7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Lyon, Valence, Marseille, and Narbonne and surrounding area

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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, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Avignon, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Marseille, Narbonne, and Carcassonne. 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, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Valence, 1 night in Marseille, and 1 night in Narbonne. 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Parc De La Tête D'or are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), learn more about the unique Palais Des Papes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pont Du Gard.

As you hit the open road and drive through Nimes, Sagriès, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Valence, Avignon, Les Baux-de-Provence, Arles, Marseille, Narbonne, and Carcassonne, 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
Espeisses Woods
Museum RomanitéJardin de La FontaineHaribo Candy MuseumPont du Gard
Place BellecourLa Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvièreparc de la Tête d'Or
Palais des PapesPont d'AvignonCarrières des LumièresChâteau des Baux-de-ProvenceArles Amphitheatre
Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanCalanques National ParkBasilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-PasteurRéserve Africaine de SigeanCité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de Carcassonne
Porta Augusta

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Nîmes - Arrival day
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  • Espeisses Woods
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Say hello to Nimes! 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 Nimes for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Galerie, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Annaba Café offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel des Tuileries. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nimes.

Round off your dining experience by visiting La Bonne Mousse, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of O’flaherty’s, a bar catering to every mood and preference. News Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Nîmes
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 274 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Museum Romanité
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Haribo Candy Museum
  • Pont du Gard
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Nimes, including a museum, a park, and a monument. Start your day at Musée De La Romanité. This photogenic museum is a locally appreciated place to see in Nimes. 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 Haribo Candy Museum. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

Nimes offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Pont Du Gard is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L' Antiquaire after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Society, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pompette also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Lyon
  • Valence
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Place Bellecour
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Lyon on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable public square, Place Bellecour. Afterward, continue to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Lyon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Parc De La Tête D'or. This impressive park is an essential stop.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Valence. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Valence by reserving a table at Flaveurs. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Pic, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Les Cèdres, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic 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 Valence.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Valence
  • Marseille
  • More

Drive 272 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Palais des Papes
  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Carrières des Lumières
  • Château des Baux-de-Provence
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Avignon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Valence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a historical landmark, an art installation, a castle, an archeological site and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Palais Des Papes 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 Carrières Des Lumières, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Château Des Baux-de-provence. When you're finished at the castle, Arles Amphitheatre awaits your visit. This archeological site is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Marseille. Marseille 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 Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Le Petit Nice delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, 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 Signature, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Traquenard, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Dame Du Mont, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Polikarpov likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Marseille
  • Narbonne
  • More

Drive 287 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Calanques National Park
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille, 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 Narbonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Continue your discovery at Calanques National Park, a mesmerizing national park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Marseille, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This captivating church offers an inviting encounter with Marseille. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Marseille.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Narbonne, 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 Narbonne's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Narbonne by booking a table at Cave à Vin & à Manger - Maison Saint-Crescent. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to La Table Lionel Giraud, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Narbonne
  • Nîmes
  • More

Drive 287 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Cathédrale Saint-Just et Saint-Pasteur
  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • 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 Narbonne and Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming town of Narbonne. Your adventure starts at Narbonne Cathedral, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Réserve Africaine De Sigean. This locally renowned wildlife reserve is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Narbonne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This grand castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Château Comtal is also worth visiting.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nimes is Rouge, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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, we recommend visiting Auguste Gate, a heritage-rich historical landmark before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Nimes’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Carré d'Art. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

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

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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