One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling east to Montpellier, Lyon, and Avignon

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

Start your day at Château Comtal. This history-steeped castle is an increasingly popular place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. If UNESCO world heritage-listed sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cité De Carcassonne. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is a favorite among visitors.

Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basilique Saint Nazaire is an increasingly popular spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Carcassonne and set your GPS to Marmonières. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Marmonières, 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 Grotte De Limousis, a curiosity-inducing cave in Marmonières. Explore its gorgeous features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Montpellier by securing a reservation at Reflet d'Obione. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and mediterranean cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Jardin des Sens, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Leclère, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Nimes. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon, where will spend 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Nimes, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Montpellier to Nimes may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nimes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Espeisses Woods, a locally appreciated park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Jardin De La Fontaine, where you can soak in the majestic surroundings.

Next, explore Carré D'art, yet another underrated place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Musée De La Romanité. This eye-catching museum is well worth the visit.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting L' Antiquaire after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Society, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pompette also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. With 2 nights to stay in Lyon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Musée Miniature Et Cinéma, an eye-catching museum in Lyon. Next, go to Lyon Cathedral.

After visiting Musée Miniature Et Cinéma and Lyon Cathedral, have a stroll along Lyon's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Place Bellecour. This symbolic public square offers a unique experience.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Caluire-et-Cuire, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lyon to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Porte Des Enfants Du Rhône, an underrated monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Parc De La Tête D'or, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

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

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 Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bernachon Chocolats? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at La Mère Léa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lyon.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The James Joyce Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Broc'bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Passagère also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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

Enjoy all that Gallo-roman Museum Of Lyon-fourvière has to offer. This is a worthwhile museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a popular church in Lyon.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Fresque Des Lyonnais. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Wall Of The Canuts, another of the city’s beloved attractions.

Set your GPS to Vaulx-en-velin and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vaulx-en-velin beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Grand Parc Miribel Jonage and explore the visually striking features.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Nosch, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des canuts - Bouchon Lyonnais, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vieille Canaille, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Raffinerie. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mos - Maker Of Stories, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 3 destinations, including Tarascon, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Arles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Tarascon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tarascon beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Tarascon Castle and explore the culturally significant features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence. This car ride takes around 23 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Des Baux-de-provence. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Carrières Des Lumières. This notable art installation is a traveler-favorite in the town.

When you’ve had your share of Les Baux-de-Provence, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 27 min.

Savor the day by heading to Roman Theatre Of Arles, an increasingly popular archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Arles Amphitheatre, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Carcassonne by booking a table at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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