One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Saint-Étienne, Montpellier, Marseille, and Lyon

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Clermont-Ferrand. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Saint-Étienne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This underrated church is a culturally significant place to see in Clermont-Ferrand. Continue your discovery at Panoramic Domes, a romantic observation deck with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Clermont-Ferrand, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to L'aventure Michelin. This curiosity-inducing museum offers a photogenic encounter with Clermont-Ferrand. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Clermont-Ferrand.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Saint-Étienne. Saint-Étienne 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 Saint-Étienne's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Du Minho, a top-rated dining destination in Saint-Étienne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Au Bureau Saint Etienne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Bouche Pleine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Saint-Étienne this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Thunderbird Lounge. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Smoking Dog, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pampille provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Montpellier’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Camargue Regional Natural Park. This romantic nature reserve is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Arles Amphitheatre, a must-visit archeological site 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 Château Des Baux-de-provence, a captivating castle. For a change of scene, check out Carrières Des Lumières, known for its eye-catching features.

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

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Signature, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Le Traquenard after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to La Dame Du Mont, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Polikarpov also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Marseille has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Marseille by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Parc Borély, a history-steeped park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Palais Longchamp, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. When you're finished at the museum, Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) awaits your visit. This church is an inviting 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated dining destination in Marseille. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Au Petit Nice, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Marengo is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, L'unic Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 - Marseille and Avignon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Marseille is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a tramway, a historical landmark, a palace, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Les Petits Trains De Marseille and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a history-steeped historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Palais Des Papes, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Jardin Des Doms.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Lyon by securing a reservation at Takao Takano. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Neuvième Art, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Mère Brazier, a top local spot known for its tantalizing classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at L' Antiquaire, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Black Forest Society offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Lyon. Pompette is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clermont-Ferrand, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Lyon, including a public square, a church, and a park. 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 Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, which may be one of the most inviting 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 astonishing park in the city.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Auberge du Pont, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Apicius, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Clermont-Ferrand is L'Ostal, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into L’arrozoir. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kokomo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Des Beaux Arts, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!