6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Saint-Étienne, Nimes, and Lyon

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Clermont-Ferrand, 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 Saint-Étienne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Clermont-Ferrand, including a church, a park, an observation deck, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to Clermont-ferrand Cathedral. This worthwhile church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Montjuzet, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Clermont-Ferrand 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 Panoramic Domes, a locally renowned observation deck in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for L'aventure Michelin.

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

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Thunderbird Lounge, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Smoking Dog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pampille ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 3 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 Mornas, Orange, and Avignon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Saint-Étienne on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing castle, Fortress Mornas. Afterward, continue to Triumphal Arch, a monument every traveler should visit.

As you explore Saint-Étienne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Doms. This beloved park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Palais Des Papes, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a notable historical landmark in the village.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Rouge, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative 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 Nimes.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at La Bonne Mousse, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O’flaherty’s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, News Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 4 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Nimes, including a museum, a park, and a monument. Start your adventure at Musée De La Romanité. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jardin De La Fontaine located in Nimes for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Haribo Candy Museum. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Pont Du Gard. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this monument.

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.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Lyon, Le Neuvième Art shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Mère Brazier is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic cuisine in Lyon. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at L' Antiquaire, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Black Forest Society. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Pompette, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Clermont-Ferrand, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Lyon today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Place Bellecour. This visually striking public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière and learn what makes this visually striking church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the famous Parc De La Tête D'or.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Clermont-Ferrand. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Clermont-Ferrand by securing a reservation at Auberge du Pont. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Apicius, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to L'Ostal, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to L’arrozoir, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kokomo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar Des Beaux Arts provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!