9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area

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Photo of aerial panoramic view of Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, France.
Photo of Grenoble, France .
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area
9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Grenoble to Lyon, Avignon, and Nice and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 9-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Grenoble, Annecy, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Ars-sur-Formans, Villefranche Sur Saone, Oingt, Avignon, Apt, Gordes, Roussillon, Gargas, Aix-en-Provence, Nice, and Grasse.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in Grenoble, 2 nights in Lyon, 2 nights in Avignon, and 1 night in Nice. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Grenoble, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Parc De La Tête D'or and Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Grenoble, Annecy, Caluire-et-Cuire, Lyon, Ars-sur-Formans, Villefranche Sur Saone, Oingt, Avignon, Apt, Gordes, Roussillon, Gargas, Aix-en-Provence, Nice, and Grasse, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.

Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Grenoble - Arrival day
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  • Jardin des Dauphins
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Grenoble and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Grenoble, 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. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Jardin Des Dauphins. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Grenoble. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading 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 Grenoble, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le Rousseau, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Au RENCARD offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ciao a Te is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Grenoble.

Continue your lively evening at Le Groove, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Brasserie La Natation is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub Shakesbeer ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Grenoble
  • Annecy
  • More

Drive 229 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • Musée-Château d'Annecy
  • Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
  • Pont des Amours
  • Jardins de l'Europe d'Annecy
  • Lac d'Annecy
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Grenoble, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Set your GPS to Annecy and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Annecy beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Musée-château D'annecy, a beloved castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Cathédrale Saint-pierre, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Pont Des Amours, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the bridge, make time to go to Jardins De L'europe D'annecy. This eye-catching park is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Lake Annecy, an increasingly popular lake you won’t want to miss.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Grenoble's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Bobine, a top-rated dining destination in Grenoble. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Une Semaine sur Deux, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at restaurant brasserie L'Albatros Grenoble. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Grenoble this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub Des Copains, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Blind Pig is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Grenoble
  • Caluire-et-Cuire
  • Lyon
  • More

Drive 122 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • parc de la Tête d'Or
  • Fresque des Lyonnais
  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
  • Place Bellecour
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Caluire-et-Cuire and Lyon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lyon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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 Grenoble to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Parc De La Tête D'or, an astonishing park that everyone visiting Caluire-et-Cuire should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lyon. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Fresque Des Lyonnais, an increasingly popular street art that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

Next, explore Place Bellecour, yet another notable place to see in 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Nuage café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café du Rhône is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Agastache Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at L' Antiquaire, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Forest Society, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pompette provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Lyon
  • Ars-sur-Formans
  • More

Drive 191 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Musée de cire, La vie du Saint Curé d'Ars
  • Sanctuary of Ars (Basilica of Ars)
  • Musée de Préhistoire de Solutré
  • Rock of Solutré
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Lyon, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Le Tonneau, Ars-sur-Formans, Solutré-Pouilly, Villefranche Sur Saone, and Oingt.

After soaking in Lyon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Le Tonneau. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 42 min. When you arrive in Le Tonneau, it's time to take a break from the road.

Musée De Cire, La Vie Du Saint Curé D'ars is a locally appreciated wax 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 Ars-sur-Formans, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Solutré-Pouilly. This drive usually takes around 45 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Sanctuary Of Ars (basilica Of Ars), an increasingly popular church 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’ve had your share of Ars-sur-Formans, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Solutré-Pouilly. Your travel time is around 45 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Solutré-Pouilly is Musée De Préhistoire De Solutré, an increasingly popular museum that draws attention for its gorgeous features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rock Of Solutré, a mesmerizing rock formation that stands out in the hamlet.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bernachon Chocolats is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Mère Léa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Broc'bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Passagère is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Lyon
  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 230 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Jardin des doms
  • Palais des Papes
  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • Musée Lapidaire
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Avignon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Avignon, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a notable historical landmark in Avignon. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Jardin Des Doms. This beloved park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Palais Des Papes is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect palace in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the frequently visited Remparts D'avignon and discover what makes this historical landmark unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Musée Lapidaire D'avignon, a detailed museum many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Avignon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Pollen, a popular restaurant in Avignon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Avignon at Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated La Cuisine de Papa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Avignon tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Barberousse Avignon is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Red Sky is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Avignon
  • arrondissement of Apt
  • Gordes
  • Roussillon
  • More

Drive 150 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Sénanque Abbey
  • Village des Bories
  • Le Sentier des Ocres
  • Forêt des cèdres du Luberon
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Avignon, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Apt, Gordes, Roussillon, and Gargas.

Apt’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Apt welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Apt is Sénanque Abbey, an increasingly popular monastery that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Forêt Des Cèdres Du Luberon, a mesmerizing nature reserve that stands out in the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gordes may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Gordes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Village Des Bories, a curiosity-inducing archeological site known for its historic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gordes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Roussillon. This drive usually takes around 23 min.

Savor the day by heading to Le Sentier Des Ocres, a well-known hiking area that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Carré du Palais, a popular restaurant in Avignon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Avignon at Avenio, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated BAR DU CHANGE. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Avignon tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like O'collins's Irish Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. The Gambrinus is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Avignon
  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Nice
  • More

Drive 271 km, 3 hours 46 min

  • Fontaine de la Rotonde
  • Musée Matisse
  • Castle Hill
  • Promenade du Paillon
  • More

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Aix-en-Provence and Nice. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nice, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to Aix-en-Provence. 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 6 min. Upon reaching Aix-en-Provence, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Fontaine De La Rotonde is an underrated monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its masterful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 1 hour 54 min. Upon your arrival in Nice, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Musée Matisse, an often recommended museum that everyone visiting Nice should see. Next, head to Castle Hill. This romantic park is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Promenade Du Paillon, an awe-inspiring park popular among locals as well as travelers.

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.

Nice 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 Nice.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Bocal, a top-rated dining destination in Nice. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Makassar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les Amoureux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nice this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les Distilleries Idéales, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Diane's offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nice. Wayne's Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Nice
  • Grasse
  • Grenoble
  • More

Drive 525 km, 5 hours 42 min

  • Eze village France 🇫🇷
  • Villa Musée Jean-Honoré Fragonard - GRASSE
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Nice and Grasse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Grenoble, where will spend 1 night.

Make time for Eze Village France, an intriguing point of interest that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nice, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grasse. This drive usually takes around 55 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Villa Musée Jean-honoré Fragonard - Grasse, an up-and-coming museum in Grasse. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Ferme à Dédé, a highly-rated dining destination in Grenoble. If you're eager to try something different, consider Little copains, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Baratte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Grenoble this evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Grenoble - Departure day
  • More
  • Fontaine du Lion
  • More

Day 9 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Fontaine Du Lion, a symbolic monument before you head out.

For a shopping spree in Grenoble, we recommend the lively La Caserne de Bonne. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

Dine in style at La Cuisine des Tontons, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les copains d'abord boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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!

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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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