7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Lyon, Perigueux, and Toulouse
Description
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Montpellier, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Clermont-Ferrand, Perigueux, Bordeaux, Toulouse, 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 Montpellier, 2 nights in Lyon, 1 night in Perigueux, and 1 night in Toulouse. 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 Montpellier, 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 Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, learn more about the unique Place Bellecour, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Clermont-Ferrand, Perigueux, Bordeaux, Toulouse, 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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Day 1
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Say hello to Montpellier! 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 Montpellier for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Montpellier. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Le Palavasien, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Enfants Rouges boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Tord Boyaux. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Montpellier.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Montpellier
- Lyon
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Drive 310 km, 3 hours 35 min
- promenade of Peyrou
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Comedy Square
- Planet Ocean World
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On day 2 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 Lyon, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Montpellier allows for both. Start by heading to Promenade Of Peyrou. This intriguing public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Comedy Square, a well-known public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing Planet Ocean World.
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.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to L' Antiquaire, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Society is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pompette is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 3
- Lyon
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Drive 19 km, 1 hour 2 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- Fresque des Lyonnais
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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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 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 Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Lyon. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Parc De La Tête D'or is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most famous places to visit in Lyon. Next, head to Place Bellecour, a notable public square, known for its history-steeped 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 Lyon Cathedral. This enchanting church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Fresque Des Lyonnais and Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lyon and your accommodation.
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.
Savor the flavors at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bernachon Chocolats beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Mère Léa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lyon tonight.
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.
Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Lyon
- Périgueux
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Drive 421 km, 5 hours 18 min
- Jardin Lecoq
- Panoramic Domes
- Puy Pariou
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Clermont-Ferrand. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Perigueux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Lyon, including a park, an observation deck, and a volcano. Start your day at Jardin Lecoq. This masterful park is a worthwhile place to see in Lyon. Then, wander over to Panoramic Domes. If romantic sites excite you, this observation deck will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Puy Pariou. This eye-catching volcano is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Perigueux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Perigueux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5
- Périgueux
- Toulouse
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Drive 382 km, 4 hours 15 min
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Start by visiting Jardin Public, a prime spot to begin your journey. This remarkable park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Monument Aux Girondins, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming monument renowned for its breathtaking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Perigueux by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Place De La Bourse. This UNESCO world heritage-listed public square is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Perigueux experience. We also recommend visiting Miroir D'eau, a popular art installation.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Le May, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L*Agence offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Perche Pinte. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Toulouse.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Toulouse
- Montpellier
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Montpellier, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Toulouse covers several incredible sights, including a castle and a church. Start your adventure at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This frequently visited castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Château Comtal, a must-see castle in the town.
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 Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire, where you can take in history-steeped 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 Montpellier. Montpellier offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Montpellier's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Banane, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Black Out. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Espit Chupitos Montpellier, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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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 Montpellier 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 Aqueduc Saint-clément, a standout monument before you head out.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Polygone Montpellier. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Balthazar café & restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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