutsPorte des Enfants du RhôneFresque des LyonnaisGallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-FourvièreLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Jardin des plantes de MontpellierArc de Triompheesplanade Charles de GaulleComedy Square
Porta Augusta

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nîmes - Arrival day
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  • Jardin de La Fontaine
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Nimes and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Nimes for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Nimes 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 Jardin De La Fontaine, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Nimes. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Nimes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Galerie, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

Continue your lively evening at La Bonne Mousse, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O’flaherty’s is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, News Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nîmes
  • Lyon
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Drive 294 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Espeisses Woods
  • Museum Romanité
  • Pont du Gard
  • Sautadet Falls
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, and La Roque-sur-Cèze. 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 4 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Nimes covers several incredible sights, including a park, a museum, a monument, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Espeisses Woods. This worthwhile park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Musée De La Romanité, a must-see museum 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 Pont Du Gard. This captivating monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sautadet Falls, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 Nuage café, a highly-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café du Rhône, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Agastache Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.

Continue your lively evening at L' Antiquaire, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Forest Society is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pompette ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 298 km, 4 hours

  • Glandieu Falls
  • Safari de Peaugres
  • Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
  • More

Greet day 3 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lyon for your remaining 3 nights 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 Glandieu, Colombier-le-Cardinal, and Sainte-Colombe.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Glandieu Falls. This worthwhile waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Safari De Peaugres, one of the hamlet’s best highlights.

Next, check out Museum And Site Of Saint-romain-en-gal Vienne, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Lyon. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Lyon at Bernachon Chocolats, 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 La Mère Léa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Lyon tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The James Joyce Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Broc'bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Passagère is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 28 km, 56 min

  • Place Bellecour
  • Musée Cinéma et Miniature
  • Lyon Cathedral
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Mini World Lyon
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Start your day with a visit to Place Bellecour. This notable public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, which may be one of the most photogenic 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 Lyon Cathedral, an interesting church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for 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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nosch, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Raffinerie, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mos - Maker Of Stories provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 15 km, 50 min

  • Wall of the Canuts
  • Porte des Enfants du Rhône
  • Fresque des Lyonnais
  • Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lyon, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Wall Of The Canuts is the perfect place to start. This street art is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, an underrated monument, known for its awe-inspiring 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 Fresque Des Lyonnais. This history-steeped street art is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière and Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Lyon, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le Parloir, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Terroir is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cactus Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Dôme. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Lyon
  • Nîmes
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Drive 364 km, 4 hours 28 min

  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Comedy Square
  • More

On day 6 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 Montpellier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Lyon is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a locally appreciated botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Arc De Triomphe, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This park is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lyon at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Comedy Square.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Criée, a top-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Vatel and Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Magnolias - Restaurant - Nîmes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Nîmes - Departure day
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  • Porta Augusta
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Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Nimes 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 Auguste Gate. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Nimes's best shopping area, Carré d'Art. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Nimes.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Barjoe Nîmes, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Nimes. 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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