One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling north to Carcassonne, Marseille, Lyon, and Valence

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 and La Grande-Motte. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Montpellier, including a public square, a park, a museum, a botanical garden, a beach and much more! Start your day at Comedy Square. This enchanting public square is a popular place to see in Montpellier. Then, wander over to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. If instagrammable sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Fabre Museum. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

Montpellier offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the botanical garden, don’t forget to check out the romantic Sunset Beach. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing beach.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Carcassonne by securing a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne 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 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Carcassonne today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Château Comtal. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne and learn what makes this visually striking castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the top-rated Cité De Carcassonne. After exploring the castle, head to Roman Theatre Of Arles. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a highlight in Carcassonne. As your day continues, stop by Arles Amphitheatre, known for its culturally significant features.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, AM par Alexandre Mazzia is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Marseille. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Signature. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Traquenard, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, La Dame Du Mont offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Polikarpov. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Marseille. You have 1 night left in Marseille. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your day at Calanques National Park. This idyllic national park is a captivating place to see in Marseille. Then, wander over to Parc Borély. If detailed sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Palais Longchamp. This history-steeped palace is a favorite among visitors.

Marseille offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned church.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Bistro Du Panier, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at AM par Alexandre Mazzia. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

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.

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

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Marseille, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Les Petits Trains De Marseille, an increasingly popular tramway in the city. Then, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon) and soak in the ambiance of this UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Marseille, and when you are ready for more, go to Palais Des Papes. This is one of the city’s most notable culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the palace, visit the beloved Jardin Des Doms.

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

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.

Begin 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.

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.

Head back to your accommodation in Lyon and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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 - 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.

Today's adventure in Lyon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Place Bellecour. This visually striking public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Parc De La Tête D'or, one of the city’s most top-rated attractions, known for its romantic features.

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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Valence by reserving a table at Flaveurs. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Pic, recognized for its delicious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Les Cèdres, a local favorite known for its delightful classic cuisine in Valence. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, La Roque-sur-Cèze, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes. 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 route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Sautadet Falls. This up-and-coming waterfall is a mesmerizing place to see in Valence. Continue your discovery at Pont Du Gard, an enchanting monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Valence, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Haribo Candy Museum. This notable museum offers an eye-catching encounter with Valence. Next, make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Valence.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Reflet d'Obione in Montpellier by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Reflet d'Obione delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jardin des Sens, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Leclère, 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Black Out, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Petit Nice offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Montpellier. Espit Chupitos Montpellier 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!