9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lyon to Auxerre, Paris, Mâcon, Nimes, and Marseille and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Lyon, 1 night in Auxerre, 1 night in Paris, 1 night in Mâcon, 1 night in Nimes, and 2 nights in Marseille. 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 Lyon, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Arc De Triomphe, learn more about the unique Champ De Mars, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin Du Luxembourg.
As you hit the open road and drive through Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Auxerre, Paris, Noisiel, Champs-sur-Marne, Beaune, Mâcon, Sagriès, Nimes, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, and Avignon, 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
- Lyon - Arrival day
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- Place Bellecour
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Lyon and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Lyon 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.
Lyon 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 Place Bellecour, 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 Lyon. 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 Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Nuage café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Rhône offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Agastache Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into L' Antiquaire. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Black Forest Society offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pompette, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Lyon
- Auxerre
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Drive 314 km, 3 hours 39 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Lyon Cathedral
- Porte des Enfants du Rhône
- parc de la Tête d'Or
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 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 Auxerre. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Lyon. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Lyon Cathedral. This interesting church is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lyon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône. This symbolic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Parc De La Tête D'or is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Auxerre. 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 Auxerre. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3
- Auxerre
- Paris
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Drive 182 km, 2 hours 37 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Louvre Museum
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Auxerre. Begin your sightseeing with Champ De Mars. This iconic park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eiffel Tower, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Auxerre, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe. This iconic monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Louvre Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Jardin Du Luxembourg is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Paris. Paris 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 Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mumi, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Imprévu Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Paris
- Mâcon
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Drive 433 km, 4 hours 32 min
- Parc de Noisiel
- Château de Champs-sur-Marne
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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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 Noisiel, Champs-sur-Marne, and Beaune. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Mâcon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Paris is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Parc De Noisiel, a locally appreciated park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Château De Champs-sur-marne, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Hôtel-dieu Museum - Hospices De Beaune. This museum is one of the town’s most popular spots.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Mâcon, 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 Mâcon. 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.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Mâcon.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5
- Mâcon
- Nîmes
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Drive 342 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Pont du Gard
- Haribo Candy Museum
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes, 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 Nimes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Mâcon on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating monument, Pont Du Gard. Afterward, continue to Haribo Candy Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Mâcon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine. This interesting park is an essential stop.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nimes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Galerie, a highly-rated dining destination in Nimes. If you're eager to try something different, consider Annaba Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel des Tuileries. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Nimes this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Bonne Mousse. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, O’flaherty’s offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook News Café, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Nîmes
- Marseille
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Drive 154 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Château des Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières des Lumières
- Zoo Barben
- Hôtel de Caumont
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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 Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Aix-en-Provence. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Nimes, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Arles Amphitheatre, a locally renowned archeological site in the town. Then, head to Château Des Baux-de-provence and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Nimes, and when you are ready for more, go to Carrières Des Lumières. This is one of the town’s most interesting awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the art installation, visit the locally renowned Zoo Barben. Not far away, you'll also find Hôtel De Caumont. This museum is a historic highlight in Nimes.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Chez Roger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les Mets des Saintes offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Traquenard, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. La Dame Du Mont is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Polikarpov is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 7
- Marseille
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Drive 38 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Centre Commercial Centre Bourse
- Palais Longchamp
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Day 7 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.
Marseille is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Calanques National Park, a well-known national park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parc Borély, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This church is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Marseille at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Centre Commercial Centre Bourse. After exploring the shopping mall, head to the well-known Palais Longchamp.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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 Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Marseille this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Au Petit Nice. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook L'unic Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Say good night to Marseille and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Marseille
- Lyon
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Drive 337 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Cathédrale La Major
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Marseille. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Marseille. Next, head to Marseille Cathedral, a well-known church, known for its breathtaking 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 Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). This visually striking historical landmark is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Palais Des Papes. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining destination in Lyon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bernachon Chocolats, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Mère Léa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lyon this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The James Joyce Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Broc'bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, La Passagère offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 9
- Lyon - Departure day
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- Fresque des Lyonnais
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Lyon 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 Fresque Des Lyonnais, a standout street art before you head out.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Lyon's best shopping area, Rue de la République. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Lyon.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Lyon. 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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