Relaxed 10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Nimes to Marseille and Lyon

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Nimes and visit amazing attractions in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Sagriès, Uzès, and La Roque-sur-Cèze, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Nimes, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Nimes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Pont Du Gard is a captivating monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Pont Du Gard Museum, an UNESCO world heritage-designated museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sagriès. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Haribo Candy Museum is a well-known museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sagriès, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Uzès. This drive usually takes around 11 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to La Vallée De L'eure À Uzès, a curiosity-inducing park in Uzès. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Nimes.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Nimes.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Duende, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Nimes is Rouge, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative menu.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Nimes. The bars in Nimes make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Nimes and drive in the direction of Aigues-Mortes for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Marseille, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Musée De La Romanité brings Nimes's character to life. This standout museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Espeisses Woods, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nimes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Aigues-Mortes. This drive usually takes around 40 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Aigues Mortes, an underrated castle that everyone visiting Aigues-Mortes should see. Next, head to Towers And Walls Of Aigues-mortes. This stunning castle is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Constancy Tower, a historic monument popular among locals as well as travelers.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Marseille. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Marseille by booking a table at Le Petit Nice, a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Marseille, AM par Alexandre Mazzia shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Signature is known as a top local spot in Marseille for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Traquenard, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 4 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Marseille and beyond. With 3 nights left in Marseille, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Parc Borély, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

Cassis’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Cassis welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Calanque De Port-miou, a locally appreciated marina known for its romantic features.

La Ciotat’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cassis behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. La Ciotat welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Grande Plage. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Parc Du Mugel. This often recommended botanical garden is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Marseille and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Marseille has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Bistro Du Panier, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, AM par Alexandre Mazzia is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Marseille.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Marseille.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Au Petit Nice, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Marengo is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'unic Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Marseille, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Marseille, and meet locals along the way!

Marseille is brimming with adventures. Cours Julien is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Marseille. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Calanques National Park is must-visit national park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Centre Commercial Centre Bourse, an interesting shopping mall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Porte D'aix, a picture-perfect monument, also available for your discovery today.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Nimes. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Nimes that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Marseille to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Marseille, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Une Table au Sud, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Bovo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Maison MV. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Marseille’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Keep the evening going at Friche La Belle De Mai, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Bar De La Plaine, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Marseille!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Marseille, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Le Panier is a fantastic place you can explore today in Marseille. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Marseille-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Check out the curiosity-inducing cultural center, Friche La Belle De Mai. Afterward, continue to Palais Longchamp, a palace every traveler should visit. As you explore Marseille’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to La Vieille Charité. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Marseille Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Marseille.

Savor the flavors at Coogee, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Petit Nice Passedat beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café l'Écomotive. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Marseille. The bars in Marseille make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Marseille as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in France offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Marseille and end it in Lyon. You’ll stay in Lyon for 2 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in France.

Les Petits Trains De Marseille leaves a lasting impression. This tramway is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Marseille. Next, head to Old Port Of Marseille, a locally appreciated marina, known for its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 1 hour 7 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a locally renowned historical landmark known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Palais Des Papes, a well-known palace.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Jardin Des Doms and uncover the details of this standout park.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Lyon. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Lyon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Lyon by reserving a table at Takao Takano. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Neuvième Art, renowned for its delectable creative and 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 Mère Brazier, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite classic menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Lyon, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Lyon will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Whether you decide to explore Lyon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit La Croix-Rousse, a popular neighborhood in Lyon. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière brings Lyon's character to life. This visually striking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Fresque Des Lyonnais, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Tête D'or. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Vaulx-en-velin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Caluire-et-Cuire to Vaulx-en-velin may take around 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Vaulx-en-velin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grand Parc Miribel Jonage, an interesting park known for its peaceful features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lyon.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bernachon Chocolats, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Mère Léa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Lyon. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The James Joyce Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Broc'bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. La Passagère is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.

Day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Nimes for 1 night.

Make a stop at Place Bellecour. This locally renowned public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lyon Cathedral located in Lyon for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée Miniature Et Cinéma. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Nimes. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in France.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Nimes, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Pinocchio, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Barjoe Nîmes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider L'Instant T. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nimes tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Nimes and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.