france road trip

15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)

Chock full of storybook-worthy villages, beautiful castles, and incredibly epic and diverse nature–from the Alps to the beaches of the Riviera to the lavender fields of Provence and the cliffs of Etretat and beyond–it’s not hard to understand why taking a France road trip tops so many bucket lists around the world.

Throw in excellent roads, a great travel infrastructure, and enough exciting places to see that you could spend a lifetime traversing it without turning over every stone, there’s no doubt that a road trip through France is an amazing way to see the country.

We’ve rounded up the best France road trip itinerary ideas here, covering all corners of the country–plus included important France driving tips you’ll need to know before setting off!

Table of Contents

Logistical Tips for Driving in France

Other france road trip tips, 15 of the best road trips in france.

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Rent the smallest car you can.

Especially if you’re coming from the USA like us, you’ll likely find French roads–especially in small villages and in the countryside–are smaller than what you’re used to.

Save on gas, rental costs, and stress while driving in France by renting the smallest car you can manage to fit yourselves and your belongings into.

We recommend searching for your (tiny) rental car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Book your rental car for your France road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

Like the rest of Europe, manual cars are the norm in France.

If you only drive automatic, you’ll absolutely be able to find a car to rent for your France road trip… but be prepared to plan ahead (especially if you’re traveling during the busy season when the cars get reserved quickly), and to pay extra fees for the privilege.

Always carry cash… just in case. 

While you can generally pay tolls (and they are pricey–budget accordingly!) with a Visa or Mastercard in France, you never know when you’re going to need cash for gas or small restaurants.

When taking a driving in France, it’s best to always have some Euros with you–and don’t forget to carry small coins for bathroom fees!

Plan your parking in advance.

This especially applies overnight–ie, look for hotels that include parking or have a plan for parking listed–but also during day trips. 

For example, our trip to Cassis would have been much easier if we had researched the parking situation beforehand and paid to reserve a spot in one of the parking garages in town.

For hotels, we use Booking.com and ideally look for places using the “free parking onsite” filter.

Depending on where you are going during your road trip in France, though, free parking may not be possible–in that case, carefully check and see what hotels have reasonably-priced parking nearby.

A hotel that is an extra 20 Euros/night may end up being an excellent deal if there’s inexpensive parking nearby!

Strongly consider purchasing extra insurance.

Driving on unfamiliar roads in a foreign country is always going to be an exercise in risk-taking.

While driving in France is typically perfectly safe, if you’re not used to driving in congested urban environments or driving abroad, we’d recommend that you strongly consider purchasing additional CDW (collision damage) insurance for your vehicle–though going through the rental agency is often the most expensive place you can buy this coverage.

Check first to see if your credit card covers it (and in France specifically–not just in your home country), and if they don’t, some insurance policies do.

Get a quote to insure your France road trip today!

Not all gas stations are self-service.

We’ve come across both self-service and attendant-provided gas stations in France–when you pull up to get gas, take a quick look around to see what the other drivers are doing before jumping out of your car!

An International Driver’s Permit isn’t required. 

Unlike in Italy, an International Driver’s Permit isn’t required to rent a car or drive in France (though you do, of course, need to be licensed to drive–for example, driver’s licenses from our home country of the USA are valid for driving in France as a tourist).

However, if your license is written in something other than English or French, or you just want to make any potential communication easier, you may want to consider getting one anyway.

Your life will be easier if you buy a French SIM card.  

This assumes your phone is unlocked, of course, but seriously: getting a local SIM card before taking off on your road trip in France will make your life so much easier!

Having access to everything from a GPS to restaurant reviews is a huge benefit of traveling in the modern age, and bringing those tools along with you as you explore France by car is a fantastic idea.

You can absolutely purchase a local SIM card once you arrive, but if you want to get everything set up before you go, you can also purchase a France SIM card at home in advance.

Pack toilet paper.

Rest stops along highways in France will generally have toilets, but toilet paper is far from guaranteed–best to bring your own just in case.

I usually carry a pack of these with me in my purse when I travel, and they’ve come in handy more than once when driving in France.

Brush up on your French.

Ubiquitous advice for traveling in France, I know, and not exclusive to a road trip in France, but I promise that at least being able to ask for (and follow) simple driving directions in French–not to mention reading basic road signs–will make your France road trip much better!

The first rule of road trips in France: leave room for spontaneity!

One of the best things about taking a road trip in France is that no matter how carefully you plan, no matter how much research you do, you’re still bound to show up in the country and be blown away by something you had never heard of before.

So, just roll with it… and leave room for new discoveries.

I’m a big planner myself, so I get the urge to organize every. last. detail. 

… But during our own trips exploring France by car, I’m also so glad that we randomly decided to spend extra time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, that we gave Port Miou a chance when we saw photos of how lovely it was, that we delayed our departure from Annecy because its market was coming to town, and that we ended up cutting Roussillon from our Luberon Valley trip because we simply weren’t ready to say goodbye to Goult.

In other words: sketch an outline of your days and nights, yes, but be open to changes. Those stops may just end up being some of your favorite stops during your France road trip!

Pay attention to market days (and show up early).

Visiting local markets in all of France’s adorable villages is one of my favorite parts of taking a road trip in France: with a car, there’s no need to worry about managing train times or having to skip the tiniest villages.

If at all possible, aim to visit towns on their market days. Depending on the town, this is generally one, two, or three times a week. Many villages have a small daily market, with larger markets on certain days–those are the ones to aim for.

Also: show up early! Early in the morning is the absolute best time to visit markets on your France road trip. You’ll get to experience both the smallest crowds and also have your pick of the best products before they potentially sell out for the day.

Pack a picnic on travel days.

All those markets full of delicious bread, cheese, meat, and produce that you pass each day? Those are your future lunch!

Double up on practical purchases and fun experiences in France by using market days to stock up on picnic materials to use during your days spent driving in France.

Rest stops in France are plentiful along the highways (look for the signs for “aires”), and are generally very clean and well-stocked, with some even including restaurants.

Don’t change locations every day.

Packing your bags, checking in and out of a hotel, loading the car, unloading the car… all of these things may not seem like much, but by the fifth or sixth day in a row, you’ll be incredibly tired of doing it.

These kinds of transitions eat up way more of each day of your France road trip than the estimated driving time between whatever two towns you’re visiting–so do yourself a favor and limit the number of times you swap lodging.

Instead, set up a series of bases for at least a few days each, and use your rental car to take day trips from there.

For example, we used Avignon as a base to visit the Luberon Valley and Alpilles, and Aix-en-Provence as a base to visit Cassis!

Focus primarily on smaller towns & natural attractions.

Don’t get me wrong–we adore France’s cities, but places like Paris, Lyon, and Nice don’t require a car to visit–quite the opposite. A car is a hindrance there!

One of our France driving tips is to focus on the smaller towns, beautiful countryside, dramatic castles, and endless natural highlights (beaches, lakes, mountains–you choose!) that make up this incredibly diverse and beautiful country.

If you hope to include any of France’s major cities as part of your itinerary, we recommend visiting them at the beginning or end of your trip and only renting your car when you’re ready to leave and head to smaller towns.

The slow pace is part of the fun.

Often, the best memories from a trip are the ones where you let go of the long wish list of towns and villages you hope to see, the markets you want to visit, and the tourist sights you can’t miss and just. breathe.

I learn this again virtually every time I go to France: some of my best memories in the country are of the day we did literally nothing but walk around Colmar and admire how beautiful it was, the day we lounged in Paris’ Luxembourg Gardens all afternoon, the days we’ve sat at outdoor cafes for hours because the sunshine and people-watching felt too good to leave behind, and the long, leisurely lunch we ate in Goult .

Each and every one of those memories is something we exchanged for missing out on a piece of sightseeing or photo-taking or research we had planned to do–something that seemed important at the time.

I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Write down where you go.

Sure, no one is going to forget visiting Nice or Aix-en-Provence… but that tiny town with the cute fruit stand you passed through that one afternoon? Yeah, that name will fade almost immediately.

You’ll want to remember the names of all the small villages you visited, pretty beaches you swam at, cozy restaurants you ate at, and hiking trails you conquered long after your France road trip is finished, so write them down as you go!

Jeremy loves to star the places we visit on Google maps, and I keep my own record in my One Line a Day journal that I’ve been keeping daily for years (and highly recommend!).

Alsace Wine Route

From Arzo of Arzo Travels

A  fun road trip to take is from Strasbourg to Colmar (or the other way around) which is also known as the Alsace Wine Route .

Especially in the summer months (or early fall), it is a beautiful drive with scenic window views and many beautiful towns, villages, and cities along the way.

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the most famous road trips in France and besides being a beautiful place, it has a lot about…well, you guessed it, wine. 

Start your trip in Strasbourg (which is not officially part of the Alsace wine route), the beautiful main city in the region, and explore what it has to offer, including lots of half-timbered houses and many medieval buildings, and then plan in time for stops like Obernai, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.

These are all beautiful little villages, though Riquewihr is probably the prettiest of all. 

Then it is time to end your tour in Colmar where you can end your road trip and explore one of the cutest towns in the country.

If you are a wine drinker, you can visit the vineyards along the way and try out some of the local wines in the wineries or restaurants. They are supposed to be some of the best wines in the country!

Driving Distance

170km or 105 miles.

Recommended Road Trip Length

3 days is the absolute minimum for this road trip. 4 or 5 days are the better options if you do not want to rush and like to do some wine tasting.

Marseilles to Nice

From Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

After exploring Marseilles , why not head eastwards along the gorgeous coastal road to Nice? The drive is best done at a leisurely pace over a few days so you can savor the delights of Provence and the Cȏte d’Azur. 

The coastal road has many spectacular views and the first is as you leave Marseilles. Les Calanques are dramatic, sheer-sided coastal inlets that have been carved through the limestone and they can be found between Marseilles, Cassis , and La Ciotat. 

A little further on you will be tempted by the seven beautiful sandy beaches of La Croix Valmer.

The first main stop is St Tropez, a favorite with the international jet-set in the sixties. It is still popular for its beaches and nightlife. Those ‘in the know’ explore Port Grimaud- the Crêpes au Chocolat (chocolate pancakes) and cider are worth sampling. 

Cannes is another famous city, loved by the super-rich and known for its international film festival. Antibes lies close to Nice and is a delightful old town with ramparts and once Picasso’s home. 

There will be many other detours inland to make to Domaines (wineries) to sample the area’s superb rosé and villages like Maximin-Le-Sainte- Baume with its famous basilica and Grasse (north of Cannes) is world-famous for its perfume industry. 

St Paul de Vence is loved by painters and writers. When you arrive in Nice, you will be able to park the car and leave it, as there is a large traffic-free zone in the center.

235 km or 146 miles.

Suggested Road Trip Length

It takes around 3 hours to drive between Marseille and Nice but if you really want to enjoy the area explore Marseille, Nice and a few towns between I suggest you spend around 4 to 5 days on this South of France road trip.

The Champagne Route

From Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

Without a doubt, France’s Champagne Route is one of the most popular driving tours in the country.

When driving the  Champagne Route of France there are several routes to consider, including Massif Saint Thiery Route the northern route starting from Reims, Marne Valley Route from Epernay, and the Cote des Blancs Route from the south of Epernay. There are also others, or you can mix and match to create your own France road trip route!

If you only want to visit some of the major towns you can start from Troyes and head to Epernay, then onto Reims.

There are many small towns and villages around the Champagne region to visit.  The routes will take you past beautiful chateaux, quaint villages, churches, and many champagne houses.

The major champagne houses such as Mercier and Moet Chandon can be found in Epernay and in Reims you can visit Veuve Clicquot, Mumm, Taittinger and many smaller boutique champagnes houses as well.

The best months to visit are between May and October.

The Champagne region is easy to travel to from Paris.  The journey from Paris to Reims is only 45 minutes and from Paris to Epernay 1 hour 10 minutes.

The distance from Troyes to Epernay is 112 km or 70 miles, and Epernay to Reims is 29 km or 16 miles.

You can visit either town on a day trip and visit some of the Champagne Houses within walking distance of the train station.  The ideal time to enjoy all that the Champagne region has to offer is between 5 – 7 days.

The Opal Coast

From Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Paris to Normandy Road Trip

The following Paris to Normandy road trip is ideal for those looking to escape the city for a few days to a natural and verdant environment.

From Paris, go north to Mont Saint Michel (4-hour drive), where you should stay for at least 1 night. Consider taking the toll-free road which adds 30 minutes to your driving time, but gives you the chance to drive through Normandy’s charming villages and countryside. 

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, walk, bike, or take public transportation to the island that is Mont Saint Michel. When visiting Mont Saint Michel during low tide, go onto the island, grab a spot along the high stone wall and witness the rising of the tide as the sea surrounds the island, isolating it from the mainland.

The next day, drive east to Étretat. Consider spending half a day to a full day here.

While Giverny may have been home to impressionist painters, Étretat was their inspiration. Étretat sits on the Normandy coast and is home to where grayish-white limestone cliffs meet the untamed blue sea. The cliff tops are paved with dirt paths and staircases making them accessible for walking, hiking, and sight-seeing.

On your way back to Paris from Étretat, stop in Honfleur to aimlessly walk through the port and old town. The various architectures are beautiful in their own right: the medieval old town and the port with its tightly packed, vertical, colorful buildings. When you’ve finished exploring Honfleur, it’s an estimated 2.5-hours drive to Paris.

This road trip from Paris through Normandy and back can be comfortably done in 3 days. 

The French Alps from Chamonix

From Whitney of Designs for Travel

One of the most incredible road trips in France is through the Frech Alps.  With the beautiful green mountains (or white in the snowy season), aqua blue lakes, and quaint chalets, the Frech Alps is one of the most picturesque areas in Europe. 

This Frech Alps road trip is a loop that starts and ends in the popular adventure town of Chamonix.  The closest major airport is Geneva, Switzerland.

Start in Chamonix, a beautiful resort town at the base of Mont Blanc.  It’s one of the best places to ski in the winter, but I recommend taking this trip in the summer, where you can take a gondola to the top, and enjoy the panoramic views and do some hiking. 

The next stop on this road trip is 1 hour and 20 minutes west, to the gorgeous alpine town of Annecy .  The pristine lake, river, cobbled old town, pastel cottages, and medieval chateau make Annecy a must-see town in the Alps. 

From here, head east to Le Grand Bornand, another beautiful alpine resort town.  Drive back to Chamonix for a raclette dinner, which is sure to be a favorite meal.

After visiting France, if you have more time, you can drive south to Italy to continue your road trip.

130 miles, 210 kilometers.

This road trip itinerary can easily be done in 3 days and if you have more time, a week is even better!

Gorges du Verdon + Valensole Plateau Road Trip

From Elisa of France Bucket List

This 2-day road trip in Southern France covers the Verdon National Park and some of the best  lavender fields in Provence . This French road trip starts in the city of Aix-en-Provence, and it takes two days. Aix-en-Provence is the quintessential Provencal city with many interesting things to see and do. Ideally, take one day or two to visit Aix-en-Provence before hitting the road.

From Aix-en-Provence, drive to Valensole, a pretty small town world-known for its lavender fields. Enjoy these never-ending seas of ‘blue gold’- it is not only beautiful to see, but it also smells very good!

Back to the road, drive to the Verdon National Park and stop at Esparron de Verdon and Lac Quinson de Verdon, two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. At Lac de Quinson, you can rent a kayak or an electric road and explore the Gorges du Verdon from the water.

Spend the night at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque hilltop village with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France’.

Day two visits Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. This is the main lake in the area, and the perfect place to relax on the beach and have a picnic with a view. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Aiguines, which is less touristy than Moustiers and with a more local atmosphere.  Have an alfresco dinner in one of the two restaurants on the main square before driving back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for the last night of this road trip.

270 km, 168 miles.  

This road trip lasts two days. Add one or two more days if you want to visit Aix-en-Provence.

Bordeaux + France’s West Coast

From Kat of Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for a mixture of beautiful sandy beaches, cities, and dramatic scenery, head for the west coast of France. 

You can begin your trip almost anywhere along the coast, but let’s start in the major hub of Bordeaux. Here you can hire a car or camper van and set off on your adventure, but take a day or two first to explore this beautiful city.

If you only have one day, focus your time on the Cathedral and the mirror pool (you’ll need to wake up very early to nab photos here without the crowds).

Once you leave the city, you have some choices to make. Do you want wine, sea, or one of the most incredible natural wonders you’ve ever seen?

Bordeaux is surrounded by vineyards and they are all worth visiting. If you’re  touring France in a motorhome , you can even stay overnight at many of the vineyards (no worrying about drinking and driving!)

If you want to be wowed, head to Arcachon and the jaw-dropping Dune du Pilat. This natural wonder is the largest sand dune in Europe, standing at around 106m high and runs for nearly 3km. Walking up it is not for the faint-hearted!

Lastly, if you want to see more of the beautiful Atlantic coastline, head up to Île de Ré. This stunning island has some beautiful beaches and is a great place to witness the incredible sunsets you find on the French coast. 

From Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré (past Bordeaux), this driving trip in France is 276 km or 172 miles.

You can drive from Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré in under 3 hours if traffic is clear.

However, we recommend at least a day in Bordeaux, a day near the dune and Arcachon, and a day on Ile de Re, so allow at least 3/ 4 days for your trip. 

Calais to the Pyrenees Loop

From Jenny of TraveLynn Family

For those located in the UK, Calais is an obvious starting point for a France road trip as it’s a short crossing from Kent, either on the ferry or Eurotunnel. This Calais to the Pyrenees road trip  itinerary does a big loop down to the Pyrenees via the Auvergne and Perpignan, then back up again via Bayonne, Île d’Oléron, and the Loire Valley, returning to Calais.

Between each stop is about 4 to 5 hours of driving, although do note that this is along tolled roads (which can add up, but they are very efficient).

Staying at campsites, this summer itinerary steers away from main tourist sites and explores the French countryside, rather than the cities. It is advisable to take a bike to explore each stop further using the many cycle lanes and marked tracks. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit , as there are lots of opportunities for a dip to cool off after a day of exploring.

From the peaceful wooded valleys of the Auvergne to the Catalan charm of the Western Mediterranean; the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees to the fashionable beaches of the Basque country; and the idyllic fishing villages of Ile d’Oléron to the chateaux of the Loire Valley steeped in history; each stop is notably distinct from the other, providing a true cross-section of cultures and landscapes across the French countryside.

2005 miles 0r 3225 kilometers (using toll roads).

The French Alps From Grenoble

From Sasha of The Alternative Travel Guide

149  km / 92 miles.

Recommended Trip Length

Gorges du Tarn

Gorges du Tarn  offers one of the most scenic landscapes in Southern France, which makes it the perfect destination for a road trip. This loop road trip will take you along the rivers Tarn and La Jonte in the Causses and Cévennes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The trip starts and ends in Millau, a sleepy Medieval town, famous for the tallest bridge in the world – the Millau Viaduct. After visiting the bridge, head to the hamlet of Peyre, which is literally glued to the rocks – a fine example of the so-called ‘ troglodyte ’ villages. The area abounds in this type of dwellings, where the backside is carved into the rocks and only the façade is at street level.

After Peyre, head upstream the Tarn all the way to Florac. The dramatic gorge, cut by the Tarn, is dotted with a string of cute little villages and hamlets: Les Vignes, La Malène, Hauterives, Saint-Chély-du-Tarn, Sainte-Enimie, Prades, Castelbouc, Ispagnac.

At Les Vignes make a detour (11 km/ 7 miles) to Point Sublime for the most breathtaking views of the gorge. At La Malène, you can take a boat tour on the Tarn with the famous flat-bottom boats of Les Bateliers.

Another village that deserves more attention is Sainte-Enimie. Together with Peyre, it’s included on the official list of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

From Florac, take D16 across Causse Méjean and visit the incredible cave, Aven Armand. Afterward, take D986 to Meyrueis and continue downstream La Jonte, following D996 and Gorges de la Jonte. The last stop on this road trip, before you return to Millau, are the twin towns of Le Rozier and Peyreleau.

215 km or 135 miles.

Although you can cover the whole distance in one day, I highly recommend that you do this in at least 3 or 4 days. The best time to do the trip is in the summer – between June and September, as in the low season as most places will be closed.

Cannes to Saint-Tropez

From Elena of Passion for Hospitality

The Côte d’Azur, or the French Riviera , is one of the most breathtaking coastlines, lined with picturesque cosmopolitan coastal towns and villages, golden beaches, rich nature scenes, the southeast corner of France has been blessed by natural beauty.

Driving from Cannes to St. Tropez is definitely a good way for those seeking to discover the gems of the French Riviera while enjoying a relaxed hustle-free little trip. 

To get the most out of the road-trip make sure to start early in the morning from Cannes. The first stop is Theoule-sur-Mer, a small medieval town located on the Golfe de La Napoule. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay La Pointe de l’Aiguille or grab a delicious coffee and croissant before departing for the next destination, the resort town of St. Raphael.

We recommend enjoying lunch by the harbor’s restaurants and later, losing yourself around the narrow streets of the colorful old town. The last stop before reaching St. Tropez, where an overnight stop is recommended, is Saint Maxime, a quiet small village which landscape has inspired and continues to do so for many artists and writers.

Depending on your budget there are many different accommodations options, from simple cozy apartments by the beach, to luxurious resorts. 

Alongside the coastal road, there are many little spots scattered, where drivers could take a quick stop to admire the dazzling views, take a few photographs or stretch their legs. 

85 kilometers / 53 Miles 

It is an hour and a half car trip from one city to the other. With the short and one overnight stop, we recommend 2 days enough for this trip.

Toulouse to Andorra Loop

From Ucman of BrownBoyTravels

The tiny sovereign state of Andorra is a mere 190km from Toulouse and makes a perfect road trip back and forth which can be easily done over a weekend. 

Leaving Toulouse in the early morning, you will head in the southwestern direction to the highway. If you want a more scenic route head to Lacroix-Falgarde. The small rural roads will eventually lead you towards the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees appear shortly and the midi- Pyrenees towns and villages take over.

They are perfect for a coffee break or if you are going slowly, for a lunch break. These quaint little villages and towns offer a great insight into the southern french style of life. The streets are neatly trimmed and the everblooming shadow of Pyrenees mountain range dominates everything ever so lovingly.

The drive here is quite easy and simple but that changes significantly when you reach the mountain range. The roads become narrow and the sharp turns take over. The elevation also increases quite dramatically, make sure to take a break to pop your ears. 

The drive is really beautiful here especially in winter with the snow but also quite dangerous, black snow is a real threat here so drive with caution. 

If you drive fast you can cover this entire distance from Toulouse to Andorra La Vella in 3-4 hours but I’d recommend taking a day and going slow to enjoy the scenery. (Make sure to bring your passport although most of the time there are no border checks).

It is quite easy to drive around in Andorra from the ski slopes of Encamp to the quaint little town of Ordino or if you just want a relaxed weekend the beautiful spas of Andorra la Vella. If you like shopping, Andorra offers duty-free shopping , there something for everyone here.

The road trip to Andorra from Toulouse is a memorable and easy France driving trip.

120 miles or 190 kilometers.

2-3 days is enough to enjoy this France road trip itinerary.

Brittany Road Trip in France

From Victoria of Guide Your Travel

This driving route will be between 800 and 100 kilometres, 500 – 620 miles.

Montpellier to Toulouse Loop

Finally, you should head 100 km to Toulouse. Toulouse is nicknamed “la Ville Rose” – the pink city – because so many of the buildings are made from pinkish bricks. Important sites to visit are Basilique Saint-Sernin, the largest romanesque church in Europe. It also has more relics in the crypt than any other church in France, many of which are from Charlemagne (9th century).

You should also spend time at Place du Capitole and the square in front of it. Some parts of the building date back to the 12th century. It has beautiful frescos and offers tours.

Montpellier – Carcassonne – Toulouse is 245 km or 150 miles.

It would take about 3 hours to drive this France road trip route straight through without stopping. However, to truly enjoy each location, I would give yourself a minimum of 5 days.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)”

hello 🙂 just finished reading your ” escape clause” and i found some great tips so just like to thank you for that first of all. I’m planning on travelling to France by car from west Yorkshire in the UK for a 10 day holiday in total, we would start of by a 5 hour drive to dover then get the ferry crossing to Calais and carry on from there. we will have a 3 year old and a 1 year old too with us so we want to see plenty of beaches and coastal scenery. i wondered if you could maybe point us in the right direction on places to visit/stay ( ideally 2 different locations on family friendly campsites with lodges or tents) and go off on day trips from there if that makes sense 🙂 look forward to hearing back from you guys iain

Hi Iain! Unfortunately, we haven’t had a chance to spend much time in northwestern France (we were supposed to this year, but alas, 2020 had other plans). I can tell you our personal wish list in that general corner of France, though, includes all the major hits: Etretat, Le Havre, Honfleur, Lille, Rouen, and if you get that far south, of course, Mont Saint-Michel. Etretat is ideal for the coastal scenery you mentioned!

Wish we had more detail to offer, but there are some stunning places up that way!

Staggering beauty here Kate. Wow. France surprises me with its range. Definitely a worthy spot for a serious road trip. Fabulous images guys!

thank you for this! we are planning visit in aug/sept 2022 x 21d staring our in paris and heading toward bordeaux, the sw coast, basque, french pyrenees, and andorra. Wasn’t sure how to finish up the loop back to paris but I would love to incorporate provence. I also love your focus on gorges! I just started following you on IG and will look out for more inspiration!

Thanks so much, Leigh! Sounds like an incredible trip.

We’re toying with a trip to Basque Country and/or Bordeaux ourselves this spring–it never stops being difficult to narrow down our options!

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

Very good coverage of driving tours in France. One suggestion for drivers I don’t recall was mentioned. After you pick up your car rental stop somewhere and invest in materials to clean your windshield. We have driven thousands of miles on many car trips and estimate that most of the time gas stations don’t have squeegees, sponges, paper towels, or even water available. Well worth the small cost. France is a large agricultural country and bugs abound.

Thanks so much. Very useful

Happy to help!

Hello Kate. I am planning my trip to France. It is our first trip to France. We will fly from New York to Paris and we want to explore France as much as we can within 9 days. We want to rent car and use train if we need. My plan is to start from Paris and go to other nice places including small towns/villages and end up in south and fly back to US from other south city. We need your advice please. Thank you in advance.

With 9 days, the first thing I’d do is narrow down what general region of France you want to visit, as you can access a wide variety of beautiful small towns in that time!

Normandy and Provence are both popular regions for first-time visitors to France, though it sounds like you’re most likely wanting Provence. For Normandy, you might drive right from Paris, and for Provence, you’d likely want to take a train to Aix-en-Provence and then pick up a car. This itinerary covers Provence: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/south-of-france-itinerary/

If you want to stick very close to Paris, consider the Loire Valley.

Other options could include the Bordeaux area (we love St. Emilion: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/saint-emilion-france/ ) or Burgundy ( https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-dijon-france/ ).

You obviously can’t cover all of that, but narrowing down where you want to go will be the first step. France has lifetimes worth of villages to explore. 🙂

If you’re wanting to fly home from the south of France, you’ll want to look at flights from Bordeaux (in the west) or Nice, Marseille, Lyon, or Toulouse (in the east).

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France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries

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Your Complete French Road Trip Planner

Ahhh, France. A country so eclectic and beguiling, it is the most visited nation on the planet . A French road trip is the best way to explore the wonderful diversity and beautiful landscapes of this country.

A road trip in France showcases the dramatic landscapes, historic cities, abundant UNESCO sites and some of the most picture-perfect villages in Europe, like no other way to travel does.

As you road trip through France, you’ll find yourself stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like chateaux hunting, hiking in some of Europe’s highest peaks, kayaking and wild swimming in crystal clear rivers, and sampling the wonderful gastronomy across the country.

In this France travel guide you’ll find a round-up of all the best road trips in France by region, with France travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share our unmissable French road trip itineraries.

Getting to France

Flying in and opting for car rental in France is a great choice, especially as France has so many easily accessible international airports, the perfect starting point for many of our road trip itineraries.

You can fly in to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Toulouse, Bordeaux and many other French cities to start your trip. We recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Driving to France from UK

If you’re planning to drive to from the UK to France , then you’ll find everything you need to know, including the best, fastest and cheapest routes, as well as driving tips, in our driving to France from UK guide .

Are you planning to rent a car in France? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy . We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Best Time to Take a French Road Trip

December to february.

The winter months can be very cold throughout France, even in the south of the country and rain is quite common at this time of year.  But, the roads and cities will be quiet and less crowded, although not all attractions will be open.

March to May

Spring is a wonderful time to visit France, with temperatures warming up across the country. Markets increase in size, restaurants start preparing different dishes and the countryside is glorious. You’ll still find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

June and July are busier months to roadtrip France , with perfect temperatures for camping and outdoor activities. June is probably the best month, as schools have yet to break up across Europe and the family rush to the coasts has not yet started.

August brings the French annual holiday when many businesses close for the duration. If you’re planning on road tripping in tourist areas, then this won’t affect you too much, and you’ll have perfect holiday weather.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for French road trips , especially in the south of France. The coast will be quieter but if you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy an Indian summer amongst the grape harvest and changing fall colors of the countryside.

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Road Trip France Planner by Region

France is such a diverse country, it can be hard to decide where to take a road trip, especially if you want to see the less traveled in France for a more authentic experience.

Whether you like coasts, mountains or rolling countryside, historic cities, elegant palaces, or wild landscapes, you’ll find your perfect road trip here, and there’s no dount that you’ll be ticking plenty off your France bucket list !

A road trip to France is an easy win for most Europeans and Brits, who are on the same continent, or just a hop across the English Channel.

For everyone else, Paris makes a great place to start any France road trip itinerary. Book with Skyscanner and fly in, pick up a rental car, or even a campervan, and you can be anywhere in the country within a day – that’s the beauty of a  voyage en voitre , or road trip in French!

France Road Trip Map by Region

Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes

A huge region, the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes stretches from the volcanoes and plateau of the Massif Central in the west to the highest point of the French Alps in eastern France, offering some of the best roads in France, with spectacular scenery, rugged landscapes, and historic cities.

Divided by the mighty Rhone river, and with the center of the region being the vibrant foodie city of Lyon, there is great diversity here and four distinct climates. The further south you head, the more you will notice the flora, fauna, and climate taking on a Mediterranean feel.

A UNESCO Road Trip

Lyon – clermont-ferrand – le-puy-en-valey – saint-etienne.

• Distance 370km
• Duration 7 days
• Drive Time 5 hours

Start in the fabulous city of Lyon, the capital of the Rhone region. The historic heart, Vieux-Lyon, stretches across the base of Fourviere Hill and its grand basilica.

There are lots of things to do in Lyon , eating is one of the best! As you stroll the medieval streets and iconic traboules (or hidden passageways), stop in Lyon’s traditional restaurants, known as bouchons , and get up close to Renaissance facades and buildings that boast over a thousand years of history.

Next on your Auvergne road trip is one of France’s oldest cities, Clermont-Ferrand, known for its string of volcanoes called the Chaine des Puys. The dormant volcano Puy de Dome is one of the highest and has been a tectonic hotspot on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2018.

In the city itself, don’t miss the jewel of Notre-Dame-du-Port Basilica and the highly distinctive black lava stone Gothic Cathedral.

In Le-Puy-en-Valey, visit the imposing cathedral, the silhouette of which stands proud on the slopes of Mount Anis. The building, celebrated for housing the enigmatic Black Madonna, and one of the most beautiful cloisters in Europe, is a key monument of Romanesque art.

Finally, around Saint-Etienne, a UNESCO Design City, the site at Firminy hosts Le Corbusier’s largest European work. Visit the four buildings featured on the architectural walk, including the famous Maison de la Culture, where you can trace the legacy left by modern architecture.

Not far from Lyon, pay a visit to the Tourette Convent, the last great building by Le Corbusier in France, which will be a fitting end to your UNESCO road trip.

Road trip here if you like…

• Mountains – if outdoor activities are your thing, start  hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc  from Chamonix at the foot of the country’s easternmost mountains, explore the medium-high extinct volcanoes of the Massif Central, or take a road trip on the Route des Grandes Alpes .
• Gastronomic delights – There’s  so much to do in Lyon , not only one of the most beautiful cities in France, it is the food city of this gastronomic country. Regional dishes are influenced by the mountains and tend to be hearty and wholesome. 
• Water sports – with Lake Geneva, Lake Annecy, and Lac de Bourget in the region, summer sailing, wind-surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking are on the doorstep.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting France . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comte

This beautiful region of France is famous for its rich history and viniculture. Sometimes abbreviated to BFC, this area is around a five to six hour drive from Calais on the A26, and just a few hours from Paris, making it a great option if you’re short on time. 

Part of this area is the old historic region of Burgundy, once the heartland of France and known for its wines, such as Beaujolais and Chablis.

BFC is sparsely populated and sees relatively little tourist footfall, making this cross-country road trip a joy for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. The route takes you through a mix of low agricultural lands to the fabulous mountains and lakes of the Jura.

RELATED POST: Off The Beaten Path France – 8 Unique Places

The Jura Route des Lacs

Dijon – marigny – thoirette.

• Distance 350km
• Duration 3-5 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

Start in the beautiful historic city of Dijon, surrounded by the Cote d’Or vineyards where over 3,000 winemakers produce their world-famous wines in the heart of ancient Burgundy.

The UNESCO old center of Dijon is packed with half-timbered medieval houses and elegant Renaissance buildings. Make sure to try the wines from the region, and Dijon’s other claim to fame, Dijon mustard.

Head south to off-the-beaten-track Marigny for the deep navy and turquoise lakes of the Jura Massif, where you can explore museums, regional crafts, and local gastronomy, as well as remote places, natural sites, and plenty of waterfalls.

You might want to get in the water too, there are twenty lakes to choose from!

• Great gastronomy  – the home of the unique Vin Jaune, Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, Comte cheese, and Dijon mustard is a powerhouse of French cooking, particularly where the use of wine is required!
• Atmospheric historic cities – Beaune and Dijon are just two gorgeous cities in this region, packed with history, Gothic and medieval architecture with a typical French ambiance.
• Breathtaking castles – there are well over thirty well-preserved chateaux in the northern half of this region, you’ll see them literally on every bend in the road!

The rugged peninsula of western France, Bretagne, is an ideal place for a one or two week northern France road trip itinerary.

With Rennes, the capital of the region, being just an hour’s drive from St Malo, it is literally a hop over the channel and the perfect place for a road trip from the UK to France .

With a wild and dramatic coastline and an undiscovered feel beyond the well-known tourist spots, this western France road trip offers a shared Celtic culture, ancient mysticism, and every type of beach imaginable!

Brittany Coast to Coast

Saint-malo – brest – quimper – vannes – rennes.

• Distance 540km
• Duration 10 days
• Drive Time 6 hour

The peninsula of Brittany lends itself to a jaunt around its coast, enjoying the superb seafood and friendly nature of the locals.

Start in historic St Malo before taking in the endless sightseeing opportunities of the peninsula’s varied 1600km long coastline. 

There’s a beach here for your taste, from secluded coves and surfing hotspots to long white stretches, dramatic cliffs, and rocky outcrops.

Around Perros-Guirec is the Cote de Granit Rose with its pink beaches, one of the most interesting coastlines in France, and across to the west is the Finistere coast with its huge beaches and quaint fishing villages.

If you want to dip into every cove, explore every interesting finger of land that protrudes into the sea, and visit all the charming towns and villages en route, then allow at least two weeks for this magical road trip.

• Beautiful gardens – also known as the Garden Coast, Brittany has some of the best gardens in France. From English-style cottage gardens to exotics, there’s something here for every green-fingered visitor.
• Delicious cider – Brittany is the cider country of France. With more than 600 apple varieties grown in the region, there’s a cider to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Customs and tradition – the pan-Celtic tradition is very evident here; the Breton language is spoken with pride and widespread cultural festivals celebrate Celtic music and dance.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Centre-Val de Loire

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Chateaux of the Loire

Orleans – blois – tours – angers – nantes.

The enchanting chateaux and picturesque towns of the Loire Valley make this historic region the perfect place to take a 10 day road trip in France.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Delicious white wines – Touraine, Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, Sancerre, and Valencay are just some of the well-known whites produced in this region. Take a vineyard tour and make sure to enjoy a wine tasting afterward!
• Historic cities – from gracious Orleans to Gothic Blois and Tours with its beautiful old town, the cities of this region are must-sees.
• Bird watching – La Brenne Natural Park is the hidden gem of Centre-Val de Loire. To the south of the region, this huge park containing over a thousand lakes is a wetland paradise for birders. 

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip.

Grand Est borders Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, and a small part of Switzerland so it’s not surprising that this region has multicultural influences.

Grand Est is one of the most accessible regions if you’re taking a France road trip from Calais, a four hour drive will take you to the heart of the rolling Aube, and in six hours you can be in  Strasbourg , the capital of the region and home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

Previously known as Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine, the region is home to typical French countryside with an eclectic mix of vineyards, the low-lying Vosges mountains, and some of the prettiest small towns in France, found along the Alsace wine route.

In some less-visited and remote wooded parts of the Vosges, lynx, boar, and wolves can still be found in the wild, making the rich nature and biodiversity of the area of particular interest.

RELATED POST: Europe Road Trip – 16 Incredible Routes

Route Touristique du Champagne

Reims – trigny – epernay – cumieres – essoyes.

• Distance 285km
• Drive Time 5 hour

The whole of the Champagne Route stretches for around 700km across the departments of Marne, Aube, and Aisne, with eight marked trails to authentic villages, ancient monasteries, imposing châteaux and churches, and of course, vineyards!

This bit of the route takes you from Reims and its world-renowned champagne houses to the massif of Saint-Thierry where you can enjoy beautiful views from Trigny, a flower-filled village with medieval ramparts.

Visit the Verzenay lighthouse, which watches over a rolling swathe of vineyards and now houses the Musée de la Vigne, where you can learn about the history of champagne before driving on to Epernay, and its famous champagne houses of Moet & Chandon, Perrier Jouet and Pol Roger.

From Cumieres, embark on the Champagne Vallee boat to discover the vineyards along the water in the Marne valley. 

Further south on the Côte des Blancs road, admire the panoramic view of the vineyards from Mont Aimé and enjoy the charms of the pretty village of Oger. 

In Aube around Bar-sur-Seine, with its half-timbered houses, make a stop at Essoyes where Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir lived for a few years, and visit one of the 28 champagne cellars in the area.

• Champagne – of course! This champagne road trip is perfect for lovers of bubbles!
• Medieval   cathedrals – Grand Est is home to some of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, many are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• War history – the Verdun & Argonne battlefields and war graves cemeteries of WWI can be found in the region, along with the WWII Maginot Line forts. The Surrender Room in Reims is where German forces capitulated to Eisenhower in May 1945, bringing an end to the long war.
• Accessible hiking  – easier on the heart and lungs, the hiking routes of the Vosges are a pleasure. With stunning rolling scenery and trails to take you through historic villages and make the most of the views, hiking in the Vosges is a real highlight. 

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

Hauts-de-France

This is is the most northerly region of France and home to the port city of Calais, meaning it’s on the doorstep of the UK and a perfect French road trip destination for those wishing to nip across the Channel for a weekend from the UK, or for anyone looking for a few beach days on a longer trip in Paris. 

Not a major tourist region, the area is known for the battlefields of World War I, most notably the Somme, a four month battle in which over a million people lost their lives, and many people come here for the memorials and war sites.

But there is more to see in this part of France, including the incredible beaches, elegant resort towns, and pretty fishing villages dotted along the unspoiled and beautiful Cote d’Opale, or Opal Coast.  

Explore the Opal Coast

Calais – boulogne-sur-mer – le touquet – etaples – montreuil – abbeville.

• Distance 144km
• Duration 3 days
• Drive Time 2 hour

From Calais, head south and visit Cap Blanc-Nez (cape white nose), opposite the white cliffs of Dover, and Cap Griz-Nez, (cape grey nose), the closest point in France to England. Both headlands offer fine views across the channel and coast and some great walking opportunities.

Boulogne is the largest fishing port in France and is home to all things sea! Visit the excellent Nausicca Aquarium, full of fascinating displays, interactive exhibits, and sea life, before visiting the historic old town and port, where you can join an organized tour. 

Le Touquet is the jewel of the coast, known as Paris-Plage because this is traditionally where Parisians came for their long August break. Nowadays, it’s a lively resort known for its fantastic beach, water sports, and nightlife, including clubs and casinos.

Don’t miss the lighthouse, La Phare de la Canche, which rewards you with breathtaking views if you’re happy to climb the 274 steps to get to the viewing platform at the top!

