One-Week France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling east to Marseille, Lyon, and Nimes

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Carcassonne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 2 nights 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.

Carcassonne is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Restaurant La Marquière. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Carcassonne has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 680 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Brasserie a 4 Temps should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Carcassonne, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,551 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Adélaïde. This highly regarded restaurant in Carcassonne has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,584 satisfied guests.

Many locals go to Comte Roger to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,143 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is The Celt. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,000 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Reserve a table at Auberge des Lices, a renowned restaurant in Carcassonne. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 908 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Le Blé Noir while in Carcassonne. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 932 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Carcassonne at Le Parc Franck Putelat, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 621 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal and an after-dinner drink sounds enticing, visit La Métairie, one of the best bars in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 756 customers, and is the perfect complement to your refreshing weekend getaway experience in France.

If you would like to try another place, Buffalo Grill Carcassonne is another great option that serves a variety of drinks. Considered one of the most popular bars in Carcassonne, this bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 3,813 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Arles and Marseille. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille. Marseille will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arles. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Musée départemental de l'Arles antique. This much-appreciated archaeological museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,817 reviews. Each year, 70,230 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Jardin d'été. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,025 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Roman Theatre of Arles. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews.

Arles Amphitheatre is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Marseille, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Arles to Marseille may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 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.

Reserve your spot at L'Épuisette, a popular local restaurant in Marseille. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 830 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Twist Avenue during your stay in Marseille. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 618 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Coogee, a popular local gem in Marseille. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 533 satisfied guests.

Many locals go to Bistrot l’Horloge to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,794 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is O'Malley. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,796 customers.

La Caravelle is another great option in Marseille. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Marseille. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Marseille has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in France by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Le Bouchon Provençal. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Marseille has received a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from around 1,207 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Chez Roger should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Marseille, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,502 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Nul Part Ailleurs. This highly regarded restaurant in Marseille has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,400 satisfied guests.

Le Café de la Banque is one of the best bars in Marseille and the perfect place for a celebratory drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers.

You may also want to check out Bar Bu, offering great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Bar Bu is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 648 customers.

A third bar where you could have a great time tonight is The Queen Victoria. This bar has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 3,995 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Avignon, Orange, and Lyon. 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palais des Papes. This palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers from near and far. Approximately 616,210 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Avignon.

Avignon is also the home of Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Avignon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Orange may take around 26 min. Upon your arrival in Orange, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Triumphal arch. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,483 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lyon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon.

Make sure to book a table at L Bar food & drink, a popular restaurant in Lyon. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 2,758 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Bouchon Tupin during your stay in Lyon. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 969 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of L'Institut Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Lyon. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 853 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Black Forest Society, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 500 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is Livestation DIY - Lyon. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière" is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,225 customers.

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

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 Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nimes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Place Bellecour. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.

When you’re finished at Place Bellecour, head to Lyon Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,228 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lyon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see parc de la Tête d'Or. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Caluire-et-Cuire, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nimes. Your travel time is around 2 hours 49 min.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nimes. Nimes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Reserve a table at The Bird, a renowned restaurant in Nimes. This culinary gem and its flavorful dishes have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 659 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Restaurant Skab while in Nimes. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 591 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Nimes at Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,576 customers.

O’Flaherty’s is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,377 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

Le Questel is another top-rated bar in the city of Nimes. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 575 customers.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Montpellier, and Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Jardin de La Fontaine, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.

After soaking in Nimes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montpellier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive in Montpellier, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,915 visitors.

When you’re finished at esplanade Charles de Gaulle, head to Comedy Square. This one-of-a-kind square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,883 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Arc de Triomphe. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,323 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at La Rapière, an acclaimed dining establishment in Carcassonne. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.1 out of 5-star rating from 816 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Buffalo Grill Salvaza Carcassonne while experiencing the best of Carcassonne. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,650 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of V and B Carcassonne, an elegant culinary destination in Carcassonne. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 745 previous guests.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Carcassonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Carcassonne’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family, or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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!