11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Clermont-Ferrand traveling south to Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Nimes, Carcassonne, Bordeaux, and Cahors

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Clermont-Ferrand. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Clermont-ferrand Cathedral brings Clermont-Ferrand's character to life. This enchanting church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Montjuzet, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Panoramic Domes, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its enchanting features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of L'aventure Michelin. This instagrammable museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lyon. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Takao Takano in Lyon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin distinction, Takao Takano delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Neuvième Art, acclaimed for its delectable creative and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Mère Brazier, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like L' Antiquaire, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pompette offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets, 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'll explore 2 destinations, including Lyon and Avignon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Marseille, where you'll spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Place Bellecour has to offer. This is a well-known public square you should not miss.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Avignon. This car ride takes around 2 hours 19 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a popular historical landmark that everyone visiting Avignon should see. Next, head to Palais Des Papes. This picture-perfect palace is one of the most popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Jardin Des Doms, an enchanting park popular among locals as well as travelers.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Marseille by securing a reservation at Le Petit Nice. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try AM par Alexandre Mazzia, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Signature, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Marseille are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nice, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day at Marseille Cathedral. This stunning church is a notable place to see in Marseille. Then, wander over to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. Nearby, you’ll also find Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This visually striking church is a favorite among visitors.

Marseille offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Calanques National Park is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nice by reserving a table at La Chèvre d'Or. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Flaveur, renowned for its delectable creative 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 Pure & V, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Les Distilleries Idéales. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Diane's, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Wayne's Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nice, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Monaco and Nice.

Monaco is brimming with adventures.

Enjoy all that Albert I Garden has to offer. This is an increasingly popular park you should not miss. Another must-see is Castle Hill, a well-known park in Nice.

Monaco’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nice behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Monaco welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Musée Océanographique De Monaco, a well-known aquarium that everyone visiting Monaco should see. Next, head to Prince's Palace Of Monaco. This standout palace is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Monte Carlo Casino, a romantic casino popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nice. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Windsor Jungle Art Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Snug And Cellar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Vingt4. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Nice tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Trafalbar Nice, known for its lively atmosphere. Bay Side is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Head back to your accommodation in Nice and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Les Baux-de-Provence and Tarascon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nimes, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Nice, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence. Your travel time is around 2 hours 41 min.

Savor the day by heading to Château Des Baux-de-provence, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Carrières Des Lumières, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Les Baux-de-Provence, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tarascon. This drive usually takes around 19 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Tarascon Castle, a locally appreciated castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nimes. Check in and relax 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 Nimes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Begin your culinary exploration in Nimes by securing a reservation at Duende. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Rouge, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at La Bonne Mousse, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O’flaherty’s is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, News Café ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Nimes, Sagriès, and La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Musée De La Romanité is always a good idea. This locally appreciated museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the grand wonders of Jardin De La Fontaine, a must-see park in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Sagriès. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Sagriès, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Haribo Candy Museum, a captivating museum in Sagriès. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Sagriès’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard is Pont Du Gard, a well-known monument that draws attention for its romantic features.

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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Carcassonne and Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Check out the increasingly popular castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit. As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Jardin Des Plantes, a frequently visited botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Basilica Of St. Sernin, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bordeaux is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Bordeaux. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whose Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cahors, where you'll spend 1 night.

Let Place De La Bourse set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this majestic public square before continuing your journey. Miroir D'eau is your next stop. This well-known art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jardin Public. This remarkable park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Monument Aux Girondins.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Lormont, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Cité Du Vin. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cahors. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cahors. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cahors by booking a table at L'Ô à la Bouche. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!