Stop at the peaceful nature park of Baie de Canche, situated east of Étaples-Sur-Mer, a protected area of 45 hectares teeming with wildlife, before heading to Abbeville.

The capital of maritime Picardy and your final stop, Abbeville is a beautiful city and boasts rich historical monuments including the flamboyant Gothic style Saint-Vulfran collegiate church, with its magnificent carved facade.

• Mining history – much of the infrastructure in the northern parts of the region has been shaped by mining, a now redundant industry in this part of France. Visit the UNESCO listed Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin for a fascinating insight into the industry and a miner’s life in the pits.
• Beautiful belfries –  tall and often ornate clock towers attached to civic buildings, belfries are common in the region and were built to symbolize the power of the local alderman and councillors. The Belfries of Belgium and France is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles of architecture.
• Battlefield tours  – the battles of Flanders, the Somme, Vimy, and Ypres were all fought on the soil of the Hauts-de France by French, British, Canadian, Australian, and African troops. The memorials and cemeteries marking these battles make for moving visits.

France Road Trip Essentials

Lonely Planet France

France driving essentials

France SIM card

UPF 50 travel sun hat

France beaux villages guide

universal adaptor + USB

Ile-de-France

Ile-de-France is the small region surrounding the beautiful city of Paris. Surrounded by cities and forests that prospered from the patronage of the Kings of France, the area is rich in royal history, elegant palaces, and medieval towns. 

A four hour drive from Calais and on the doorstep for those flying in, it is perhaps not the first destination road trippers think of, but it is the ideal opportunity to combine a five day trip to Paris with a road trip to see the best bits of this compact region.

A Road Trip Around Paris

Chantilly – provins – fontainebleau – versailles – saint-denis.

• Distance 275km
• Duration 5 days
• Drive Time 4 hour

Start in Chantilly, a town obsessed with horses, and join the Parisians at the elegant Chantilly racetrack, home of the French Derby (or Prix du Jockey Club).  

Head along the pretty country roads to Fontainebleau forest for a spot of activity. Once the hunting grounds of French kings, and home to a beautiful palace, the area is dotted with massive boulders that attract anyone wanting to try bouldering. 

If hiking is more your thing, there are more than 500km of marked trails in the forest, with the 25 Bosses Trail being the most well-known. This challenging day hike will reward you with incredible views of the surrounding area. 

If you prefer to see it from the air, then hitch a ride on a hot air balloon, a popular way to see the forest.

From here, drive to the UNESCO site of historic Provins, a fortified city full of medieval half-timbered houses and cobbled streets inside the well-preserved ramparts. Built to accommodate an annual fair linking northern Europe with the Mediterranean, most of the buildings here are still in their original form.

Versailles is a once-in-a-lifetime visit and you must book online in advance as it can take five hours to queue in the summer if you don’t have a ticket. This shining, golden Baroque palace was once home to the Kings of France and spreads over 800 acres.

The inside is full of gold leaf, pink marble, and other finishes so opulent it almost hurts the eye. The formal gardens are beautifully symmetrical and soothing, with thousands of trees and water features – the perfect place for a picnic.

From Versailles, head north-east to the beautiful Basilica of Saint-Denis, one of the most important religious buildings in Ile-de-France. The first Gothic cathedral was built at the exact spot where Saint-Denis, the patron saint of Paris and France was buried.

• Iconic cities – although driving in and around Paris is to be avoided at all costs, you can stay outside Paris and get the train in, just follow this perfect  Paris one day trip itinerary  to see top sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame in one of the most cultured cities in Europe .
• Theme parks –  meet all your favorite characters at Disneyland Paris , just three and a half hours from Calais and an hour from Paris.
• Modern architecture – there are four Le Corbusier villas in Ile-de-France. Villa Savoye is in Poissy and Villa La Roche, Villa Jeanneret, and Immeuble Molitor are wonderful hidden gems in Paris.

Normandy borders the English Channel and is easily accessible from all the channel ports, the furthest being St Malo around a three to four hour drive. Le Havre is in the region itself and a perfect arrival port popular with UK road trippers, as well as being close to pretty Honfleur.

The whole region was a significant medieval empire and controlled much of England and Wales, leaving a rich history for visitors to explore on a Normandy road trip.

The three huge attractions of Rouen cathedral, the Bayeux Tapestry, and Mont Saint-Michel are the must-sees of the region. Along with the pretty fishing port of Honfleur and the D-Day beaches, this region has much to recommend and is one of the best road trip destinations in France.

The World War II Sites of Normandy

Benouville – ouistreham – arromanches – colleville-sur-mer – bayeaux.

• Distance 180km
• Drive Time 3 hour

You could visit the key places on this tour in a day, but to the sites justice and spend time at the memorials, you need three to five days.  

Start at Benouville, just north of Caen, for Pegasus Bridge and its museum, the site of a daring landing by gliders of the British 6th Airborne Division in shortly before the sea invasion.

From here, it’s a short hop to Ouistreham to visit Le Grand Bunker, part of the German Atlantic Wall defenses, and the German Battery to the north. 

Heading west, you’ll find the landing beaches of Sword (British and French), Juno (Canadian), Gold (British), and Omaha and Utah (American). Each has a number of visitor sites to be explored.

At Arromanches, watch an educational film at the 360-degree cinema on top of the cliff before you descend into the town itself and visit the Landing Museum built near the site of the Mulberry Harbours, which were constructed to aid the Allies in getting supplies ashore. 

As you continue west, don’t miss the German Gun Battery at Longues, before arriving at the atmospheric American Cemetery at Colville, where you can hear the Last Post daily at 5pm.

From Utah beach, skirt back to Bayeaux, home of the British and Commonwealth Cemetery and Battle of Normandy Museum (and of course, that famous tapestry).

RELATED POST: Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

• Medieval heritage – Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, is chock full of medieval architecture and history. The Bayeux Tapestry, telling the story of the Norman invasion of England in 1066 is on glorious display in the town of the same name.
• Gorgeous gardens – if you are a gardener or painter, then there is no better garden in the whole of France than Giverny, Claude Monet’s country home and garden. Gloriously and unashamedly colorful, this beautiful place has provided inspiration to generations of gardeners and painters alike.
• Impressionist art – known as the birthplace of impressionism after Monet took inspiration in Le Havre and painted ‘ Impression, soleil levant ‘ (‘Impression, sunrise’) in 1872. Normandy houses two major collections and has no fewer than fifteen museums dedicated to impressionist art and history.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

One of our personal favorites for a France road trip holiday, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region of France. From the ports of Caen or Cherbourg, the capital Bordeaux is a good seven to eight hour drive, making the region an ideal destination for a two or three weeks holiday. 

This region in the southwest of France is incredibly varied, from the mountains of the Pyrenees and the gently meandering Dordogne valley, to the almost continuous beach of the long Landes coastline. There’s also great French wine heritage here, along with classic gastronomy which uses the abundance of high-quality ingredients grown and produced in the region.

Pine forests, vineyards, elegant resorts and rustic villages shape this space, along with great regional food and wine which give life and color to a seriously enjoyable region of France.

RELATED POST: A Seven Day Pyrenees Hiking Tour

The Best of the Dordogne

Bordeaux – bergerac – la roque-gageac – sarlat-la-caneda – rocamadour – perigueux.

• Distance 380km
• Duration 5-7 days

Staring in the magnificent city of Bordeaux , known as the wine capital of the world, follow the Dordogne to beautiful Bergerac, a historic city, whose narrow streets are lined with fine houses and filled with blooms and quirky art installations.

Of course, you’ll also find a statue of Bergerac’s most famous son, Cyrano de Bergerac. A French soldier remembered chiefly for fighting many duels often over the size of his nose! 

From here, head for the medieval village of La Roque-Gageac, the gateway to the Valley of the Five Chateaux, home to five impressive castles, including Chateau Beynac and Chateau Castelnaud. You’ll also find the stunning Gardens of Marqueyssac hanging on the cliffs above the village.

Head east for the gorgeous town of Sarlat, deep in the wooded hills of the Dordogne. With cobbled streets and Gothic mansions galore, Sarlat makes a great base to explore locally and enjoy some of the fantastic gastronomy of the region.  

Cross into Occitanie for Rocamadour, home to the cheese of the same name, and the Gouffre de Padirac, two of the must-see attractions in the area which can be visited in a day if you’re pushed for time.

Allow a full day to explore the final stop of  Perigueux, making sure to visit the Saint-Front Cathedral, the quays, and the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum.

• Mountains  – the eastern Pyrenees are to the south of the region and beyond the towns and cities provide amazing cycling and hiking opportunities, including this seven day Pyrenees hiking tour . 
• Beaches – there are hundreds of miles of soft golden beaches along the coast. Stretching from the glamorous resort of Biarritz in the south to La Rochelle in the north, only interrupted by the river Garonne and the Arcachon Basin. If you like sand, head for the largest sand dune in Europe, Dune du Pilat, with an incredible view of the blue, turquoise and green crystal clear waters of the Arcachon basin. 
• Surfing –  people come here to surf the huge Atlantic rollers coming in from the Bay of Biscay and there is an annual world surf competition held in Lacanau-Ocean. If you can’t stand up, get a body board, or just spend hours deciding whether to float over the next wave or power under it.   

Occitanie (previously known as Languedoc) makes up almost one-half of the south of France and is a region of huge contrast. A solid ten to eleven hour drive from Caen, Occitanie makes a good destination if you have a couple of weeks to travel or, as part of a longer trip.

We think it’s worth the drive time for the atmosphere, history, and beauty you will find in this region. 

From the sun-drenched Herault of the deep south and the Mediterranean coast to the wild and raw beauty of the Cevennes and the majesty of the Pyrenees, the landscape and climate differ greatly.

This is a busy part of France, home to Carcassonne, Lourdes, and the Pont du Gard. These three top the busiest tourist destinations in Europe list and are best visited outside of July and August.

RELATED POST: The Best Wild Swimming in France

Beaches & Mountains of the Languedoc

Montpellier – sete – agde – beziers – carcassonne – gorge d’heric – pezenas – saint-guilhem-le-désert.

Start in the growing city of Monpellier and head south along the coast to the pretty fishing port and the seaside resort of Sete, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Etang de Thau salt lake on the other.

The main canal running through the Sete city center is lined with bars and restaurants offering fish and seafood delicacies. Make sure to try a tielle, a local specialty comprising of octopus cooked in olive oil, tomato, and red wine and baked in pastry.

The salt lake Etang de Thau is sandwiched between vineyards and natural scrubland and is the ideal place to learn more about what the area is famous for – shellfish, and in particular oysters. There are a number of oyster farms open for visits where you can learn about the farming process.  

Agde, just along the coast, is famous for its black volcanic sand beaches which are unique to the region. La Grande Conque is one such beach, a small bay carved into the coast and a great place to while away the day sunbathing and swimming.

Your next stop is the beautiful town of Beziers, home to the Fonserannes Locks, the famous staircase of nine locks on the Canal du Midi, which allow boats to be raised 21.5m over a distance of 300m. You can hire a bike here and cycle along the canal towpath, for a peaceful afternoon ride.

Head west and inland for the iconic city of Carcassonne. The beautifully renovated citadel, La Cite, is a must-see in this area of France. Vast and imposing, it towers above the Aude and ‘new’ Carcassonne and feels a little Dinsneyesque inside, with lots of touristy (and expensive) bars and restaurants.

From here, if you have more time, you can head into the Pyrenees if you want to hike, kayak, and see the religious castles the area is famous for. 

Otherwise, the magnificent Gorge d’Heric is next up, with hiking and wild swimming opportunities in abundance. This dramatic gorge, in the heart of the Haut Languedoc nature reserve, is home to the river Heric as it rushes down from the Massif de Caroux.

You can walk up the Gorge for around 5km, or hike and rock climb the Caroux if you want something a bit more challenging. All the way up the gorge are massive boulders and private natural swimming pools, filled with clear turquoise waters and wonderful for a cooling dip on a hot summer’s day.

From here, pretty Pezenas calls, with its Friday wine festivals through summer, local craft shops, and weekly farmers market. A perfect place to stop for a few days and catch your breath, before taking in the Pont du Diable, perfect for a spot of cliff-jumping and paddle boarding.

A few miles away from the Devil’s Bridge is Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, nestled in the heart of the Herault Gorges and a major stop for pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostela in north-west Spain. The centerpiece of the village is the Gellone Abbey, a 1200-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked in the corner of the main square.

RELATED POST: South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

• Wild swimming – the gorges of the region have some of the best  wild swimming  and canyoning in France. Tucked into the Montagne Noire or the midi-Pyrenees, the water is crystal clear and refreshing.
• Outdoor adventures – head for the Gard and Lozere departments where you’ll find nature at its finest. Winding rivers like the Tarn are superb for kayaking and often have small river beaches and swimming holes, with perfectly placed rocky ledges to jump from. The Cevennes National Park offers great hiking in a wild and natural environment.
• Religious history – The Aude and Ariege have a strong Cathar history and you can see remnants everywhere. Follow the Route of the Cathars through fortified hilltops, castles, villages, and towns for a fascinating insight into a religion that shaped this part of France for centuries.

Pays de la Loire

The Pays de la Loire is a region of north-western France that adjoins the region of Centre-Val de Loire. Both regions share many characteristics including the Loire Valley and large numbers of famous chateaux.

One difference is the long Atlantic coastline of the Pays de la Loire known as the Vendee, a very popular UK tourist destination due to its proximity to the eastern channel ports, and enjoyed for its gentle waves, sandy beaches, and quintessential sea-side resorts.  

An easy three to four hours from Caen to Nantes places you in the heart of this region, with the Loire Valley to the east and the beaches of the Vendee to the west.  

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The Coast of the Vendee

Nantes – saint-gilles-croix-de-vie – les sables-d’olonne – la tranche-sur-mer – la rochelle.

Starting in increasingly popular Nantes, home to the Les Machines de L’ile, this west coast road trip is more about the relaxed coastal resorts than cities.

Make for Saint Gilles-Croix-de Vie, stopping at Sallertaine on the route, to explore the peaceful canals of the Marais Breton in an open canoe.

Once in Saint-Gilles, enjoy the chic and lively ambiance, as well as superb sardines, caught locally and on your plate within a few hours.

On the Côte de Lumière or Coast of Light, the coastal resorts here enjoy 2400 hours of sun every year, making this a perfect place to relax on a sun lounger for a few days.

Continue south to Les Sables-d’Olonne, the point of departure for the Vendee Globe round-the-world sailing race. A popular seaside resort, it has a superb sandy beach and a pretty seafront promenade plus a casino and golf course to keep you busy.

Next up is La Tranche-sur-Mer, known as ‘little California’ because of its exceptional sunshine hours and 13km of sandy beaches.

With an authentic vibe and lively family atmosphere, this is a great stop for teenagers, with lots of water sports on offer, as well as free concerts and street entertainment in the evenings in summer.

Your final stop is the historic sea town of La Rochelle, a laid-back resort town with a well-deserved reputation for great seafood, and the best old port on the French Atlantic.

Spend a day meandering around the charming town before exploring the maritime museum and aquarium.

• Bucket and spade holidays – perfect for family holidays, the Vendee is lined with some of the best French holiday parks offering fantastic facilities. Kids love the beaches for perfect sand-castle building and gentle waves.
• Theme parks – the Puy du Fou historic theme park has  over 1,5 million visitors a year and is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of France, and perfect for a day out if you are traveling with kids.
• Beautiful chateaux – one of the main attractions of the region, the chateaux of the Loire Valley are world famous.

Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur

A favorite of many, this region, often abbreviated to PACA, covers a large and diverse area. From the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to the French Alps, and from the river Rhone to the Italian border, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is the furthest of France’s regions from the UK.

It takes a whopping eight hours of driving from Paris and twelve to thirteen hours from Calais, making the journey a road trip to the south of France in its own right.

For the glamorous and fashionable resorts of the French Riviera, the lavender fields and whitewashed towns of Provence, and the off-the-beaten-path wilderness of the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, those driving hours are so worth it.

The sun-baked landscapes, beautiful hilltop towns and villages, abundant local produce, and delicious wines just add to the attraction. 

The Route Napoleon

Grenoble – laffrey – la mure – corps – col bayard – gap – sisteron – digne – castellane – saint-vallier-de-thiey – grasse – antibes.

• Distance 314km
• Drive Time 8 hour

The most picturesque south of France road trip, the historic Route Napoleon begins in the Auvergne-Rhone- Alpes region.

The road trip starts (or ends, as the route starts at the coast, but can be road tripped either way) in Grenoble, the route follows the footsteps of the famous General on his return from exile in Elba, as he headed north for Waterloo.

Inaugurated in 1932, you will see statues of the Imperial French Eagle marking the way, along what is now (mainly) the N85.

The road is really spectacular, with switchbacks, sweeping bends, and challenging mountain stretches making it one of the best road trips in France.

Peaking at 1246m at Col Bayard before passing into Provence and the towns of historic Sisteron, beautiful Digne, and fragrant Grasse, you’ll also pass the stunning Gorge du Verdon and the beautiful lavender fields of the Valensole plateau.

From Castellane to Grasse, the views to the coast from the road are spectacular, across lush green slopes dotted with magnificent villas, to the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean, just one of the reasons to start in Grenoble and head south. 

This route smells heavenly too – the scent of hot pine sap and the essential oils of regional herbs being warmed by the sun is the fragrance of southern France.

RELATED POST: Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip

• Glitz and glamour – St Tropez is one of the most famous Cote d’Azur holiday resorts. People on Riviera road trips flock to the vieux port where the rich and famous berth their mega-yachts, and enjoy the honeyed stone buildings and pretty squares of a slightly more relaxed and authentic St Tropez. If you want more, head to Monaco, Nice or Cannes, or one of the ridiculously opulent villas which open their doors to the public. 
• Iconic Lavender – field upon field and row upon row of beautiful and fragrant lavender carpets  Provence  in June and July. Go early in the day for the best photo opportunities.
• Local produce – experience a marchés hebdomadaires ( farmers market). Most towns have a weekly market where you will find fresh bread, wonderful fruit and vegetables, pungent cheeses, meaty saucisson sausage, fat olives, and pretty much any other fresh food stuff you might want to buy. 

France Country Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in France.

• Search for affordable flights to France with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in France with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in France with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in France with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries from UK to France Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in France

Road trips in France are usually pleasurable, thanks to their extensive and well-maintained autoroute network, and generally good local roads. French drivers can be impatient and are dreadful tailgaters and really, really dislike being overtaken, but, c’est la vie, this is France!

Whether your road tripping France in a campervan , car, or motorbike, follow these tips for driving safely and legally;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from France.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• You must carry at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of your vehicle and must put it on before you get out in an emergency or breakdown situation. You must also carry a warning triangle.
• You may require a Crit’Air sticker which is placed in the windscreen of your vehicle to provide a visible way to identify the level of emissions produced. If you’re renting a vehicle, the Crit’Air sticker should already be on display in the windscreen. Find out more and purchase Crit’Air stickers from the official certificat-air.gouv.fr website.
• On 1 November 2021 the Loi Montage II or ‘mountain law II’ came into force in 48 French mountainous departments within the Alpes, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrénées, and Vosges regions. Anyone traveling in a car or motorhome or through one of these areas between 1 November and 31 March will be obliged to fit four approved winter tires or carry at least two snow chains or socks in the vehicle.
• French motorways are privately managed and you’re not allowed to request your own assistance company to attend to you if you break down. If you do break down use the orange emergency telephones that are situated every 2km along French motorways to call the police or the official breakdown service operating in that area or dial the emergency services on 112. You will be towed to a safe designated area where you can make onward arrangements for your own breakdown insurer to assist you if you have it. Otherwise, the towing company will be able to provide support or signpost you. 
• You do not need to carry a breathalyzer, the law requiring that you do has been repealed.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your French road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.

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Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

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7 top road trips to see the best of France

Dec 17, 2023 • 6 min read

Experience the best bits of France with these classic French driving routes © Justin Paget / Getty Images

France’s winding cobbled lanes and tree-lined rural roadways offer a straight shot into the heart of the country. Incredible countryside vistas merge into unique and highly wanderable villages, castles and coastlines that will etch your journey into your memories.

Grab a set of wheels and hit the road to embrace the best of this magnificent country. Here is a starter kit of fantastic road trips in France – drive on the right and embark on your own perfect French adventure.

1. Wine villages in Burgundy

Best road trip for wine and architecture Chablis–Beaune; 200km (124 miles), allow 2-3 days

Begin this wine journey in Chablis in the département of Yonne , leaving ample time to taste the seven grands crus (premium vineyards) of this well-known winemaking region. Then connect up with the exquisite Route des Grands Crus , which links many of central Burgundy’s most acclaimed vineyards.

You’ll meander through the vine-carpeted countryside from Gevrey-Chambertin to Puligny-Montrachet , exploring some of the most storied vineyards in the world. Enjoy detours into venerable wine-growing villages whose melodious names – engraved on labels or whispered during a romantic dinner – make oenophiles swoon. 

Pair your wine tasting with some of the country’s most memorable Romanesque architecture – for example, the grand Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun – and you’ll uplift both body and soul.

Planning tip:  When in Beaune , the town around which the vineyards circle, don’t miss the magnificent Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices de Beaune in the old city, with its exquisite 15th-century altar painting by Rogier van der Weyden.

2. Castles of the Loire Valley

Best road trip for grand châteaux Chinon–Chambord; 189km (118 miles), allow 2-3 days

The extravagant castles along France’s longest river have been the backdrop for royal intrigue for centuries. From warring medieval potentates to the kings and queens of Renaissance France, a parade of powerful men and women has left its mark on the lush Loire Valley.

This drive links up France’s most magnificent collection of castles, ranging from austere medieval fortresses such as Château de Langeais to ostentatious royal pleasure palaces such as Chambord .

Detour:  You can stop along the way and rent a bike to cycle when the weather is fair – don’t miss the graceful arches of Château de Chenonceau reflected in the Cher River near Tours.

3. Across the French Alps

Best road trip for dramatic scenery and family adventures Annecy–St Véran; 363km (225 miles), one week

France’s section of the Alps provides an incomparable setting for a summer road trip (from mid-June to mid-September, when mountain passes are snow-free). This Alpine drive combines awesome splendor with the charms of time-worn mountain culture.

Curve through the heart of the French Alps from Annecy , perhaps France’s prettiest lakeside city, to the slopes of 4808m (15,774ft) Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak. Then head over the high mountain pass of Col de l’Iseran to reach Bonneval-sur-Arc, a charming Alpine village, and St Véran – France's highest village.

Planning tip:  Amongst all these high points, take regular breaks to hike, mountain bike, white-water raft and ride vertigo-inducing cable cars.

4. Dordogne villages and markets

Best road trip for food and fortifications Monpazier–Domme; 96km (60 miles), 1-2 days

The Dordogne holds two special distinctions – it's the home of many of France's top culinary delights, as well as being a land of fortified villages. Serenity may reign now, but during the Middle Ages, the area was often a battleground because the Dordogne River marked an important strategic frontier between English and French forces during the Hundred Years War.

The region’s châteaux and defensive walls remain – most distinctive of all are bastide towns such as Monpazier, encircled by fortified walls and protected by sturdy ramparts. Each village has a central market square, so if you time your drive right, you can hit a weekly market and sample the local specialties.

Sarlat-la-Canéda is famous for its market, but small villages such as Issigeac are sleeper hits. Over in the village of St Cyprien, you can indulge in another of the Dordogne’s great gastronomic gems – the perle noire of the Périgord, aka the black truffle. Wrap up with a turn along the windy road leading up to amazing panoramic views at Domme.

5. The D-Day Beaches

Best road trip for WWII history Caen–Utah Beach; 142km (88 miles), 1-2 days

On this drive through Normandy , you’ll explore the events of D-Day, when Allied troops stormed ashore to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation in 1944. From war museums to landing beaches, it’s a fascinating and sobering experience. Before you hop in the car, spend some time at the Caen-Normandie Mémorial to get a full D-Day overview.

Several driving routes through the region connect the main battle sites. Look for signs for "D-Day-Le Choc" in the American sectors and "Overlord-l’Assaut" in the British and Canadian sectors.

Planning tip:  Maps of the D-Day beaches are widely available, and local tourist offices have created a helpful e-booklet outlining it all.

6. South of France and the Côte d'Azur

Best road trip for stunning coastline Cannes–Monaco; 62km (39 miles), one day minimum

Cruising the  Côte d'Azur is as dazzling and chic as road trips get. From glamorous Cannes to lively  Nice via the corkscrew turns of the Corniches, then on to the millionaire's playground of Monaco , this is a drive you'll remember forever. Filmmakers, writers, celebrities and artists have all had their hearts stolen by this glittering stretch of coastline – by the end of this trip, you'll understand why.

Aim to avoid the July and August high season when the roads are jammed. If you want more of the south, Provence offers an embarrassment of road trips – from the charming hilltop-perched villages of the Luberon to Arles and the Camargue with its salt flats and flamingos.

7. Breton coast loop

Best for rugged Celtic coastlines and fine seafood St Malo–Vannes; 642km (399 miles), one week

Devote a week to this sea-salty drive to fully experience the region's serene coastal towns, dramatic storm-lashed headlands and the world’s greatest concentration of megalithic sites.

Start at fortified St Malo and loop the entire coast of Brittany , standing on the precipice of the cliffs of the Pointe du Raz , walking through the profusion of prehistoric megalithic sites at Carnac, and wrapping up with a trip to the foodie paradise that is medieval Vannes.

Top tip for driving in France

France's toll road autoroutes are seductive shortcuts, but be aware that the scenery is much more magnificent on the smaller roads and the highways are packed with large trucks and virtually invisible speed-trap cameras. You'll have a gentler, more rewarding drive off the toll routes. 

The Via Michelin website  gives you the cost of routes with or without using toll roads. 

This article was first published September 2020 and updated December 2023

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Most Scenic Road Trips in France: 12 Epic Routes

29 March 2024 · In: France , Road Trip

Are you looking for the  most beautiful and scenic road trips in France ? Adventure lovers, you have come to the right place! This article walks you through  12 road trip ideas to add to your bucket list  for an unforgettable holiday, whether you are travelling for 7 days or 2 weeks.

France is a breathtaking country  which has much to offer! From charming traditional villages and stunning natural landscapes to emblematic landmarks and delicious local cuisine (and wine), you will find  plenty of things to do and places to see  on a French road trip in both summer and winter.

Even though France is my homeland, I am constantly discovering something new when I explore the country, as  each region truly has its own identity and culture . Whichever road trip you choose, I am sure you will have a wonderful time!

So, are you ready to discover the  top 12 France road trips that you must experience ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any other suggestions 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, please  read our full affiliate disclosure .

12- Route des Grands Crus

Overview: 12 epic french road trips.

1- Provence Lavender Loop 2- The Loire Valley & Châteaux 3- French Riviera Coastal Drive 4- Alsace Wine Route 5- Normandy Coastal Escape 6- Gorges du Verdon Loop

7- Corsica Coastal Drive 8- Route des Grandes Alpes 9- Brittany Coastal Road 10- Pyrenean Escape 11- Champagne Route 12- Route des Grands Crus

Best France road trips – Map

12 breathtaking road trip routes in France

Here are 12 road trips to inspire your next French adventure. Each of these routes is easily accessible by car, campervan or motorbike. But also be sure to check road conditions, especially in winter, and book your accommodation in advance.

Best car rental options

Looking for the best car rental deals for your road trip in France?

Check out Rentalcars.com to search and compare which one is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.

1- Provence Lavender Loop

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-July) 

The Provence Lavender Route, also known as the  Route de la Lavande , is a scenic journey through the picturesque countryside of Provence, renowned for its  vast lavender fields that burst into vibrant purple flowers . The perfect road trip for Instagram lovers!

Starting typically in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, the route also takes you through  charming villages  like Gordes and Roussillon, where you can unwind and admire the lavender fields in  full bloom from late June to early July , creating a mesmerising sea of purple.

Whether you are driving or cycling, this itinerary offers an ideal blend of  cultural exploration, immersive experiences amidst the lavender fields of Provence and scenic drives  with panoramic views of rolling hills and ancient stone villages.

READ MORE: 20+ Best Places to Visit in The South of France

ITINERARY 

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the most beautiful sites in Provence:

Day 1: Avignon

• Start your journey in Avignon, a historic city known for its medieval architecture.
• Explore the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) and Pont Saint-Bénézet (Bridge of Avignon).
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town.
• Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Sault and Gordes

• Drive to Sault, known as the lavender capital of Provence. 
• Explore the lavender fields surrounding Sault. 
• Take in the stunning views of the Mont Ventoux.
• Continue to Gordes, a picturesque hilltop village with narrow cobbled streets and panoramic views.
• Visit the Lavender Museum to learn about the history and cultivation of lavender.
• Visit the Senanque Abbey, famous for its iconic lavender fields.

Day 3: Roussillon and Valensole Plateau

• Explore the colourful village of Roussillon, known for its ochre cliffs and vibrant hues.
• Wander through the Ochre Trail. 
• Admire the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
• Drive to the Valensole Plateau , one of the most scenic areas for lavender viewing in Provence.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the lavender fields and capturing photos of the stunning scenery.

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence

• Head to Aix-en-Provence, a charming city known for its elegant boulevards, fountains and vibrant arts scene.
• Visit the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined avenue lined with cafés and shops.
• Explore its historic centre.
• Discover landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur and the Atelier Paul Cézanne.
• Enjoy an afternoon stroll through the gardens or join a walking tour .
• Browse local markets for lavender products.

Day 5: Return to Avignon

• Drive back to Avignon and complete the Lavender route loop.
• Enjoy the scenery along the way. 
• Once in Avignon, spend your final evening exploring, shopping or relaxing.

PROVENCE LAVENDER MAP

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

2- The Loire Valley & Châteaux

⏰  Duration : 5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The Loire Valley road trip offers a captivating journey through a picturesque and historic region of France. You will discover a landscape dotted with  majestic châteaux, charming villages and lush vineyards  along the banks of the Loire River, a paradise for history and wine lovers!

From the  fairy-tale castles  of Chambord and Chenonceau to the  picturesque towns  of Tours and Amboise, this itinerary is a perfect blend of  cultural heritage, scenic beauty and culinary delights  and is the ideal way to learn more about the rich culture and history of France.

I feel lucky enough to say that  I was born in the Loire Valley , more precisely in Orleans. I loved the region and its cultural landmarks. It always felt great to be in the countryside whilst still being close to major cities like Paris. I am sure you will love exploring its many highlights. It is also an  ideal destination for families with children .

READ MORE: Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe: 16 Epic Routes

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley:

Day 1: Tours

• Start your road trip in Tours, a city in the heart of the Loire Valley.
• Explore its historic Old Town with half-timbered houses and Place Plumereau.
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
• Take a walk along the banks of the Loire.

Day 2: Château de Villandry and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau

• Drive to Château de Villandry, famous for its superb Renaissance gardens.
• Continue to Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a fairytale castle set on an island in the Indre River.

Day 3: Château de Chambord and Château de Cheverny

• Visit the iconic  Château de Chambord , a masterpiece of the French Renaissance.
• Explore its massive double-helix staircase and its vast garden.
• Head to Château de Cheverny, famous for its elegant interiors and well-preserved furniture.
• If you have time, you can also discover the pretty village of Cheverny and its vineyards.

Day 4: Château de Chenonceau and Amboise

• Visit the elegant  Château de Chenonceau , spanning the Cher River.
• Explore the stunning gardens and galleries of the castle.
• Drive to the town of Amboise, where you can visit Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé, the former home of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Spend the evening exploring the quaint streets of Amboise.

Day 5: Wine tasting and back to Tours

• Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard in the Vouvray or Montlouis-sur-Loire wine region.
• Spend your last evening in Tours sampling local cuisine and wine.

LOIRE VALLEY MAP

3- French Riviera Coastal Drive

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The French Riviera, also known as the  Côte d’Azur , offers a captivating journey along the Mediterranean coastline of southeastern France. Whether it is  exploring   historic sites, relaxing on pristine beaches or cruising along scenic coastal roads , this road trip promises an unforgettable experience.

Stretching from the glamorous city of Nice to the border with Italy, this itinerary takes you through  picturesque coastal towns, sandy beaches and stunning landscapes , where you will be treated to panoramic views of the azure sea and lush hillsides.

Along the way, you will also encounter  luxurious resorts like Cannes and Monaco , where you can indulge in exclusive shopping, gourmet dining and world-class entertainment. Have fun!

READ MORE: South of France Road Trip: 1-Week Itinerary

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the main highlights of the French Riviera:

Day 1: Nice

• Start your journey in Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera.
• Explore the vibrant Old Town with its narrow streets, colourful buildings and bustling markets.
• Visit the Promenade des Anglais, a famous waterfront promenade perfect for a stroll or bike ride.
• Relax on one of its beautiful beaches and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine.

Day 2: Antibes and Cannes

• Drive to Antibes, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque old port and historic ramparts.
• Explore the Musée Picasso housed in the Château Grimaldi.
• Stroll through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town.
• Continue to Cannes, famous for its film festival and glamorous atmosphere.
• Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.
• Take a walk along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette.

Day 3: Monaco and Monte Carlo

• Drive to Monaco, a tiny principality known for its glitz and glamour.
• Visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
• Explore the charming Old Town of Monaco-Ville.
• Admire the stunning views from the Jardin Exotique.
• Visit the Oceanographic Museum .
• Continue to Monte Carlo, home to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo and luxurious hotels.
• Enjoy a stroll around the glamorous Casino Square and take in the sights of the city.

Day 4: Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Drive to Menton, a picturesque town known for its lemon festival and beautiful gardens.
• Explore the colourful Old Town and visit the Jean Cocteau Museum.
• Continue to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming seaside village with a scenic harbour.
• Explore the Citadel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on one of its beaches.

Day 5: Return to Nice

• Enjoy some last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping.
• Spend your evening sampling local cuisine and wine.

Optional: Saint-Tropez

• Drive to Saint-Tropez, a legendary seaside resort synonymous with luxury and style.
• Explore the Vieux Port lined with luxurious yachts and charming cafes.
• Visit the Musée de l’Annonciade, home to an impressive collection of modern art.
• Relax on one of its beautiful beaches or enjoy water sports activities.

FRENCH RIVIERA MAP

4- Alsace Wine Route

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Alsace Wine Route, or  Route des Vins d’Alsace , is a scenic journey through  one of the premier wine regions in France , stretching approximately 170 kilometres (105 miles) from Marlenheim to Thann. 

This picturesque route winds through  charming villages, lush vineyards and historic wine-producing towns , offering you the opportunity to explore renowned wineries, sample exceptional white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer and immerse yourself in the  rich winemaking tradition of Alsace . 

With its stunning landscapes, quaint villages and world-class wines, this Alsace Wine road trip itinerary promises a  memorable and delightful experience for wine enthusiasts  and travellers alike.

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic stops along the Wine Route:

Day 1: Strasbourg

• Begin your journey in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the picturesque Old Town (Grande Île) with its charming half-timbered houses and canals.
• Join a guided tour and discover the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral.
• Visit the Alsatian Museum to learn about the history, culture and winemaking traditions of the region.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Alsatian cuisine with regional wines.

Day 2: Obernai

• Drive to Obernai, a charming medieval town surrounded by vineyards.
• Explore its historic centre, featuring narrow streets, colourful facades and the Obernai Clock Tower.
• Visit a local winery for a wine-tasting experience, sampling the renowned white wines of Alsace.
• Enjoy lunch at a traditional Alsatian Winstub (wine tavern), tasting dishes like choucroute garnie and flammekueche.

Day 3: Riquewihr

• Travel to Riquewihr, one of the most picturesque villages along the Alsace Wine Route.
• Explore its well-preserved medieval architecture, flower-filled streets and charming wine cellars.
• Visit local wineries for tastings of Riesling, Gewürztraminer and other Alsace varietals.
• Take a stroll through the surrounding vineyards, enjoying panoramic views of the Alsace countryside.

Day 4: Colmar

• Drive to Colmar, known as the Capital of Alsatian Wine.
• Explore its historic Old Town, featuring colourful half-timbered houses, cosy cafés and the picturesque Little Venice district.
• Visit the Unterlinden Museum to see the Isenheim Altarpiece and other works of art.
• Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in Colmar and visit local wineries.

Day 5: Eguisheim & Strasbourg

• Drive to Eguisheim, a charming village known for its circular layout and flower-decked streets.
• Explore its medieval centre and visit the St. Leon Fountain.
• Stroll through the vineyards surrounding the village.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps indulging in Alsatian specialities paired with regional wines.
• Return to Strasbourg, where you can explore any sights you may have missed on your first day or simply relax.

ALSACE WINE MAP

5- Normandy Coastal Escape

The Normandy Coastal Route, also known as the  Côte d’Albâtre  or Alabaster Coast, winds  along the rugged coastline of Normandy  in northern France, stretching from Le Tréport to Honfleur. 

This picturesque journey offers breathtaking views of  towering chalk cliffs, quaint fishing villages and historic landmarks . You will have the chance to explore iconic sites like the cliffs of Étretat, enjoy fresh seafood in charming seaside towns and  learn about World War II history  at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. 

Whether you love  exploring historic sites ,  enjoying outdoor activities  like hiking or beachcombing, or simply soaking in the  stunning coastal scenery , the Normandy Coastal Route promises an unforgettable road trip experience. 

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the main highlights of a road trip along the coast of Normandy:

Day 1: Le Tréport & Dieppe

• Start your journey in Le Tréport, a picturesque seaside town known for its colourful cliffside houses and funicular railway.
• Visit the Tréport Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline.
• Explore the bustling harbour of the town.
• Drive along the coast to Dieppe, the largest town on the Alabaster Coast, famous for its fishing port and historic castle.
• Explore its vibrant Saturday market, stroll along the promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Étretat

• Drive to Étretat, renowned for its stunning chalk cliffs, natural arches and pebble beaches.
• Take a hike along the coastal path for spectacular views of the cliffs and the English Channel.
• Visit iconic landmarks such as the Needle Rock and the Arches of Aval.
• Explore the town of Étretat, with its charming streets, art galleries and beachfront cafés.
• Immerse yourself in Les Jardins d’Étretat to enjoy a variety of gardens, sculptures and contemporary artwork.

Day 3: Honfleur

• Continue your journey to Honfleur, a picturesque harbour town with colourful timber-framed houses and cobbled streets.
• Explore the historic Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor), lined with cafés, art galleries and seafood restaurants.
• Visit the Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France.
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town and admire the maritime-themed architecture.

Day 4: Omaha Beach & Bayeux

• Drive along the coast to Omaha Beach, one of the landing beaches of the D-Day invasion during World War II.
• Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, where thousands of soldiers are buried overlooking the beach.
• Join a World War II tour  of the key beaches and sites linked to D-Day.
• Explore the nearby town of Bayeux and visit the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England in 1066.

Day 5: Mont-Saint-Michel

• Head to Mont-Saint-Michel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in France.
• Explore the medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, surrounded by tidal flats and salt marshes.
• Wander through the narrow streets of the village, lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding countryside.

NORMANDY COAST MAP

6- Gorges du Verdon Loop

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The Gorges du Verdon Loop is a spectacular road trip route that will guide you through the  stunning natural landscapes of the Verdon Gorge  in southeastern France – a must for photo lovers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Often referred to as the  Grand Canyon of Europe , the Verdon Gorge is  one of the most impressive river canyons in Europe , carved by the turquoise waters of the Verdon River over millions of years.

This fascinating loop begins and ends in the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, taking you on a  scenic journey along the north and south rims of the gorge , with plenty of outdoor activities, picturesque villages and unforgettable views along the way.

Here is an example of a  4-day itinerary  for exploring the Verdon Gorge:

Day 1: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

• Start your journey in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a charming Provençal village nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs.
• Explore the narrow streets, adorned with colourful facades.
• Visit the Notre Dame de Beauvoir Chapel perched high above the village.
• Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities such as truffle-infused dishes and goat cheese.

Day 2: North Rim & La Palud-sur-Verdon

• Begin your drive along the Verdon Gorge Loop, heading west towards the Verdon Gorge.
• Continue driving along the Route des Crêtes, a scenic road that winds along the rim of the gorge, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.
• Choose from a variety of activities such as hiking along the Sentier Martel trail, rock climbing on the limestone cliffs, or kayaking and canoeing on the Verdon River.
• Arrive at the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, where you can explore the Maison des Gorges du Verdon visitor centre to learn more about the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Day 2: South Rim & Aiguines

• Drive towards Trigance to reach the south rim of the gorge.
• Stop at the Point Sublime viewpoint for panoramic views of the gorge and the turquoise waters of the Verdon River below.
• Pause at the Balcons de la Mescla viewpoint to admire the convergence of the Verdon and Artuby rivers, and do not miss out on a stop at Pont de l’Artuby.
• Continue your journey towards Aiguines, stopping at Col d’Illoire along the way, a stunning mountain pass.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures & Lake Sainte-Croix

• Drive to Lake Sainte-Croix, a stunning reservoir nestled amidst the hills of the Verdon Regional Natural Park.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside or at one of the scenic viewpoints along the gorge.
• Relax on the shores of the lake, go for a swim or rent a pedal boat or kayak to explore its tranquil waters.

