One-Week France Road Trip from Grenoble to Besancon, Mulhouse, Lyon, and Marseille and surrounding area

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

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

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Grenoble. 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 in Grenoble. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Petite Idée, an iconic dining spot in Grenoble. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 804 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Pizzeria Come Prima while in Grenoble. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,055 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of La Ferme à Dédé, a favorite in Grenoble. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,169 discerning guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend L'Ardoise, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,127 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is le coq hardi. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 991 customers.

Pub Shakesbeer is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 850 customers.

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

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 Grenoble and Besancon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Besancon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 737 visitors.

When you’re finished at Museum of the Resistance and Deportation of Isère, head to Musée de Grenoble. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,100 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Fort de La Bastille. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,303 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Jardin des Dauphins. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,062 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Grenoble, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Besancon may take around 3 hours 17 min. Upon your arrival in Besancon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Besancon. Besancon 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 Besancon's best restaurants.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Café des Félins, a distinguished dining establishment in Besancon. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 671 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Besancon is L'Alsacien Besançon. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,828 happy diners.

Les Tables d'antan stands out as a local favorite in Besancon. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 756 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in Besancon. Le 1802 is a popular option, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 854 customers.

Continue your evening at Pub Kilarney. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 526 customers.

The coffee Brass'éliande is another place you could check out tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 929 customers.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Colmar, Strasbourg, and Mulhouse, 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 Mulhouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Trois-Épis, 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 Besancon to Trois-Épis may take around 2 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Strasbourg, 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 Trois-Épis to Strasbourg may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parc de l'Orangerie. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,139 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,268 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Mulhouse, 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 Mulhouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Volfoni Mulhouse. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Mulhouse has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 2,646 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, L'Entrecôte de Mulhouse should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Mulhouse, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,603 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Crêperie Crampous Mad. This highly regarded restaurant in Mulhouse has earned a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 1,070 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is Los Buenos Días. This place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 855 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Le Cellier. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 831 customers.

The Tavern of the Teutonic Knights is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 700 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, 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.

Make parc de la Tête d'Or your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Caluire-et-Cuire and set your GPS to Lyon. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 22 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lyon. 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 a table at L Bar food & drink, a renowned restaurant in Lyon. 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 2,758 guests.

Ensure you experience culinary excellence at Bouchon Tupin while in Lyon. This dining establishment presents an exquisite menu that has received a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, acclaimed by 969 discerning diners.

Experience a taste of Lyon at L'Institut Restaurant, 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 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 853 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, Black Forest Society is one of the best bars in Lyon for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 500 customers.

Livestation DIY - Lyon is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Alternatively, check out Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière". This popular place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, as rated by 1,225 customers.

Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 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 Marseille 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 Lyon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marseille. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Marseille. Marseille 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Marseille.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at L'Épuisette while you’re in Marseille. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 830 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Marseille is Twist Avenue. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 618 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Marseille, enjoy Coogee’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 533 satisfied guests.

Experience the local nightlife scene. Bistrot l’Horloge is a highly recommended bar with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,794 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar among locals like O'Malley. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,796 bar-goers.

La Caravelle is another great bar that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,587 customers.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Cannes. You have 1 night left in Cannes. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

You can learn more about Cannes today by going on a tour. Cannes offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Le Bouchon Provençal, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,207 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Chez Roger during your stay in Marseille. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,502 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Nul Part Ailleurs, a renowned dining destination in Marseille. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,400 satisfied guests.

Le Café de la Banque is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,223 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Bar Bu. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 648 customers.

The Queen Victoria is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Marseille. Rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 3,995 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

Say good night to Marseille and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Avignon, Vaison-la-Romaine, and Grenoble. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Grenoble, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Marseille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Avignon. Your travel time is around 1 hour 8 min.

Journey into the unknown at Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon), a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Jardin des doms is a recommended place to visit. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,201 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Avignon is Palais des Papes. This spectacular palace gets over 616,210 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Avignon offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Avignon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vaison-la-Romaine. This drive usually takes around 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Roman Bridge. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,024 reviews.

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

Reserve your spot at My Little Warung Grenoble, a popular local restaurant in Grenoble. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,183 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience La Cuisine des Tontons during your stay in Grenoble. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 785 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Cedar Restaurant, a popular local gem in Grenoble. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 840 satisfied guests.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is Restaurant La Table des Bro's Grenoble. This claim is supported by 682 customers who have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like Le Champollion Bar. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 609 customers.

The options in Grenoble don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent Bar Au RENCARD. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 555 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

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

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

As your final day in France unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Grenoble’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of France.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Grenoble. 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!