Cheap 12-Day France Road Trip from Nice to Marseille, Valence, Dijon, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Nimes

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Nice, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Nice and begin your adventure in France.

Nice is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in France, Nice is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Nice has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Les Amoureux is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,622 customers.

Chez Acchiardo is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,467 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Les Sens, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 920 reviews.

Wayne's Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,557 customers.

La Shounga is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. La Shounga has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,693 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Nice.

You might also want to cap the night off at Les Distilleries Idéales, a fascinating bar that 1,572 customers have rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in France!

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Nice and Marseille. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Marseille.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Villa Masséna Musée. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,341 reviews.

Next up is Marc Chagall National Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,227 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Castle Hill. This park has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,646 reviews.

Parc Phœnix is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This tram stop has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 9,938 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marseille. This car ride takes around 2 hours 2 min.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Marseille has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Marseille on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Marseille offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

We recommend a local favorite like L'Épuisette. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 830 customers.

Twist Avenue is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Marseille. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 618 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Marseille you might want to check out is Coogee. Coogee is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 533 reviews.

After dinner, visit Bistrot l’Horloge and experience the nightlife in the city of Marseille. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,794 customers.

You can also hang out at O'Malley. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,796 customers.

Locals recommend La Caravelle, so definitely check it out too. La Caravelle is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,587 bar-goers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 3 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Marseille and Valence. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Valence.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marseille Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,714 visitors.

Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,446 visitors.

Calanques National Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,632 visitors.

Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille) is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Valence. 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 2 hours 14 min. Upon reaching Valence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Valence. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Valence, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Valence has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in France.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Dijon, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Dijon, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, and Dijon.

After soaking in Valence’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lyon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Lyon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your day with a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This extraordinary minor basilica is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 visitors.

Next, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Place Bellecour. This square is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 travelers.

Set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Caluire-et-Cuire beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at parc de la Tête d'Or, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 50,621 reviews.

Set your GPS to Dijon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dijon beckons with new experiences!

Dijon offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

After a long day of exploring and making the most of your budget vacation in France, treat yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Dijon that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

L'Antre II Mondes is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 763 customers.

L'Alsacien Dijon is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 931 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at La Bourgogne, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,011 reviews.

Flannery's is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,181 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like Les BerThoM Dijon. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 827 customers.

Delirium Café is another top-rated bar in the city of Dijon. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 692 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 5 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 3 wonderful destinations — Paris, Fontainebleau, and Paris.

Fontainebleau’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dijon behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 32 min. Fontainebleau welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Paris’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Fontainebleau behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Paris welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Paris has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Paris on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Paris, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Visit the popular Restaurant Guy Savoy. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,143 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in France is Le Bistrot Du Perigord. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 584 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Kitchen Galerie Bis. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 512 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

La Coupole is a fantastic bar many locals in Paris recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,580 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Le Fumoir, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,606 customers.

Le Mesturet is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Paris. Customers have rated the exciting Le Mesturet an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,547 reviews.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across France. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in France!

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in France, you’ll go deep into Paris, making the most of your 2 nights in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in France. To have the best affordable travel experience in France, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in France unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in France.

Savor the culinary delights of Paris, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Angelina is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,038 customers.

Au Pied de Cochon is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 10,684 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at The Bombardier, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,775 reviews.

Little Red Door is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,722 customers.

Bisou. Is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. Bisou. Has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,248 bar-goers, proving it's one of the most popular bars in Paris.

You might also want to cap the night off at Experimental Cocktail Club, a fascinating bar that 1,338 customers have rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in their reviews.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 7’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, proving that cheap holidays in France can be extraordinary.

Touring the best attractions in France offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to France you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in France. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in France.

A cheap, budget vacation in Paris should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Paris, try some of our top recommendations.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,221 customers.

Le Petit Châtelet is another local-favorite restaurant in Paris. Le Petit Châtelet serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,057 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Les Fous de l'Île is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Paris. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 of 5 stars from around 1,046 customers.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Paris, The Highlander. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,285 bar-goers.

Café de Paris V is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Paris, with its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 981 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by L'Imprévu Café, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 846 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Paris, Versailles, and Auxerre. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Auxerre.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Centre Georges Pompidou. Over 3,273,867 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 55,213 reviews.

Arc de Triomphe is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 193,235 reviews. The attraction welcomes 2,743,823 visitors every year.

The attraction gets an estimated 2,743,823 visitors every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Paris, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Villepreux may take around 35 min. Upon your arrival in Villepreux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Auxerre, 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 Villepreux to Auxerre may take around 1 hour 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Auxerre. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Auxerre, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Auxerre, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in France!

Day 9 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Beaune and Lyon. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lyon.

When you’ve had your share of Auxerre, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beaune. Your travel time is around 1 hour 31 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Park Bouzaise. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,309 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Basilica of Our Lady. This church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 773 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,805 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit La Moutarderie Fallot. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,107 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Beaune 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 1 hour 37 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Lyon offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in France shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Lyon is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and drink.

You could check out L Bar food & drink, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,758 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Bouchon Tupin is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 969 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at L'Institut Restaurant. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. L'Institut Restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 853 customer reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Lyon. Black Forest Society is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 500 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Livestation DIY - Lyon. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,452 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is Les Fleurs du Malt le Bar "La Mise en Bière". This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,225 customers.

A road trip vacation in Beaune can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in France!

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Nimes, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Nimes, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Nimes, La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, and Nimes.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nimes. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Nimes has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Nimes on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Nimes, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

One restaurant we recommend you try in Nimes is The Bird. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 659 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Nimes, Restaurant Skab is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 591 diners.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a day, pop into O’Flaherty’s. This bar is considered one of the best in Nimes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,377 customers.

You may also want to check out Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Restaurant Au Flan Coco Nimes is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 993 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Le Questel. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 575 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in France! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Nimes!

Day 11 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 3 wonderful destinations — Les Baux-de-Provence, Tarascon, and Nice.

Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arles, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nice may take around 2 hours 40 min. Upon your arrival in Nice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Nice. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Nice, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Nice should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Nice, try some of our top recommendations.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Le Galet. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,632 customers.

Another dining option is Peixes. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. Peixes has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,157 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Le Frog for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 1,109 customers have rated the irresistible Le Frog an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Riviera & Tours, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Riviera & Tours is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 820 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Le Vingt4. Around 453 customers have rated their experience at Le Vingt4 an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Ma Nolan's Irish Pub also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Nice, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,215 bar-goers.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Nice.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Nice’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

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

For example, L'antica has a menu of appetizing food and refreshing beverages and is rated at an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 863 customers.

If you feel like eating something else, Comptoir du Marché is another restaurant worth trying out. This restaurant serves a variety of value-for-money savory dishes and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 658 customers.

Another restaurant popular among cheap holiday-goers is le kawa. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 552 customers, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy unique flavors that will remind you of France and your fun memories in Nice.

You’ll then say farewell to Nice. 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!