Day 4: Return to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

• Drive back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, taking the scenic route through the countryside.
• Along the way, stop at viewpoints and picturesque villages to soak in the last views of the Verdon Gorge and the surrounding landscapes.
• Arrive back in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in the afternoon.
• Spend your remaining time exploring any attractions or shops in the village, or simply relax and enjoy the Provençal ambience.

GORGES DU VERDON MAP

7- Corsica Coastal Drive

⏰  Duration : 6-7 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The Corsica Coastal Drive offers a mesmerising journey  along the rugged and picturesque coastline of Corsica , the Mediterranean gem of France. It is the perfect destination if you are looking to mix sun and outdoor experiences. 

This scenic road trip winds through  charming coastal towns, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs , showcasing the diverse landscapes and turquoise waters of the island. 

You will also have the chance to  explore historic landmarks, enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and soak up breathtaking vistas , making the Corsica Coastal Drive an unforgettable adventure along one of the most beautiful coastlines of Europe. 

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  offering a taste of the best that Corsica has to offer:

Day 1: Bastia

• Start your journey in Bastia, one of the main cities in Corsica, located on the northeast of the island.
• Explore the historic Old Town (Terra Vecchia) with its narrow streets, baroque churches and lively squares.
• Visit the Old Port (Vieux Port) and enjoy waterfront dining at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Calvi

• Drive along the coastal road towards Calvi, a picturesque town located on the northwest coast of Corsica.
• Stop at the charming village of Saint-Florent along the way, known for its pretty harbour and Citadel.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Calvi in the afternoon.
• Explore its historic Citadel, stroll along the waterfront promenade and relax on the sandy beaches.

Day 3: Porto

• Drive south along the coast to Porto, a small village nestled between the mountains and the sea.
• Explore the village of Porto and visit the Genoese watchtower overlooking the harbour.
• Discover the Calanques de Piana, stunning red granite cliffs that plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
• Optional: Take a boat tour to explore the Calanques de Piana and the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Day 4: Bonifacio

• Drive along the rugged west coast of Corsica towards Bonifacio, located on the southern tip of the island.
• Stop at the village of Cargèse, known for its Greek Orthodox Church and beautiful beaches.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Bonifacio in the afternoon.
• Explore the historic Old Town perched atop limestone cliffs.
• Visit the Citadel and stroll along the picturesque marina.

Day 5: Porto-Vecchio

• Drive along the eastern coast of Corsica towards Porto-Vecchio, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches.
• Stop at the beautiful beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, known for their turquoise waters and white sand.
• Continue driving to Porto-Vecchio.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing and exploring the historic centre.

Day 6: Bastia

• Drive back towards Bastia along the eastern coast of Corsica.
• Stop at the Bavella Massif, a stunning mountain range with towering granite peaks and scenic hiking trails.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Bastia in the afternoon.
• Spend your remaining time exploring any attractions or shops in the city.

CORSICA COASTAL MAP

8- Route des Grandes Alpes

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Route des Grandes Alpes is an iconic and legendary road trip route  spanning 700 kilometres across the French Alps , from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea.

Passing through some of the most  breathtaking mountain scenery  in Europe, this itinerary takes you through picturesque valleys and over high mountain passes, offering spectacular views of  snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and charming villages .

You will embark on a journey of epic proportions, combining exhilarating driving experiences with opportunities for numerous  outdoor adventures, cultural explorations and gastronomic delights  along the way.

Here is an example of a  4-day itinerary  covering some of the highlights of the French Alps:

Day 1: Thonon-les-Bains & Chamonix

• Start your journey in Thonon-les-Bains, located on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Drive to Chamonix, a famous ski resort town nestled in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps.
• Pass through the picturesque Arve Valley and stop to enjoy the scenery.
• Explore its charming streets and visit the Aiguille du Midi for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Take a ride on the Montenvers Railway to see the Mer de Glace glacier.

Day 2: Megève

• If you have time, drive through the Mont Blanc Tunnel, crossing into Italy briefly before returning to France.
• Head to Megève, passing through alpine villages like Les Houches and Saint-Gervais-les-Bains.
• Arrive in Megève, a charming alpine resort town known for its luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, and scenic beauty.
• Explore its historic centre, stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy dinner at a traditional Savoyard restaurant.

Day 3: Briançon

• Continue your journey southward through the French Alps.
• Drive through the stunning Tarentaise Valley, passing by ski resorts such as La Plagne and Les Arcs.
• Cross over the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, and descend into the Maurienne Valley.
• Continue driving through picturesque mountain villages like Val d’Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc.
• Arrive in Briançon, a fortified town known for its UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications and stunning mountain scenery.
• Explore its historic centre, visit the Fort des Têtes and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Nice

• Drive towards Nice, descending into the Ubaye Valley, known for its rugged beauty and outdoor activities.
• Continue driving through the Alpes-Maritimes region, passing by picturesque towns like Barcelonnette and Entrevaux.
• Arrive in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera.
• Explore its vibrant Old Town, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and relax on the beach.

GRANDES ALPES MAP

9- Brittany Coastal Road

⏰  Duration : 6-7 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Brittany Coastal Drive offers a  picturesque journey along the rugged and diverse coastline of Brittany , a region in northwestern France known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and charming seaside towns. 

This road trip route will take you through  quaint fishing villages, historic ports and stunning natural landscapes , providing you with opportunities to explore the scenic and untouched beauty of Brittany.

From the medieval city walls of  Saint-Malo  to the wild beauty of the  Quiberon Peninsula  and the charming streets of  Vannes , this itinerary perfectly highlights the  diverse landscapes, rich maritime heritage and gastronomic delights  of Brittany, making it an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers, history enthusiasts and foodies. 

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  offering a great mix of cultural, historical and natural attractions in Brittany:

Day 1: Saint-Malo

• Start your journey in Saint-Malo, a historic port city known for its impressive city walls and maritime heritage.
• Explore the medieval Old Town (Intra-Muros), stroll along the ramparts and visit the Château de Saint-Malo.
• Hop on a boat cruise to discover the Emerald Coast and local history.
• Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling local specialities like moules marinières (mussels in white wine sauce) and galettes (savoury buckwheat crepes).

Day 2: Dinard

• Drive along the coast to Dinard, a charming seaside resort town located across the Rance Estuary.
• Explore its elegant Belle Époque architecture, relax on the sandy beaches and take a stroll along the scenic coastal promenade.
• Visit the Pointe du Moulinet for panoramic views of Saint-Malo and the surrounding coastline.

Day 3: Perros-Guirec

• Drive to Perros-Guirec and continue along the scenic Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast), known for its stunning rock formations and sandy beaches.
• Explore the Ploumanac’h Lighthouse and the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers’ Path), offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
• Visit the charming village of Ploumanac’h and stroll through its quaint streets lined with granite cottages.

Day 4: Douarnenez

• Head to Douarnenez, a picturesque fishing port on the Bay of Douarnenez.
• Explore the Port Rhu Museum and learn about the maritime history and boat-building traditions of the town.
• Visit the Tréboul district and relax on the sandy beaches or take a boat trip to the Île Tristan.
• Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant, savouring fresh catches from the local fishing boats.

Day 5: Quiberon

• Drive along the coast to Quiberon, a popular seaside resort town located on a narrow peninsula.
• Explore the beaches, cliffs and coastal paths, including the Pointe du Conguel and the Côte Sauvage (Wild Coast).
• Visit the Quiberon Citadel and learn about the history of the town as a fortified stronghold.
• Enjoy seafood specialities at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the harbour.

Day 6: Vannes

• Continue your journey to Vannes, a charming medieval town located on the Gulf of Morbihan.
• Explore the historic centre, with its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets and bustling markets.
• Visit the Vannes Cathedral and the Château de l’Hermine, a medieval fortress overlooking the harbour.
• Take a boat tour of the Gulf of Morbihan and discover its scenic islands and coastal landscapes.

BRITTANY COAST MAP

10- Pyrenean Escape

⏰  Duration : 7-8 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

Embark on a scenic Pyrenees road trip starting from Toulouse, where the journey unfolds amidst  historic charm, cultural richness and dramatic mountain vistas . 

From the medieval allure of  Foix  and the picturesque landscapes of  Vielha  to the spiritual sanctuaries of  Lourdes  and the elegant architecture of  Pau , you will not get bored on your adventure through the Pyrenees.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of  scenic drives, cultural exploration and outdoor activities , allowing you to fully experience the beauty and diversity of the Pyrenees region, providing a unique experience in one of the most  spectacular mountain landscapes  in Europe.

Here is an example of an  8-day itinerary  covering some of the most spectacular parts of the Pyrenees:

Day 1: Toulouse

• Start your journey in Toulouse, known as the  Pink City  due to its distinctive terracotta buildings.
• Explore the historic city centre, including the Capitole de Toulouse, Basilica of Saint-Sernin and the Garonne River waterfront.

Day 2: Foix

• Drive to Foix, a charming town dominated by its medieval castle.
• Visit the Château de Foix and explore the narrow streets of the Old Town.
• Optional: Hike or take a scenic drive through the nearby Pyrenean foothills.

Day 3: Andorra

• Head to the Principality of Andorra, a small mountainous country nestled in the Pyrenees.
• Explore the capital city, Andorra la Vella, known for its duty-free shopping opportunities and mountain scenery.
• Visit landmarks such as Casa de la Vall and the Sant Esteve Church.

Day 4: Vielha

• Drive through the scenic Pyrenean landscapes from Andorra to Vielha, located in the Val d’Aran region of Catalonia, Spain.
• Explore its charming streets, lined with stone buildings and mountain vistas.
• Visit the local markets and sample traditional Catalan cuisine.

Day 5: Saint-Lary-Soulan

• Head to Saint-Lary-Soulan, a picturesque mountain town in the French Pyrenees.
• Take the cable car up to the Pic Lumière for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Explore the thermal baths or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or mountain biking.

Day 6: Lourdes

• Continue your journey to Lourdes, a world-famous pilgrimage site known for its Marian apparitions and healing waters.
• Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and attend a Mass or participate in the candlelight procession.
• Explore the Grotto of Massabielle and the Basilica of the Rosary.
• Drive to Pau, a historic city known for its elegant boulevards, Belle Époque architecture and views of the Pyrenees.
• Visit the Château de Pau, birthplace of King Henry IV of France, and stroll through the Parc Beaumont.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specialising in regional cuisine.

Day 8: Return to Toulouse

• Drive back to Toulouse and enjoy the scenery along the way. 
• Once in Toulouse, spend your final evening exploring, shopping or relaxing.

PYRENEAN ESCAPE MAP

11- The Champagne Route

The Champagne Route, or  Route Touristique du Champagne , takes you on a fantastic journey through the  picturesque vineyards and charming villages of the Champagne region  in northeastern France. 

Stretching approximately 500 kilometres, this scenic route offers you the opportunity to explore  prestigious Champagne houses, historic towns and centuries-old cellars , whilst enjoying tastings of the world-famous sparkling wine directly from the producers. 

With its  stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and exceptional gastronomy , the Champagne Route promises an unforgettable experience through one of the most celebrated wine regions in France.

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic attractions in Champagne:

Day 1: Reims

• Start your journey in Reims, the largest city in the Champagne region.
• Visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the historic city centre.
• Take a tour of one of the prestigious Champagne houses in Reims, such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger or Pommery, and enjoy a Champagne tasting.

Day 2: Épernay

• Drive to Épernay, known as the  Capital of Champagne , located south of Reims.
• Explore the Avenue de Champagne, lined with grand Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët and Mercier.
• Take a tour of a Champagne house and cellar, learning about the Champagne-making process and history of the region.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities paired with Champagne.

Day 3: Hautvillers & Ay

• Visit the charming village of Hautvillers, known as the birthplace of Champagne, where Dom Pérignon perfected the méthode champenoise.
• Explore the village and visit the tomb of Dom Pérignon in the local abbey church.
• Drive to the village of Ay, another important Champagne-producing area, and visit Champagne houses such as Bollinger or Deutz.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards surrounding Ay.

Day 4: Montagne de Reims

• Drive through the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, a scenic area known for its vine-covered slopes and picturesque villages.
• Visit the village of Verzy and explore the Faux de Verzy, ancient twisted beech trees unique to the region.
• Stop at Champagne houses along the way for tastings and tours, experiencing the diversity of Champagne styles produced in the area.

Day 5: Marne Valley

• Explore the Marne Valley, driving through vineyards and charming villages.
• Visit the village of Châtillon-sur-Marne and enjoy panoramic views of the Marne Valley.
• Stop at Champagne houses in the area for tastings and cellar tours, discovering the terroir-driven Champagnes of the Marne Valley.

Day 6: Return to Reims

• Spend your final day in Reims exploring any attractions or Champagne houses you may have missed.
• Visit the Musée de la Reddition, where the German surrender was signed in 1945.
• Explore more Champagne vineyards surrounding the city.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, toasting to the end of your Champagne Route road trip.

CHAMPAGNE ROUTE MAP

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : spring & autumn (April/May-September/October)

The Route des Grands Crus is a scenic road offering a  memorable journey through the prestigious Burgundy wine region  in France, spanning approximately 60 kilometres from Dijon to Santenay. 

Lined with  lush vineyards, historic castles (châteaux) and charming villages , this route showcases some of the finest wine-producing terroirs in the world, including  renowned appellations  like Gevrey-Chambertin and Puligny-Montrachet.

You will have the chance to explore  prestigious wine estates , indulge in  wine tastings  and immerse yourself in the  rich viticultural heritage  of Burgundy along this iconic wine route.

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most popular attractions in Burgundy:

Day 1: Dijon

• Start your journey in Dijon, the capital city of the Burgundy region.
• Explore the historic centre of Dijon, known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.
• Visit the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne (Ducal Palace) and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, one of the oldest museums in France.
• Immerse yourself in a wine-tasting experience at La Cave du Palais .
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities such as boeuf bourguignon and escargots.

Day 2: Nuits-Saint-Georges

• Drive along the Route des Grands Crus whilst enjoying the scenery.
• Stop at the picturesque village of Vosne-Romanée, home to several prestigious grand cru vineyards, including Romanée-Conti.
• Visit a selection of wineries for tastings of the renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
• Continue to Nuits-Saint-Georges and explore the historic centre, including the 16th-century Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall).
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a glass of Nuits-Saint-Georges wine.

Day 3: Beaune

• Drive south to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.
• Explore the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century charitable hospital with a distinctive colored-tile roof.
• Visit the Marché aux Vins de Beaune, where you can taste a selection of Burgundy wines and purchase bottles to take home.
• Enjoy an immersive wine-tasting experience at Château de Pommard.
• Explore the charming streets of Beaune and dine at a traditional bistro or Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 4: Meursault

• Drive through the scenic vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, stopping at prestigious wine villages such as Pommard and Volnay.
• Visit the village of Meursault, known for its elegant white wines made from Chardonnay grapes.
• Take a tour of a local winery and enjoy tastings of Meursault wines, known for their richness and complexity.

Day 5: Santenay

• Continue your journey along the Route des Grands Crus, stopping at villages such as Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet.
• Visit the Château de Santenay, a historic castle and winery located in the village of Santenay.
• Take a tour of the château and its cellars, followed by tastings of Santenay wines.
• Explore the village of Santenay and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

GRANDS CRUS MAP

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Plan and create an unforgettable road trip in France!

Tips for reducing your impact on a road trip

Are you looking forward to your unforgettable road trip? I understand! 

Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move freely and discover many incredible places at our own pace. 

However, they can also have negative environmental impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting  eco-responsible habits  is essential.

READ MORE:  How to Plan an Epic (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Here are some  sustainable tips  on making your France road trip more eco-friendly and having a positive impact on the places you visit:

PREPARE YOUR ROUTE IN ADVANCE 

I know getting lost on a road trip can feel fun and exciting, but when trying to lower your footprint, it is best to plan your route to minimise driving distance and avoid unnecessary detours. The shorter the distance you travel, the less fuel you will use and the less harmful emissions you will produce. In addition, consider alternative transportation options such as public transit or carpooling for shorter distances. 

Tip: Get offline maps to stay on track even if you lose signal. 

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Another great way to reduce your impact on the road is to plan your meals. Throughout your journey, eat at local restaurants or wander through local markets to buy fresh produce. You will have the opportunity to try the local cuisine whilst contributing to the local economy. 

STAY IN GREEN ACCOMMODATIONS

Stay in eco-friendly accommodations such as eco-lodges, hotels with green certifications, or campgrounds with sustainable practices. Look for accommodations that prioritise energy efficiency, waste reduction and water conservation.

It is not always easy to determine whether an accommodation has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.

MAKE YOUR TRIP PLASTIC-FREE

As you might know, plastic packaging is a significant environmental issue and causes concerns for wildlife and the preservation of natural landscapes. Therefore, avoid plastic as much as possible and bring reusable items instead. Choose  eco-friendly alternatives , like reusable tote bags, cutlery, plates and more. 

Tip: you can also buy  filtered water bottles  to refill your water anywhere. 

CHECK YOUR CAR AND DRIVE SMOOTHLY

Make sure your vehicle is in the best possible condition for the road: check the engine, oil level and tyre pressure before your trip. In addition, use the available features in your car, like cruise control, to help you maintain your speed and reduce excess emissions. And even better, drive an electric vehicle if possible! (Or a bike for the most courageous).

LEAVE A PLACE BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT

Aim to live by the principle: leave no trace. And even better, leave a place better than you found it. For example, dispose of your litter appropriately and pick up any trash you encounter. Be respectful of the land and do not drive over protected areas. Finally, stay on the marked trails when hiking, as going off can be dangerous for flora and fauna. 

ADOPT A RESPONSIBLE ATTITUDE TOWARDS WILDLIFE

Be mindful of your surroundings and adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife, on land and in the sea. Do not come close to, feed or touch animals and corals. Remember that you are only a guest in their home.

ALWAYS RESPECT THE LOCAL HERITAGE

Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and try to learn a few French words!

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

France travel planning guide + tips

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your road trip in France stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over France. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in France is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in France is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury resorts.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

The best road trip planner app I recommend you download on your phone is Roadtrippers . It will help you build your perfect itinerary with the top stops along the way.

Beautiful road trips in France – FAQ

Yes, France is a great destination for a road trip. With its diverse landscapes, charming villages, historic landmarks and world-renowned cuisine (and wine), France offers countless opportunities for memorable road trip experiences.

Yes, driving in France is generally easy. The country has an extensive network of well-maintained roads and highways, including Autoroutes (toll roads) and Routes Nationales (national roads), which make it easy to travel between cities and access remote places.

And you, what is your favourite road trip in France ? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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A Stunning France Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary

There are many reasons why going on a France road trip should be very high on your European bucket list. The south of France is home to some of the prettiest towns and most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen, not to mention all of the incredible food and wine this region has to offer!

The best way to see southern France is by renting a car so that you can easily travel around at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you please. I’ve designed this epic 10 day France road trip itinerary to pass through the very best sights and stop in the most beautiful small towns and villages along the way.

So buckle up and get ready to taste all the delicious French cheeses, olives and wines, inhale the scent of fresh lavender, wander through the most charming medieval villages and drive through the most incredible landscapes you’ve ever seen. I promise this France road trip will not disappoint!

Table of Contents

France Road Trip Overview

• Nice – 1 night
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – 1 night
• Valensole Lavender fields
• Gordes – 2 nights
• Château de Tarascon

Pont du Gard

• Nîmes – 2 nights
• Carcassonne – 2 nights
• Cahors (option to spend 1 night)
• Rocamadour – 2 nights

The spectacular Gorges du Verdon, seen from the Pont du Galetas viewpoint

Recommended stops

Day One  – Depart Nice early + drive 3 hrs to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie taking the scenic mountain road that runs through the Gorges du Verdon. See the sights of Moustiers in the afternoon and evening.

Night One  – Spend one night in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Day Two  – Wake up early and begin the 2 hour drive toward Gordes with a stop at the Valensole lavender fields for some photos. Stop once more in the village of Roussillon + take a walk around the Ochre Trail before continuing the drive to Gordes.

Nights Two & Three  – Spend two nights in the village of Gordes.

Day Three  – Spend a full day seeing the highlights of Gordes and surrounding countryside.

Day Four  – Depart Gordes in the morning + drive 50 min to Château de Tarascon. Spend 1 hour at the castle then drive 25 mins to the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard. Spend a few hours at the aqueduct and museum before driving a further 30 mins to Nîmes.

A perfect Carcassonne sunset

Night Four & Five  – Spend two nights in Nîmes.

Day Five  – Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Nîmes, visiting the amazing Roman monuments.

Day Six  –Depart Nîmes and drive 2.5 hours to Carcassonne. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring Carcassonne.

Nights Six & Seven  – Spend two nights in Carcassonne.

Day Seven  – Visit all of Carcassonne’s highlights.

Day Eight – Drive 2.5 hours to the town of Cahors (option to spend 1 night here to break up the drive), spend a few hours exploring the town before driving 1 hour to the village of Rocamadour.

Nights Eight & Nine – Spend two nights in Rocamadour.

Day Nine – See the highlights of Rocamadour on the final day of the road trip.

Total Driving Time

13-14 hours, give or take depending on traffic

Longest Stretch of Driving

3.5 hours – Day 8, Carcassonne to Rocamadour with a stop in Cahors to break it up

Total Kilometres / Miles Covered

970 kilometres / 600 miles

France Road Trip Highlights

• The drive through the majestic Gorges du Verdon will take your breath away
• Picturesque villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Gordes and Roussillon are so beautiful they will leave a lasting memory
• The extremely well preserved medieval towns of Carcassonne and Rocamadour are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tick off
• Taste the delicious Malbec wine in the pretty town of Cahors
• Breathtakingly beautiful scenery will be seen along your drives including lavender & sunflower fields, vineyards, turquoise lakes, pretty castles and so much more!
• Discover the fascinating Roman history and well preserved 2000+ year old monuments in the lovely town of Nîmes

The magical village of Gordes

How Long Will I Need?

We completed this France road trip in 10 days, this is the minimum time you should allow to follow it however it would be very easy to extend this itinerary to 2 weeks if you prefer a slower pace. There are many other towns, cities and attractions to visit along the way that you could easily stretch it out if you are flexible.

We flew to Nice from England, but if you are arriving after a long haul flight you should allow for a few days to recover at the beginning of your trip. Spending a few extra nights in Nice would be a good idea.

Pretty scenes around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Best Time to Visit the South of France

We did this road trip in late September/early October and the weather was mostly sunny and around 10-22°C. We had a few days of rain and the temperatures got cooler as we travelled north. For the most part, we found this to be a great time to travel as there were minimal crowds.

The summer months of June/July/August are definitely the most popular time to road trip the south of France but bear in mind that there will be a significant amount of people in each town and at every attraction. If you’re hoping to see the lavender fields, the best time is mid June – mid July.

Another great option would be to visit during the spring months of April, May or early June as the temperatures begin to rise and just before the summer crowds arrive. The south of France typically sees a lot of sun year round so if you’re not a fan of crowds, plan your trip for spring or autumn.

The breathtaking cliffside village of Rocamadour

The Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

Don’t risk it. Road tripping without travel insurance is never a good idea! The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.

For peace of mind while abroad,  Heymondo is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered!

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off  your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

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The Ultimate France Road Trip Itinerary – Beautiful Lavender Fields, Magical Cliffside Villages & Spectacular Landscapes

Chateau de Tarascon

Where to Rent a Car in Nice

Nice is a beautiful city but we were keen to get on the road so we decided to spend one night in Nice after flying in and then set off early the next morning. We recommend booking your car rental through this search tool as it’s hassle free and always has plenty of providers to choose from with reasonable prices.

One can never buy too many lavender sachets!

Driving from Nice to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie via the Gorges du Verdon

If you type “Nice to Moustiers” into Google maps, it will come up with the most direct route which takes just over 2 hours and passes through Cannes. The route we decided to take is a longer and slower drive (3 hours), but the extra time is 100% worth it!

We chose to take a route that passes through pretty villages, scenic mountain roads and best of all it runs straight through the spectacular Gorges du Verdon , also known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. The views along this route are absolutely breathtaking and possibly the best of the entire France road trip!

As you make your way toward the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll pass lovely little villages like Gréolières

Below are the exact driving directions for the route we followed including all stops along the way. You’ll notice that the roads are very twisty and mountainous. If you’re a bit apprehensive about driving along the edge of a gorge with a sheer drop on one side, you may want to try a different route.

We made our first stop in the mountain village of Gréolières to stretch our legs. You can easily pull over and take a walk up to the old church above the town for some nice views or grab a coffee in the town and continue driving. The next stop was in the small town of Comps-sur-Artuby where we had some lunch in a little cafe before starting the drive through the Gorges du Verdon.

The windy road that will take you through the gorge is called the D71 and it begins in Comps-sur-Artuby. As you make your way through the gorge there will undoubtedly be many spots you’d like to pull over for photos but as the roads are very narrow, there is a lack of space to stop most of the time.

The Balcon de la Mescla viewpoint – photos don’t do it justice!

Best Gorges du Verdon Viewpoints

Since you can’t pull over for every single view, I’ve saved you the hassle and listed the most epic Gorges du Verdon viewpoints in order so that you don’t miss the very best. You’ll also notice them marked on the map above.

• Balcon de la Mescla – An incredible viewing platform just as you enter the dramatic landscape of the gorge, there are no words to describe the view you will find there! There is plenty of room to leave your car at the entrance of this viewpoint.
• Verdon Gorge Viewpoint – On the edge of the windy road you’ll find this spectacular panoramic viewpoint at one of the highest points of the drive. There’s only a small area to pull over here so if it’s already full of other cars, you may be out of luck.

The jaw dropping Verdon Gorge viewpoint

• View of Aiguines Castle – As you descend from the gorge toward the town of Aiguines, you’ll turn a corner and immediately notice the most beautiful scene of Aiguines Castle and vineyard with the shimmering Lac de Sainte Croix as the backdrop. This is one of my favorite photos of the road trip! There’s a little pullout area just passed the view on your left where you can leave the car and walk back up the side of the road to take some photos.
• Pont du Galetas – Another absolute must-see view just before you enter the town of Moustiers. Once you cross the Pont du Galetas bridge there’s a car park to pull into on your left. This bridge is where you’ll find the most iconic and jaw dropping beautiful view of the Gorges du Verdon and the turquoise coloured lake!

Aiguines Castle view

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

After you finish driving through the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll likely arrive in Moustiers by the afternoon. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the town and see the highlights listed below.

Truly one of the prettiest towns in France , Moustiers is nestled in between two limestone cliffs overlooking the valley and lake below. Rich in history and full of small town Provence charm, the beauty of Moustiers doesn’t fail to impress!

The town’s history goes back to the 5th century when monks settled in the village and built a monastery. Over the centuries, Moustiers became known for producing beautiful hand-made ceramics. Pop into the Ceramic Museum in the town center to see over 5 centuries worth of Moustier’s gorgeous ceramics.

Highlights of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Explore the village – Moustiers itself is actually a very small town and can easily be seen in a few hours. Take some time to explore the charming streets and squares of the town center, finding postcard perfect scenes around each corner. Browse the little shops and pick out a souvenir or two to take home. Lavender sachets and hand-made ceramics are the perfect way to remember Moustiers!

Weekly market – If you happen to be visiting the town on a Friday, make sure to check out the market which takes place in the main square. Fresh loaves of bread, juicy olives, goats cheese, jars of tapenade, and olive oils are just a few of the delicious things you can expect to find there. The weekly market is another great place to pick up the perfect souvenir or gift to take home.

Ceramic museum – Admire over 300 beautiful hand-made ceramics that were once known as the very best in the region. The museum is home to over 5 centuries of locally produced antique ceramics. Tickets cost €3 per person.

A beautiful view from the trail to the chapel

Steep drops along the hike

Notre Dame de Beauvoir – Hike up to the 12th century chapel that’s built into the cliffs above the town. The hike to the church is very steep but it’s only 20 minutes and absolutely rewarding. The chapel itself doesn’t have much to offer but it’s the sweeping panoramic views of the valley, lake and rooftops of the town below that make it all worthwhile.

As you hike you’ll notice the iconic gold star that has hung between the two cliffs since the 13th century. There are many legends that explain the reason it came to be there but the true story behind the hanging star remains a mystery.

Lac de Sainte Croix – If you have any time left over while you’re in Moustiers, the pretty turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte Croix is a great place for a swim or to hire a kayak/small boat and explore the gorge.

Strolling the quaint streets of Moustiers

Where to Stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

The town center of Moustier doesn’t have many options for parking but having a car makes it easy to stay at one of the many B&Bs in the countryside surrounding the town.

La Ferme du petit Ségriès B&B –  We chose to stay at this charming old farm house 5km from Moustiers. We really enjoyed the peaceful rustic vibes and beautiful views that can be seen from the property. There are also some lavender fields nearby to add to the atmosphere. We had a comfortable stay there and loved the delicious fresh breakfast they serve daily.

►Browse more accommodation options around Moustiers◄

Lovely buildings of Moustiers

Valensole Lavender Fields

During the summer months Provence comes to life with dazzling fields of lavender and sunflowers. People travel from all over the world just to stroll through the endless rows of purple flowers and witness the magic of this special time of year in the south of France.

One of the best spots to see the lavender fields in Provence is the Valensole Plateau. This area has a concentration of fields so you have the option to visit many of them if you wish to. The Valensole Plateau is located only 30 minutes from Moustiers and is conveniently en route to the next stop.

It’s not hard to find them as they are located all along the main road as you drive from  Moustiers to Rousillon, you’ll see them from the car. Zoom into the map below for a few suggested lavender field stops on your drive. Looking for a sunflower and lavender field together? Click here  for exact location.

This brightly colored village is surrounded by lush countryside and located in one of the largest ochre deposits in the world. It’s no surprise that Roussillon has officially been recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, it really is an impressive sight!

For centuries, ochre has been used in the area for things like art, textiles, and adding colour to houses (as you can tell by the orange/red colour of the buildings in the town). In the 18th century, ochre mining around Roussillon was in full swing when there was high demand for the red pigment. Ochre factories were once located around the village, some of which can still be seen today.

The picturesque village of Roussillon

Highlights of Roussillon

Town center – Take some time to stroll through the town’s narrow streets finding plenty of great photo opportunities of the pretty buildings as you go. Stop for lunch in a cafe or pick up an ice cream cone from one of the many ice cream shops.

Ochre Trail – You can’t visit Roussillon without talking a walk through the spectacular Ochre Trail . It’s an easy walking trail that will take you through an ochre quarry. The start of the trail begins near the village and you’ll have the option of taking the shorter path (30 min walk) or the longer route (50 min walk). For only €2.50 per person, this walk is definitely a highlight you shouldn’t miss.

Spend as long as you like visiting Roussillon because the next stop on this epic France road trip is only 15 minutes away. You’ll be spending two nights in Gordes so day two is all about exploring the lavender fields and seeing the sights of Roussillon.

When I think of the prettiest fairy tale village I’ve ever seen, Gordes is the first one that comes to mind. Perched on a hilltop and surrounded by the beautiful Luberon Valley, Gordes is one of the most popular and touristy villages in the south of France and it’s not hard to see why.

As you wander through the village, enjoy getting lost in the maze of steep, narrow alleys that extend from the town square, you’ll be sure to stumble on the prettiest corners and best viewpoints. Spectacular views can be seen over the surrounding countryside from various lookouts around the town.

The stunning hilltop village of Gordes

A perfect view lies around every corner in Gordes

Highlights of Gordes

Gordes Castle – It’s hard to miss the 11th century medieval castle that dominates the skyline of Gordes. It sits at the highest point of the town and can be seen from pretty much everywhere.

If you decide to go inside you can’t expect to see much in the way of historical artifacts or background information about the castle. Instead you’ll find an art exhibition on display.

We decided to give the castle a miss because most reviews were negative with people writing that they were disappointed by their visit. Unless you’re interested in art, this castle is best admired from the outside. Also, it’s really beautiful when lit up at night!

Gordes market

Drooling over fresh olives at Gordes market😍

Gordes market – If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Gordes on a Tuesday, make sure to check out the town market. We were excited to arrive in Gordes just in time for the weekly market and it did not disappoint. Colourful market stalls light up the town’s beige alleys selling everything from clothing, jewellry and lavender to olives, cheeses and tapenade!

Best Gordes viewpoint – To snap the perfect photo of Gordes, head over to the Gordes town viewpoint either in the morning or at sunset to catch this magical town lit up in the best lighting of the day.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – Only a 10 minute drive out of Gordes, this gorgeous old abbey dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by monks. An added bonus to your visit is the stunning rows of lavender growing in the field next to the abbey during the summer months. Fascinating history and beautiful scenery, this is an absolute must-see!

Click here for the abbey’s current opening hours.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Where to Stay in Gordes

Since you will be spending two nights in Gordes, it’s worth finding a nice place with a pool and some views. There are plenty of beautiful places to stay around Gordes but you need to be quick to book ahead, especially in high season! If you leave it to the last minute, you’ll be stuck with few options as Gordes gets very touristy.

La Borie en Provence

La Borie en Provence – We loved our stay in this B&B just outside of the town center. If you’re craving some down time, their pool with epic valley views is the perfect place to relax and soak up that golden Provence sunshine. They also serve one of the best breakfasts we had on our entire road trip through France.

A huge selection of cheese, fresh bread, fresh fruit and spreads were laid out for us each morning, the coffee was amazing too. I can’t recommend this place enough. During high season, the rooms book out pretty far in advance so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

►Browse more accommodation options in Gordes◄

The perfect French breakfast at La Borie en Provence

Chateâu de Tarascon

Located on the banks of the Rhône River, just 20 minutes south of Avignon is the medieval commune of Tarascon. The town is known for its impressive 15th century castle that sits right on the river’s edge. Chateâu de Tarascon is conveniently along the route to the next stop of the road trip making it the perfect place to break up the drive.

We didn’t actually plan to visit this castle but as we were driving from Gordes to Pont du Gard , we passed by Chateâu de Tarascon and just had to stop to check it out. The castle is massive and extremely well preserved considering its age. It was strategically built on the river that marks the western border of Provence providing defense and protection.

Highlights of Chateâu de Tarascon

When you first enter you’ll cross a bridge over the castle’s moat, which no longer has water. You’ll be given a map with some background history so you can explore at your own pace. The entire castle can be seen in about 1 hour.

Inside the castle there are many rooms, courtyards, and spiral staircases to see. Even though the rooms are not decorated with furniture, it doesn’t fail to impress. In the 18th century Chateâu de Tarascon was actually used as a prison and you’ll be able to see the prisoner’s graffiti on the walls in some of the rooms.

Once you climb to the top of the castle you’ll find a huge terrace with sweeping panoramic views over the river and surrounding countryside. The view alone is worth the ticket price! Directly across the river you can see another fortress, Château de Beaucaire.

What I loved about Chateâu de Tarascon was the lack of people. It was really quiet when we visited and it was nice to be able to explore the entire castle without navigating through crowds of people. We actually had the entire rooftop terrace to ourselves!

Opening Times: 9:30am-12:30, 2pm-5pm, closed on Mondays in the off-season

Click here for more info on opening times and prices

Tickets: €7.50

View from the rooftop terrace of Chateâu de Tarascon

As the France road trip continues, you will officially leave Provence behind as you make your way into the Languedoc region to see the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard. Crossing over the Gardon River, this masterpiece of Roman engineering was built in the year 50 AD. It’s the highest and best preserved Roman aqueduct to survive in the world!

Pont du Gard was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It was built to supply water to the Roman city of Nîmes and it spans about 50 km long! Estimations say that it took around 1000 men working over a 5 year period to complete the aqueduct.

Highlights of Pont du Gard

The best part about visiting Pont du Gard is being able to walk across the entire aqueduct. Once you reach the other side, you can visit the Pont du Gard museum which is dedicated to the aqueduct and surrounding area. This museum provides a fascinating insight into Roman life, it really does not disappoint!

Step back over 2,000 years when you visit the elaborate and very well put together museum that covers the bridge’s construction and history. Enjoy seeing life sized reconstructions, virtual tours, and informative clips taking you into the world of ancient Rome.

Before jumping back in the car, make sure to take a walk along the river to get some different perspectives of the aqueduct. Take a seat and soak in the wonder of this awe-inspiring monument that has managed to survive undamaged through the centuries.

Walking across the magnificent Pont du Gard

If you’re hungry for lunch or a snack, there are a number of restaurants and cafes to pick from at the aqueduct.

Opening Times – 9am – 9pm daily

Hours of operation change throughout the year, check the official website for the most current times.

Skip-the-Line-Tickets – €9.50

Entrance to the museum is included in the price. Tickets can be purchased online before visiting, click here for more info . As with most other attractions, the queues here will get unbearably long during high season so it’s much easier to purchase beforehand.

Carrying on with the theme of Roman history, next up on this southern France itinerary is the beautiful city of Nîmes, also known as Nemausus in Roman Times. During the height of the Roman Empire, Nîmes was one of the wealthiest cities in Gaul and emperor Augustus was pretty keen to make that obvious.

Going back to 1st century AD, the city was thriving and money was being thrown into its growth/lavish architecture. This is when all of the spectacular Roman monuments that can still be visited today were constructed.

If you’re a fan of Roman history, the city of Nîmes is on par with Rome in my books. There are very few places left in the world besides Rome with a such an amazing concentration of extremely well preserved Roman monuments like you will find in Nîmes.

Nîmes is a beautiful city and of course there is more to see here than just Roman architecture but since you only have one full day to spend, adding any other attractions would make it feel rushed and not enjoyable. We only visited the highlights listed below and after walking around the city and sightseeing all day in the sun, we were definitely exhausted!

The incredible Nîmes Arena

Highlights of Nîmes

Arena of Nîmes – In the heart of the city, the magnificent Nîmes Arena has stood proud for the passed 2,000 years. It was built only a few years after the Colosseum in Rome and is considered one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.

It may be significantly smaller than the Colosseum but it was built to hold around 24,000 people! The arena is still in use today for events, concerts and bull fighting several times per year. Visitors can enter the arena and audio guides are available for self guided tours.

Maison Carrée – This beautiful Roman temple is the only one of its kind left in such an impressive condition with all of its columns still surviving intact. Built under the rule of Augustus, it was once at the center of the forum or public gathering area of Nîmes.

Maison Carrée is only a 5 minute walk from Nîmes Arena. After admiring it from the outside, you can enter the temple to watch a short film about the history of Nemausus.

Jardin de la Fontaine – A stunning 18th century park featuring fountains, ponds, sculptures. The park is huge and very impressive with many details to admire. It was actually built over a sacred Roman spring which is still flowing today. It’s a great place to take a seat and relax.

You’ll pass through this lovely park on your way up to the Tour Magne from the Maison Carrée, see here for walking directions. You’ll also pass the Temple of Diane along the way, a Roman temple that was left in ruins.

Maison Carrée

La Tour Magne  – At the highest point of Nîmes, La Tour Magne overlooks the city from a hilltop and offers spectacular city views from the top. It’s one of the last surviving towers from the Roman wall that once encircled Nîmes.

To get to the tower, it’s an 11 minute steep walk up the hill from the Jardin. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to climb the spiral staircase inside to reach the panoramic viewing platform at the top. Don’t worry, the view makes all the walking worth it!

Tickets for Roman attractions  – I would recommend buying the €13 pass that gives you access to the 3 most popular Roman monuments: Nîmes Arena + Maison Carrée + La Tour Magne. I suggest that you start your day at the Arena and purchase the combination ticket there.

Click here for more info on ticket prices.

Strolling toward La Tour Magne

Walking tour of Nîmes – Explore the highlights of Nîmes on a 2.5 hour historic walking tour led by an expert local guide. Entrance to the Arena is included in your ticket. Check tour times and availability here.

Where to Stay in Nîmes

You’ll be doing a lot of walking around Nîmes so it’s best to stay somewhere central where you can easily access all of the sights by foot. Keep in mind that you’ll want to find a place that offers parking, most places in Nîmes charge extra for parking.

Appart’City Confort Nimes Arenes – This conveniently located B&B couldn’t be in a better spot. It’s right in the middle of the historic center of Nîmes and only 1 minute walk from the Arena! Some of the rooms even have a view of the Arena.

