9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Marseille traveling west to Carcassonne, Nimes, Lyon, and Avignon

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Marseille has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Marseille.

Calanques National Park is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This awe-inspiring national park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Parc Borély, another must-visit landmark and captivating park renowned for its detailed features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Marseille by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This visually striking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Marseille experience. We also recommend visiting Marseille Cathedral, a locally renowned church. Nearby, you'll also find Palais Longchamp, ready to add charm to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Centre Bourse, the top shopping destination in Marseille. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Centre Bourse has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Marseille by securing a table at Le Petit Nice. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit AM par Alexandre Mazzia, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Signature, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Marseille. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Au Petit Nice, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Marengo, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is L'unic Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Arles. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Marseille, 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 1 hour 10 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Langlois Bridge, a worthwhile historical landmark in Arles. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Musée Départemental De L'arles Antique. This frequently visited museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Jardin D'été is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most mesmerizing park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting Arles Amphitheatre and discover what makes this archeological site unique.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Carcassonne by reserving a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Carcassonne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Carcassonne and Marmonières to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Basilique Saint Nazaire makes a great addition to your morning plans. This beloved church is an enchanting place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Cité De Carcassonne, a visually striking castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This beloved castle offers a romantic encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Château Comtal to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marmonières. This drive usually takes around 29 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Grotte De Limousis, an underrated cave in Marmonières. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at V and B Carcassonne, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Auberge des Lices? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Adélaïde as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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

After soaking in Carcassonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montpellier. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive in Montpellier, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Arc De Triomphe, an up-and-coming monument that everyone visiting Montpellier should see. Next, head to Promenade Of Peyrou. This visually striking public square is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a mesmerizing botanical garden popular among locals as well as travelers. Comedy Square is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this notable public square before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a romantic park and a top attraction in the city.

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

Nimes 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 Nimes.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nimes by reserving a table at Duende. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Michel Kayser - Restaurant Alexandre, renowned for its delectable 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 Rouge, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Bonne Mousse, known for its lively atmosphere. O’flaherty’s is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, News Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 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 Lyon, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Nimes is only getting started when you visit Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular local hot spot.

Sagriès’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nimes behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. Sagriès welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Haribo Candy Museum, a well-known museum known for its photogenic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sagriès, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Du Gard. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Pont Du Gard Museum. This intriguing museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Lyon by booking a table at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Le Neuvième Art, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Mère Brazier, a local gem known for its delightful classic cuisine in Lyon. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Avignon, where will spend 1 night.

Let Place Bellecour set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped public square before continuing your journey. Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière is your next stop. This interesting church is one of the best-rated sights in Lyon.

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 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Caluire-et-Cuire is Parc De La Tête D'or, an astonishing park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Avignon. 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 Avignon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at La Vieille Fontaine, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Mirande is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Avignon. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Pollen. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Barberousse Avignon, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Red Sky 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.

On day 8 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Avignon and Aix-en-Provence are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.

Palais Des Papes is must-visit palace and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Jardin Des Doms, a locally appreciated park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a romantic historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aix-en-Provence. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Fontaine De La Rotonde, a frequently visited monument that everyone visiting Aix-en-Provence should see.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Une Table au Sud, a top-rated dining spot in Marseille. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café Bovo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Maison MV. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Marseille.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Friche La Belle De Mai, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Bar De La Plaine is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!