The rooms are spacious, comfortable and offer free Wi-Fi. A breakfast of fresh fruit, croissants, cheese and bread is served daily and underground parking is available for an extra cost.

►Browse more accommodation options in Nîmes◄

Jardin de la Fontaine

Carcassonne

Day six of this epic south of France road trip itinerary will start off with a 2.5 hr drive to the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne . The old town of Carcassonne is incredibly well preserved, its entire wall and castle are in excellent condition. The town really looks like something from a fairy tale with blue and red spiky turrets, towers and a perfect castle.

The town dates back to the 12th century but it had been destroyed during attacks in the middle ages and left to ruins. In the 19th century, the town’s walls and castle were fully renovated by a famous French architect named Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. He was responsible for major restoration projects of other French castles and cathedrals including the Notre Dame in Paris.

Carcassonne is a true masterpiece, it’s one of the largest fully preserved medieval cities in Europe and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Since then it’s become very popular with tourism attracting over 3 million people from all over the world each year. If you visit during high season you should be prepared for some very big crowds filling the narrow streets.

Highlights of Carcassonne

Old town – As you enter the town by crossing over the draw bridge and stepping through the stone archway, it really feels as though you’ve been transported to another time. The narrow cobblestone streets and beautiful medieval buildings just add to the town’s charm.

I recommend taking a walk around the town during sunset and also when it gets dark. The towers and walls look absolutely magical when lit up at night. I don’t think we put our camera down the entire time we were there but some of our favourite photos of Carcassonne were shot at sunset/night-time.

The charming streets of Carcassonne

Château Comtal – Once home to a wealthy French family of the 12th century, this impressive medieval castle is one of Carcassonne’s most popular attractions. Inside the castle, you’ll pass through courtyards, a series of rooms featuring historical facts and then access the ramparts. For an extra €3 you can get an audio guide.

Walking the ramparts – Entry to the castle also covers your walk around the town’s walls which is definitely the highlight for most people’s visit to Carcassonne. Walking around the ramparts will give you all kinds of epic views. You’ll get many different perspectives of the castle, town and beautiful countryside that surrounds it.

Château Comtal

Skip-the-line ticket – €9.50

During high season the queue to enter the castle can be extremely long, there was even a queue when we were there in October. I would highly recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket online to save yourself some time when you get there.

Click here to buy your ticket for the castle and ramparts.

Le Pont Vieux – Take a walk down to the 14th century pedestrian bridge. From there you’ll get an amazing view of the town, this is also a nice spot to visit at night.

For the best view of Carcassonne, you should also walk over to the new bridge . This angle will give you the perfect shot of the entire walled city and old bridge in the foreground.

View of Carcassonne and Pont Vieux from the new bridge

Where to Stay in Carcassonne

Staying near the old town is definitely the most desirable location in Carcassonne. For this reason, rooms tends to book out months in advance. When we were booking our accommodation, there really weren’t many options left so we ended up staying at the Budget Ibis.

To be honest I had no complaints about our stay, breakfast was good, the room was basic but clean and there is free parking. The only thing it’s lacking is some character and it’s 1 km from the old town which isn’t ideal. That’s why I will recommend somewhere that we wished we could have stayed instead…

La Rapière – Only steps from the medieval town center, this lovely looking place has extremely high ratings on Booking.com. That’s no surprise since city wall views can be seen from the pool, dining terrace and even some of the rooms.

Free parking and breakfast is included in your stay. Based on its popularity, you’d need to book a room asap if you really want to stay there! If it doesn’t work out, there’s always the Budget Ibis …

►Browse more accommodation options in Carcassonne◄

Spectacular views along the ramparts of Carcassonne

Cahors is a beautiful town in the Midi-Pyrénées region surrounded by vineyards dating all the way back to the Roman times. It’s located along the route as you drive from Carcassonne to Rocamadour making it the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs and try some delicious wine! (not too much if you’re driving though…)

There are vineyards literally surrounding Cahors and many of them offer tastings. They also sell their wines at a much cheaper price than buying a bottle at a restaurant or shop. If you’re really into wine tasting and enjoy visiting vineyards, then perhaps spending an extra night in Cahors would be a great idea.

Medieval bridge of Cahors, Pont Valentré

Highlights of Cahors

Pont Valentré – The most iconic landmark of Cahors is the 14th century bridge, often referred to as the most beautiful medieval bridge in France. The bridge was fortified and strategically placed on the Lot River defending the town of Cahors from attacks.

Cahors is located on a peninsula surrounded by the Lot River so it only makes sense that the river would need to be protected. Taking a walk across Pont Valentré is a must when visiting Cahors, it’s also very photogenic (even on an overcast day) as you can see below!

Saint-Étienne Cathedral – The second most popular thing to see in Cahors is the massive 11th century cathedral in the heart of the town’s historic center. The architecture is very impressive and it’s worth taking a look inside to see the stained glass windows, inner courtyard gardens, and lots of intricate detailing.

Pont Valentré

Try the famous Cahors Malbec – The region that surrounds Cahors has been long known for its production of Malbec wine. For the wine connoisseurs out there, you might be thinking “hang on, didn’t Malbec originate in Argentina?” Nope! It was actually Cahors where Malbec grapes were first cultivated in the middle ages.

Malbec happens to be our favourite type of wine so you can imagine just how excited we were to visit Cahors and try it directly from the source. I can tell you, it really did not disappoint. Cahors is also known for its black wine which gets the name because of how dark and rich it is.

Cahors market – A colourful market is open on Wednesday and Sunday mornings year round near the cathedral in the historic town center. You’ll find fresh produce, cheese, olives and all the typical things you can except to see at a French market. It’s worth checking out if you happen to be passing through town on either of those days.

Trying the most delicious Cahors Malbec!😍

Where to stay in Cahors

Hôtel Le Coin des Halles – If you opt to spend the night in Cahors, staying near the historic center is the best spot to base yourself. This little hotel is in prime location directly next to the Cahors market in the old town. Perfect for being able to see the sights of Cahors by foot. Parking is also available here but it comes at an extra cost.

Brit Hotel Cahors – Le France – Another good option with high ratings and only a 10 minute walk from the old town and a 5 minute walk from Pont Valentré. A buffet breakfast is served here each morning and parking is also available for €5 per day.

►Browse more accommodation options in Cahors◄

The final stop on this 10-day France road trip itinerary is the jaw droppingly beautiful cliffside village of Rocamadour in the Dordogne Valley. Driving from Cahors to Rocamadour only takes 1 hour and as you approach the village the roads become very twisty.

The village of Rocamadour is famous for its religious buildings that cling dramatically to the face of a cliff. It’s surrounded by a lush green valley which gives it an extremely unique and impressive appearance.

For many centuries Rocamadour has been a popular pilgrimage destination. Inside the religious buildings is a sacred shrine that is said to provide healing powers. In the middle ages, pilgrims from all over Europe made the trek to Rocamadour so that they could experience the healing benefits of the shrine.

Rocamadour – the prettiest village of them all!

Highlights of Rocamadour

Village center – It’s not very big and there is only one street but it’s so pretty and full of history. As you enter the 13th century gate and stroll along the main strip you’ll see ivy covered buildings, walk through medieval stone archways and if you continue all the way to the end, the cutest bakery I have ever laid eyes on.

Grand Escalier – Starting in the village center, this epic set of stairs is what once led pilgrims upward through the series of sacred buildings, some of them even climbed all 216 steps on their knees! The religious buildings and shrine are open to visitors so you’ll be able to go inside the churches and visit the famous shrine of Rocamadour.

*Tip* Remember to wear good shoes when climbing the Grand Escalier as the stairs can be quite steep in places.

Making my way up the Grand Escalier

Lovely views can be seen on the way up

Palace – If you continue walking up the stairs passed all of the sacred buildings, you’ll come to the 14th century palace at the top of the cliff. For €2 per person you can visit the palace grounds to see the breathtaking view of the amazing landscape and town below. You can’t enter the inside of the palace but the view makes it worthwhile.

Rocamadour viewpoint – For the absolute best view of Rocamadour, you should head to the l’Hospitalet viewpoint . This is the awe-inspiring view that everyone needs to see when visiting. As you look out to the village from across the valley, it really makes you wonder how it was even built hundreds of years ago! It’s such a spectacular sight.

Villages around Rocamadour – If you have the time and would like to see some more sights around the area, the Dordogne Valley is full of lovely little medieval villages dotting the countryside around Rocamadour.

These are some of the best:

• Collonges-la-Rouge
• Sarlat-la-Canéda

The prettiest bakery I’ve ever seen

Where to Stay in Rocamadour

The village itself is very small and doesn’t have many accommodation options to offer, not to mention parking anywhere nearby isn’t possible. It’s better to stay just across the valley from Rocamadour in the l’Hospitalet area. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels around there and it’s easy to reach the village by foot in just 10 minutes.

Logis Hôtel Le Belvédère – To mark the end of your road trip through the south of France why not treat yourself and stay somewhere really nice? This hotel is located in what could possibly be the best spot in all of Rocamadour. It’s right next to the viewpoint!

Watch the sun go down over the village from your room, relax by the pool or grab a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the village, all for a surprisingly reasonable price. Free parking and a delicious breakfast is served daily.

Archway entrance to Rocamadour

Like I’ve said before a few times in this post, you really need to book far in advance to get the place you want in Rocamadour. During high season, the streets are overflowing with tourists and accommodation books out many months in advance. There are only 26 hotels in Rocamadour listed on Booking.com so you should get your room locked in asap!

►Browse more accommodation options in Rocamadour◄

After spending two nights in Rocamadour, on day ten of the France road trip you will make your way to the city of Toulouse to drop the rental car off at the airport and catch your flight home. The drive from Rocamadour to Toulouse is just under 2 hours making it the closest and most convenient city to fly out of.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this road trip itinerary and find it useful when planning your own France road trip. In my opinion the south of France was made for road trips, the landscapes and sights in between the towns are just too beautiful to miss out on if you were to take a train or bus instead.

If you think I’ve missed something important on this south of France itinerary or if you’ve tried this route and really enjoyed it, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below 🙂 Happy travels!

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

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12 best road trips in france [for 2024 & beyond].

There are plenty of incredible places to visit in France and what could be better than travelling the country by car? Road trips in France can be the perfect way to travel at your own pace and discover everything this beautiful country has to offer. 

If you’re planning a trip to France or looking for some inspiration, we have put together this guide which includes some of the best driving routes through France. 

No matter what your interests are, I’m sure you will find something in this guide that is the perfect fit.

Let’s get straight into it! 

Travellerspoint

When Is The Best Time To Road Trip France?

There is no correct answer to this question as each season offers different things to explore.

Our recommendation on the most ideal time for France road trips would be the spring months (between April and June) or during Autumn (September to November). 

The weather from November to March can be quite unpredictable .

You could encounter colder temperatures, snow and rainfall which can make conditions hard for driving. 

If you choose to road trip France in July and August, be prepared to experience high temperatures of up to 30°C with even many locals also taking it easy.

You will also want to start your days extra early to avoid the crowds during the day.

Between April and June, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy mild weather conditions and make the most of your trip before the summer crowds arrive.  

Although you may experience some rain in Autumn, it can be a great time to travel around France as you can get some good bargains once the crowds ease..

Should I Road Trip France In A Campervan Or Car?

Once again, there is no correct answer to this question as the vehicle choice will depend on your interests and budget. 

If you choose to travel France by car, the biggest advantage will be convenience.

‍ French roads, especially in the countryside and villages, can be quite narrow . 

However, we road-tripped throughout France for a total of 6 weeks and never really had an issue with our campervan (it’s 6 meters in length for reference). 

France caters pretty well to campers. There is usually dedicated parking too!

If you don’t want to rent a campervan, then no worries. A car will work just fine and you can check out many cosy Airbnb homes or hotels during your stay.  

Take a look at our guide to the best car rentals in France to give yourself an idea of the options available to you.

For ideas on how much a van will cost, check out our guide on the best campervan and motorhome rentals in France .

How Long Do I Need To Road Trip France?

French road trips can be the perfect way to immerse yourself in a journey and in turn discover the culture, history and landmarks of each region.

Although there’s no fixed timeline, we recommend you spend a minimum of 12 to 15 days to explore the country’s villages and towns in-depth and experience everything they have to offer.

This way you’ll be able to go beyond the main tourist attractions and avoid the crowds.

France is such a magnificent country; you’re bound to find something to suit your interests. 

For each of the suggested road trips, we’ve added the approximate mileage covered and a rough time estimate to help you plan and adapt according to your needs.

The Best Road Trips In France

1.champagne region road trip.

• Length: 29.3km/18 miles 
• Time: 1-2 Days 
• Location: Reims to Épernay

Are you a wine lover? This might be one of the perfect French road trips for you to enjoy some sparkling wine as well as explore some beautiful French sites.

Champagne is a historical region located in Eastern France. There are two central regions of Champagne: Reims and Epernay. 

This is a very short road trip, but we suggest doing it over two days so you can enjoy drinking the champagne whilst also being able to drive!  

During this Champagne road trip, you can enjoy driving past different villages, whilst occasionally stopping at the vineyards to capture some stunning pictures.

Take a look at our Champagne road trip video for first-hand look at everything the region has to offer.

Highlights Of The Champagne Region Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Champagne Region Road Trip route include: 

• Notre Dame de Reims: This was an absolute gem on our visit to Reims! Almost exactly like the cathedral in Paris, this magnificent structure displays classic examples of 13th-century Gothic architecture.  
• Domaine Les Crayers: If you have the budget and are looking for a luxurious Michelin experience, then you’ll love this spot! Enjoy the fusion of flavours and high-quality food combinations. 
• The Avenue De Champagne : Stretching one kilometre long, this famous avenue might be one of the most expensive avenues in the World. Lined with many renowned Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Mercier and Pol Roger, this UNESCO World Heritage site is well worth a visit!  

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Champagne Region Road Trip

Day 1: Explore the medieval city of Reims, often known as the unofficial capital city of Champagne. The city is well known for its large cathedral, so don’t forget to check out this beautiful gothic architecture and stained glass window. At night, we recommend you visit Domaine Les Crayères .

Day 2: Head towards Epernay. Enjoy the popular champagne house Moet and Chandon , perhaps the most famous champagne in the world. You can also try some of the other local champagne houses if you’re on a budget. In the evening, make your way to Hautvillers, which is a ten-minute drive. Here you can enjoy beautiful views of vineyards. 

We did a Taittinger Champagne House Tour which was super interesting and great value for money, you can book yours here.

2. The Beauty and the Beast Village Roadtrip

• Length: 85km/52 miles
• Time: 3 Days 
• Location: Strasbourg to Colmar

Alsace is located in the northeast of France that borders both Switzerland and Germany.

This road trip in France is in an exquisite wine region that’s certain to charm. 

This route is a must-visit for any Disney fans.

Many of the Alsace wine route villages are said to be the inspiration for Belle’s hometown from Beauty and The Beast. 

The tiny towns lie between numerous vineyards. Enjoy walking along the cobblestone lanes and admiring the picturesque architecture and scenery.

We had such a great time on this trip. Take a look at our Beauty and the Beast Village road trip video to see what we got up to.

Highlights Of The The Beauty and the Beast Village Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of The Beauty and the Beast Village road trip route include: 

1. Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg –  This is one of the landmarks of Strasbourg. The cathedral is one of the highest buildings, built entirely during the medieval times and still standing currently. It has been constructed with magnificent Gothic architecture, beautiful interior and stained-glass windows, which have been preserved since the 12th and 14th centuries.

2. Grand Rue - This is the main street in Ribeauvillé, filled with bakeries, restaurants, and beautiful buildings maintained from the 18th century. Enjoy a walk on the cobblestones and observe the squares which are decorated with Renaissance-style fountains.  

3. Unterlinden Museum- If you love history or want to admire some creative pieces, this museum is filled with masterpieces from the middle ages. With over 3000 pieces, this is a perfect place for culture lovers. 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Beauty and the Beast Village Road Trip

• Day 1: Start your trip early at the capital of Alsace, Strasbourg. Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame and enjoy the architectural heritage of the city. Don’t forget to taste all the Alsatian specialities which can be paired with some regional wine. 
• Day 2: Next, visit the town of Ribeauvillé. Enjoy the views of colourful houses decorated with bright flower boxes and medieval churches spread amongst the old city. From there, make your way towards Riquewihr, a beautiful town listed amongst the “Most beautiful villages of France”. This town is full of small lanes and suited to pedestrians so you will have to park your cars outside the city. 
• Day 3: Head towards the picturesque town of Colmar. This old town is filled with beautiful houses, cobblestone lanes and bridges. Stroll through the city and enjoy some delicious foods. 

3. Parc Naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne to Bonaguil Castle

• Length: 323km/200km 
• Time: 2-3 days 
• Location: Parc Naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne to Bonaguil Castle 

If you’re looking for something short, sweet and unique, do take some time out to take a look at this beautiful road trip route!

There is so much room for new discoveries on this route as it’s not one of the most famous France road trip destinations. However, there’s still heaps of sightseeing along the way!

This road trip is even well-suited to history and geography lovers as it has a balance of everything. The town of Rocamadour also has a lot of religious significance and is a pilgrimage site for many. 

Highlights Of The Parc Naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne to Bonaguil Castle Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Parc Naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne to Bonaguil Castle Road Trip route include: 

• Puy de Dôme :  Here you will find excellent walking trails and earn about volcanoes as well as the history of the area. There are many other activities such as paragliding and bike riding too.
• Castle of Val: This is a beautiful, well-maintained castle located next to a lake, making it a picturesque location. Founded in the 13th century, the castle was built through the 14th and 15th centuries. There is also a landscaped beach nearby where you can enjoy swimming and water sports in the summer months.
• Bonaguil Castle: Although it’s mostly ruins, this is another well-preserved castle with so much to explore. Be ready for a lot of walking. The spiral staircase inside is quite unique, and you can enjoy beautiful views from the top of the castle. 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Parc Naturel régional des Volcans d'Auvergne to Bonaguil Castle

Day 1: Start your morning by visiting Puy de Dôme. After you have had a chance to hike and capture the breathtaking views, head towards Brive-la-Gaillarde, where you will be staying the night but make a stop to visit the castle of Val on your way.

Day 2: Head out early and make your way to Rocamadour. This is an enchanting village based on a clifftop. Leave aside around half a day to explore the little town. Make your way toward the last stop, which is Bonaguil Castle.

4. The South of France Road Trip

• Length: 151km/ 93.8 miles 
• Time: 4-5 days 
• Location: Saint Tropez to Menton

The French Riviera road trip refers to the Provençal coastline of the Mediterranean Sea, which consists of cities that are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the World. 

This road trip encompasses some beautiful landscapes for nature lovers, including the coastlines, beaches, and even a few National parks. 

The trip we’ve suggested can definitely be cut shorter or extended as per your travel arrangements. It makes it more worthwhile if you can stroll around at your own pace to discover these spots.

Overall, this south of France road trip has a great vibe, and it’s pretty easy to get around. There is so much versatility in things to do and see, which is why this region is unique.

Highlights Of The South of France Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the South of France route include: 

• Vieux Port : Often referred to as the heart of Saint Tropez; This is the old fishing village site, which has now been converted into a more peaceful port with fishing boats and yachts in the harbour. Along with the port, you will see pastel-coloured houses and buildings with some lively cafes for you to enjoy the views. 
• Promenade des Anglais: A popular place for a stroll in Nice, with stunning views of the seaside. The promenade stretches up to 7km and is also surrounded by some wonderful 19th-century royal houses. 
• Palais du Prince : Although this is the official residence of the Grimaldi family in the Principality of Monaco, some of the chambers within the palace can be visited by the general public. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guards ceremony, which takes place at 11.55 am daily in front of the palace.

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The South of France Road Trip 

Day 1: Start your journey by discovering the city of Saint Tropez. Initially a tiny fishing village and military base in the past, the city has now been converted into a popular destination with beautiful beaches and some great restaurants. Make sure you visit Vieux Port. 

Day 2: Travel to Cannes, famous for the International film festival. Its a great city to simply chill out. You can enjoy a day at the beach if you’re looking to relax. Otherwise, you may also choose to go to Massif Esterel, where you will find many hiking trails and hidden beaches. 

Day 3: Soak up the sun and hit the beautiful beaches of Nice. However, there is more to Nice than its famous beaches. You can stroll through Vieille Ville, the Old Town and Promenade des Anglais. Head up to Castle Hill for some impressive views over the city. At night, you can head to a fancy restaurant or enjoy live music at the bars. 

Day 4: Make your way towards Monaco, which is quite a small city. Start off by visiting ‘the  Rock’, which is the oldest part of Monaco. You can catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard ceremony. 

Day 5: Lastly, make your way towards the city of Menton, located just 10km away from Monaco. You will find flowers growing everywhere in the city with the vibrant, colourful buildings, making it a beautiful setting to explore. 

Pssst, if you're short on time and want to see Provence from Nice, then this is a great tour!

5. Provence Road trip

• Length: 196km/ 122 miles 
• Time: 3 days 
• Location: Château des Baux-de-Provence to Verdon Gorge 

The Provence region is a major tourist destination for people all across the globe, and you are likely to find many picture-perfect moments for your social media accounts on this trip. 

If you’re after the ultimate summer road trip, look no further. The magnificent region of Provence has everything you want! 

The region is on any traveller’s bucket list as it is famous for its varied landscape, stunning lavender fields, beautiful vineyards and sparkling turquoise waters. 

The recommended time to do this road trip route would be spring and summer. However, there is something unique about every season so don’t worry too much if these months aren’t possible for you! 

We made a whole video on our trip to the area, check it out here for a detailed look at what we got up to.

Highlights Of The Provence Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Provence Road Trip route include: 

• Le Sentier des Ocres: The distinctive village of Roussillon in the South of France is known for the vibrant ochre colours of the landscape. Le Sentier des Ocres is a short hike that gives some truly spectacular views of ochre hillsides. You can choose from two different trails one is 30 minutes and the other 45 minutes.
• Lavender fields of Valensole: The biggest attraction of the Provence region is the lavender fields. The lavender usually blooms from late June to mid-August. Valensole also hosts an annual lavender festival to mark the start of the harvest in which you can find many lavender by-products such as essential oils, soaps, creams etc. 
• Verdon Gorge: This pristine long river canyon is known to be one of Europe’s most beautiful natural attractions. The magical turquoise colour of the water will not disappoint. We highly recommend getting there early to avoid the crowds. There is a range of activities you can join as well, such as rafting, kayaking, paddle boating, bike riding and hiking. 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Provence Road Trip

Day 1: Start your trip by visiting Château des Baux-de-Provence. Make a pit stop at the town of Oppède, you can explore it at your own pace and then head to Gordes. 

Day 2: From Gordes, you can make your way to the stunning village of Roussillon. You can wander the streets and sightsee the centre of town. Don’t miss Le Sentier des Ocres. Visit the Lavender fields of Valensole and make your way back to Roussillon for the night.  

Day 3: Head towards the stunning Verdon Gorge! You can certainly spend the entire day here before returning or heading to your next destination. 

6. Bordeaux to Biarritz

• Length: 269km/ 167 miles
• Time: 3-4 days 
• Location: Bordeaux to Biarritz

Wine along with beach vibes all in one trip. What more can you ask for? This is the road trip for those who want to discover the French Atlantic Coast and the Basque country! 

You will love the mix of both coast and country on this road trip to discover more of Southwest France. 

Also, if you are into swimming or surfing, the French Atlantic coast will be a paradise for you. Soak up the sunshine and enjoy battling the waves. 

Enjoy this relaxed and laid back journey to simply wind down and get away from the hustle of the big cities!  

Highlights Of The Bordeaux to Biarritz Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the Bordeaux to Biarritz route include: 

• Place de la Bourse: Dating back to the 18th century, the architecture of this French classical-style building is simply marvellous. This is an impressive sight both in the day and at night too. There is also an attractive fountain in the centre, be sure to check out the water mirror! 
• Dune du Pilat : It is a very steep climb up the dunes but definitely worth it for some fantastic coastal views. The dune is quite a famous spot as it is the tallest sand dune in all of Europe. 
• Fêtes de Bayonne - Unfortunately, we didn’t get to experience this festival, but if you are in Bayonne during August, this is not to be missed. It lasts for five days and is the largest festival celebrated in France.

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Bordeaux to Biarritz Road Trip: 

Day 1: Start your journey from Bordeaux, which is famous for its wine. You can enjoy some wine tasting and then visit Place de la Bourse and rue Sainte Catherine. 

Day 2: Head to Arcachon; This admired seaside destination is perfect for beach lovers. Also, make sure you visit Dune du Pilat, which is a short drive away. You can move to the small town of Mimizan and stay the night if you want to explore another town. 

Day 3: From Mimizan or Arcachon, head to the town of Hossegor. Another great place for surfers to catch the waves. In the afternoon, make your way towards Bayonne. If you travel in summer, you may even be able to participate in the Fêtes de Bayonne, a fantastic festival. 

Day 4: You can conclude the trip by reaching Biarritz. This is a picture-perfect coastal town and a popular tourist destination. You can hit the beach or explore the town centre full of small boutiques and lovely cafes.  

7. Calais to Rouen

• Length: 212 km/ 131 miles
• Time: 2 days 
• Location:Calais to Rouen 

If you’re looking for a short yet sweet trip to explore Northern France, this might be the perfect one for you!

This road trip will give you a mix of both seaside sceneries paired with some Medieval French history.

You can certainly squeeze this itinerary into a full day, but we decided to spread it over two days so we could relax and enjoy the north side a bit more.  

As well as enjoying more time seeing all the great things to do in Rouen itself.

Highlights Of The Calais to Rouen Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Calais to Rouen route include: 

• Calais Town Hall: If you love architecture, this monument is not to be missed. It’s a change to the gothic architecture as the structure is designed in a renaissance revival style. We also loved the sound of the belfry’s chimes in the bell tower and the sight of the well-maintained gardens
• Calais Lighthouse: Standing tall in a quiet spot of town, it is quite visible from any distance. You will need to climb a total of 271 steps to reach the top, which may seem tiring, but it is definitely worth it for some spectacular views of the ocean and the city.
• Rue St. Jean: Get lost within French culture for a short while by doing a quick walk through the main street in Le Touquet, a small coastal town. This is the place to be if you’re looking to sightsee some local shops, cafés and restaurants.

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Calais to Rouen: 

Day 1: Soak up the sunshine and head to Calais Beach! Visit Calais Lighthouse to learn some history and enjoy the views of both the city and the sea. At night, you can enjoy the local cuisine and stroll by the food markets.  

Day 2: Head towards Rouen. This is only a two-hour drive, so you can make your first stop at Le Touquet along the way. Continue your drive and make a second stop at Abbeville before reaching Rouen.

8. Paris to Strasbourg

• Length: 491 km/ 305 miles 
• Time:1-2 days 
• Location:Paris to Strasbourg

If you are short of time or are simply looking for a day trip out of Paris to explore more of the French countryside, this road trip might be the perfect option for you! 

You may even decide to stay a few days longer to explore the city in more detail and enjoy the fantastic food and restaurants located in Strasbourg and its surroundings.  

The city of Strasbourg is in Eastern France and is very close to both Germany and Switzerland. Strasbourg has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988. 

Whether you love adventure, food, scenic views or history, Strasbourg is a city that has something for everyone and you’re sure to love this Paris road trip.

If you need some inspiration on what to do in one day in Paris , take a look at this video we made. 

Highlights Of The Paris to Strasbourg Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Paris to Strasbourg route include: 

• Strasbourg Cathedral: This cathedral is a spectacular building right in the centre of Strasbourg. You can climb up the tower and enjoy beautiful views of the city from above. The cathedral is free, but you will have to pay a small fee to access the top. 
• Petite France: The entire district is a pedestrian zone, so you may need to park a little far away! This was one of my favourite parts of France! It honestly felt like stepping into a postcard or fairy-tale because everything just seems like a treat to the eyes! Wander around at your own pace and immerse yourself in this French village! 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Paris to Strasbourg Route

Day 1: Make an early start and head straight to Strasbourg. Explore the Strasbourg Cathedral, Place Kléber and Petite France. Enjoy some of the amazing food that the restaurants and cafes have to offer. You can spend the night here and return to Paris the following morning. 

9. Paris to Albi

• Length: 1102km/ 684 miles 
• Location: Paris to Albi 

This is the perfect trip for enthusiasts of French history and architecture.

We enjoyed visiting the landmarks and structures, which provided a good insight into the country’s cultural heritage. 

We didn’t quite know what to expect when we planned this trip, but we loved embarking on this journey full of UNESCO world heritage sites.

The general distance between Paris and Albi isn’t too long so you can stop and sightsee along the way to make it more worthwhile.

This France road trip itinerary allows you to visit both the best parts of central and southern France. However, it can easily be adapted to your interests.

Highlights Of The Paris to Albi Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Paris to Albi route include: 

• Pont du Gard: This was one of our favourite landmarks in Southern France. The size of the structure is astounding and to think it was made by the Ancient Romans so many years ago makes it even more majestic. You can walk across the Pont for some lovely views from the top and swim below on a hot day. 
• Parc de la tête d’Or: This is a really beautiful park not to be missed. The park is entirely free, and you can spend hours exploring the various plants, animals and other activities. Great to walk around and spend time outdoors. 
• Toulouse-Lautrec Museum: Even if you are not an art lover, this museum and former castle is a great place to tour as it is very well preserved. This museum is dedicated to the paintings of the French painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Paris to Albi Trip 

Day 1: Start early in Paris and make your way towards Lyon. Visit the Parc de la tête d’Or and then head to the old town. Make sure you visit the Traboules of Lyon, which are the secret passageways that helped locals escape the Gestapo.

Day 2: Leave Lyon and head towards the amazing structure of Pont du Gard. Then travel to Montpellier, where you will be spending the night. 

Day 3: Make your way to Carcassonne to explore the Great Medieval fortified city.

Head towards the town of Albi. There are quite a few World Heritage sites in Albi that are not to be missed. Make sure you visit Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, Pont Vieux and Cathedrale Sainte-Cecile, which was the largest brick building in Europe. 

10. Pau to Tarascon-sur-Ariège

• Length: 222km/ 137 miles 
• Location:Pau to Tarascon-sur-Ariège

If you’re looking for an escape from crowded cities, this short route might be the perfect getaway for you. 

This isn’t a majorly popular route, but it’s great for travelling at your own pace and discovering everything these two towns have to offer. 

For those who love hiking or simply just want to enjoy the peace and quiet, you can easily extend this trip to 2-3 days by adding stopovers of your choice. 

Highlights Of The Pau to Tarascon-sur-Ariège Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the Pau to Tarascon-sur-Ariègeroute include: 

• National Museum and the Château de Pau : If you’re looking for a change and want to explore some fantastic art, tapestries and history, then this might be an enjoyable place for you. The castle and museum are located in the city centre, and you will get an impressive view of Pau from up there. Unfortunately, they only give tours in French, but they do hand out paper translations in English.
• Parc de la Prehistoire: If you are travelling as a family, this museum is not to be missed as it is the perfect place to take your kids. The museum itself is at a stunning location and is very informative. There are also numerous interactive activities such as spear throwing and cave art demonstrations, sure to teach you more about the prehistoric ages. 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Pau to Tarascon-sur-Ariège Road Trip: 

Day 1: Stroll around the small city of Pau. This is a typical French town that has a more mild climate and gives picturesque views. Visit the National Museum and the Château de Pau. Then, make your way towards Tarascon-sur-Ariege. 

Day 2: Enjoy this little town; there are many hikes you can do for some stunning views. Don’t forget to take out some time for the Parc de la Prehistoire, which is a great place to visit for all ages! 

11. Normandy to Utah Beach

• Length: 168 km/104 miles
• Time: 1 day
• Location: Normandy to Utah Beach

This Normandy Road trip ensures a perfect balance for those who are looking to discover some scenic towns and villages but fun for food enthusiasts. 

This is a really enjoyable one because it’s such a nice change to be by the coast and visit the beach. 

The trip also explores the historical events of D-Day, when the troops stormed the coast to liberate Europe from the Nazi’s. 

It’s possible to complete this road trip in a day but you can certainly make a stopover and spend some more time sightseeing. 

Highlights Of The Normandy to Utah Beach Road Trip 

Some of my favourite highlights of the Normandy to Utah Beach route include: 

• Mémorial de Caen. This is a wonderful museum and war memorial which will give you an insight into World War II and the Battle for Caen. 
• Utah Beach: Visiting and walking Utah beach is a pretty humbling experience. You learn a great deal about the sad history of D-day.

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Normandy to Utah Beach Road Trip

Day 1: Start at Caen and explore the Mémorial de Caen. Make your way to Utah beach for a historical experience in the spot where the D-day landing took place years ago. 

12. Annecy to Saint-Véran

• Length: 623 km/387 miles 
• Time: 4 Days 
• Location: Annecy to Saint-Véran

​​This scenic trip through the French Alps is for the adventurers and thrill-seekers who are willing to head away from the mainstream cities into winding roads and more challenging driving routes.  

All the Alpine villages have their own unique charm, so wind down your windows and enjoy breathing the fresh mountain air. 

Make sure you take some time out during your trip for some of the adventure activities (based on the season) this part of France offers such as skiing, mountain biking, white water rafting and snowboarding. 

This trip is perfect for photographers who wish to capture the scenic French Alps! Keep your camera handy during the drive too as there are so many secluded and hidden spots around this journey.  

Highlights Of The Annecy to Saint-Véran Road Trip

Some of my favourite highlights of the Annecy to Saint-Véran route include: 

• ​​Lake Annecy : Lake Annecy certainly is one of the most breathtaking sceneries in the French Alps. It makes the perfect place to relax and is truly a treat to the eyes. It’s a 40km ride around if you choose to explore the lake with a car and you can stop at various points to enjoy the view and the towns. In the summer months, you may prefer to hike or swim in the lake. 
• Aiguille du Midi : This should be a must-do on everyone’s bucket list! Make sure to check the weather forecast before you head up in the cable car. Also, pack warm clothes and sunglasses as you will need them once you reach the top. On a clear day, the panoramic views of Mont Blanc are mesmerizing. 
• Fort de La Bastille: The roads are very narrow, so we highly recommend doing this on foot! It is quite a workout for the legs but will be worth it once you see the amazing views of Grenoble and the Alps. You can also take a cable car up to the top if you don't have much time. 

Suggested Road Trip Itinerary For The Annecy to Saint-Véran Trip: 

​​Day 1: Explore the beautiful lake, colourful cottages, and cobblestone paths in Annecy. Head to the charming town of Chamonix and enjoy walking around the city centre. Catch a cable car to Aiguille du Midi to capture some panoramic views.

Day 2: You can explore Mont Blanc or some delicacies at Chamonix in the morning before heading to Albertville for a quick stopover. 

Day 3: Head towards Col de l'Iseran. If you love adventure, you can spend some extra time here; otherwise, head to Grenoble. 

Day 4: Visit the Fort de La Bastille. You can walk or grab a cable car for some spectacular views from the top. Head towards the last stop, the town of Saint Veran. 

Tips For Road Tripping France

Before I leave you, here are a few quick tips that might help make planning your French road trip a little bit easier.

• Be Flexible : Even if you think you have everything planned, you might find things along the way that will capture your interest, so leave time aside to discover other things you might not have added to your itinerary.
• Purchase a French SIM card: When you’re hungry, the last thing you want to do is hop around between restaurants to check out what is best! If you have the internet, it will make it much easier to look for recommendations in your area, and GPS will help you find your way if you go off track!
• Learn some French: This will be so helpful when you need help or are asking for directions!
• Check for Market days: When travelling in France by car you won’t have to worry about following a timetable. Head to the French Markets in small towns and villages as early as you can to get the best produce and products!
• Plan Parking before you start your travel: As mentioned above, many villages and towns have pedestrian access only. So when travelling by car in France it’s a good idea to find a secure parking spot in advance and avoid wasting time!

Our other French guides:

• Best campervan rentals in France
• Best things to do in Rouen
• One day in Paris itinerary

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France road trip ideas- 11 best areas to visit

Planning a France road trip? Want ideas for the best regions or places to visit? Here are 11 of the best, just waiting to be explored…

We love France. We spend a lot of time touring France in our motorhome and exploring as many of the pretty towns, villages and points of interest as we can. 

After all this time, we’ve got pretty good at finding fun places to visit- but I know how overwhelming it can feel at first to decide where to go. Whether you’re visiting France from the UK or abroad, it helps to have a guide or an idea on the best places to visit.

So here’s a quick tour of 11 of the best regions and natural attractions in France. If you want cities, here are 10 top cities to visit in France (besides Paris) and if you’re looking for a little history and culture, here are 7 unmissable historical places in France.

But today, we’re talking mountains, gorges, lakes and… lavender? 

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Map of france road trip ideas and points of interest.

Isn’t it annoying when people talk about places and you have no idea where they are! To give you a rough guide, here’s a map of some of the places mentioned in this article, so you can see how far you might want to travel on your road trip.

If you’d like help planning your route and journey, grab our FREE road trip planner here – it walks you through everything you need to know to organise your road trip.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

French Alps- our favourite France road trip destination

There is just something about the Alps which keeps us returning again and again. They speak to my soul. In fairness, I think it might be all mountains, as I felt like this in the Dolomites and in Norway too, but the Alps are the closest to the UK and therefore the ones we’ve visited most. 

I should point out that there are French Alps, Swiss Alps (which is where we made the decision for me to quit my job so we could go travelling long-term ) and the Italian Alps. They’re all the same mountain range, and you can merrily cross from one country to another without any real border. But, for this post, we’ll focus on France and the French Alps.

Points of interest in the French Alps

Some of our favourite places in the Alps have included:

• Going to almost the top of Mont Blanc and standing in a glass box over a sheer drop into the valley below. I’m not even joking- it’s called ‘The Void’ and you can read all about it here.
• Lake Annecy. Which is silly as that’s where we lost our drone and were very very sad. But it’s such a beautiful city that we still like it, despite all the mistakes we made!
• The Gorge du Fier. An incredible place near Annecy- well worth a visit. 
• Wild Camping in the Alps with our motorhome. There have been several gorgeous places we’ve found, both in summer and winter. Vanlife in the mountains is magic. 

RELATED POST: New French law for winter tyres and snow chains in 2021

There are a million more places in the Alps I could mention. If you’re driving from the UK to Italy, this is the route we drove through the Alps (near Chamonix, so you can stop at Mont Blanc if you wish). 

When is the best time to head to the Alps?

Well, between November and April they’re usually covered in snow- so it depends what you’re trying to do. We love visiting the Alps later in the year, like October (here are some more ideas for places to visit in Europe in October ) but they’re also lovely in late Spring and even throughout the summer they don’t get too crowded.

Want to hire a vehicle for touring France? Find out everything you need to know about how to hire a motorhome in France.

Loire Valley- an incredible area to visit on a road trip

Recommend by Kat | Worldwide Honeymoon

Located approximately 2 hours south of Paris, the Loire Valley is one of the most unique places in the world, famous for its charming scenery, delicious wineries and the vast number of châteaux. In fact, there are over 300 of these fairytale castles in the region!

You could certainly spend many happy road trips in France just exploring the Loire Valley alone! The Loire Valley castles and wineries are easy to access by road and parking is readily available, even for motorhomes or campers. 

Famous Chateaux and points of interest in the Loire Valley

Château de Chambord

One of the best château to visit is Château de Chambord. This was a former hunting lodge and constructed by King Francois I. You may recognize this castle as the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast! It is also the largest château in the region. The hours for Château de Chambord are 9 am-6 pm during peak season (March 28-October 25) and 9 am-5 pm outside of peak season.

Chateau de Nitray

Another famous château is Chateau de Nitray, perfect for lunch as it has many splendid picnic spots as well as a winery at which you can relax and taste some delicious French wine!

For Chateau de Nitray, you can only visit individually from June 1-September 30 from 9 am-12 pm and 2-6 pm, except on Sunday mornings. The remainder of the year is only open for group visits.

Château de Chenonceau

The last château we highly recommend is Château de Chenonceau or “The Lady Castle.” This castle was gifted to Diane de Poitiers who commissioned the bridge over the River Cher and then was taken over by Catherine de Medici, who created the sprawling gardens. It is beautiful to behold, and if you prefer to try more Loire Valley wine, this is a great castle to visit as additional wine samples are available for purchase, here. 

Chateau de Chenonceau’s hours vary throughout the year, but opening times range from 9-9:30 am and closing times range from 5-6:30 pm. 

There are plenty of places to stay in the Loire Valley for your France road trip- campsites, hotels and many aires for motorhomes. We recommend visiting in the Spring or Autumn, when the tourists have mostly left but the weather is still beautiful. The nice thing about the Loire is that it is not too far from the English Channel, so you could visit for a long weekend or stay for 3 weeks. The choice is yours! (Here are some more ideas for places to visit in Autumn in Europe. )

Provence ( and the Lavender Fields)

Recommended by Stefania | Every Steph

How many pictures of the lavender fields in Provence have we all seen on Instagram? Tons, but yet…. there’s a reason why they are so popular. They are so unbelievably beautiful and perfect for a France road trip destination.

Where is the best place to see the lavender fields in Provence?

I suggest two places in particular: the lavender fields in Valensole and the fields at the Senanque Abbey. The first ones are the most popular, which also means they will be really crowded unless you go super early in the morning. The Senanque Abbey fields are unique as they are right next to a beautiful monastery. 

You’ll have no problem inserting both stops on your South of France itinerary , and there’s plenty of parking available. You’ll probably spend around one hour at the fields just walking around and taking way too many Instagram pictures. When you’re done, you could also visit a lavender producer to see how the oil is manufactured.

When is the best time to visit the lavender fields in France?

You’ll have to time your trip right if you want to experience these fields at their best. You can visit any time between the end of June and mid-August. However, every year might be a little different. The fields can bloom earlier or later, so I’d recommend you visit around mid-July to guarantee that you can shoot those iconic lavender fields photos.

Verdon Gorge

Recommended by Darek | DarekandGosia

If you are looking for the most beautiful places to visit in France , you have to visit the Verdon Canyon/ Gorge. Verdon Gorge is a French natural wonder – a spectacular 21-kilometre-long river strip that Mother Nature carved in rocky limestone.

It is one of the deepest canyons in Europe, and its deepest place is 700 metres. The narrowest point of the Verdon Gorge is 6 metres, and the widest 100 metres. All this means that this place has been attracting climbers, photographers, hikers and canoeists for years. You can’t miss it while visiting France!

France road trip ideas- how to get to Verdon Gorge

The canyon is best explored by car or motorhome- perfect for a French road trip! Anyway, you can’t reach it in any other way. There are no trains or direct buses, and the canyon itself extends over a very large area.

The fastest way to get there is driving from Nice on the A8 towards Marseille (if you want to do it really fast, drive a Ferrari from Nice !). Then, exit at Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez after Frejus and driving north along routes D1555, D54 and D955 to Comps-sur-Artuba.

Why should I add Verdon Gorge to my French road trip itinerary?

Gorges du Verdon is primarily a mecca for rock climbers and a destination for expeditions of amateurs of quite strenuous trekking, but also for all those who are looking for unusual, unique views without sporting ambitions. The panorama from the route around the canyon is really unique and worth seeing at least once in your life.

We recommend at least a day in the area to explore the gorge properly. Going early in the morning means less tourists- well worth it for beautiful photos free from people! That’s also the best time to drive the Gorges du Verdon with a motorhome – before the traffic starts!

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner HERE and start creating your perfect France road trip

Dordogne- an incredible france road trip idea.

Recommended by Hannah | Nouvelle-Aquitaine Travel

The Dordogne is a department in the south-west of France.  Inland from Bordeaux, it is known for its river valleys, medieval towns and historic cathedrals.  The Dordogne can most easily be enjoyed by way of a road trip, or by local trains. Bordeaux is the largest international airport (2.5hrs drive); although Bergerac also has an airport too.  

How long to spend visiting the Dordogne

You can see the highlights of the Dordogne in a couple of days; however, I recommend spending at least a week in the area if you can.  

Points of Interest in the Dordogne 

The city of Périgueux, with its 5-domed cathedral based on St Mark’s in Venice, is worth a visit.  The cathedral was started in the 10 th century and renovated considerably in the 1800s.  While only the bell tower and crypts remain of the original structure, it is a magnificent piece of French history .  It is on the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France.

One of the most picturesque spots in the Dordogne is the town of  Brantôme .  Sitting on a hairpin turn in the Dronne River, Brantôme is famous for its Troglodyte Caves and Abbey.  Another site that was on old pilgrimage routes, Brantôme’s Abbey was founded by Charlemagne in 769. Brantôme has lots of riverside dining options, weirs to canoe on, and lots of history to soak up.

Towards the eastern edge of the Dordogne is the beautifully preserved medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda.  This market town avoided much of the modernisation of recent centuries, so has a really authentic feel.  Located in the Périgord Noir area, Sarlat is famous for its walnut groves, wild cèpe mushrooms, and truffles.  Needless to say, it is a very popular culinary destination.

Castlenaud-la-Chapelle (pictured) is also incredibly beautiful and well worth a visit

Pyrenees- one of the best places to visit in France 

Recommended by Clare | EpicRoadRides

The French Pyrenees is a beautiful area in France. This jagged mountain range runs along the French-Spanish border and is full of snowy peaks (even in summer), and some of Europe’s rarest wildlife including vultures and even brown bears.

Why should you include the Pyrenees in your France road trip itinerary?

Compared with their more famous sister, the French Alps, they are much less known and have a wild, brooding feel. This part of the world is perfect for outdoors enthusiasts including skiers, climbers, hikers and cyclists.

Argelès-Gazost is a good base. It’s a small town but well-known for its thermal spa – and also (a little incongruously) its casino. Near Argelès-Gazost, there’s a treetop trail course, river rafting and an animal park that’s popular with kids. There’s also a cycle path along the valley bottom which is a lovely ride if you prefer your cycling flat.

Access to Argelès-Gazost is easy by road. From Toulouse, you take the A64 motorway to Tarbes, then Lourdes. From there take the main road to Argelès-Gazost.

Points of interest and things to do in the Pyrenees

The nearest mountain peak is Hautacam, which is located just a few minutes away from the town. Here you’ll find many mountain-based activities including a mountain luge, segway and hiking trails. If you’re into road cycling, Hautacam is also one of the most famous climbs of the Tour de France.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to the Cirque de Gavarnie – one of the most beautiful places in France and home to the second-highest waterfall in Europe! 

When is the best time to visit the Pyrenees on a road trip?

Winters aren’t overly long in the Pyrenees, but they’re pretty much reserved for winter sports (like downhill and nordic skiing) between November and the end of April. Come during late spring and summer to get the best of the Pyrenees when it’s not covered in snow! If you are planning a winter motorhome trip , read this to make sure you’re prepared.

Depending on how much you love the outdoors and what activities you want to sample, you could spend anything from a weekend to a two week holiday exploring the Pyrenees and all it has to offer.

Cassis, France- a perfect France road trip stop

Recommended by Lora | ExplorewithLora

Cassis is a small fishing village in southern France, about a 45-minute drive from Marseille. With its colourful streets, beautiful port, and nearby hiking opportunities, Cassis makes a wonderful place to visit on a road trip in France.

Points of Interest in Cassis

The town of Cassis is lovely to stroll around; it’s full of colourful streets and Provencal charm. There is a beautiful beach right next to the main pier, which is perfect for sunbathing. Nearby is the Calanques de Cassis, which is a great place to go hiking.

You can also enjoy the Calanques on a boat tour that leaves from the Cassis harbour. There are some excellent French restaurants to dine at in Cassis, offering fresh seafood options.

How easy is it to visit Cassis on a road trip?

Cassis is open year-round and is easy access from Marseille. The drive along the coast is beautiful, with amazing views of the Calanques as you approach Cassis. Parking is available in town but may be tricky to find during the busy summer season- especially for a motorhome.

There are several parking lots in Cassis which you can reserve in advance (but often not for large vehicles). If you don’t have a car, there is a train which regularly runs between Marseille and Cassis.

How long to spend at Cassis

One day will give you enough time to walk around the town, enjoy the beach, and dine at one of the restaurants. If you’d also like to hike around the area, then it’s better to stay overnight for a night or two. There’s enough to in the area to keep you busy for a weekend.

Calanques National Park

Recommended by Nadine | Le Long Weekend The  Calanques National Park , near Marseille in Southern France, is one of the country’s most treasured jewels. Teeming with natural attractions, it’s a great place to hike, swim, and enjoy nature in its purest form. The landscape is one of incomparable beauty – limestone cliffs jutting out into the azure blue sea and garrigue-laden hills serenading you with their scent. Beloved by the locals, you’ll find them walking the many tracks throughout the park at any time of year.

What is the best way to explore the Calanques?

Accessible via either Marseille or Cassis, there are many different routes you can choose, depending on your fitness level and ability. But even if you’re not up to hiking, you’ll be pleased to know the majority of the national park is actually the marine area that surrounds the craggy coastline! Jump on a boat tour from Cassis and you’ll be able to explore the Calanques from below, or hire a kayak and enjoy them at your own pace.  

Points of interest in the Calanques

There are less than a handful of services within the park, but you’ll find sustenance available at two of the most accessible Calanques – Morgiou and Sormiou. In the off-season, it’s possible to drive right down and park at either of these Calanques.

For the others, it’s preferable to set aside a day and hike to a hidden beach for serene swimming.

TOP TIP: Be aware that the park often closes in the height of summer due to the risk of wildfires. In July & August, it’s preferable to enjoy it via the sea instead.

Recommended by Alice | Take your Bag

The region of Brittany is one of the best places to see in France. This French region has the best of everything: beautiful cities , stunning medieval towns where you can go back in time and be immersed in history, beautiful nature, and gorgeous secluded beaches with impressive coastlines.

It’s rugged, authentic, full of opportunities for adventure and water sports and the people are some of the friendliest in the country!

When is the best time to visit Brittany?

Brittany has a bad reputation because of its climate; truth is I’ve seen very few rainy days on the many summers I’ve spent in Southern Brittany. It’s mostly been beautiful weather and compulsory sunscreen – even if the nights can be a bit chilly. Still, expect similar weather to the UK and prepare for rain at any time of the year… just in case! 

Points of Interest in Brittany

Brittany is a large region, with different landscapes and atmospheres whether you’re in the Northern part (St-Malo, the Pink Granite Coast, Brest…) or the Southern part (Lorient, Vannes,…) so you could easily choose to spend a weekend or a month exploring and you wouldn’t see everything there is to see!

Don’t forget to try the traditional treats, including cider and crêpes! And if you’re into history and folklore, angle your trip around the Legend of King Arthur and Celtic myths, still very vividly alive in this part of France. (Yes, the same King Arthur from Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave in Cornwall!)

Recommended by Ashley | My Wanderlustylife

Given their incredibly significant history, the  World War II sites of Normandy  are some of the best places to visit in France. Normandy is a beautiful and worthwhile tourist destination in its own right, but visiting the World War II sites is to view the region from an entirely new perspective.

Points of Interest in Normandy for WWII

D-Day and the Battle of Normandy is one of the most well-known battles of World War II and to see and experience these locations in person is life-changing. 

Among these sites are Omaha Beach (and the four others that were part of the amphibious D-Day invasions known as Operation Overlord), Pointe du Hoc, the comprehensive Caen Memorial Museum, the artificial harbours at Arromanches-les-Bains, and Normandy American Cemetery, to name just a few. There are also a number of battlefields, abandoned batteries like the one at Longues-ser-Mer, museums, and other cemeteries.

When is the best time to visit the WWII sites in Normandy?

These sites (and more) are open all year long but, if you can, visit as close to D-Day (June 6 th ) as possible to experience them at their best. Costumed re-enactors, enthusiasts, and World War II veterans at and around the sites greatly add to the overall experience.

There are  numerous WWII sites to visit in Normandy—you could spend a week there visiting them all on a road trip, or see the key highlights in a single day if time is limited. They are quite easy to get to if you have a car or motorhome (and all sites have adequate, dedicated parking). 

If you get time, we highly recommend a detour on your road trip and visit Ypres in Belgium- the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate for the fallen soldiers is one of the most moving things we have ever experienced.

French Riviera- not the best France road trip destination! 

We have mixed views on the French Riviera, but we wanted to show you the good and bad aspects of the region, especially in regards to a road trip. 

Oh, it’s a beautiful spot for sure and the beaches and boats are to die for! BUT… it’s not particularly road trip friendly- especially for those of us with big vehicles. Aires are few and far between and are often full. Wild camping is almost impossible and campsites are… well, they vary in quality- let’s put it that way. 

Points of Interest in the French Riviera

We stayed for a couple of nights in March so we could visit the Menton Lemon Festival. We also visited Monaco and Nice but the area was too crowded for us, even in March- probably because it’s one of the best places to visit in Europe in February and March! I can’t imagine it in high summer or in May around Cannes- the volume of people is frightening. 

But, don’t let our opinion put you off. Just… maybe book a campsite in advance. If you enjoy cities, nightlife and people watching, this is definitely one of the best areas in France to visit.

So, there are 11 regions in France you can visit on your road trip- with points of interest. I hope you’ve found this information useful and enjoy your France trip!

To help you plan a great roadtrip, here is a list of things you should NOT do on your roadtrip .

How else can I help you today?

• Which are the best cities to visit in France (outside of Paris)
• How do you travel Europe in a motorhome?
• I want more Europe road trip ideas
• Visiting Mont St Michel with a motorhome or camper

See all our France Travel Posts here

Want to save this post for later? Pin it to your France Travel board

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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The Best 10 Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary

• David Angel

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my South of France Road Trip itinerary guide, taking in the best of both Provence and Occitanie.

Driving in the South of France enables you to see far more than public transport does. You can get off the beaten path, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

This road trip itinerary is packed with suggestions, and if you have a few more days available, there are plenty of possibilities for discovering even more amazing places.

I’ve devised this southern France road trip itinerary to include some of the best of Provence and the region to the west, Occitanie. The latter, covering southwest France, used to be known as Languedoc & Roussillon.

Provence is perhaps better known than Occitanie – but over several trips I’ve found both are equally compelling. This itinerary is an amalgamation of two of the south of France road trips I have done. It also takes you around six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The first few days are spent driving short distances around the west of Provence before heading west. You eventually return via the fascinating city of Albi, enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

Table of Contents

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – avignon.

Avignon, my suggested starting point for this south of France vacation, is one of the best cities in France to visit. It’s best known as the City of Popes – six Popes presided from there in the 13 th and 14 th centuries.

The Palais des Papes – the Popes’ Palace – is one of the highlights. The immense fortified palace is one of the greatest Gothic buildings in France, and still dominates the whole city.

Avignon is also renowned because of the famous song, Sur le pont d’Avignon . The Pont Saint-Bénézet is named after the local saint who claimed he had a vision telling him to build a bridge on the site.

The location was unsuitable: the original 12th-century bridge was destroyed by floods, and just four arches of its replacement survive.

I suggest sticking to one day in Avignon , simply because there is so much to see elsewhere. It may well be worth considering a guided walking tour of Avignon , which will cover the main sights I’ve mentioned and the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral near the Papal Palace.

There are also several more churches to explore, including those of St Didier and St Pierre, and the formidable circuit of town walls.

Also take a walk to the Rue des Teinturiers, one of the prettiest streets in Avignon. It’s set along a canal in an area once lived in by the city’s dyers and tanners, and one of their waterwheels is still preserved.

Places To Stay In Avignon

Hotel d’Europe : 5-star luxury on one of the loveliest squares in Avignon

La Mirande – 5-star elegance next to the Palais des Papes

Les Jardins de Baracane :  gorgeous 17 th century guesthouse      

Day 2 – Around Avignon – Pont du Gard, Orange And More

I suggest using Avignon as a base for the first part of this south of France road trip as there is such an abundance of day trips from Avignon . 

One of the best things about staying in Avignon is that so many of the best places to visit in Provence are within reach by public transport. That said, a great many places to see in Provence can only be reached by car.

The drawback of using public transport in the south of France is that you’re limited to seeing one place a day. Driving allows you to cover more ground more quickly, and on the second day of your South of France vacation you can easily reach two World Heritage Sites and explore some of the best of Côtes du Rhône wine country.    

Start the day by heading west along the N100 from Avignon, continuing to Remoulins and following the D19 towards the Pont du Gard. It’s one of the most iconic bridges in Europe , a triple-layered arched aqueduct built in the 1 st century AD. The Romans built it to supply the nearby town of Nemausus with water.

It’s remarkably well preserved, among the outstanding Roman monuments in Europe. The Aqueduct is a few minutes’ walk from the car park and small museum devoted to the Pont.

After a couple of hours at the Pont du Gard, return to Remoulins and then join the A9 motorway (toll applies) for the short journey (around 30 km from where you join the motorway) to Orange. Follow the signs to the centre of Orange, a provincial town to the north of Avignon.

Here you’ll need a couple of hours to visit two more amazing Roman sights (which make up another World Heritage Site). The Arc de Triomphe d’Orange is beautifully preserved, especially its exceptional bas-reliefs. It’s believed to date from the reign of the first Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus, and there is also an inscription dedicated to his successor, Tiberius.

The other unmissable sight in Orange is the Théâtre Antique, or Ancient Theatre. Again, it’s incredibly well reserved, with an intact stage wall. The statue in the stage wall is of Emperor Augustus, during whose reign it was probably built. The Theatre has been used to stage productions again since the 19 th century.

The stage is an astonishing 60 metres wide, and dramas and comedies would have been performed on it in ancient times. Nowadays it’s used for opera performances, especially during the summertime Choregies d’Orange festival.

You can return to Orange via the backroads around the famous wine village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Alternatively, a more scenic route takes you east via Violes to the Dentelles de Montmirail, Beaumes-de-Venise and Carpentras before swinging south-east to Avignon.  

Day 3 – Avignon to Arles

We leave Avignon behind on the third morning of our South of France road trip, gently making our way a short distance down to the Rhone to the gorgeous World Heritage city of Arles.

Begin the day by driving the 10 miles (16 km) south from Avignon to the gorgeous little town of St Remy de Provence. I’ve stopped here numerous times over the years, and always found something new to intrigue me.

It’s mainly known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who made several of his most famous paintings there, including Starry Night and Olive trees with the Alpilles in the background . He produced these while a patient at what was then known as the Saint-Paul Asylum, on the southern edge of the town.

This is now known as the Centre Culturel Saint-Paul de Mausole, and is next to the same groves of olive trees van Gogh painted. These are, in turn, next to the ancient Roman city of Glanum. Two of the best-preserved monuments – the Mausoleum of the Julii and Triumphal Arch – are on the west side of the road, while the rest of the city is on the other side.

The settlement pre-dated the Romans, who occupied the site until it was ransacked around 260 AD by the Alemanni.  The ruins of the main town are substantial, including part of a temple, a well-preserved main street, baths and a spring.

Head south over the jagged hills of the Alpilles range, from which you emerge with a view of the vast coastal plain.  The D5 road continues around to Les Baux de Provence, one of ‘les plus beaux villages de France’.   

It’s certainly one of the most dramatically sited villages in France, occupying a limestone outcrop with superb views in all directions. The village is huddled below the ruined medieval castle, which ruled over more than 70 villages before the line of succession ended in the 15 th century.

Most of the old village is given over to tourism, with many of the houses now used as galleries or gift shops. But don’t be put off. I’ve visited the village three times, and most recently loved the walks around the Val d’Enfer (the Valley of Hell) to the north of the village.

The views there are superb, and if you have time I also suggest visiting Les Carrières de Lumières , a series of underground caverns that hosts some amazing art installations. At the time of writing they have a Dutch theme, with Vermeer, van Gogh and Mondrian featured.

The village also gave its name to bauxite, an aluminium ore quarried to exhaustion until the end of the 20 th century. Your day is almost done. It’s a 20-minute drive – around 8 miles (14 km) south-east to the wonderful city of Arles, where I suggest staying two nights.

Where To Stay In Arles

Hotel de l’Anglais:  wonderful guesthouse in the heart of Old Arles

Hotel de l’Amphitheatre

Hotel Spa Le Calendal

Day 4 – Arles

Arles may just be our favourite city in Provence. I’ve visited several times over the years, and it’s a great base for a day – even several. It’s the gateway to the Camargue, the wetlands of the Rhone delta, and like Avignon, makes a great base for day trips in the south of France.  

Some of you may prefer Arles to Avignon – it’s more vivid, bright and colourful than its more austere neighbour to the north. Arles, another UNESCO World Heritage city, has two main draws for its visitors: its Roman sites and Vincent van Gogh association.

The Roman amphitheatre, which holds crowds of 25,000, was completed a few years after the Colosseum in Rome. It’s in excellent condition, and like its counterpart in Nimes, hosts bullfighting (but no killing), and concerts.  It’s an awesome venue for events like this, and an absolute must-see if you visit Arles.

The Roman Theatre is a short distance away. It would have been of similar size to the Roman Theatre in Orange, but is in worse state of preservation. The most intriguing of the Roman sites in Arles is Les Alyscamps, a Roman-era necropolis that continued to be Arles’ principal burial ground a thousand years after they had gone.  Roman burial grounds were traditionally outside the city walls, as was the case here.

Vincent van Gogh moved to Arles in 1888, and though some of his time there could be described as turbulent, it was also one of the most productive of his lifetime.  Arles undoubtedly inspired him. It was where he produced the likes of Starry Night Over the Rhone , The Yellow House , Café Terrace At Night , L’Arlesienne and some of his famous still-lifes and studies of chairs.

He left Arles for St-Remy in May 1889, having spent time at the Hospital (now L’Espace van Gogh). If you have an interest in van Gogh, you should also make time to visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh , which usually has a small collection of his paintings on display.

Aficionados of modern architecture should also seek out Luma Arles. It’s an arts and cultural centre, the distinctive work of Frank Gehry.  The architect of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Dancing House Prague completed this commission in 2021, and it’s one of his best.  I love the description of the Tower in the Guardian just after its completion – ‘Bacofoil scrunched by an invisible fist’.

Day 5 – Arles to Carcassonne

The fifth day of your South of France road trip is really down to you. It’s a two-hour drive, mostly along the A9 autoroute, to your next stop, Carcassonne. You may wish to see more of Arles. Or perhaps you may wish to get to Carcassonne as early as possible.

On the other hand, there is the option of heading south to the fascinating Camargue, or visiting some intriguing seaside towns very close by. I spent a couple of days of my first south of France road trip, back in the summer of 1988, in this area and have always meant to return.

We meandered around the Camargue for a while, camping near the beautiful old seaside town of Le Grau du Roi, on the western edge of the wetland area. Le Grau is a few miles along the coast from La Grande Motte, a resort built in the 1960s and 1970s.

I wrote in my journal at the time that it was ‘a seaside resort for aliens’. Many of the buildings – designed by Jean Balladur – are pyramid-like constructions. They were supposedly inspired by some of the pyramids of Central America, but always struck me as being more futuristic.

The medieval fortress town of Aigues-Mortes is a few miles along the coast on the D62. The town walls are superb, the architecture of much of the small town likewise. It’s on the shore of the Camargue, on the edge of a vast expanse of salt flats.  I haven’t returned there since the ‘80s, but would recommend anyone intrigued enough to go exploring.

Head for the A709 and then the A9 autoroute south of Montpellier. La Languedocienne takes you past the splendid old cities of Beziers and Narbonne, and at the latter take the A61 to your next stop, the fortified town of Carcassonne.

Places To Stay in Carcassonne

Hotel de la Cite & Spa MGallery : stunning 5-star hotel in the medieval citadel

Sowell Hotels Les Chevaliers : fine 4star in the Ville Basse, with some of the best views in town

Day 6 – Carcassonne

Carcassonne is one of the great icons of France and most beautiful castles in Europe.  The city – close to the Mediterranean and trade routes – has been fortified to some degree since Roman times.

The Visigoths took over the city, and the Carolingians, under Pepin the Short, took over in the 8 th century. The city was also renowned as one of the main refuges of the Cathars, Christians with what the Catholic Church considered heretical beliefs. As part of the Albigensian Crusade, thousands were brutally expelled from Carcassonne.

I’ve visited Carcassonne on three south of France road trips, and each time the initial sight of it has blown me away. The Cité de Carcassonne – the Citadel – encompasses the Old Town and Castle (Chateau Comtal), its 50 or more towers and turrets and immense walls visible from many miles away.  

It’s an amazing sight from the Pont Vieux – the long medieval bridge across the river Aude – and from the vineyards that surround the town. The Cité is quite small and only takes a few hours to explore, including its gateways and ramparts and the Basilica of St Nazaire. 

Each time I’ve visited I’ve ended up spending more time in the Ville Basse – the modern lower town – than the Cité.  A restored medieval citadel isn’t really conducive to day-to-day modern life, and this is where you’ll find more Carcassonne restaurants and hotels.

While there, don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Michel, which replaced the Basilica in the Cité as the region’s mother church in 1803. Also take a drive into the surrounding countryside to appreciate some of the amazing views of the Cité.  Some of the best are from the vineyards surrounding the town.

Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is on the doorstep of another – the Canal du Midi. This amazing feat of engineering was completed in the mid-17 th century. The 240-kilometre waterway links the city of Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea, and Carcassonne is near the mid-point of the Canal.

Day 7 – Carcassonne to Albi

The drive between these two World Heritage cities takes you over the unheralded Montagne Noire (Black Mountain). It also crosses from the Aude departement to Tarn, of which Albi is the capital.

The Montagne Noire is a vast upland forest area, and the D118 winds its way up and over the top. It takes you as far as the outskirts of the fine town of Castres , a name familiar to rugby fans around Europe. I only stopped for lunch for an hour or so, with just enough time to admire the quirky tanners’ houses above the Agout river.

A few old friends from Wales have visited to watch rugby there, and are very enamoured with the town. I’d be inclined to press on towards Albi, but there are plenty of other things to see in Castres, including a Goya Museum.

Continuing northwards, you eventually pass the turnoff for the gorgeous medieval village of Lautrec. If the name is familiar, it’s the ancestral village of the family of artist Henri de Toulouse—Lautrec, more on whom shortly. There’s a beautiful square surrounded by characteristic local brick and timber houses, and a fine 17 th century windmill on the hill above the village.

Eventually you reach the red-brick wonder of Albi, long one of my favourite cities in France. Park, check in and head straight for the most striking building in the city, the extraordinary Cathédrale Ste Cécile.

Its exterior looks more like a forbidding fortress than a place of worship. This was the intention of Bishop Bernard de Castanet, who began the Cathedral in the aftermath of the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.

This campaign had seen the defeat of the Cathar heretics, so the new Cathedral was all about projecting Bernard’s power.  Although he did cut costs somewhat by using brick rather than stone. Albi Cathedral is said to be the biggest brick building in the world. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t (mighty Malbork Castle in Poland is bigger) but it’s a hugely impressive edifice.

I strongly recommend taking a walk down the hill to the River Tarn to admire the view of the city with the Cathedral looming above.  It’s particularly striking at sunrise, when the first light of the day glances across the red-brick buildings. Albi Cathedral is so different inside. I remember expecting a bare, austere interior, like a vast empty hall in a Castle. Not at all. It’s positively lavish and extravagant.

I was particularly struck by the beautifully painted vaults, which run the length of the church. This would have been done in the late 15 th and early 16 th centuries. The walls are also beautifully decorated, with the 15 th -century Last Judgment mural at the west end of the nave the oldest surviving work.

Places To Stay In Albi

Hotel Alchimy: 4-star with luxury suites in the historical centre

Hostellerie du Grand St-Antoine

La Voute du 26   – amazing apartment in medieval house in the historic centre of Albi  

Day 8 – Albi and Albigeois Region

There are enough things to do in Albi to keep you there for two or three days. It’s one of the most underrated cities in France, a place rich in medieval architecture. Other cities (Toulouse) and towns in the region also have the distinctive red brick houses with timber frames – as does Lautrec, from the previous day of this South of France itinerary.

Start the day at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum , housed next door to the Cathedral in the Bishops’ Palace, the Palais de la Berbie. The superb collection of Toulouse-Lautrec’s works was donated to his home city in 1922. He was famous for his Parisian posters and also drawings and paintings, and some of his best-known works are included in the collection, including the Moulin Rouge Masked Ball poster.

Spend more time exploring the less-known Albi sights, including the Maison du Vieil Alby (House of Old Albi, open afternoons only) and the Saint-Salvi church and cloister.      I was fortunate to have allowed myself three days in Albi, leaving time for a short drive north into the Albigeois, the countryside north of Albi. 

The main draw in the area is the gorgeous hilltop town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. It’s a beautiful rambling medieval town built on a steep hill, its cobbled streets full of galleries. It seemed to be pitched towards curious visitors, but when we visited, in April, there were very few of us around.

If Cordes is busy in summer and you really want to step back in time, head around 10 miles west to the village of Penne. It’s somewhere I yearn to return, an extraordinary village crowned by a wonky medieval castle. It’s in my personal most beautiful villages in France list, for sure.  

Day 9 – Albi to Millau

With great reluctance, we bid farewell to Albi to head east towards the southern end of the Massif Central. On this day we visit one of the great modern famous landmarks in France . And there is the option of visiting the home of one of the best blue cheeses in the world, if your tastebuds are so inclined.

We suggest following the D999 east from Albi into the Aveyron department, a journey of around 60 miles (100 km).  ass through the pretty town of Saint-Affrique before you reach the cheese mecca of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon. 

This small village is paradise to blue cheese fiends like us, and I ate one of the best sandwiches of my life there. The contents were no more than a very large chunk of bread and a huge helping of Roquefort cheese, but this was my food paradise.

The story goes that a shepherd left a piece of cheese in the high pastures, retrieving it months later to find it covered in mould. He supposedly tried a bite, and so one of the most famous cheeses in France was born.

See Also: What Is France Famous For? 

It’s a half-hour drive from there through the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park to Millau. These days it’s best-known as the nearest town to the Viaduc de Millau – or Millau Viaduct.

This magnificent bridge is the tallest in Europe, 270 metres above the Tarn valley floor at one point. One of its piers is 1143 feet (348 metres) high – which is considerably taller than the Eiffel Tower.

From Roquefort, I suggest rejoining the D999 and turning right, heading east to the nearest junction of the A75 autoroute (motorway). Join the autoroute, heading left (north) where you enjoy astounding views of the bridge and landscape below.

Turn off the A75 at the next junction, and follow the road around to the rest area (Aire du Viaduc de Millau) and viewpoint. From there you get a stunning view, with the piers of the bridge very close to each other. I also suggest driving around the Tarn Valley below the Viaduct to seek out more views of it.

One of my favourites is the beautiful village of Peyre, roughly a mile west of the Viaduct. This is where our dusk image of the Viaduct was shot.  

Hotels In Millau

Couvent de la Salette :  the best luxury bet in Millau, beautiful rooms in a centuries-old former convent

Domaine des Ondes – great guesthouse with wonderful mountain views

Day 10 – Millau to Avignon

Before the Viaduct was built, Millau was best-known as the gateway to the Gorges du Tarn. The upper reaches of the river flow through this spectacular narrow gorge on its way west, where it eventually meets the broad Garonne river.

Follow the D187 north out of Millau, continuing north-east to Le Rozier. From there, you have the option of heading 10 miles north to the best viewpoint in the Gorges du Tarn, the Point Sublime, which commands a breathtaking view of the valley.

From there, double back to Millau or head south via minor roads via Nant, to join the D7. This becomes the D999 a few miles to the east, and from here you continue into the Cevennes.  briefly stopped) and Saint Hippolyte du Fort. The D999 takes you all the way to Nimes, home to of the greatest Roman monuments in France and an enchanting old centre.  

You could overnight in Nimes or continue to Avignon – entirely up to you. I’ve stayed in Nimes twice, both times for one night, and would gladly do so again. The Maison Carrée, a 2 nd century AD Roman Temple, is one of the best-reserved ancient buildings anywhere in the world. It’s an astonishing sight, especially at dusk when the floodlights give it a magical aura.  

The Temple is on the same square as the Carré d’Art, a contemporary arts centre and museum designed by Norman Foster (who also designed the Viaduc de Millau. Even if a little Roman monument fatigue is beginning to creep in, the Arènes of Nimes is a must-see. Like that of Arles, this amphitheatre is in superb condition and still used for concerts and events.  

Getting To The South Of France

If you’re flying long-haul to France, from North America or Australia, it makes sense to fly to Paris, then catch the TGV (fast train) south to Avignon. You can then pick up your hire car from there. We recommend discover cars , who we use ourselves to find the best car rental deal in the area we’re exploring.

If you’re flying to the south of France from elsewhere in Europe, there are a multitude of airports in southern France to choose from.

You don’t necessarily have to start this south of France road trip from Avignon – you could easily do so from Carcassonne, which has a small airport that is a hub for budget carrier Ryanair.

I’ve flown into several other airports across the region, including Nimes (another Ryanair option), Marseille and Nice. You can also fly to Lyon (less than two hours’ drive north of Avignon) or even Grenoble, in the heart of the French Alps.  

South of France Road Trip – Final Thoughts

I hope this south of France road trip itinerary gives you some inspiration. It’s an astounding part of the world, and this mixture of Provence and Occitanie will encourage you to delve deeper into one, or both, of them.  

Check out more of our Europe road trip articles here:

• Normandy Road Trip – 7 days itinerary through gorgeous Normandy
• Portugal Road Trip – Alentejo – exploring the borderlands and backwoods of south-east Portugal
• Pembrokeshire Road Trip – 5 days around glorious West Wales
• Snowdonia Road Trip – 4 road itineraries around Eryri

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

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Little Holidays

Helping you plan amazing holidays

Best road trips in France – exciting itineraries around the French countryside

Europe , France , Travel Guides / November 19, 2022 by littleholidays / 5 Comments

Get to know France beyond the glitz and glamor of its cities!

Go for a road trip to the French countryside and explore its fragrant fields, cliffside castles, and vibrant vineyards.

Here are 6 of the best French road trips to take.

Best road trips in France

Here are 6 of the best French road trip routes for your next travels. You’ll find more details, itinerary recommendations, and road trip tips below.

• Alsace wine route
• Route Napoleon
• Normandy and the Loire Valley
• Bordeaux to Biarritz
• Languedoc and Provence
• Toulouse to Montpellier

Only have time for a short and sweet weekend trip? Check out these French weekend destinations for ideas!

Use this Google map to plan your fabulous French road trip.

1. Alsace wine route

Begin your road trip in Strasbourg, a beautiful border city that enjoys French finesse and German joviality. Stay in the gorgeous Cour du Corbeau and take your time exploring the storybook districts of Petite France and Place Kleber, eating tarte flambée and choucroute, and taking road trips to the northern Vosges natural park.

For a quick and active way to explore the city, go on a guided bike tour of Strasbourg .

After 3-4 days of dining, hiking, and shopping, drive south to Colmar and make the charming Le Colombier your base as you explore the south of Alsace. Visit Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, Alsace’s small wine-growing towns, and taste the region’s world-class white wines.

Walk along vineyards, hike to old castles and ruins, and end your days with hearty food and great wine. Unwind with a trip to Lac du Ballon and the Grand Ballon and enjoy the forest trails and spectacular views. On your way back to Strasbourg, stop by the medieval chateau of Haut-Koenigsbourg.

Top tips for your Alsace road trip

• Fly to Strasbourg (buses and trains from elsewhere are also doable)
• Reserve your car online in advance and pick it up either from the Strasbourg airport or from Gare Centrale
• Divide your stay between Strasbourg and Colmar . Stay in Strasbourg to explore northern Alsace, then move to Colmar to explore the southern parts.
• Don’t drink and drive! Have a designated driver or bring home a bottle of wine to enjoy at the hotel at the end of the day.
• Driving in Alsace
• Best things to do in Strasbourg
• Best things to do in Colmar

2. Route Napoleon

Combine sightseeing with learning about history in this road trip that follows Napoleon Bonaparte’s 1815 march from Elba to Grenoble on his way to overthrow Louis the 18 th . This road trip route is especially scenic, as Napoleon chose remote roads that avoid large cities and pass through beautiful countryside.

Fly to and get your car in Cannes , then head straight to Grasse, the center of the French perfume industry. Check in to the quaint Aux charmes de grasse and explore the hilly medieval town for a day or two.

Head next to the mountains for a stunning view of the Mediterranean coast, and keep your eyes peeled for signs and plaques commemorating Napoleon’s march along the mountain roads.

Drive to the Col de Valferriere, the ruins of Chateau de Broundet at Seranon, and the pretty town of Castellane. This is one of the most scenic segments of the trip and the most exhilarating with its hairpin turns and cliffside views.

Make a short detour to the Verdon Gorge before continuing to stay the night at the elegant La Bonne Étape , where you can celebrate your mountain driving feats with haute cuisine and an extensive wine collection.

After your restful pitstop, continue your drive to Grenoble, making sure to stop by Grand lac de Laffrey to marvel at the bright blue lake. Finally, in Grenoble, check in to Le Grand Hotel Grenoble and spend the next couple of days enjoying crozets and foie gras and gorgeous mountain views at every turn.

Top tips for your Route Napoleon road trip

• Fly to Cannes or Nice
• Take advantage of one-way car rentals – get your car from Cannes (or Nice) and return it in Grenoble
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are: Grasse , La Bonne Étape , and Grenoble
• A wild road follows a wild river – here’s one more road trip itinerary off the Route Napoleon

3. Normandy and the Loire Valley

History buffs will love this road trip through the historic Normandy and Loire Valley. If you’re visiting Paris, it’s one of the best road trips to take after you’ve had your fill of the French capital. You can make a nice loop and explore the regions west of Paris to see the French countryside beyond its flashy cities.

From Paris, drive to Rouen, a historic medieval town that inspired many Impressionist painters, including Claude Monet. Walk around to see the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Gros Horloge, and the charming half-timbered houses. Continue your drive to Honfleur, a harbor town with picturesque streets, which is also the perfect place to stop for lunch.

Next up, visit the historic beaches of Normandy, where the Allies landed in 1944. Take a day or two to visit the World War 2 sites and tributes, or join a Normandy battlefields day tour with an expert guide .

Stay in either Bayeux or Caen as you explore Normandy. Manoir Sainte Victoire in Bayeux and Hotel La Fontaine in Caen are perfect places to stay in Normandy.

While you’re in Normandy, explore the neighboring Brittany region. Visit the fortified city of Saint-Malo, then head to Mont Saint-Michel, an impressive island commune perched on a rocky peak.

Head next to Loire Valley, making Tours your base ( Hotel Val De Loire is our top pick). Spend the next few days time-traveling to medieval towns and chateaux. Don’t miss the beautiful Chateau de Cheverny and Chateau de Chambord!

From Tours, a scenic drive northeast brings you right back to Paris.

Top tips for your Normandy road trip

• Fly to Paris
• After a couple of days exploring the capital city, pick up your rental car in Paris and start your drive to Normandy
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are Caen and Tours .

4. Bordeaux to Biarritz

Need a quick break from hectic city life? This road trip that goes from countryside to coast is the perfect antidote.

Begin your holiday in Bordeaux. Get a car and spend a couple of days driving around the wine region, making sure to make your way to the beautiful medieval village of Saint-Emilion. Go on hikes, fuel up on the region’s amazing cuisine, sample the region’s wines , and see the city on bikes .

Stay at Yndo Hotel to get the best of Bordeaux. Once you’ve had your fill of this scrumptious city, pack your car and head south.

Break up your drive with a quick stop at Domaine de Laas to enjoy the chateau’s vast gardens and artworks. Have lunch at Navarrenx, crowned France’s most beautiful village in 2014, and take a stroll around the markets. Finally, drive into Barcus and spend a day or two relaxing in the serene Hotel Restaurant Chilo , while you go for hikes and drives to the surrounding mountains.

From Barcus, it’s time to make your way to the coast. Stop by Saint Jean Pied de Port for breathtaking views of the Pyrenees and a walk around the walled town, then proceed to Saint Jean de Luz for a wonderful Basque meal by the bay.

Finally, make your way to Biarritz and check in to Le Garage , where you can spend the final stretch of your trip swimming and surfing to your heart’s content. Take a half-hour drive to San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque country for the most amazing tapas and paella.

Top tips for your Bordeaux to Biarritz road trip

• Fly into Bordeaux , fly out from Biarritz
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up in Bordeaux and drop-off in Biarritz
• Book your hotels in advance – perfect stopovers are: Bordeaux , Barcus , and Biarritz

5. Languedoc and Provence

Nature-lovers and beauty connoisseurs, this road trip’s for you. The neighboring provinces of Languedoc and Provence will have you swooning for dramatic bastides, frolicking in flower fields, and embracing the sunshine and stunning sceneries.

Fly into Avignon and, unless you’re arriving on an evening trip, pick up your rental car and drive to the romantic medieval town of Uzes. Make the lovely L’Albiousse your base for the first half of this road trip as you take your time exploring the gorgeous region of Languedoc.

From Uzes, drive south to visit Nimes, a beautiful well-preserved city with vestiges of the Roman Empire. Explore the Amphitheater , one of the world’s best-conserved artifacts of Roman architecture. Check out the 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct, Jardins de la Fontaine, and the Maison Carree. This 2-hour walking tour introduces you to the city’s Roman culture.

Go further south through Arles and Camargue, and all the way to Aigues Mortes, a medieval walled French commune with plenty of stories to tell.

After exploring east of Languedoc, it’s time to cross over to Provence. Move to Hotel Chateau Des Alpilles in Saint Remy, and relax as you get ready for a drive across the bendy yet oh-so-breathtaking roads of Provence.

Start at the postcard-perfect L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and make your way east, through the Luberon to Gordes and Roussillion. Take some time to stroll around each of these old towns and take hikes around the surrounding forest trails. If you’re traveling from late June to early August, it’s worth driving all the way to Valensole to see – and frolic in – the copious lavender fields.

Once you’ve breathed in all the beauty of Southern France, return your car and fly out of Avignon.

Top tips for your South of France road trip

• Fly in and out of Avignon
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up and drop-off at Avignon
• Book your hotels in advance – Uzes and Saint-Remy are perfect bases, but if you prefer to stay in one place, Avignon is a great central location

6. Toulouse to Montpellier

For a relaxed and balanced mix of city breaks, natural landscapes, and a touch of Spanish customs and cuisine, head to the warm and sunny Occitanie region.

Start your adventures in Toulouse, a vibrant and youthful city known for its warm brick and terracotta architecture, earning it its nickname “The Pink City”. You’ll want to stay for at least two days – Le Grand Balcon Hotel is a gorgeous base.

Walk around the Japanese garden in the center of Compans-Caffarelli park, visit the Basilica of Saint Sernin, and check out Roman art at the Musée Saint Raymond.

(Top tip: if you’re planning to explore Toulouse’s museums and monuments, get the Toulouse City Card for discounts to the city’s top sights and free travel on the local public transport.)

While you’re in Toulouse, drive a little over an hour north to Cordes sur Ciel, one of France’s most beautiful villages . This quaint medieval town was founded in 1222 and is a historic, gothic showcase of the evolution of architecture.

From Toulouse, slowly begin your drive east. Stop by Carcassonne and see sites of scenes from the Robin Hood movie. Spend a few hours exploring the Carcassonne Fortress.

Continue on to the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park , where you’ll want to stay for a couple of days, especially if you love nature trips. During the warm months, you can go hiking, cycling, kayaking, or swimming, or simply enjoy the journey around the nature park.

Stay at Villa d’illouvre , a cozy bed and breakfast nestled in nature. For a special treat, dine at Les Fleurs d’Olargues – make sure to book in advance!

Continue on to Montpellier and enjoy walks around the old town, visits to patisseries and cafes, and food festivals during the summer months. You’ll also be a short drive away from the beach, so stay for a bit longer if you want to soak up the sun. Domaine de Biar is a gorgeous boutique hotel just a short drive away from the center.

Top tips for your Toulouse to Montpellier road trip

• Fly in to Toulouse and out of Montpellier or Nimes
• Reserve your rental car for pick-up at Toulouse and drop-off at Montpellier
• Book your hotels in advance – stay in Toulouse , at the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park , and Montpellier .

Ready to go on your fabulous French countryside road trip?

Here are helpful links to help you plan your road trip:

• Complete guide to driving in France

Includes requirements for driving, options for renting a car, road rules, and driving safety, as well as estimated costs.

• Car hire locations in France

Got other road trip itineraries in mind? Check the list of car hire locations in France and take advantage of one-way rentals. You can also input your travel dates and locations below for a quick free quote and instant reservation.

I hope this gives you fantastic ideas for your road trip in France! Enjoy your holiday!

First published – 8 September 2018

Last updated – 19 November 2022, updated information and added Toulouse-Montpellier route

Reader Interactions

September 11, 2018 at 5:38 am

What a gorgeous post.

September 14, 2018 at 3:13 pm

Hi, What would be the best way to get frame Rome to Nice?My mom is 81 and I’m worried about all the steps down to some trains so she thought the bus might be better. What are your hours; we will be doing this Nov 1- 10. Thanks for your input. Erin

September 16, 2018 at 7:33 pm

Hi Erin, here’s a nice website that you can use for finding routes – https://www.rome2rio.com/ . You’ll see all your options there, including number of hours and estimated prices. Have fun on your trip!

February 10, 2019 at 1:13 am

Thanks for your post, great tips as we are planning a driving trip to Normandy in May. We have done a driving tour of Provence a few years ago and you can’t beat getting up close to the charm of the french villages. The problem is so many gorgeous places to see and stay it’s hard to decide but of course half of the fun.

February 11, 2019 at 5:12 pm

Ah yes, so many charming French villages, so little time. 😉 Thanks for reading, Anne! Have a great time in Normandy – I’m sure it will be lovely in May.

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France Road Trip Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip To France

January 19, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   4 Comments

If you are worried about planning the perfect France road trip itinerary, I am here to help! It doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing.

No matter where you choose to visit in France, you are in for a real treat. From the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris to the stunning château in Chantilly, there is no limit to the breathtaking places in France!

One of the best parts about a car trip in France is that you don’t have to narrow down your options to one or two places, but you get to see so much of the country you’re visiting!

For this France road trip itinerary, I am not going to specify an amount of time so that you can make the drive as time allows for your schedule.

If you have 5 to 7 days in France, then modify this France road trip route to fit that length of time. If you have 2 weeks, consider spending a few days in each location to really take in what France has to offer.

Don’t forget to check out our detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials.

Let’s dive into the best France travel planner for a road trip!

France Road Trip Itinerary Map

If you are a visual person, don’t worry! I have included my France by car itinerary in a map version below.

You can see exactly where you will be going during your trip! Feel free to bookmark or screenshot during your planning stages!

All places recommended on this France example itinerary are very easy to find by simply plugging the name into your GPS! You can even download the maps offline if you use Google Maps!

Stop 1: Paris

Paris is the easiest city to fly into to begin your French road trip since it has major airports such as Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport.

Depending on your plans for your France itinerary, you can rent a car from the airport and move on to the next stop on the itinerary immediately. If you plan to include Paris on your ultimate France vacation, you can explore Paris before renting a car and leaving the city.

Paris is the capital of France and holds many famous monuments, cute cafes, views of the Seine River, and beautiful parks and gardens. I adore Paris and keep coming back to experience its magic!

I suggest staying at least 2 to 4 days in Paris to see and do as much as possible. At least 2 days is enough time in Paris to at least start you off!

Parking in Paris

Driving and parking in Paris is not the easiest for tourists, and you will almost always have to pay a fee. This is why I suggest waiting to rent your vehicle until you plan on leaving the city.

With that said, you can find plenty of paid parking in Paris either on the street or in underground car parks.

On the street, you usually pay by the hour while the car parks offer daily fees that vary by location. Parking in the city center is free on Sundays.

After parking, you can easily walk or use public transport to get around the city.

Things to Do in Paris

Find views from the eiffel tower.

Of course, you must visit the Eiffel Tower on your road trip around France! Head to the top for amazing city views or wander the gardens surrounding the tower to find the best photo spots.

If you only have one day in Paris , this is a must-see in France! Check it out at night to see it sparkle!

Book Here: Paris: Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor Access

Climb the Arc de Triomphe

Dedicated to the soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars, the Arc de Triomphe sits on a massive roundabout on the Champs Elysees.

From the top, you will find one of the best views of Paris since it includes the Eiffel Tower and tree-lined streets. Time your visit here to see the Paris sunset .

Book Here: Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets

Explore Montmartre and Sacre Couer

The hill of Montmartre is the historic artists’ quarter, and you can still see people painting here today. This area is one of the most beautiful places in Paris with darling cafes, old churches, and pretty streets.

The white Sacre-Coeur Basilica towers over it all. For jaw-dropping panoramic views of Paris, you can climb to the top.

Check out all the other things to do in Montmartre from top sights to hidden gems.

Book Here: Paris: Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Walking Tour

Soak Up Culture at the Louvre Museum

Millions of art and history lovers flock to the Louvre Museum each year. Buy tickets in advance to save standing in line!

From the Mona Lisa to the Venus di Milo , there are numerous masterpieces to see here. Plan to spend a few hours wandering the huge galleries.

Book Here: Paris: Louvre Museum Timed-Entrance Ticket

Take a Day Trip to Versailles

Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris and you can easily take the train. You will love wandering the opulent halls of the Palace of Versailles and pretending you’re royalty.

The grounds are gorgeous as well with formal gardens and a quaint hamlet where you can step back in time.

Book Here: Paris: Versailles Palace and Gardens Full Access Ticket

Where To Stay In Paris

When looking for where to stay in Paris , there are a ton of great options! From lavish, luxury hotels to cozy, affordable accommodations, there is something for everyone.

Affordable:  Hôtel De La Porte Dorée . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Grand Hôtel Lévêque . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Normandy

Time to continue your road trip from Paris. Your next stops will be the beautiful towns of Giverny, Étretat, and Mont Saint-Michel in the region of Normandy in Northern France .

These are some of the top stops on a North France road trip!

If you plan to see all three towns in a day, make sure you leave Paris early! You can, of course, spread your trip out further depending on your schedule.

From Paris, it is about an hour’s drive to Giverny where the top attraction is the house and gardens of painter Claude Monet. This is truly one of the best things to do in France outdoors !

Then it is just under two hours to Étretat on the coast. This beautiful city is known for its awesome rock formations carved out of white cliffs.

A three-hour drive will bring you from Étretat to magical Mont Saint-Michel. You’ve seen photos of this gorgeous island and now it is time to explore it in person.

You will love adding these towns to your list when exploring France by car!

Things to Do in Normandy

Stoll the gardens of fondation claude monet.

The quaint village of Giverny is synonymous with Claude Monet. He lived and painted here from 1883 until his death in 1926.

You will feel as if you are walking through one of his paintings as you explore his vast gardens, see the famed waterlilies, and step into his home studio.

Giverny is one of the cutest towns in France . Check out the art galleries, cafes, and the church where Monet is buried.

Book Here: Giverny: Monet’s House and Gardens Guided Tour

Photograph the Alabaster Coast in Étretat

The white cliffs and unique rock formations here are incredible! Check out the Porte d’Aval arch and L’Aiguille (the Needle), a pillar rising from the sea.

One of the best viewpoints is found at the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde. This tiny, stone church sits at the edge of a cliff and can be reached by a scenic staircase.

After viewing the cliffs from above, walk along the seaside promenade in town. There is a pretty, pebble beach bookended by the cliffs.

Discover the Jardins d’Etretat

Right next to the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde, the Jardins d’Etretat was designed by landscape architect Alexandre Grivko. It features spiral hedges and interesting sculptures.

This is a unique stop on the best tour of France!

Marvel at the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

Set atop the island like a beacon to tourists, the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey was completed in 1523 but has a history dating back to the 10th century.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the top cultural attractions in the country and for good reason. Admire the mix of Romanesque and Gothic and take in views of the bay.

Book Here: Mont Saint-Michel: Entry Ticket to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey

Wander the Narrow Streets

Getting lost among the picturesque streets is one of the best things to do in Mont Saint-Michel. Pop into shops and grab a treat from a cafe.

If you want to try a local delicacy, head to La Mère Poulard and order a Normandy-style omelet. The famous and historic meal is expensive but delicious!

This is one of the road trip destinations in France for good reason!

Where To Stay In Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a small town, but there are still plenty of options for places to stay. Alternatively, you can stay on the mainland.

Affordable: Hôtel Vert . Check Rates: Booking.com  

Luxury: Auberge Saint Pierre . Check Rates: Booking.com  

Stop 3: The Loire Valley

Located in the middle stretch of the Loire River in central France, the Loire Valley comprises about 800 square kilometers (310 sq mi). This is truly one of the prettiest landmarks in France !

Due to its rich profusion of vineyards, artichoke and asparagus fields, and fruit orchards lining the banks of the river, it is known as the Cradle of the French and the Garden of France.

Upon seeing its lush beauty, you might think you have stumbled upon the Garden of Eden! This is why adding this region to the best itinerary for France is a must!

Beyond its dreamy landscape, a Loire Valley road trip encompasses a wide range of interesting things to do and sights to see. It is noted for its amazing architecture, historical towns, and delicious wines.

Some of the most notable historic towns include Amboise, Angers, Blois, Chartres, Chinon, Montsoreau, Orléans, and Tours. Any of these make great places to explore.

The Loire Valley is a must on many France road trip routes and you will quickly see why it is so popular!

Things to Do in the Loire Valley

Go wine tasting.

Of course, you will want to sample some local wine while in the Loire Valley! As one of the top wine-producing regions in the world, there are many options to try.

Some of the smaller wine regions here include Sancerre, Muscadet, Chinon, and Pouilly-Fumé. Book a guided tour to learn all about the production of the wine and do a tasting.

Book Here: From Tours: Loire Valley Wineries Day Trip with Tastings

Visit as Many Chateaus as Possible

If you want to see some of the best castles in France , the Loire Valley is the place to be! The region is dotted with beautiful and historic chateaus you will quickly fall in love with.

Some of the most memorable and splendid castles are Château de Chambord, Château de Chaumont, Château de Chenonceau, and Château d’Amboise.

Each is picture-perfect with amazing architecture and stunning gardens. They are the ideal place for a princess photoshoot!

If you only have time for one chateau, I highly suggest either Château Chambord or Château Chenonceau. Both are grand with gorgeous grounds.

Book Here: Chambord: Entry Ticket to the Castle

Book Here: Chenonceau Castle Admission Ticket

Visit the Chartres Cathedral

Architecture lovers will swoon over the Chartres Cathedral, one of the most well-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Most of the stained glass is original and features a unique blue color.

The church holds the religious relic known as the Sancta Camisa, the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary when Jesus Christ was born.

Make sure to wander around the city of Chartres and check out some of the museums while you are there.

Where To Stay In The Loire Valley

There are numerous places to stay in the Loire Valley no matter your budget. You will have no trouble finding a cozy hotel where you can unwind after a day of exploring.

Affordable: La Maison De Rose . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Relais de Chambord . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Bordeaux

Situated on the Garonne River in southwestern France, Bordeaux is a beautiful port city and hub of the wine-growing region.

The city is full of amazing architecture! There are incredible museums, cathedrals, markets, parks, and more to explore.

Make sure to venture out of the city to the countryside around the city. There are many chateaus and wineries to check out.

A visit to this amazing city is one of my top France road trip ideas!

Things to Do in Bordeaux

Visit the place de la bourse.

The Place de la Bourse is a popular square in Bordeaux with the Garonne River on one side and historic buildings on the other. In the middle is a fountain and statue.

The coolest feature of the square is the Miroir d’Eau. This huge reflecting pool creates a mirror image of the beautiful architecture.

Learn Wine History at La Cité du Vin

Anyone interested in wine will want to visit the La Cité du Vin which is housed in a unique, modern building. The museum is high-tech and has many cool interactive exhibits.

Learn about the history of wine, grape varieties, and the winemaking process. Do a tasting, take a workshop, and check out the restaurant or shop.

Book Here: La Cité du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting

Check Out the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts

Art lovers will want to add the Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts to the best trip to France itinerary. Wander the extensive collection to see paintings, sculptures, drawings, and more from notable European artists.

Take a Wine Tour in Saint-Émilion

Located just under an hour outside of the city, Saint-Émilion is home to a bunch of local wineries. You can check them out on your own or book a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Saint-Émilion and its vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town dates back to the Middle Ages and has many old churches and ruins.

Book Here: From Bordeaux: St. Emilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour

Where To Stay In Bordeaux

Bordeaux is full of both affordable and high-end places to stay. Many hotels are reasonably priced while still featuring great amenities.

Affordable: Golden Tulip Bordeaux Euratlantique . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Marty Hotel Bordeaux . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Rocamadour

You’re in for an amazing treat at your stop in Rocamadour! An assortment of buildings, namely pilgrimage churches and monastic structures, rise above the town in layers of cliffside.

You’ll immediately think you’ve stepped into some kind of fantasy movie upon seeing the mountainside town towering over a gorgeous French landscape.

Set in a gorge above the headwaters of the River Dordogne, Rocamadour has been a popular destination for centuries, drawing pilgrims, bishops, nobles, and kings to see its historical monuments.

Rocamadour has been a religious pilgrimage site for centuries, and it is dripping with rich history! If you are a history buff, Rocamadour is one of the best France itinerary ideas!

Things to Do in Rocamadour

Visit the sanctuary of rocamadour.

The Sanctuary of Rocamadour is comprised of multiple religious buildings including the Crypt of Saint Amadour, the Basilica Saint-Sauveur, and chapels for many saints.

At the Chapel Notre-Dame, you will see the famous statue of the Black Madonna which has been linked to many miracles.

Above this chapel is the Durandel sword. According to legend, this weapon belonged to Roland, the nephew of King Charlemagne.

Wander the Old Town

Like with many of the other towns on this road trip guide in France, the best way to experience Rocamadour is by wandering around and taking in the sights.

Climb the 200+ steps of the Grand Escalier, try yummy Rocamadour goat cheese, photograph the Medieval architecture, and peruse the shops.

Attend the Hot-Air Balloon Festival

If you visit Rocamadour on the last weekend of September, you will be dazzled by 30 colorful hot-air balloons soaring over the valley.

Wake up early to view the sunrise takeoff. This is a fantastic photography opportunity! You can also book your own balloon ride at any time of the year with Rocamadour Aerostat.

Where To Stay In Rocamadour

Rocamadour has great affordable hotels where you will feel right at home.

Affordable: Hotel Beau Site . Check Rates: Booking.com

Affordable: Hôtel Restaurant du Château . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Lyon

What would the best road trip in France be without a stop at Lyon, the third-largest city in France? There’s a reason the area is famous.

The ancient Romans recognized its strategic location at the confluence of two navigable rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. Two Roman Emperors were even born in this city: Claudius and Caracalla.

Lyon is a large World Heritage Site with Roman ruins, a Renaissance old town, historic industrial neighborhoods, and the 19th-century Presqu’île quarter.

Because of its fascinating and lengthy history, there is no limit to what you can do and see while in Lyon!

The food scene is epic as well! The famous food critic Curnonsky referred to Lyon as “the gastronomic capital of the world.” Make sure to sample some of Lyon’s delicious cuisine.

Parking in Lyon

Parking is not super easy in Lyon and you will usually have to pay. That said, there are plenty of car parks and street parking is available.

Many of the parking garages are connected to public transport. Since Lyon is not car-friendly, park at a facility on the outskirts of town and utilize the park-and-ride services to get around.

Street parking is metered and the prices vary by zone. It is free on Sunday and for the whole month of August!

Things to Do in Lyon

Explore vieux lyon.

Vieux Lyon, or Old Lyon, is a beautiful Renaissance quarter drenched in history. Wander the narrow streets, admire colorful buildings, and discover secret passageways called traboules . This is a great stop on your driving itinerary for France!

In the heart of the district is the Gothic Lyon Cathedral on the Saône River. Its groundbreaking was in 1180 and it was completed in 1480.

Vieux Lyon is one of the most popular places to explore in Lyon. Take pictures and pause at small boutiques and bakeries.

Sample Local Dishes

Like I said, Lyon is known for its delicious food so make sure to come hungry! There are a ton of Lyonnais dishes to try no matter your food preferences.

Quenelle is a popular fish dumpling usually stuffed with creamed pike and covered in creamy langoustine sauce. Many restaurants make it fresh from scratch.

Salade Lyonnaise is a tasty frisée salad with bacon, soft poached eggs, and croutons topped with a Dijon mustard and walnut oil dressing.

For dessert, you can try the pink-colored tarte aux pralines or coussin de Lyon, a green marzipan filled with chocolate ganache.

If you want to shop for individual ingredients, meats, cheeses, and baked goods, check out the Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. This food market is full of things to sample.

Not sure where to start? You can book a guided food tour!

Book Here: Vieux Lyon 4-Hour Food Tasting Tour

Discover Art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon is housed in a former abbey and is one of the largest fine art galleries in France. You will find artwork and antiquities from around the world and many time periods.

Where To Stay In Lyon

As a large city, there are plenty of places to stay in Lyon.

Affordable: Hotel Elysée . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Maison Nô – Hôtel et Rooftop . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: Chambéry

An Alpine town in southeastern France, Chambéry is both historic, gorgeous, and a fantastic stop on your France road trip itinerary!

There’s always lots to do and see in these beautiful French towns, and Chambéry is no exception! Make sure you plan well for Chambéry, as you are likely to be torn between all the wonderful attractions!

Chambéry has a long and fascinating history. You will feel a strong Italian influence in the arts, food, and architecture, which is not surprising as the city was only annexed by France in 1871.

If you want one of the best, most rounded-out France travel itineraries, then do not forget to visit Chambéry.

Things to Do in Chambéry

Walk around the historic center.

Chambéry’s historic center dates back to the 15th century and is a wonderful place to wander around or sit at a cafe.

One of the most famous Chambéry landmarks is the Fountain of the Elephants. Built in 1838, it features four massive elephants and is topped with a statue of General Count de Boigne.

Visit the Chambéry Castle

The Chambéry Castle, or Château des Ducs de Savoie, is an impressive, must-see building. Book a guided tour to see the inside.

With a history going back to the 11th century, this is a fascinating place to explore. Today it is used for council offices.

Explore the Surrounding Nature

Surrounded by mountains and lakes, there are plenty of chances to get out of the city and into nature.

The Chartreuse Mountains are perfect for a scenic drive. Do a hike or check out one of the idyllic mountain villages.

You will want to stop by Bourget Lake. It is the largest natural lake in France and is absolutely beautiful! Take a walk along the waterfront or take a dip at one of the beaches.

Where To Stay In Chambéry

There are a ton of great hotels in Chambéry from affordable to luxury.

Affordable: Hotel le Cinq Hyper . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Château de Candie . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Petit Hôtel Confidentiel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 8: Colmar

An absolute gem of a town in the Alsace, you will love adding Colmar to your road trip through France itinerary! The photos of the town are fit for a postcard of a fairytale.

Quaint, half-timbered Medieval and Renaissance-style houses line a quiet river and vivid flowers dot the landscape with shocking colors in the summer.

Colmar is situated in the Grand Est region of northeastern France near the border of Germany. The now quaint town has a long, dark, but altogether fascinating history involving many wars.

If you visit France in December, you will love discovering one of the best Christmas markets in France !

Colmar is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in France!

Things to Do in Colmar

Take a stroll through old colmar and little venice.

Yes, Colmar is another town where you will want to just wander, photograph the adorable buildings, and find history on every corner!

Some notable buildings to visit in this area include the Old Customs House (Koifhus) in the pretty Place de l’Ancienne Douane and St. Martin’s Church, a Gothic church completed in 1365.

Petite Venise, or Little Venice, sits at the southern end of Old Colmar on the Launch River. This is one of the most darling parts of town full of the iconic wood-timbered houses.

You will quickly see why Colmar inspired movies like Beauty and the Beast and Howl’s Moving Castle .

Book Here: Colmar: Highlights Walking Tour and Wine Tasting

Pop Into Some of the Museums

There are a ton of interesting and unique museums in Colmar!

Housed in a 13th-century convent, the Unterlinden Museum covers about 7,000 years of history. You will love all the art, historic artifacts, and architecture of the building.

At the Musee Bartholdi, you will see work by sculptor Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi who is most famous for creating the Statue of Liberty. The museum is found in the house where he was born.

The Toy Museum of Colmar, or Musée du Jouet, is really cool, especially if you are traveling with kids. There is an awesome collection of vintage and more modern toys through the decades.

Eat and Drink Alsace Specialties

The Alsace region in France offers delicious food and you will want to eat your way through it all! Consider doing a wine tasting as well to sample the region’s white wine.

Alsatian food has a strong German influence and is delicious! A bretzel, or pretzel in English, covered in butter and salt is a classic treat. Grab one from a cafe and eat it as you walk around.

For a complete meal, order baeckeoffe, a casserole with potatoes, onions, and meat like beef or pork. You might also like spätzle, sausage with sauerkraut, or tarte flambée which is similar to a pizza.

Where To Stay In Colmar

Colmar has a lot of comfortable and classy hotel options for reasonable prices.

Affordable: Colmar Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 9: Reims

If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’re going to be very excited to add Reims to your France road trip itinerary! It is about a four-hour drive from Colmar and holds just as much history.

Reims is known as the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine region. There are many champagne houses in Reims, and many of them provide tastings and cellar tours.

Admire the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims

The current Reims Cathedral was completed in 1275 and then restored and reopened in 1938 after being damaged in WWI.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the top attraction in Reims and welcomes over a million visitors per year. Take time to admire the Gothic architecture from the outside and inside.

Interestingly, this cathedral was the location of the coronation of many of France’s kings!

Book Here: Reims: Guided Tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims

Do a Champagne Tasting

Of course, a champagne tasting is one of the most popular things to do in Reims!

You can order a glass of local champagne at any restaurant in the city, but consider taking a guided tour. Head out into the countryside to visit vineyards, tour cellars, and do an informed tasting.

Some of the best champagne houses in Reims are Maison Ruinart, Taittinger, Veuve Cliquot, and G.H. Mumm.

Book Here: From Reims: Morning Champagne Tour and Tastings

Visit Palais du Tau

Set right next to the Reims Cathedral, the Palais du Tau is another awesome piece of architecture. This palace is where kings stayed and hosted festivities during their coronation.

It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum.

Photograph Art Deco Buildings

Because Reims was greatly destroyed during WWI, much of it was rebuilt in the ’20s and ’30s in the Art Deco style. It is fun to spot this more modern architecture among much older buildings.

Some of the best Art Deco examples in Reims are the Carnegie Library, Villa Demoiselle, the Halles Boulingrin, and the Reims Opera.

Where To Stay In Reims

As a larger city, Reims is not short on places to stay. There are great affordable options if you are on a budget or more luxury hotels too.

Affordable: Séjours & Affaires Reims Clairmarais . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Best Western Premier Hotel de la Paix . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 10: Chantilly

Resting in the valley of the Nonette, in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, Chantilly is a beautiful commune.

You may recognize the name from famous things like Chantilly cream and Chantilly lace, both of which get their names from this lovely French town.

There is so much to do and see in Chantilly. It’s no wonder that it is considered an important tourist destination for a road trip in the Paris area!

Things to Do in Chantilly

Visit the château de chantilly.

For most people, the amazing Château de Chantilly is the top reason to visit Chantilly. It is comprised of the Petite and Grand Chateaus.

The current castle was completed in 1882 by Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale.

When you visit, admire the architecture, tour the art gallery of the Musée Condé, and stop by the Grand Stables with its Living Museum of the Horse. There are also 115 hectares of gardens and parks to explore.

Interestingly, the chateau was featured in the 1985 James Bond movie A View to a Kill . Pink Floyd performed here in 1994 too!

Indulge in Chantilly Cream

What would a trip to Chantilly be without dining on scrumptious desserts with Chantilly cream? This decadent food is very similar to whipped cream except that it has more sugar and vanilla added.

There are plenty of bakeries and restaurants in town where you can order a dessert topped with this sweet treat.

Wander in the Chantilly Forest

Want to feel like a woodland fairy? Head into the Chantilly Forest. A former hunting ground, it is still used by horseback riders.

Walk along tree-lined paths and discover the Castle of the White Queen on the pretty Comelles Ponds. This little castle looks like it was pulled from a fairytale.

Where To Stay In Chantilly

Even though it is a small town, there are still great options for hotels in Chantilly.

Mid-Range: Manoir des Cavaliers BnB . Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Auberge du Jeu de Paume . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 11: End Your France Road Trip in Paris

You will end your France road trip back in Paris. You can spend more time in the romantic City of Lights or return your rental car and fly home.

Keep in mind that you can easily do Paris at the beginning or end of your first time to France itinerary. You can also skip Paris altogether to save money or if you have been there before.

Driving Tips for France

Here are a few quick tips on how to travel France by car.

• Use Auto Europe when renting a car. This site compares rates across a variety of popular car rental websites including Hertz, Europcar, Alamo, Enterprise, and more. This is what I use and suggest for a road trip through France itinerary.
• You must have car insurance! In France, you need at least third-party liability insurance when renting a car. Many travel credit cards include rental insurance or you can purchase directly from the rental company. Having insurance will potentially save you money and headaches later.
• Pay attention to transmission type when renting. Manual transmission is the most popular in France but automatic cars are available, although usually for a high price. Do not try to learn manual on the go!
• Be prepared for tolls. Many highways have costly tolls so make sure to work these into your budget for driving through France.
• There are three main speed limits. Speed limits are not always marked so you must know what it is based on where you are. On autoroutes (highways) is it 130km/hr (80 mph). On N and D roads, it is 80km/hr (50mph). In cities and towns, it is 50km/hr (30mph). The speed limit also lowers in bad weather.

I hope you have a fantastic time on your France road trip! This plan does not include much of southern France or the Provence region, so you will have to come back!

France travel by car is a wonderful experience! You will love the landscapes, quaint towns, and bustling cities.

I hope you have learned how to plan a trip to France! I am happy to answer any questions you may have about planning a road trip in France in the comments below!

Next, check out the best one-week in Europe itineraries .

Reader Interactions

September 13, 2019 at 8:06 am

Brilliant post. And don’t forget your breathalizer, hi-viz jacket for every passenger and spare headlamp bulb! I kid you not ?

October 28, 2019 at 8:28 am

Excellent post. We would like to do a 12 day road trip in France. So please suggest a relaxed itenrary where we are not driving everyday. Also if you you could tell me what would be the best time of the year to do this trip and what might be an approximate budget if we stay in the affordable range places . Also how do we go about renting a car from Paris. Thank you

January 1, 2024 at 4:39 pm

Hi! Thank you for this post. The hubby and I are going in April and this was extremely helpful. Any thoughts or advice on rental cars? Thank you!

January 4, 2024 at 2:48 pm

Make sure to look into an international drivers licensee! Enjoy!

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• Your ultimate guide to visiting France

South West , Travel

The perfect south west france road trip: itinerary & tips for planning a road trip in south west france.

Are you planning a road trip in South West France? You’ve come to the right place!

I spent most of my life in this region so needless to say that I think that south west France is one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

There are many reasons to visit southwest France and opting for a road trip is a great way to discover everything this authentic region has to offer.

While public transport is not too bad, it won’t allow you to reach some of the best spots so exploring with a car will definitely enable you to see the best of the best!

There are plenty of things to do when you’re on holiday in south west France, from exploring our beautiful cities, discovering clifftops villages, hiking, kayaking and of course one tasting in the famous vineyards.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your South West France road trip. This includes practical information, where to stay, what to do and of course some insider tips!

So, are you ready to get started with the ultimate South West France road trip? Let’s go!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Planning a road trip in South West France

Before we get started with the itinerary itself, we will give you all the info you need to actually plan your road trip in Occitanie and Nouvelle Aquitaine.

When is the best time to go on a road trip in South West France?

This is a tough question because that really depends on what you’re looking for.

South west France region is known for its beautiful summers with long sunny days, but it can get quite hot during the peak season (July and August). Traffic can also be insanely bad near the coast. However, cities like Toulouse are rather empty.

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet or don’t want to deal with the crowds, I would recommend going in May-June or September-October.

Spring and autumn are also beautiful times to visit south west France, with fewer crowds than the summer but still lots of sunshine!

How to get to South West France

You can find airports in most of the major cities in south west France. Toulouse and Bordeaux are the main airports and all have international flights.

You will also find Ryanair airports in Carcassonne and Bergerac (which is handy if you are flying from the UK for example)

For ease and practicality, I recommend flying to Bordeaux or Toulouse . You will be doing a loop and both of these cities have major airports so it’s very convenient.

You will also have more options when it comes to car rentals in these places and can visit the city car-free and then book your car. This will save you a couple of days of rental and carpark.

However, as previously mentioned, Bayonne , Bergerac and Carcassonne are also on the road.

Where to find the best fares?

Here are where you can find the cheapest fares to the airports in South West France.

• Flights to Bordeaux
• Flights to Toulouse
• Flights to Carcassonne
• Flights to Bergerac
• Flights to Bayonne

Renting a car in South West France

Once you have your flight sorted, it’s time to think about renting a car.

Obviously, no good road trip would be good without a car! Also, driving is definitely the best way to explore south west France as public transport will not take you everywhere.

There are many rental companies and most of them can be found at the airports.

That having been said, I would strongly recommend flying to either Bordeaux or Toulouse and exploring the city with public transport for a couple of days before renting your car.

Firstly, a car is not helpful in these two cities. Secondly, it will save you some money since you won’t keep the car for as many days and more importantly, you won’t have to worry about parking the vehicle (which is both a hassle and expensive in these cities).

Finally, renting a car in the city and not in the airport can sometimes work out cheaper but it really depends on what offers they have on which is why you should use a comparison website like Skyscanner to find the best deals.

Click here to find the best prices.

You can also check out these car rental companies since they are really good and sometimes have good offers on Europcar and Hertz .

Renting a car in France is pretty straightforward. You will need a driving license (+ international license if you come from outside of Europe) and a credit card.

If you’re under 25, you might have to pay a bit more for your rental so it’s always worth adding someone over 25 as a driver.

Don’t forget to take extra insurance for peace of mind (or check with your credit card issuer if that’s included). As much as I’d love to say that we are good drivers, let’s be honest, we aren’t really.

PRO TIP: Diesel is much cheaper in France than petrol so if you have the choice, opt for a diesel car.

PRO TIP 2: You will be exploring a lot of small villages which means you’ll also be driving on narrow and bendy roads. For this reason, I wouldn’t advise you to book a large vehicle. In this case, the smaller the better!

Packing list for South West France road

Obviously, it will vary depending on when you go in south west France (hot weather vs cold weather) but this should give you an idea of what to pack for south west france:

• Dresses and shorts if you are visiting in summer
• Jacket – Something like a jean jacket should be enough most of the time.
• A winter coat if you are visiting between November and March.
• A pair of comfortable city shoes such as Converse.
• A pair of hiking shoes – sturdy and comfortable since you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• A pair of sandals/flip flops – for the beach and walking around in the evening
• Swimsuit(s)
• Sunhat and Sunscreen

South West France Road Trip itinerary

Now that you have nailed all the preparations, it’s finally time to start exploring south west France!

Here are all the best stops to add to your South West Road Trip!

Stop 1: Bordeaux

• Recommended length of stay: 2 days

Bordeaux is a great place to start your road trip, especially since it’s home to one of the main airports in the region.

Bordeaux is famous in the entire world for its wine. If you are interested in learning more about the wine and culinary culture in France, there is no better place to start!

The city and its surroundings have a lot to offer so I would recommend allocating at least two or three days here.

Here are some of the best things to do in Bordeaux :

• Visiting the Cité du Vin. If you are a foodie and want to learn more about wine in Bordeaux, heading to the Cité du Vin is a must-do! Here you will find 8 floors of exhibitions dedicated to wine and will get to taste some of the most delicious local wines while admiring the stunning views over the city. Entrance tickets can be purchased here.
• Exploring the old town. It’s full of historical buildings and the perfect place to discover the UNESCO listed monuments. To make the best of this visit, join the local walking tour.
• Eating Canelés. Bordeaux is known as the birthplace of Canelés so make sure to try one while you’re here!
• Going on a cruise on the River Garonne. This is a cool thing to do if you want to discover the city from a unique angle. Prices here.

PRO TIP: If you are planning on visiting the Cité du Vin and taking a walking tour , you should consider taking the Bordeaux Metropole City pass. It includes access to these places as well as 15 other landmarks and you can take public transport for free! It can save you a fair bit of money. See prices here.

Stop 2: Saint Emilion

• Recommended length of stay: 1/2 to 1 day
• Driving time from Bordeaux: 50 minutes (48 km)

Located just outside of Bordeaux, on the way to the beautiful Dordogne, Saint Emilion is one of the most beautiful villages in south west France.

Its rich history and numerous vineyards have made it a popular spot for tourists, especially among wine lovers!

Not only will you get to discover beautiful landscapes but it’s also an excellent place to taste some world-famous wines!

There are several things to do in St-Emilion:

• Visit a local winery and chateau and learn more about the Saint-Emilion grand crus. You can book a tour with wine tasting here .
• Enjoy a leisurely walk in the village and around the vineyards (but don’t walk in the vineyard unless invited).
• Wine themed Escape room. This is the perfect thing to do if you are at least 3 people. The escape room is set in a local vineyard. It includes the game as well as a wine tasting afterwards. It’s so much fun!

Stop 3: Bergerac

• Driving time from Saint-Emilion: 1 hour (58 km)

Your next stop after Saint-Emilion will be Bergerac. You’ve officially made it to the beautiful Dordogne!

Bergerac is a beautiful small town located in the heart of the Dordogne department and on the side of the river Dordogne.

It’s famous for its timber frame houses but also for its wine. This area boasts some of the most famous wines in the world including the delicious sweet Monbazillac.

While you are there, make sure to:

• Go to Notre Dame de Bergerac Church. This gorgeous neo-gothic church is ideally located in the town centre.
• Stroll around the historic centre of Bergerac which is full of winding streets, local shops and beautiful timber-framed houses.
• Visit the Maison du vin. Located in the old town, this is the perfect place to learn more about the wine culture in the area.
• Wine Tasting . Since Bergerac is also famous for its wine, make sure to enjoy a glass or two and book a wine tasting.

Stop 4: Beynac-et-Cazenac

• Driving time from Bergerac: 1 hour (61 km)

After spending some time in Bergerac, it’s time to continue and discover some of the most famous landmarks in the Dordogne.

Your first stop will be Beynac-et-Cazenac, which is just before Sarlat and Les Eyzies de Tayac.

Not only is Beynac one of the ‘plus beaux villages de France’ (most beautiful villages in France) but it’s also home to one of the most iconic medieval castles in France.

The Château de Beynac is located on top of a cliff and overlooks the river Dordogne. From there you can discover breathtaking views of the valley but also the other Dordogne castles such as the Château des Milandes which used to belong to Josephine Baker.

French culture tip: The castle was also featured in the French comedy movie ‘ Les Visiteurs ‘.

It was released in the 90s and stars Jean Reno and Christian Clavier as a medieval knight and servant.

Some of the scenes of the sequel were filmed in the castle.

You’ll understand pretty quickly since most French people come here to actually see the filming location. If you want to watch the movie before you go, it’s available here.

Stop 5: La Roque Gageac

• Driving time from Beynac-et-Cazenac: 7 minutes (5 km)

Just down the road is La Roque Gageac, one of the most beautiful villages in south west France.

This village is built into the side of a cliff and offers some of the most amazing views over the river Dordogne. It’s so unique! You definitely won’t get to see that everywhere.

There are plenty of things to do in La Roque Gageac, such as:

• Stroll around the village and take in the views of the ochre houses and cliffs.
• Visit Château de la Malartrie which is a beautiful castle located on the edge of the village.
• Wander around the exotic garden and Bamboo stand.
• Take a boat ride on the river Dordogne . This is a great way to see the village and to get a closer look at this beautiful place.
• Kayaking . If you like sports and the outdoors then you’ll be in for a treat since this is one of the best places in France to go kayaking . You will get to see the village from the river which is quite unique but you can also keep paddling and see all the castles previously mentioned from the valley.

Stop 6: Sarlat-La-Canéda

• Recommended length of stay: 1 day
• Driving time from La Roque Gageac: 17 minutes (14 km)

Your next stop will be Sarlat-La-Canéda, which is one of the most famous medieval towns in Dordogne .

It’s located in the heart of the Périgord Noir which is known for its truffles.

Sarlat is home to narrow streets, lovely squares and an authentic food market. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially if you love history and food!

Some of the things you can do in Sarlat-La-Canéda are:

• Explore the old town and take in the beautiful architecture.
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos which is a beautiful gothic cathedral.
• Visit the Manor Gisson
• Have a drink or lunch in one of the lovely restaurants and discover the local dishes (foie gras, truffles…)

If you’d like to learn more about the culinary culture in Sarlat, make sure to join the gourmet tour of the market.

The guide will take you to the best spots and you will get to taste delicious food and wines. It’s an excellent way to learn more about these dishes and delicacies that although locally produced, are famous in the entire world. Click here to see the prices.

Stop 7: Grottes de Lascaux

• Recommended length of stay: 1/2 day
• Driving time from Sarlat: 30 minutes (27 km)

It would be impossible to visit Sarlat without taking a day trip to the world famous Grottes de Lascaux.

Located only 30 minutes drive from Sarlat, in the small village of Montignac, the Grottes de Lascaux are a set of caves that contain some of the most famous prehistoric paintings in the world.

The cave and paintings were discovered in 1940 by 4 teenagers. It opened a few years later to the public before closing again in the 80s.

Unfortunately, the carbon dioxide created by the visitors’ breath and sweat was damaging the paintings.

An exact replica was then created, just next to the original site. It’s called Lascaux IV and is the site that you will visit.

But don’t worry, it’s so well done that you wouldn’t actually know it’s not the original.

In order to visit the Grottes de Lascaux you will need to buy a ticket. Here you have three options:

• Buy your ticket on-site. This is not recommended since it’s unlikely you’ll manage to get one unless you are visiting during the low season.
• Buy your ticket online. You can buy your ticket on the official Dordogne ticketing site here.
• Book a tour from Sarlat . You can also choose to book a tour from Sarlat which includes transport, ticket and a guided tour of the cave. This is also a skip-the-line which means you won’t be losing any time waiting. See prices here.

You will also find a museum which contains information about the discovery of the cave, its history and how it was reconstructed. It’s full of interesting info so don’t forget to check that out.

Stop 8: Rocamadour

• Driving time from Montignac: 1 hour 10 minutes (62 km)

Once you are done with Lascaux, you will start heading south.

You will leave the Dordogne to enter one of the most underrated (but yet, gorgeous) French departments: le Lot.

Your next stop will be Rocamadour which is a famous clifftop village in the South West.

It’s one of the most famous villages in France (as in literally since it’s part of the ‘plus beaux villages de France’ association) and it’s easy to see why. The village is perched on a cliff, overlooking the Alzou river canyon. It’s simply beautiful!

Rocamadour is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in France. It’s known for its Cité Réligieuse which includes several churches and chapels as well as the Black Madonna statue and the stunning Basilica of St-Sauveur.

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rocamadour:

• Walk up the ‘chemin de croix’
• Going all the way up to the basilica. The stairs to go up there are not that easy. Traditionally pilgrims would climb them on their knees so you can only imagine how hard it is. If you don’t fancy the walk up, you can take the cable car.
• Eating delicious food. Rocamadour is known for producing some of the best goat cheese in France. They are called ‘cabécou’ and are well worth trying.
• Monkey forest and Rocher des Aigles are both great places to visit with kids.

Stop 9: Gouffre de Padirac

• Driving time from Rocamadour: 23 minutes (16 km)

Located only 25 minutes from Rocamadour, the Gouffre de Padirac is one of the best and most unique places to visit in South West France.

It’s is a natural limestone cave that was formed over millions of years by the action of water on the limestone rock.

The Gouffre de Padirac is one of the largest and most visited caves in France, with over 500,000 visitors a year.

The cave is around 100 metres deep and has a river running through it. This is why it’s so unique. This is not your traditional ‘boring’ cave. There is a river and all visitors get to take a boat trip on the underground river before visiting the cave on foot.

The cave also features impressive stalactites and stalagmites formations.

The visit is split into 3 parts:

• You will walk down in the gouffre (which means hole in French). This part kind of looks like you’re stepping into a Jurassic Park movie set.
• You will go on a small boat and the guide will bring give you loads of information about the underground river while paddling.
• Your guide will ‘park’ his boat and take you all around the cave for further info.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. While there is a front desk there and you technically can buy it on-site, it’s often hard to get tickets.

To avoid any disappointment, book them online.

PRO TIP: Since you will be underground for most of the visit, I always recommend taking a slot just before sunset so you get to see while you’re walking down and then it’s dark while you are in the cave. That’s the best use of your time.

Alternative : If you’re not too much into caves and would prefer to discover more cute villages, you can easily go to Loubressac and Autoire from Rocamadour. It’s a bit closer and they are all adorable places. You can also walk to the waterfall in Autoire (that’s a bit of a hidden gem!).

Stop 10: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

• Driving time from the Gouffre de Padirac: 1 hour 10 minutes (65km)

Your next stop on your South West France itinerary is Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.

This stunning village is located on a cliff overlooking the Lot river and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular with photographers.

Also, it’s another ‘plus beaux villages de France’! It is known for its stunning views, charming architecture, and vibrant colours.

Here are some ideas of things to do in St-Cirq-Lapopie:

• Wander around the narrow streets and discover how picturesque and unique this village is.
• Check out the church. It’s located right on the edge of the cliff which is rather impressive.
• Kayaking. You can rent a kayak from Bouziès and opt go kayaking on the river Lot, just underneath St-Cirq. Not only is it one of the best places in France to go kayaking but it’s also a great opportunity to discover the village from a new and unusual angle.
• Check out the Towpath. Le chemin de halage is a path entirely built in the stone of the cliff. It’s super impressive!

Stop 11: Najac

• Driving time from Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: 55 minutes (45 km)

Your next stop is another beautiful village but this time it’s located in the Aveyron department.

While it is similar to the other villages you’ve seen, you should start noticing a lot of changes in the landscapes compared to the Dordogne or the Lot. We are heading South!

Najac is also one of the most beautiful villages in France however, it’s not as famous as Rocamadour or St-Cirq-Lapopie. Even the locals don’t even always know about it!

For this reason, it’s the perfect place to visit if you want to add some hidden gems to your road trip in the South West.

This medieval village is incredibly cute and boasts amazing views over the valley. You will also find the castle on top of the hill.

It’s very unique!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Najac:

• Walk around the village and admire the beautiful medieval houses. If that’s something you are interested in, you should pop by the visitor centre first. They organise guided walking tours so you might want to join one.
• Visit the castle. From the top of the village, you can walk all the way down and then back up to the castle. It can be visited inside.
• Go on a hike to see some incredible views over Najac and the valley.
• Kayaking. With the Gorges de l’Aveyron so close, it would be a shame not to try some water sports while you’re here!

Foodie tip: The Aveyron is known for its authentic and traditional cuisine. While you are in Najac, make sure to go to one of the local restaurants and get a menu that includes Aligot.

It’s a local speciality made with potatoes and cheese. It’s delicious!

Also, restaurants in Najac are often quite cheap so it’s a great place to get food if you are on a budget.

Pro tip: Since Najac is rather small, you can choose to spend 1 day or only half a day here. It’s up to you. If you wish to visit both Najac and Cordes on the same day, it’s entirely possible. It depends on how much time you have ahead of you.

Stop 12: Cordes-sur-Ciel

• Driving time from Najac: 30 minutes (26 km)

Located only 30 minutes drive from Najac, Cordes-sur-Ciel is located in the Tarn department and it’s one of the most beautiful villages in France.

It is a fairytale village, perched on top of a hill with stunning views over the surrounding area. It really does look like something out of a storybook!

Fun fact: Sur ciel in French means ‘on sky’. That should give you a good idea of what to expect!

Here are some ideas of things to do in Cordes-sur-Ciel:

• Walk around the village and admire the beautiful houses, churches, and narrow streets. The visitor centre also offer walking tour so make sure to check them out.
• Take the mini train. You can find a mini train at the entrance of the village. It takes you all around Cordes and up to les Cabanes so you can enjoy the view. If you are travelling with kids it’s worth considering it.
• Discovering the medieval marketplace. Cordes is one of the best places in France to see examples of ‘halles’. It’s very big and is located in the middle of the village.
• Shopping. Cordes is full of cute local shops with food, jewellery and other crafts. If you want to find unique souvenirs, it will be the perfect place.
• Go for a walk to the view point. The best way to understand why Cordes is named ‘on sky’ is to head to the view point. From there, you’ll get to see the hill and the village. It’s so pretty. It’s also an easy 20-minute walk from the centre.
• Visiting the chocolate and sugar museum. This is a fun and unique place to visit especially if you are with kids. Nothing boring here, just pure fun!

Stop 13: Albi

• Driving time from Cordes-sur-Ciel: 30 minutes (25 km)

Now that you’ve seen many villages in the South West, it’s time to discover some of our beautiful cities!

Albi is a city located in the Tarn department. It’s best known for being the birthplace of painter Toulouse-Lautrec and for its stunning cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city has a rich history and there are plenty of things to see and do in Albi. Here are some suggestions:

• Walk around the Episcopal City and admire the beautiful medieval architecture in the walled area in the heart of Albi.
• Take a guided tour of the cathedral. It’s an incredible building and well worth a visit. You’ll get to discover exactly why it was listed as a UNESCO site.
• Visit the Toulouse-Lautrec museum. This is the world’s largest collection of works by the painter and it’s definitely worth a visit if you are interested in art.
• Have a picnic in the park. There are plenty of green spaces in Albi, so find one that looks nice to you and enjoy a relaxing lunch break.
• Go to Cap’Découverte. This is a super fun theme park located near Albi. You’ll find a bit of everything including an artificial ski slope!

Stop 14: Toulouse

• Driving time from Albi: 1 hour (77 km)

Now it’s time to head to the largest city in the South West, Toulouse!

Toulouse is a vibrant city and there is plenty to see and do here.

It’s a rather ‘young’ city since there are so many students and for this reason, it’s very lively. It is nicknamed the pink city ( La ville Rose ) and is one of the most underrated cities in France.

Toulouse is also a great place to relax and enjoy some good South West food. Here are some suggestions:

• Take a walking tour . While walking around the city centre is a great way to explore, if you can you should join a walking tour organised by the visitor centre. You will learn plenty about the history of Toulouse, the Calas case and the mix of medieval and modern architecture. It can be booked through the visitor centre and is included in the Toulouse Pass.
• Visit the Place du Capitole and admire the beautiful buildings around it, including the city hall and opera house.
• Take a stroll in the Jardin des Plantes and enjoy the quiet green space in the middle of the city.
• Have a picnic at the Daurade. This is one of the best sunset spots in Toulouse and a great place to go for a picnic and drinks in the evening.
• EAT! Toulouse has some amazing food and you’ll be spoilt for choice. Make sure to order a traditional cassoulet!
• E-bike tour. Toulouse is an awesome city to discover with a bike. It’s flat and there are a lot of cycling lanes. For this reason, I’d highly recommend to consider the e-bike tour of Toulouse . It’s good fun and you’ll learn loads!

READ MORE: Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France

Stop 15: Lourdes

• Driving time from Toulouse: 2 hours (178 km)

Now that we are done with Toulouse, we are going to head further south and west and go through the stunning Pyrenees to make a stop in Lourdes!

Lourdes is best known for being a religious pilgrimage site and it attracts millions of visitors every year.

It was recognised as a place of pilgrimage because of the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858.

However, even if you’re not religious, the city is worth a visit as it’s very pretty and has a lot of history.

Here are some things to do in Lourdes:

• Visit the Grotto of Massabielle , where Saint Bernadette had her famous visions.
• Take a guided tour of the city and learn about its history and the sanctuary. See prices here.
• Visit the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary.
• Visit the castle. The Château Fort Musée Pyrénéen is a beautiful castle located on a hill in Lourdes. It boasts fantastic views of the Pyrenees and is a great example of medieval architecture.

Stop 16: Biarritz

• Driving time from Lourdes: 1 hour 45 minutes (170 km)

Now we are going to make our way to the Atlantic coast and discover one of the cutest coastal towns in France, Biarritz!

It’s well known for its beaches, surfing and golfing. It’s also a great place to just relax and enjoy the sun and sea. Loads of French people choose it as a destination for their summer holidays and as soon as you get there, you’ll understand why.

Here are some things to do in Biarritz:

• Surf ! Biarritz is a world-famous surfing destination and if you’re interested in giving it a go, there are plenty of schools where you can learn.
• Relax on the beach
• Have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants located on the beach.
• Visit the old town and admire the beautiful Basque architecture.
• Walk to the lighthouse and discover beautiful views of the coast
• Visit les Halles. This traditional market is an excellent place to get food and taste some authentic basque cuisine.

Stop 17: Bayonne

• Driving time from Biarritz: 15 minutes (8km)

After Biarritz, we are going to head to Bayonne, which is only a short drive away.

Bayonne is a beautiful town and it’s well known for its Basque culture and food. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in learning more about this unique region of France.

It’s also particularly famous for its ferias in July so if you are visiting at this time of the year, it’s worth considering it. If that’s not something you are interested in though, I’d recommend skipping Bayonne altogether since you won’t get to do some sightseeing while it’s on.

Here are some things to do in Bayonne:

• Walking tour. The best way to explore Bayonne is on foot and if you’d like to learn more about the main landmarks, this local walking tour will be ideal.
• Sainte-Marie cathedral. Located in the heart of Bayonne, this gorgeous cathedral is an excellent example of gothic architecture.
• Sample some of the delicious Basque food at one of the many restaurants located in the old town. Bayonne is also known for producing some of the best chocolate in France so it’s worth doing a chocolate tasting .
• Walk along the river Adour and enjoy views of the city.
• Musée Basque. This is the best place to learn more about Basque culture at traditions.
• Going to les Halles. This is the traditional market in Bayonne and one of the best places in town to get food! Here you will find local products and delicious dishes. It’s a great place for lunch and it’s free to visit (you’ll have to pay for your food though but that’s up to you what you choose to buy or not).
• Segway tour. If you’d like to do something a bit different, then you can opt for the segway tour of Bayonne.

Stop 18: Capbreton and Hossegor

• Driving time from Bayonne: 20 minutes (22km)

Calling all outdoor lovers for this one!

After Bayonne, we are going to head south and explore the towns of Capbreton and Hossegor.

These two towns are located on the Atlantic coast. They are well known for their beaches and being one of the best surfing spots in France!

They’re also a great place to just relax and enjoy the sun and sea.

So, if you’d like to try to hit the waves during your holidays in South West France or just want to take a bit of a break and relax for a day, they will be the perfect spots.

You can choose to visit both in one day since they are very close to each other.

Otherwise, you can go to just Capbreton to relax and Hossegor is better for surfing.

Here are some things to do in Capbreton and Hossegor:

• Surfing. As I mentioned before, these towns are world-famous for their surfing and if you’re interested in giving it a go, there’s plenty of schools where you can learn.
• Relax on the beach. Notre-Dame, l’Estacade and la centrale in Capbreton are excellent options.
• Walk to the l’Estacade pier in Capbreton for some beautiful ocean views and romantic atmosphere (especially at sunset).

Stop 19: Dune du Pilat

• Driving time from Capbreton: 1 hour 40 minutes (167 km)

After Hossegor, we will be driving a couple of hours up to the Dune du Pilat.

The Dune du Pilat is a huge sand dune located near the town of Arcachon. At 107 meters high, it’s the highest sand dune in Europe and over 2 million people visit it each day.

If you’re looking for an adventure, this is definitely the place to go. You can hike to the top of the dune and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

Not only is climbing it a unique experience but the views from the top are amazing!

Also, if you are a bit of a thrill-seeker, this is the perfect place to try paragliding!

Stop 20: Arcachon

• Driving time from the Dune du Pilat: 15 minutes (13 km)

After the Dune du Pilat, we will be driving to Arcachon.

This seaside town is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood and architecture. It’s a popular day trip from Bordeaux so you will find loads of locals here.

It’s only 15 minutes drive from the dune so it would be a shame not to check it out. You can also do both in one day. No need to dedicate a day each.

Some of the things you can do in Arcachon are:

• Going to La criée (fish auction). When it comes to seafood, Arcachon sets the standard and the best place to get fresh fish is at the port, in the morning. Fishermen come back and will sell their fish while shouting (crier means to shout in French). You’ll need to go super early in the morning though.
• Explore the town and check out Notre-Dame Basilica.
• Take a boat trip to the Bassin d’Arcachon. This is a natural bay located south of Arcachon is the perfect place to go on a day cruise. You can discover the famous bird island which is home to over 150 species of birds and to the unique cabanes tchanquées.

We hope this article has helped you, now is time to enjoy your amazing road trip in South West France!

You may also be interested in:

• Toulouse 1-Day Itinerary: Exactly How to spend 1 Day in Toulouse, France
• Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France
• 13 Prettiest Villages near Toulouse, France

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Happily Ever Adventures

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Europe · France · Travel

Ah the South of France. Our favorite place in the world to travel to. We recently went on a 10 day South of France road trip and it was hands down our favorite trip ever. We are actually going back for our anniversary this year to do another South of France road trip. If you’d like to experience it for yourself, we’ve created a 10 day south of France itinerary to share with you. We’ve also included all things you need to know for your south of France vacation, so get ready, this is a very comprehensive guide! 

First things first, this south of France road trip itinerary is for 10 days, but in a perfect world, you’d be able to spend much longer in the south of France. From the sparkling seas, magical fairy tale villages, and idyllic countryside of Provence to the colorful and glam streets of the French Riviera, there is A LOT to do and see on a south of France vacation {as well as a lot to eat!}

We would love to spend a full month exploring the south of France, but we are limited by things like vacation days, budgets, and a never ending travel bucket list. If you are able to spend more than 10 days in the south of France, we highly recommend 2-3 weeks in order to create your perfect south of France itinerary.

If you’re limited on time like we usually are, we’ve got you covered with this 10 day south of France road trip itinerary {as well an alternate itinerary}, exploring the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. We had a very difficult time planning our south of France travel plans because the region is just so large! We couldn’t fit in everything we wanted to see and we spent many long nights trying to figure it out.

Eventually we just accepted that we would need to narrow down what we could see and we could always come back. Here is the itinerary we followed {and loved!}, as well as an alternate south of France itinerary suggestion. Both south of France itineraries cover the highlights of Provence and the French Riviera. This way you will be able to visit the most popular towns and get a reference point for where you’d like to explore more of if you choose to come back. If you’d prefer to focus your time in just one area, check out our guide to the Luberon . We hope our south of France travel itinerary will help streamline your planning and you have an amazing south of France road trip!

24 Stunning Stops for Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary:

Covering the highlights of provence and the french riviera, this post contains affiliate links.

The perfect 10 day south of France itinerary:

A few notes before we get started:.

This south of France road trip itinerary starts off in Provence and ends in the French Riviera. We’ve laid it out this way assuming that you are flying in and out of Nice. We find it most time efficient to fly into Nice, rent a car at the airport, have a home base in the Luberon to explore Provence, and finally enjoy the French Riviera before departing out of the Nice airport. You can of course do this the opposite way; this is just our opinion.

For the purposes of this south of France itinerary, we’ve used L’Isle Sur La Sorgue { read why we feel this is the best home base in Provence } as the home base in Provence and Nice as the home base in the French Riviera. Even if it meant more driving, we preferred having a home base because it really helped us get to know the area we were staying in, we were able to pretend to be locals by having a routine in the area, and we preferred the convenience of not moving around too many times.

We’ve arranged the days to space out the longer driving days with shorter drives days. Feel free to rearrange the days to fit your needs, as well as accommodate for the market days whenever possible

This south of France itinerary is a slightly hectic schedule to fit in the most possible. The beauty of the south of France, especially Provence, is the slow pace lifestyle and the relaxation. Feel free to skip cities {even if they are major ones!} so you can truly relax and enjoy the magic of the south of France. We’ve included all the best places to visit in the south of France, but pick and choose what works for you and your itinerary. 

This south of France itinerary focuses more on Provence than the French Riviera. This is just the part of the south of France that we preferred. With only 10 days, you will most likely be heavier in one portion of the south of France than the other. It is difficult to see both Provence and the French Riviera thoroughly in 10 days.

If you have longer than 10 days to spend in the south of France {lucky you!}, you can definitely spend more time in each of the towns we’ve included. There are plenty more towns you can add as well! This book lists all the towns that are designated the prettiest towns in France and will give you some good ideas!

It goes without saying that wandering is the top things to do at any of the recommended towns, but we’ve also included a few points of interest as well. Please take your time to slow down and wander as much as possible! That’s really how you’ll experience the magic of the south of France. It’s really not about hitting a specific list of sites, it’s more about discovering each town and village

We hope our sample south of France road trip itinerary helps you create the perfect itinerary for your own south of France vacation! Here are the best places to visit in the south of France!

South of France Road Trip Day 1: Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue {possible stop in Cassis}

Estimated Drive Time (I’sle Sur La Sorgue only}: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Estimated Drive Time (with stop in Cassis}: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Arrival day! The south of France itinerary starts in Nice!

Most likely you will arrive in Nice and drive to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, where you’ll be staying as your home base for the Provence portion of the trip. If you’re coming from another part of France like we did, you can also just drive straight to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. ( Here’s why we recommend staying in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue ) If you prefer staying somewhere else, Saint Remy is another great choice. 

| search accommodations in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue | search accomodations in Saint Remy | 

If you land in the morning and have a full day ahead, you can stop in Cassis for a few hours before heading to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. Cassis is a gorgeous sea front town that you can easily spend 1-2 days at. With a rushed south of France itinerary like this, a half day should be okay. That was all we had and without partaking in any water activities, it was enough time to explore the town. Every little corner of this seafront town is absolutely gorgeous! We couldn’t stop taking photos!

Things to do in Cassis:

• Hike Calanques de Cassis (bring comfortable shoes if you want to hike)
• Try Creme de Cassis (a liquor made from blackcurrant. I especially adore it in a Kir Royale , champagne with creme de cassis)
• Check out the view from Cap Canaille

South of France Road Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue + Fontaine de Vaucluse

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time:  30 minutes

We highly recommend spending a full day exploring your home base of L’Isle Sur La Sorgue. You can also fit in a few hours at the nearby village of Fontaine de Vaucluse. If at all possible with your south of France itinerary, have your L’Isle Sur La Sorgue day be on a Sunday, as the whole town turns into a giant food and antique market. It’s quite an experience and what the town is famous for! If there’s no way you can be there on a Sunday, there are antique markets all week, you just don’t see the whole town turn into one.

Things to do in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue:

• Antique market –  there are small stores all week, but on Sundays the entire town turns into one big antique market
• Dinner at Le Vivier – Located in a nondescript shopping center, it was one of our favorite meals during our south of France vacation and very affordable for such a nice dinner. We had the best bottle of wine of our whole France trip here
• Check out our L’Isle Sur la Sorgue guide for more

For more on L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, check out this guide 

South of France Road Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex

Day 3 of our south of France itinerary has you exploring the villages of Oppede, Menerbes, and Bonniuex in the Luberon region of Provence. The villages are small enough that you can experience all of them in a single day.

Our day was a bit rushed for a few reasons: we took way too much time taking photos in Oppede, we had a 3 hour lunch in Bonniuex, and we went in the fall when the days are shorter.

If you have room in your itinerary and like to take a slower pace, you could do Oppede and Menerbes in a day and spend an entire day in Bonnieux. This will allow you a leisurely pace. If you don’t have time, you can do all 3 in a day.

An old village dating back to the 12th century with picturesque cobbled streets and plenty of french blue shutter windows. It’s so incredibly charming! It’s a very quiet town and perfect to explore for just an hour or two. You really don’t need much time here because it’s so small, but we spent several hours wandering around because every single corner is just so pretty and charming. 

Park your car at the entrance, which is considered the “new village” and walk to the “old village”. 

Things to do in Oppede:

• The Old Village –  Ruins of the castle and several chapels. It’s a beautiful walk with with lots of Roman ruins and historic charm
• Grab a small bite at Le Petite Cafe –  If it’s open while you’re there, this is a very cute, colorful, and whimsical spot to sit for a bite to eat

Another impossibly charming town full of french blue shutter windows. We felt we were walking on a movie set. Menerbes is named one of the most beautiful villages in France and you’ll easily be able to see why. Most of Peter Mayle’s stories take place in Menerbes and he lived just outside of the village for most of his time in Provence.

Things to do in Menerbes:

• Truffles and wine at Maison de la Truffle et du Vin –  An amazing spot to try local truffles and sample some delicious wine of the region
• Castellet –  A beautiful 15th century fortress

Built on a plateau above the valley, Bonniuex has some of the best views in the region. We think this is one of the villages you can’t miss. From the picturesque cobblestone streets and the amazing views to the fabulous dining and the fantastic market, Bonnieux offers so much Provencal charm for day 3 of your south of France itinerary.

Things to do in Bonnieux:

• Vieille-Eglise-de-Bonnieux –  A 12th century church and the landmark of the town. Climb up to the top for a stunning view of the valley
• Friday Market –  The Bonnieux market may be one of the best in the Luberon
• Wine tasting at Chateau la Canorgue –  The gorgeous winery where “The Good Year” was filmed

If you run out of time and want to do Bonnieux another day, you can also add Lacoste or Maubec to that day!

For more detailed information on these villages, check out our post on the Luberon

South of France Road Trip Day 4: Uzes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Day 4 of the south of France itinerary takes you to the white stone town of Uzes. Wandering around Uzes feels like you’ve discovered a hidden little town. We weren’t expecting much and were planning to only spend a few hours there, but we ended up spending the entire day because we found the 12th century architecture and cobblestone streets so charming. If you think you’ll move at a quicker pace, you can add a quick stop in Uzes to a longer day in Avignon. 

Things to do in Uzes:

• Market –  On Saturdays and Wednesdays. The largest market is on Saturdays and is full of musicians!
• Ice cream at La Fabrique Givree – They offer seasonal and exotic flavors with ingredients imported from all over the world. We enjoyed a 6 scoop tasting platter for $7
• Historic area – Wander around and check out the Medieval Garden, the Fenestrelle tower, and the Cathedral of Saint Théodorit
• Place aux Herbes – the main square of the town. You’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants. This is a good spot for lunch or pre dinner drinks. You’ll want to go elsewhere for dinner. I purchased handmade little porcupines that have spots for toothpicks on their backs to use for serving. So cute and unique! 
• Musée du Bonbon – A candy museum! 
• St Quentin la Poterie – A nearby ceramic producing village with plenty of stores at wholesale prices. You can get much better deals here than at the shops in Place aux Herbes

South of France Road Trip Day 5: Avignon

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Day 5 of the south of France itinerary is in one of the largest towns in the south of France: Avignon. The main attraction is the Papal Palace which towers over the town and there’s also plenty of arts, shopping, and culture. It’s a bustling student town, with lots of activity going on at all times.

I will be very honest, Avignon was not our favorite stop on our South of France road trip; we much preferred the smaller towns. That being said, visit and judge it for yourself, as it’s an extremely popular town in the South of France. We’ll be visiting again later this year to give it a second try. 

Things to do in Avignon:

• Palais des Papes – A UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built to house the popes who fled Rome in the 14th century. You can admire it from the outside or explore the rooms that are open to visitors
• Walk along Pont Saint-Bénézet – Legend has it the bridge was built by a 12 year old shepherd who was instructed by angels to build the bridge in 1177 and was given super human strength to raise a large rock to use for the construction
• Les Halles Market – A large food hall filled with a large range of vendors. This is the perfect spot to grab supplies for a picnic! It’s open every day except Monday from 6am – 2pm. 
• Explore the old city – Avignon’s old town is surrounded by 2.5 miles of 14th-century stone walls. It’s the perfect place to wander!

South of France Road Trip Day 6: Rousillon and Gordes

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 6 minutes

Day 6 of our South of France itinerary has you exploring two of our favorite towns: Roussillon and Gordes. Both of them are on “ Les Plus Beaux Villages “,  a list of the prettiest villages in France. Because Roussillon is such a small town, you can explore it the same day as Gordes. If we had more time, we would’ve spent a full day in each one because we loved both so much!

As Marie Mauron famously said, “Who wouldn’t love Roussillon, if they love light, color, ardor, vast horizons and that pristine peace of the starry southern nights?” The entire village appears to be sun soaked in a myriad of orange, red, and dusty pink hues. It’s so incredibly gorgeous and has long attracted artists. This is a must visit on your south of France vacation.

Things to do in Roussillon:

• Les Sentier des Ocres –  This looped walk offering beautiful panoramic views. There is a 30 minute loop and a 50 minute loop, depending what you have time for. You’ll also get to see the ochre the village is famous for and what gives it the beautiful orange and red hues. The ochre deposits in Roussillon are the largest in the world!
• Art Galleries –  Roussillon is full of art galleries and has long been home to many artists. You may see the artists at work in their galleries; many of them creating their masterpieces with pigments from the village
• Read our full guide to Roussillon

Gordes just may be the South of France’s crown jewel. The drive to Gordes is stunning, as is the whole village and the views from its hilltops. The entire village is made from stone, even the gates! Just outside of Gordes is the picturesque Senanque Abbey, which was made famous by its stunning lavender fields.

Things to do in Gordes:

• Senanque Abbey –  12th century monastery with beautiful lavender fields in the summer. Stop by to view the gorgeous property even if the lavender isn’t in bloom
• Dining at Les Bories –  This was one of our favorite dinners on our south of France Road trip
• Read more about Gordes here

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 1): Baux de Provence and Saint Remy de Provence

Estimated Round Trip Drive Time: 1 hour, 44 minutes

If you choose this itinerary for day 7 of your south of France trip, you’ll visit one of Bassam’s favorite villages: Baux de Provence. It’s small enough that you’ll only need a few hours, so you can visit Saint Remy de Provence after. If you move at a quick pace, you can also stop by Arles. 

Baux de Provence:

Baux de Provence is a picturesque medieval village at a fortified rocky site between Arles and Saint Remy. It receives 1.5 million visitors a year, while only containing 22 residents. It’s busy pretty much year around, but off season is a lot lighter. We don’t recommend going in the summer if you prefer to avoid crowds. 

Things to do in Baux de Provence:

• Wander Les Baux Village  – The medieval village is absolutely beautiful to explore and you’ll come across candy shops, souvenir shops, and some food vendors. Plan to spend 1-3 hours exploring
• Visit Chateau des Baux – A clifftop castle that was largely destroyed on 1633. There are maze like ruins and crumbling towers that you can explore and a wonderful view. During the summer, there are all kinds of medieval themed events
• Dinner at Oustau de Baumaniere – A 2 Michelin star restaurant with wonderful reviews 

Check out our quick guide to Baux de Provence

Saint Remy de Provence:

Saint Remy de Provence is a charming village where Van Gogh committed himself for psychiatric treatment and produced some of his best work while institutionalized. It’s best known for the Roman ruins that lay close by and it’s bustling art and food scene.

Things to do in Saint Remy de Provence:

• Dine – There is tons of great dining in Saint Remy, including two Michelin star restaurants:  La Maison Jaune and La Maison a Bournissac. We ate at a more causal and lower priced, but delicious, restaurant: L’Aile ou la Cuisse
• Art – You can visit the instutition Van Gogh was treated it,  St. Paul de Mausole   and visit his room (which still has paint on the floor). You can also walk the grounds which inspired some of his work. There are also plenty of art galleries and two museums: Le Musee des Alpilles and Musee Estrine
• Festivals – Saint Remy de Provence is home to festivals year around, including art, jazz, and wine festivals. Check out what’s going on the time of year you visit

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 2): Cassis and La Ciotat

Another option for Day 7 for your south of France itinerary is to visit the seaside towns of Cassis and La Ciotat, if you didn’t already visit Cassis on your arrival day. If you did already visit Cassis and you want to visit another seaside town along with La Ciotat, you can do Marseilles. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 3): Apt & Lacoste 

A third option for Day 7 of your south of France itinerary is to visit Apt. This was a town that we had heard wonderful things about, but we weren’t able to fit into our own south of France trip. It’s on our list to visit next month and we’ll be sure to update our post after.

Apt is best known for it’s giant market, so be sure to plan your visit on market day. 

South of France Road Trip Day 7 (Option 4): French Riviera

If you’d like to spend more time in the French Riviera, head there a day earlier so you can explore an extra town.

South of France Road Trip Day 8: Drive to Nice and spend the day in Nice

The rest of the south of France itinerary has you based in Nice to explore the French Riviera! If this isn’t enough French Riviera for you on your south of France vacation, we’ve included an alternate itinerary that is more heavily based in the French Riviera than this one.

Nice is the perfect home base for you to stay while in the French Rivera. Being the largest city, it has plenty of options for accommodations and is centrally located to all the towns you may want to explore. 

Things to do in Nice:

• Try socca – Chickpea crepes that Nice is famous for. You can purchase them from any street vendor, but we tried an upscale version at L’Atelier (a small husband and wife owned Michelin recommended restaurant) and loved it!
• Dine on Salade Nicoise – You may have had a Nicoise salad before, but since it originated in Nice, we suggest having it for lunch with a glass of rose. A classic Nice lunch! You can also get it as a sandwich if you prefer
• Wander in Vieux Nice (Old Nice) – Truly the most charming part of Nice! We spent the majority of our time wandering here. It’s full of beautiful architecture and pastel colored buildings. At the center is Place Rossetti, which is the town square and offers plenty of dining options
• Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club – The iconic Nice beach club that’s full of blue and white stripe umbrellas. Even if you don’t want to spend time at the beach, pass by here as the umbrellas make for a very pretty sight. The boardwalk near the beach club is a wonderful spot to watch the sunset!

South of France Road Trip Day 9: Nice

For Day 9 of our south of France road trip itinerary, we’ve suggested a second day in Nice. We don’t feel one day is enough to see Nice. If you felt you got enough the day prior, you can easy add a visit to another French Riviera town on this day

South of France Road Trip Day 10: French Riviera Town of choice

There are so many amazing towns in the French Riviera to choose for the last day of your south of France itinerary. We’ve made a few suggestions, but choose whatever sounds best to you. We chose the medieval town of Eze for our final day and we absolutely loved it.

On our upcoming trip we will be visiting Grimaud, St. Tropez, Villefrance-sur-mer, Menton, and Antibes. We’ll be sure to update this post after our trip with photos and tips. 

We absolutely loved the medieval town of, Eze. It’s perched over the coast and offers a spectacular view. Walking around the cobblestone streets of Eze, we felt we had taken a step back in time and we also completely lost track of time. While it’s a small village, there’s so much beauty. It’s well worth adding to your south of France itinerary! 

Highlights include:

• The Botanical Garden (Jardin Exotique d’Eze)
• The restaurant terrace of Chateau Eza – The panoramic views are incredible. We relaxed for hours here over a glass of rose and some snacks
• Check out our full guide to Eze here

Monaco is not technically part of France, but it’s a tiny independent city state on France’s coastline. It’s honestly not my favorite town in the French Riviera, but worthwhile to add to your south of France itinerary if the glitz and glamour reputation of the city intrigues you. The entire town is only 2 square kilometers (.78 square miles).

• Princess Grace’s rose garden
• Prince’s Palace
• Museum of Antique Automobiles. 

Antibes is known for its maze like Old Town that’s enclosed by 16th century ramparts. There are so many winding cobblestone streets to get lost in and a great nightlife and dining scene. 

Cannes is a smaller town in the French Riviera, but very lively and full of great nightlife and dining. You may have heard of the Cannes Film Festival, but the town is wonderful to explore any time of year.

One of the liveliest and most popular towns in the French Riviera. This is a great town for shopping, nightlife, and dining, with charming cobblestone streets that characterize all of the the south of France. It has a reputation for glitz and glamour, but we’ve heard it also has a surprising laid back vibe as well.

Grimaud is a small village near St. Tropez that’s full of color and charm. If you visit in the spring or early summer, the entire village will be full of winding colorful flowers. It looks so incredibly pretty!

Villefranche-sur-Mer

The brightly colored coastal town of Villefranche-sur-Mer looks so incredibly charming! It seems like the perfect blend of beach and city. The beach looks beautiful and the town is full of candy colored buildings and charming cobbled streets. We are so incredibly excited to visit on our next trip!

Menton isn’t one of the most popular towns in the French Riviera, but it’s one that has really piqued my interest and been high on my list to visit. It’s known for it’s oranges and lemons which grow year around, so I have visions of wearing a lemon print dress and drinking frozen lemonade, haha! Their annual lemon festival is always a huge deal and people come from all over to attend.

The medieval streets which were founded by pirates (!!) look so cute and charming. Because it’s not one of the hyped French Riviera towns, it usually doesn’t get too crowded in Menton. If you’re traveling during busy season, that might be reason enough to add Menton to your south of France itinerary!

Alternate South of France Itinerary:

If you prefer to spend more time in the French Riviera:

Since the other south of France itinerary was more heavily based in Provence, this south of France itinerary is more heavily based in the French Rivera. 

South of France Trip Day 1:  Head to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue or wherever your home base in Provence will be. If you have time to visit a town on your arrival day, stop in Cassis and La Ciotat on your way from Nice to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, it’s a quick detour on the route

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon, we recommend L’Isle Sur La Sorgue

South of France Trip Day 2: L’Isle Sur La Sorgue (preferably on a Sunday)

Sleep anywhere in the Luberon

South of France Trip Day 3: Oppede, Menerbes, Bonniuex

South of France Trip Day 4: Rousillon and Gordes

South of France Trip Day 5: Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence

Head to Nice, that’s where your home base in the French Riviera will be. On your way, spend the day in either Avignon, Apt, or Aix-en-Provence.

Sleep in Nice

South of France Trip Day 6: Nice 

Full day in Nice

South of France Trip Day 7: Nice + Eze 

If you prefer not to spend a second day in Nice, you can substitute this day with another French Riviera town. We feel one day is not enough to explore Nice, which is why we’ve allowed for a second day on this south of France itinerary.

Since you also explored Nice the day before, you can also spend a half day in Eze.

South of France Trip Day 8:  Grimaud and St. Tropez

While it is doable to explore both Grimaud and St. Tropez in the same day, it will be a fast paced schedule. If you have the time, you can easily spend a full day at each. We suggested starting the day in Grimaud as St. Tropez will have better dining options.

South of France Trip Day 9: Antibes

South of France Trip Day 10: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

You can totally spend the whole day just relaxing and exploring Villefranche-sur-Mer; there’s plenty there to keep your interest. If you prefer to maximize the day and see more, you can also add a morning visit to Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a pink villa from the 1900s. It’s only about 10 minutes away and you won’t need more than about two hours there. 

Sleep in Nice or head home

Things to know for south of France travel:

Best time of year for a south of france itinerary:.

We are such south of France lovers that we would say, ANYTIME! Each season offers its own unique magic. If we had to choose, our first choice for a South of France road trip would be spring and our second choice would be fall. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which season is best for your south of France road trip:

If you’ve been to the south of France before, visiting again in the winter would be a delightful new experience, but I wouldn’t recommend it as your first or only experience

PROS: The lowest prices of the year for south of France holiday hotels and apartment rentals. Christmas Markets!

CONS: Some of the villages may be closed or partially closed, especially around the holidays. Some snow, but that could be also be magical and not necessarily a con. Limited outdoor dining and limited produce in the market. This is not necessarily a con, it’s just a different way to experience the south of France. It seems like a really beautiful experience, I would just say, don’t have it be your ONLY south of France travel experience.

It’s majorly on our bucket list to go in the spring, as everything we’ve heard about the south of France in the spring sounds like an absolute dream. We are planning to go in the spring this year for our anniversary and CAN’T WAIT!

PROS:  Wildflowers and poppy fields. The famed French asparagus and strawberries in the market {the locals wait all year for this!} Time to start dining outdoors again. The spring is said to be the time the region reawakens and locals are re-energized after a long winter. The villages are positively buzzing with energy and beauty. The days are starting to get longer and you get those glorious 9pm sunsets toward the end of the spring season.

CONS: None, other than a few lingering mistral winds. More on those later.

Personally, we would love to visit Provence in the summer mainly to see the lavender and sunflower fields, but we worry the relaxed pace of life we loved so much when we visited wouldn’t be the same due to the crowds and tourism

PROS:  Lavender fields, sunflower fields, long sunny days, gorgeous 9pm sunsets, lots of amazing produce available at the markets, tons of art and music festivals. The region is said to come alive in the summer. June is a great time to go because it’s not unbearably hot yet. Early June is also the least crowded portion of the summer.

CONS:  Crowded and full of tourists from around the world on their own south of France holiday, more expensive, difficult to book great accommodations and restaurants. Traffic and higher tolls on toll roads.

We went in the fall and although it was our second choice, we still felt it was a great time for south of France travel! We’d recommend it to others and we’d do it again!

PROS: Shoulder season, which means less crowds and it’s much easier to get good dining reservations and great hotels at decent prices. The days start to shorten, but they are still relatively warm and sunny. This is the time for the grape harvest!

CONS: Other than the days being slightly shorter and the blowing mistral winds, nothing! We loved fall in the south of France!

How to get to the south of France:

We drove from Paris to the south of France as we were enjoying a beautiful three week France road trip. If you aren’t planning on driving from Paris to the south of France {which takes about 7 hours}, there are a few easier ways to get there. The region is best navigated by car, so whichever option you choose, we do highly recommend renting a car for your south of France itinerary. Public transportation is limited in the south of France. It is doable, but you’ll need to stick to the larger towns.

Getting to the South of France From Paris:

By Train –  Take the train to Nice, Avignon or Marseille

By Plane –  Fly into Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence

Getting to the South of France From Some European Countries:

By Plane –  There is a small airport you can fly into in Avignon, a small airport in Aix en Provence, and a larger airport in Nice

By Train – You can take the Eurostar to Marseille, Nice, or Avignon

Getting to the South of France from outside of Europe:

By Plane –  There is an international airport in Nice you can fly into. If flights are expensive, it may be more cost effective to fly into Paris then book a separate flight to Nice, Avignon, or Aix en Provence. You can also take a train

Things to know when driving on your South of France road trip:

1. Expect lots of toll roads

We were surprised by how many toll roads we encountered during our south of France road trip! You can avoid them by taking country roads, but we chose the toll roads because they were faster and better maintained. During our fall trip, toll roads were anywhere from $3 to $25. In the summer, toll prices are much higher. 

You’ll see two different toll booth entrances: one with a speed listed and one without. The one with a speed listed is for those with a toll pass; they can drive right through. You most likely do not have this and will want to take the entrance without a speed listed and prepare to stop at the booth.

If you prefer to take the country roads and have the time to do so, you’ll have the advantage of passing by beautiful vineyards and smaller villages that you wouldn’t have seen on the toll roads.

2. Don’t base travel time on mileage

Travel time can often be unpredictable in the south of France. Google Maps was pretty spot on with their estimations, so we checked the travel time on there before each drive. Mileage isn’t a good indicator of travel time because there can often be traffic, especially if you go during high season. In some towns, the roads are very small and windy, which can lead to traffic delays.

We highly encourage going into your south of France trip with a mindset of relaxation and patience. Whether it’s with driving or dining, you’re bound to experience some unexpected delays or slowness, so just go with it and see it all as part of the adventure! 

3. Save Google Maps offline

You may not always have access to wifi and most of the rental cars do not include navigation. We saved all of the stops we wanted to go to on Google Maps offline so we would always have access to it.

We recommend saving every single town you are interested in, even if you don’t have time to visit them all. You never know what you may be able to fit into your south of France itinerary or where you’ll be passing by.

We highly recommend this book to choose a list of towns to add to your south of France itinerary. 

4. Beware of speeding tickets on your south of France road trip

Take the speed limit signs very seriously! Most rental cars will also tell you the speed limit inside your car. There are radars all over the highways and if you are speeding, you can expect to be mailed a ticket to your house. We received 4 (!!!) speeding tickets, even though I warned Bassam about this!

Because of the stringent speeding laws and the relaxed nature of the French, you’ll notice that the drivers in the south of France (with the exception of Nice!) are relatively relaxed. This was especially noticeable to us because drivers in Los Angeles (where we live) tend to have road rage. As soon as we crossed over to Italy, we noticed how much faster Italians drive. We also noticed the drivers in Nice to be a little more aggressive; they don’t seem to follow many driving rules there.

5. Be specific about the kind of car you rent for your south of France road trip

Most of the cars in France are stick shift. If you are comfortable driving stick, you’ll have more choices in terms of rental cars. If not, you can rent an automatic car, they are just a bit more expensive and you’ll have fewer options of cars to rent. If you need an automatic car and your south of France trip is during high season, make sure to book your car well in advance. 

Most of the cars in France are smaller than American cars. You’ll want to take this into account with how much luggage you bring along with you. Some rental companies will have larger cars available, but we don’t recommend going too large because you’ll have a difficult time finding parking. In addition, the smaller cars are easier to navigate on windy cliff roads in the French Riviera. 

6. Fill up with Diesal

Almost all of the cars in France take Diesal gas. You’ll see this at the gas station listed as either “Diesal” or “gazole”, they mean the same thing.

7. Driving requirements

In order to drive during your south of France vacation you’ll need:

• A drivers license-  If you are staying in France for less than 90 days, you can drive with a valid US or EU drivers license. We aren’t sure about other countries. It’s recommended for Americans to obtain an International Driving Permit, from the American Automobile Association. It provides a translation of your license. We didn’t get one for our south of France road trip and our rental car company said it was fine
• A Passport-  Be sure to have it on you
• Proof of insurance and vehicle registration-  Proof of insurance is necessary. Most credit card companies offer car insurance, so check with them. If not, you can get it from your car rental company. You’ll also need vehicle registration ( carte grise ) with you when you drive.
• Be over the age of 18-  The legal driving age in France

Things to know for your south of France vacation:

1. Understand French etiquette

Understanding and following French etiquette is very important for your South of France vacation. Etiquette is very important to the French, especially in this region. Following some basic etiquette will help you get the best treatment, make friends, and overall enjoy your time as much as possible. The French can often get a bad rap for not being friendly, but we’ve found it’s all in the way you approach them. Following some etiquette and engaging in pleasantries helped us to have a really amazing experience.

Speak in French as much as you can.  We recommend learning a few basic phrases and/or saving them on Google Translate. We noticed the French really appreciated us trying, even if we didn’t get it quite right. If you need to speak in English, first ask IN FRENCH if the person speaks English, before jumping straight into speaking in English

ALWAYS greet shopkeepers when you walk in.  Pleasantries are so important in France and especially in the south. Greeting shopkeepers is a very important rule in France. Not doing so is the equivalent of going into someone’s home and sitting on their couch without greeting them first. Say “bonjour madame or monsieur” (hello ms or sir) when entering and “au revior, merci” (goodbye, thank you) when leaving. Greetings are a very important part of French culture. It signfiies respect and that you are well mannered and going to have a pleasant encounter with the person.

Be cognizant of your speaking volume.  The French tend to speak quieter than Americans do. If you’re an American visiting, you may want to be aware of your speaking volume and be sure it’s not much louder than those around you

It’s socially acceptable to stare at others. People watching is huge in France! You don’t have anything in your teeth if you see people staring at you, so don’t worry! Feel free to stare right back!

Know some basic dining etiquette:

•  Bread goes directly on the table, not on your dinner plate. Some restaurants will offer bread plates if they experience a high volume of tourists, but it’s not customary
• Salad leaves are folded with a fork and knife, never cut
• Always place your napkin on your lap as soon as you’re seated
• Avoid resting your elbows on the table
• Avoid requesting substitution or changes to the way a dish is prepared. It’s considered rude to the chef and they generally will not accommodate you 
• You will get a strange look if you attempt to share your meal with your dining partner and if you don’t finish your meal. At a very nice restaurant, this is considered rude to the chef. This doesn’t mean you need to over eat to be polite! We just want you to be aware so you know why you’re getting a strange look

Being left alone is GOOD service. The waiter typically will not bother you during your meal so that you can enjoy it. They won’t often check on you, will not bring you the check, and will give you time between courses to “rest”. If you need something from the waiter or want the check, flag them down. Try your best not to rush the waiter or chef and never ask for them to bring your food quickly. They will not accommodate your timing. Slow dining is one of the most magical things about the south of France. Make time for dining in your south of France itinerary. Slow down. Savor it. Some of our best memories from our south of France road trip were our meals

Eat during mealtimes. Eating on the street is generally frowned upon, so do your best to sit down to a meal, snack, or beverage. The French don’t really snack between meals, they just have their 3 meals a day and perhaps a midday break for coffee or pre dinner apero (drink and small bite like nuts or olives). In the smaller villages, restaurants will be closed in between mealtimes. You’ll find more flexibility in larger towns, but it’ll mainly be cafes that are open in between mealtimes

The French feel very strongly about their opinions and recommendations.  If they are an expert in the matter, try to take them seriously. They will tell you their opinions in a very straight forward manner and expect to be trusted. If they tell you something isn’t good or doesn’t match, listen! For example, when we visited a fromagerie {cheese shop}, the shopkeeper insisted we couldn’t buy a particular jam because it didn’t match the cheese we were buying. Seeing how agitated he was, we asked for his recommendation, and he instantly became the nicest, most helpful person. This might be outside of your comfort zone, but give it a try. You’ll be surprised at what you might learn and how right they might be!

2. Most shops are closed on Sundays

Most small shops, businesses, and pharmacies are closed on Sunday, ESPECIALLY in the smaller towns. There are also less restaurants open on Sundays. You’ll want to plan ahead by doing your shopping ahead of time and making plans for mealtimes.

3. Getting around within each town

You will most likely not need your car within each town. Most of the towns and villages on your south of France itinerary are very walking friendly. You’ll be able to park your car when you arrive and then just walk, bike, or even Uber in some of the towns. You will need a car to get from town to town. Some towns are accessible by bus, but you’ll be limited to the larger towns.

4. Don’t take no for an answer

One of the most frustrating things we learned about French culture during our south of France road trip is not to take no for an answer. The immediate response you may get to inquiries is often, “no” or “not possible” and it’s almost always possible. Just be polite but firm, don’t back down, and you may get a different response. You’ll also get the best service if you find something to bond over with the person, so make some small talk first. Pleasantries are a very big part of French culture.

5. Expect to slow down

Life in the south of France, especially in Provence, is slow. It’s just the beauty of region. Don’t expect to go and be on a tight schedule. Take the time to slow down. Savor the sights, the tastes, the sounds. Wander. Explore whatever catches your interest. This is where the magic of the south of France lies. In these small little moments, when you take the time to explore and immerse yourself in the experience. The south of France truly is a delight for all senses. Take the time to enjoy it all.

We got a lesson in this on our very first night. We went into a cheese shop right at closing time and were prepared to rush as to “be polite” and not keep the shopkeeper past closing. She refused to let us rush and has us try all the cheeses and tell her what we thought of them before she would let us choose. A line built up behind us and she still took her time with us.

We noticed this across the board in the shops we visited. Shopkeepers will give you their undivided attention, regardless of what the line behind you is like. The people waiting in line are very patient, because they know that when it’s their turn, the shopkeeper will also be spending a lot of time with them.

The only people we saw get frustrated by this were non French tourists. We had several experiences where non French tourists were frustrated by having to wait and loudly huffed and puffed before stomping off. Each time it happened we apologized to the shop keeper and each time they told us not to worry about it, if those people didn’t want to wait then it’s too bad for them.

Another lesson to learn here: the customer is not always right in France. People will give you whatever they feel is the best service to them and they don’t really care what you think about it. They are more committed to being themselves and doing what they feel is right than customer satisfaction. I know that doesn’t really sound good, but we actually found it to be very refreshing.

6. The Mistral winds are a real thing

We heard so much about the Mistral winds before we went but we were still surprised by how truly strong they were. It was windy for the entire duration of our south of France road trip, but one day they were especially forceful and we had a difficult time being outside. We felt like we could actually be lifted away! The Mistral winds are especially strong in the winter and spring, although we felt them in the fall.

You’ll want to pay attention to wind speed when planning your outfit for the day. Even if the temperature is mild, high wind speeds can make it feel much closer. You’ll want to bring a few extra layers for when the winds pick up. 

7. Try to base your south of France itinerary around market days

Each town in the south of France has a specific market day or two each week. We highly recommend planning your south of France itinerary in a way where you see at least two markets. They are all very different and wonderful in their own special way. We’ve made a note in the itinerary of which markets you should prioritize seeing. 

One of our absolute favorite memories from our south of France road trip was visiting the local markets, buying all kinds of fresh produce, and coming back to our rental apartment to cook our own French meal. The produce in France is seasonal and so incredibly delicious. You’ve never tried a tomato until you try an in season tomato in Provence. Trust me on this. After coming back home, we missed this routine so much that we started going to our local farmers market weekly. (Further Reading: Life Lessons Learned After Traveling in France )

Books to read before your south of France trip

My Twenty-Five Years in Provence // Peter Mayle

Peter Mayle is the king of Provence memoirs. If you haven’t read any of his books, they are a must!

Markets of Provence: Food, Antiques, Crafts, and More // Marjorie Williams

A gorgeous pocket size guide to all the best markets in Provence. Filled with beautiful illustrations, maps, and tips to shopping the markets during your south of France road trip

The Most Beautiful Villages of France: The Official Guide // Les Plus Beaux Villages De France Assoc.

The offical guide book to all the most beautiful villages in France. While the photography is sometimes not the greatest, it’s an extremely helpful book and will help you add so many amazing villages to your list

Picnic in Provence // Elizabeth Bard

This book describes my dreams. The author writes about her life as she falls in love in Paris and her little family moves to Provence and opens an ice cream shop. Ever since visiting Provence and reading the book, I don’t stop talking about one day moving to Provence. Although she’s realistic about the ups and downs, it all sounds just magical!

————

Okay, whew! We know that was a lot of information. Feel free to ask us if you have any further questions. We hope this south of France itinerary helps you plan an epic south of France vacation! It’s one of our favorite places in the world and we hope you will enjoy it as much as we did!

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April 5, 2019 at 10:00 pm

This guide is absolutely superb. Such detailed and comprehensive guide, it feels I am almost travelling along. Stunning pictures.

April 5, 2019 at 10:01 pm

I’m so glad you liked it! It was one of our favorite trips!

April 6, 2019 at 12:28 am

What beautiful photos! Whilst I’ve spent a lot of time in the south-west of France, I’ve never explored Provence and your guide reminds how much I really ought to. Travelling by road and exploring small towns is just the most wonderful thing to do in France and I wholeheartedly agree that visiting on market day makes a place all the more special. Thank you for some great ideas – Gordes and Rousillion have been calling to me for a while, and now even more so!

April 6, 2019 at 12:54 pm

I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! I’m sure you will absolutely love Gordes and Roussillon! I really can’t imagine anyone not, they are such magical villages! I’d love to know what your favorites are in the south-west! We are always looking for new towns to visit.

April 6, 2019 at 4:38 am

Oh my gosh your photos are killing me!!!! We’re starting to look at a semester in Europe so we can take our time and explore a lot of new places- but this makes me want to go right this very second!!! We’ll surely be scheduling enough time for this part of France!!

April 6, 2019 at 12:52 pm

Writing this post actually killed me, haha. I want to be back there so badly! That’s amazing that you’re going to spend a semester in Europe! I hope you have an amazing time and get to spend a lot of time in the south of France!

April 6, 2019 at 6:51 am

As someone who’s done a South of France roadtrip during the winter, I’d absolutely discourage anyone from doing it at the time of the year. Everything was closed and empty and dead. Sure, it was cheaper, but we’d rather be able to eat French food at a restaurant and look at fields that aren’t full of dead lavender bushes and meet people instead of cats 😛 It was so disappointing, but we’re dying to go again in another season because it would be SO beautiful at any other time of the year!

Ah that’s such a bummer! I never recommend people go to Paris or the south of France in the winter ONLY. Paris especially has a lot of awesome pros to visiting in the winter, but not for your first time and only time. From what I’ve heard of the south of France it seems relatively similar? Did you go around the time that you could at least visit Christmas markets? Definitely go back another time! We went very late in the fall season and while things were starting to slow down and close, it was still lovely! Going in the spring this year!

April 6, 2019 at 7:26 am

Thank you for this great guide! All your pictures are STUNNING! I loved your tips about the French language too! Very helpful! I think around 10 days is perfect, and I love all the villages you were able to plan out to see. What was your favorite restaurant?

April 6, 2019 at 12:49 pm

So glad you liked the post! We had the BEST time! That’s so hard to choose. I think it’s a tie between Les Bories in Gordes and Le Vivier in L’Isle Sur la Sorgue!

April 11, 2019 at 2:25 am

Love a good pros and cons list 😍 This guide is so comprehensive. My friends and I did a weekend trip to Marseilles last summer and I wish we had had more time to do more! This makes me want to go back!

April 13, 2019 at 10:37 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I want to go back so badly too! There’s so much to do and see!

April 13, 2019 at 10:45 am

Such a lovely and detailed post!

Xoxo, Laura // afinnontheloose.com

April 13, 2019 at 10:53 am

I’m so glad you liked it! I hope it helps you plan your trip!

April 14, 2019 at 12:46 pm

What dreamy photos! I love the South of France and would include a visit to Renoir’s home in Cagnes-sur-mer as a must do!

April 16, 2019 at 6:10 pm

Oohh will add that to our list!

May 13, 2019 at 5:09 am

May 19, 2019 at 9:35 pm

So glad you liked the post! Definitely Le Vivier and Les Bories. Going back to both when we visit Provence again next week! Also, we are in Italy right now, but Bella Vita is still the best pasta we’ve ever had!

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8 beautiful road trips in France to take this summer

By Sarah James

Sure, driving to France takes longer than flying or getting the Eurostar. But the journey itself is part of the trip. Not just a method of transport for a holiday that only starts once you’re on the beach in Breton stripes, but part of the whole reason you’re going in the first place. You can stop wherever you like en route to gawp at a view, swim in the sea or have a picnic from the boot of the car. Almost all of the country can be reached in a day by road without needing to spend hours in the airport or be squeezed in next to a stranger on a brightly lit train. It’s a throwback to simpler breaks, before they became about getting far away as quickly as possible. Rediscover the joy of travelling through, not flying over, with our favourite driving holidays to France.

When can I drive to France?

It is possible to drive to France via the Eurotunnel currently. You will need to complete a health declaration before travelling, and will be expected to quarantine for 14 days both on arrival in France and when returning to the UK. Ferries for visitors are not running as of 18 June, but are expected to start this summer.

The Foreign Office is still advising against all non-essential travel overseas – always check before you book. The government is expected to announce an update about travel to France on 29 June. For more details, see our guide to where can Brits travel this summer?

TAKING THE EUROTUNNEL TO CALAIS

The Eurotunnel – also known as Le Shuttle – goes from Folkestone to Calais. It takes 35 minutes, with shuttles travelling up to four times an hour, and costs from £90 each way.

ILE DE RE ROAD TRIP

Best for: a slice of island life

Jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, Ile de Ré is where Parisians go for a long, sandy weekend. It’s just 18 miles long, with most island life centred around the pretty harbour town Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a UNESCO World Heritage site with terracotta rooftops and cobbled streets. The lovely ocean-view restaurants here are packed out in July and August (French schools go back after the summer at the end of August, so arriving in early September is a clever idea). Cycle from Saint-Martin-de-Ré to La Flotte, another seaside village. The softest, sandiest beaches are in the north of the island, but the wilder, less-crowded spots are to the west, backed by pine forests and tumbling dunes.

When to go: In September, when the French clear out and the streets get quieter.

Where to stay: Converted 17th-century house Hôtel de Toiras . Doubles from about £150.

Getting there: Take a ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo. The drive to Ile de Ré takes about 4 hours.

Ile de Ré guide

FRANCHE-COMTE ROAD TRIP

Best for: foodies

The drive from Calais to Franche-Comté, near France’s eastern border with Switzerland , hugs the northern regions before heading south. It takes about six and a half hours to drive the breadth of the country between the two. Stop in Reims, which is halfway along – it’s the largest city in the Champagne region and has a crop of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Big-name vineyards including Taittinger and Ruinart call Reims home, and both producers run cellar tours for visitors to see how the wines are made. From here, it's another four hours to Franche-Comté, a foodie corner that’s often overlooked in favour of nearby Burgundy. The quiet, simple way of life here revolves around long lunches starring its namesake Comté cheese, and exploring the local farmlands backed by the mountains of Jura.

When to go: In spring or summer to make the most of the locally grown produce.

Where to stay: Restaurant with rooms Château du Mont Joly .

Getting there: Take Le Shuttle from Folkestone to Calais (35 minutes). From Calais, drive to France-Comté (about 6.5 hours).

Franche-Comte: a guide to France's secret corner

THE FRENCH LAKE DISTRICT ROAD TRIP, Savoie and Haute-Savoie

Best for: wild swimming

Less raved about – by British travellers at least – than Italy’s great lakes , the French equivalent is a clever alternative to the country’s sometimes crowded Mediterranean coast. These three Alpine lakes have quiet beaches lapped by sparkling clear water. The drive from Calais will take up a day of your trip, so plan to stay for a while. The lakes – Annecy, Bourget and Aiguebelette – are utterly distinct from one another. Start in Annecy, which is the first town you hit on the route, where the streets wind alongside canals. Sailing clubs dominate one shore while the other is lined with villas and grand hotels – the village was part of the Kingdom of Sardinia until the late 1800s, which gives the whole place an Italian feel. Aix-les-Bains, on the deep Bourget, was once a spot for French aristocracy to take to the mountains, while nearby Le Bourget-du-Lac is more laidback. Of them all, little Aiguebelette is best for swimming – waters can skim 30°C in the summer.

When to go: The season here is much quieter than on the coast, even in the height of summer – come in July or August for a peaceful substitute for the French Riviera .

Where to stay: Farmhouse-turned-B&B La Bageatière . Doubles from £70.

Getting there: Take Le Shuttle from Folkestone to Calais (35 minutes). The drive from Calais to Annecy takes about 8 hours – break it up with stops in Reims or Dijon.

BONNELLES, Yvelines ROAD TRIP

Best for: countryside adventuring

Ditch notions of a rural French getaway requiring a crumbling château. Just 45 minutes outside Paris , a clutch of old barns set in 500 acres of woodland has been redefined as Le Barn, a relaxed country hotel. It’s a hideout for off-duty Parisians designed by local studio Be-poles, also responsible for cute 18th arrondissement spot La Pigalle . Those staying can be self-sufficient, which allows guests to go totally off-grid – there’s a pond to boat on, horses to ride, a restaurant, bags of room to cycle, a Nordic bath and even a pick-your-own vegetable patch. If you want to explore further, Paris is just a 40-minute train journey away (or drive to one of the city’s 24-hour car parks). But a stay here is more about slowing down and stepping back.

When to go : Le Barn is wonderful for children, so families should travel in the summer holidays or October half term.

Where to stay: Read our full review of Le Barn, one of the best family holidays in Europe .

Getting there: Take Le Shuttle from Folkestone to Calais (35 minutes). From Calais, drive to Bonnelles (about 3.5 hours).

PROVENCE ROAD TRIP

Best for: a hit of the Med

Those committed to a serious road trip can embark on the drive from Calais down to Provence . It’ll take at least 10 hours – stop in Burgundy’s capital, Dijon, which has a car-free medieval centre with timber gabled houses and cafés on pretty cobbled squares, or stay overnight in Lyon , which is about three hours north of Bouches-du-Rhône’s capital, Marseille. The long drive is rewarded with a clutch of fortified hilltop towns and colourful fields to explore when you arrive. Tiny, peaceful villages in the green Luberon – such as Oppède-le-Vieux – centre around ancient churches. Sleepy market town Eygalières has the craggy Alpilles as its backdrop, set on a hill with brilliant views of the scrubby vine-covered countryside below. For those craving the sea, shorefront Cassis, where the rocky Calanques rise out of the Mediterranean, is a chilled-out alternative to splashier Nice or Cannes.

When to go: Lavender season , which falls from June to July.

Where to stay: Everyone from F Scott Fitzgerald to Jean Cocteau has bedded down at Grand Hôtel Nord-Pinus in arty city Arles. Doubles from about £85.

Getting there: Take Le Shuttle from Folkestone to Calais (35 minutes). The drive from Calais takes about 10 hours.

The prettiest towns in Provence

LE PERCHE, NORMANDY ROAD TRIP

Best for: antique hunting

A couple of hours west of Paris in Normandy, rural La Perche is, unusually, better known for its orchards than its vineyards. Small villages set around 12th-century churches are knotted together by country lanes. It should lend itself to comparisons with the Cotswolds, except this corner is too much of a secret, too off the beaten track to compare. Parisians in the know are drawn to the region’s many antique shops, where carefully curated boutiques sell mid-century finds or paintings from the 1800s. Parc Naturel Régional du Perche was created in the 1990s to protect the area’s wild landscapes and natural resources. Excellent restaurants such as La Vie en Rouge in market-town capital Mortagne-au-Perche serve locally grown produce and wines at laidback lunches.

When to go: In autumn, when streets are quiet and rustic food joints and hotels have a cosy atmosphere.

Where to stay: D'une Ile , a cluster of guest houses with stone walls and roll-top baths. Doubles from about £75 a night.

Getting there: Take Le Shuttle from Folkestone to Calais (35 minutes). The drive from Calais takes about 6 hours.

A weekend break in Le Perche, Normandy

Ferries from the UK to France depart from Dover, Plymouth, Portsmouth and Poole and dock in Brittany and Normandy. Travelling overnight is our recommendation, so you’re rested for a day of driving once in France. Prices start at £190.

LOIRE VALLEY ROAD TRIP

Best for: wine lovers

The Loire is France’s longest river. French royalty used to favour the area for their getaways, and so the surrounding countryside is dotted with grand châteaux and impressive estates. The building of these manors meant that tiny villages and tons of vineyards cropped up in the area, too, and now the entire region is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its central setting means that it feels not quite like northern or southern France but rather its own entity entirely. Exploring the storybook châteaux, dominated by turrets and moats, is one way to spend a trip – more than 100 are open to the public. And the Loire Valley is one of France’s main wine-producing regions, with hundreds of vineyards to tour – grab a bike and cycle between them, refreshing with crisp glasses of local Sauvignon Blanc.

When to go: In October most of the crowds have disappeared, the weather is dry and warm, and the food is at its finest.

Where to stay: Château du Grand-Luce is a full-on French fairytale castle. Doubles rooms from about £430.

Getting there: Take an overnight ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo in Brittany. The drive to the Loire Valley takes about 3.5 hours.

The best châteaux in France

CAP FERRET ROAD TRIP

Best for: a smart seaside break

Known for its oysters, this tiny village sits at the end of a long peninsula buffeted by the Atlantic. It's an old-fashioned seaside getaway in the best sense: there’s a lighthouse to cycle to, boats bobbing in the waters, a long jetty to walk down. It is backed by Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe and, by our estimations, one of the best beaches in the world. Kids tumble down the sugary sand toward the sea, families walk along the shore to eat freshly caught seafood for lunch with toes dipped in the Atlantic. For a day of urbanity, Bordeaux is just over an hour’s drive east, and Arcachon, with its Art Nouveau architecture, an hour south.

**When to go:**In summer to make the most of the beach town.

Where to stay: La Maison du Bassin , minutes from the coast. Doubles from about £125.

Getting there: Take a ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo. The drive to Cap Ferret takes about 6 hours.

Cap Ferret guide - things to see and do

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Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need

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The South of France is simply perfection. It is a destination that truly entices your senses. Hints of lavender and handmade soap fill the air, tastes of cheeses and jams at the market delight the tastebuds, and even the views of hilltop villages and sun-drenched beaches will leave you breathless. And the best way to experience it is with a South of France road trip itinerary!

If you’re currently planning a trip to the South of France, you’ve probably realized by now that this area of the world has SO much to offer. This definitely makes creating a plan for 7 days in Provence tricky. 

However, after countless hours of research and dreaming, I have created a perfect 7-day South of France itinerary including stops in Avignon, the villages of the Luberon, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Cannes, and Nice that you’re 100% going to love. How do I know that? 

Well, I was just there and enjoyed the heck out of it. And yes, it is all super doable in just 7 days. So sit back, relax, dream of sunny days and rosé, and let’s get into it. 

What is Provence?

You’ve likely noticed above that I have used both “South of France” and “Provence” interchangeably. Well, Provence, or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, is a region in the southeast of France well-known for its Mediterranean beaches and lavender fields. 

It is also referred to as the South of France, especially among English speakers, even though it is not the only region that is in the south. 

Now, to break it down further, Provence is made up of 6 departments, which are administrative departments. These include Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse. 

In this Southern France itinerary, we’ll be visiting Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, and Alpes-Maritimes departments. 

Summary of the Ultimate South of France Itinerary in 7 Days

For a quick reference guide, here is a breakdown of where to go during a South of France road trip!

• Days 1-2: Avignon & Chateaunuef-du-Pape
• Day 3: Drive the Villages of the Luberon to Aix-en-Provence
• Day 4: Aix-en-Provence and Cassis
• Days 5-6: Cannes
• Day 7: Nice 

For more details of all the things to do in the best Provence itinerary, keep reading below! 

Only 7-Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

From charming villages to a chilled-out beach day, let’s talk about how to have the best South of France Itinerary in 7 days! 

Days 1-2: Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape

To start your Southern France itinerary, Avignon is always a great idea . Steeped in history, this city is a lovely spot to base yourself for exploring the town and nearby area. 

Then, because you’re in the Southern Rhône wine region, you’ve got to visit Chateauneuf-du-Pape! 

Day 1: Avignon & Pont du Gard 

For your first day, arrive in Avignon . Now, the easiest way to get to Avignon is via train. So, depending on where you’re coming from, you can easily take the train from Marseille or Paris. We spent 2 days in Paris beforehand, so we took the 2.5-hour train to Avignon. 

PS- Avignon is a great weekend trip from Paris too!

FYI- There are 2 main train stations in Avignon. The Avignon Centre Railway Station is just outside the city center. The Avignon TGV Railway Station is an 11-minute drive southwest of the city. 

This is super important to know because you’ll be renting a car in Avignon for your South of France road trip itinerary, so choosing the right station is key. Most car rental companies are located at the TGV Railway Station. 

Trust me, I made this mistake and had to Uber over to the correct station to get my car. 

Alright, once you’ve picked up your rental car, it is time to head into Avignon! 

On your first day in Avignon, the best thing to do is to wander around the old city. Have lunch at Cafe Saint-Jean with views of the square and the lovely Saint-Jean Tower. 

Pop into shops around the old city, including Autrefois , with local treats like nougat and callisons, and explore squares like the Place de l’Horloge , before hopping back into your car to visit Pont du Gard . 

Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes. 

This is a stunning area where you could spend a couple of hours walking down by the river, watching the kayakers float by, or you can even cross the bridge! 

Okay, you aren’t actually walking on the ancient structure, but rather on another bridge next to it. But you certainly get close! 

There are also ample hiking trails in the area and even a prehistoric cave. It is well worth spending the rest of the afternoon here before driving back to Avignon for dinner and drinks. 

And for dinner and drinks, definitely head to La Mirande . This 5-star luxury hotel is like stepping right into the Downtown Abbey drawing room. At least that is what it feels like when you have a seat at the salon with a handcrafted cocktail. 

Start with some dinner here at La Salle à Manger . Yes, you could eat at their Michelin-starred restaurant instead for their tasting menu, but if you don’t want to spend too much money, you can enjoy eating à la carte from La Salle à Manger. Trust me, it is just as delicious. 

Enjoy onion soup and delicious mackerel before heading to the bar post-dinner. 

The bar is the coziest spot for a drink with paintings on the wall, plush, 19th-century couches, and even a little fireplace. It is a delightful place for a martini and to wrap up the first day of your 1 week in the South of France. 

Day 2: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Fun fact: did you know that the popes used to live in Avignon? From 1309-1376 the popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome due to civil unrest. 

So, as you can imagine, they needed a place to stay. That is when the Pope’s Palace came to be. Construction began in 1335 and today you can visit this magnificent palace. 

I actually recommend purchasing a pass that includes the Pont de Benezet (or the Pont d’Avignon), Pope’s Palace , and the gardens. Then you can spend a few hours exploring these places. We purchased our passes at the Pont de Benezet.

After that, head to Les Halles to pick up provisions for dinner or some lunch. This massive indoor market has everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce and wine. 

Then, in the afternoon, it is time to get picked up for your wine tour of Chateauneuf-du-Pape .

We loved this tour as it visits 2 wineries and you learn a lot about the making of this wine, the wine of this region, and more. 

Plus, Chateauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to the New Castle of the Pope. It is named after the castle built for the second of the popes in Avignon: Pope John XII. 

During the tour, you’ll visit a couple of wineries as well as visit the ruins of the castle. It wraps up that evening, and then I recommend winding down your day with some cheese and wine that you picked up at the market earlier. 

Where to Stay in Avignon: 

There are so many great places to stay in Avignon. We stayed in this Airbnb complete with its own kitchen, comfortable bedroom, and a washer/dryer. However, if you wish to stay at a hotel, these are great options:

Budget: Regina Hotel

Mid-Range: Aux Augustins

Luxury: Hotel La Mirande

Day 3 of Your Provence Itinerary in 7 Days: Driving the Villages of the Luberon

Today is a transition day from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence. And while you could just drive straight to the next destination, now is the perfect time to really take in the villages of the Luberon during your 7-day Provence road trip! 

So grab a quick coffee and croissant before driving through the Luberon Regional Natural Park to see some of the most beautiful villages in France. Seriously, there is even an award called “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.” A couple of towns that you’re visiting today have this award. 

Of course, this area is also well-known for its lavender fields that bloom from mid-June through mid-July. So if you come during this period, expect some more crowds but also stunning lavender. 

But, even outside of the lavender season, this area is gorgeous. We visited in early October and had a great time driving through dreamy villages and enjoying a local market. 

Now there are plenty of stunning villages to drive through here, but, a must-see spot has to be Senanque Abbey . This abbey was founded in 1148 AD by Cistercian monks and is still a working abbey. 

It is gorgeous to visit on its own, but again, during the lavender season, this place really shines. It is surrounded by lavender. 

After the abbey, definitely check out Gordes . There is a lovely lookout spot for taking photos, but pass through the village or even stop at their market if you’re driving there on a Tuesday. This place was awarded one of the most beautiful villages in France, so it is worth a stop! 

Then, as it was a Saturday when we were driving the Luberon, we went to Apt specifically for their Saturday farmers market. Honestly, we were so impressed. It was so much fun to walk around, sampling jams, chutneys, cheeses, and sausages. 

We purchased so much just from this market including cheese, nougat, jam, handmade lavender soap, and more. Take some time here to grab essentials for a picnic lunch or just fill up at the market itself. 

FYI- Check out market days ahead of time while planning your itinerary. We chose to visit Apt for the market on Saturday, but there are markets all over the Luberon villages open on different days of the week. 

Also, many of these markets close up shop around 12:30 pm or so, meaning you’ll want to get there by at least 11:30 am to really take it all in. 

After Apt, it is time to hop back into the car and drive to another awarded beautiful village in France: Roussillon. Unlike other villages with limestone architecture, this place is red, orange, and yellow thanks to the ochre-rich cliffs. 

Wander in the village before walking along the Ochre Path to see the mineral-rich soil up close. There is a hiking path that is both 35 and 50 minutes long. 

Up next is Bonnieux , where you’ll stop in to try some rosé at a local winery: Chateau la Canorgue . This estate has free wine tastings and is just stunning. 

Then, definitely head to Lourmarin (another Plus Beaux Village winner) to see the Chateau de Lourmarin before stopping at Chateau Constantin for another tasting (drink responsibly, of course!). 

Then, last, but not least, as the day starts to turn into evening, head to Cucuron. This gorgeous little town has a basin lined with trees with ample cafes perfect for people-watching. We also loved the Citadel Tower with views over the little village. 

Once you’ve explored the Luberon, head into Aix-en-Provence for dinner and bedtime. 

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

Wake up and grab some breakfast before exploring the lovely city of Aix-en-Provence. Some highlights here include Cezanne’s Studio and Musee Granet. However, if you’re lucky and happen to be here on a Sunday as we were, it was fun just wandering around and visiting all the markets! 

There was a flower market, antique market, and food market that we visited and took in the scenery! It was also fun just to wander the streets and stop at confectionaries and other shops! 

Spend the morning exploring Aix-en-Provence before driving down to Cassis . 

Grab lunch by the harbor before going on a boat cruise of Calanques National Park . These Calanques are rock formations (typically from limestone) that create a deep gorge in which water from the sea flows. 

There is an option from Cassis to do a boat tour from the harbor with stops at either 3, 5, 8, or 9 Calanques. We ended up doing 5 as that lasted just over an hour (the longest tour is 2 hours and 20 minutes). You can buy tickets at the ticket booth and then go on the tour.

It was really cool to glide into these Calanques and enjoy the views! 

You could also hike to a few of the Calanques from Cassis if you have time. Or, if you want to get adventurous, why not take a kayak tour ? 

However, as we also wanted to explore more of Cassis and have dinner in Aix-en-Provence, we opted for the boat trip. 

After the boat cruise, we wandered around the harbor and ended with some beach time at Plage du Bestouan . 

After that, head back to Aix-en-Provence to explore during the evening before the next stop on your Southern France road trip. 

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence:

Aix-en-Provence has so many cute places to stay, including Airbnbs. We ended up staying in this amazing Airbnb that was our favorite apartment of the trip! However, if you prefer hotels, check out these places. 

Budget: Hotel des Augustins

Mid-Range: Renaissance Aix-en-Provence

Mid-Range: Maison Dauphine

Luxury: Villa Gallici

Days 5-6 of Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary: Cannes

Up next is the iconic star-studded town of Cannes ! Okay, there aren’t celebrities there year-round, just mostly during the Cannes Film Festival. 

Outside of that, this is a town of luxury shopping, delicious food, and beach clubs. 

Day 5: Drive to Cannes & Explore

Okay, there are two ways to shape this day during your South of France road trip in a week. The first is to go straight to Cannes and explore , which is what we did. 

We grabbed lunch, window-shopped at luxury stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, strolled along the Croisette Promenade as we took in the Mediterranean views, and then we hiked up to the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance and wandered at a stellar sunset view over the city and sea. 

Then, we wrapped up our day with dinner at Restaurant Mickaella over in the Suquet neighborhood. Honestly, this neighborhood is the place to grab dinner and drinks. The stuff along the harbor is way too crowded in the evenings. This place has such a cool vibe and the restaurants are better. 

If you’re visiting during the lavender season and have the energy, you could make this another road trip day and visit the lavender fields in the Valensole Plateau and stop by Gorge du Verdon for a boat trip. 

Then, you’d end up in Cannes in the evening for dinner. 

Honestly, we were wiped from all the previous exploring (and we weren’t there during the lavender season) so we gave it a skip and went straight to Cannes, but it was in our original plan before having to reschedule our trip to October! 

Day 6: Beach Day in Cannes

Regardless of yesterday’s choose-your-own-adventure, today is meant for resting. The main point of our journey to Cannes was for a beach day. Why? 

While there are tons of great beaches along the French Riviera , Cannes is known for its sandy beaches versus pebbly ones. Plus, I always wanted to try out a beach club. 

So today is the day when you’ll head to a beach club off the Croissette Promenade for the day. Many of these places open up around 10 am and stay open until the evening. We ended up booking a spot at La Plage du Festival . 

And it was super adorable. You head downstairs from the promenade and are met with a colorful cocktail bar, ample seating for lunch, and several beach chairs and umbrellas. During the summertime, chairs go for €40-50+ for the day and include the chair, umbrella, and a towel. 

Luckily, if you show up in the fall, it usually is still warm enough for a swim and it is only around €25 for the day. 

So take advantage of having a beach chair all day and relax, read, go for a swim, have lunch, and get some rosé or Aperol spritzes. 

Then, clean up that evening and have dinner around the Suquet area again before your last day of the best 1 week South of France trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cannes: 

This can range wildly in prices as there are ample luxurious hotels. But, here are some based on your budget. 

Budget:  Novotel Suites Cannes Centre

Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence

Luxury: Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

Day 7 of the South of France Road Trip in a Week: Nice

To wrap up your South of France road trip, it is time to head to Nice. 

Nice is an iconic city on the French Riviera and for good reason. Its architecture is stunning, it has a fabulous market, and you can’t beat the relaxed atmosphere. 

So after a day pampering yourself by the beach in Cannes, why not end by exploring the city of Nice ?

Start off by driving toward the Nice Côte d’Azur airport to drop off your rental car. And even though it adds a bit more time, take the scenic route. There is a road that goes along the coast that you can take (I suggest using Google Maps and selecting that route). 

You’ll pass Antibes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, and more as you head to the Nice airport to drop off your rental car. 

Yes, you could just drop it off when you fly out the next day, but if you have an early flight this could be tricky. Plus, parking in Nice can be difficult so we just saved some money and dropped off the car this day. 

From there, head into Nice to explore. Walk along the Promenade des Anglais along the sea, visit the Cours Saleya Market for last-minute souvenirs and to try socca (a chickpea flour pancake with water, olive oil, and salt), and wander up to the Colline du Château for amazing views over the town and sea.

If you want to keep wandering, there are also cool spots to check out like Massena Square with its light-up statues or the Modern Art Museum. 

Obviously, there is a ton to do here, but if you only have a day, I’d keep it simple with the promenade, market, and chateau. Then, why not check out the beach before dinner? 

Then, it is time to head to bed as you unwind from your amazing South of France road trip itinerary! 

It is hard to leave this part of the world, but this trip will leave you with so many memories. 

Where to Stay in Nice:

Being a larger city, there are plenty of places to stay. Here are a few favorites. 

Budget: Arome Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

Best Way to Get Around the South of France

While this is a South of France road trip itinerary, there are other ways to explore this area. If you want to see smaller towns on your own schedule, though, renting a car is the best idea. 

But, you can also take trains to various cities like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, Cassis, and Nice. 

From there, you could stay and take day trips. Here are a few to check out! 

• From Avignon: Best of Provence Tour
• From Avignon: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Avignon: Lavender Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Half-Day Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride and Wine Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Valensole Lavender Tour
• From Nice: Full-Day French Riviera Day Tour

When to Visit Provence For Your 7-Day Trip

The most popular time to visit Provence is the summer, particularly when the lavender is in bloom from mid-June through mid-July. That is when Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon villages will be full of people dreaming of a glimpse of the lavender fields. 

It is also warm and sunny along the beaches, making it a perfect time to swim. 

However, it is also insanely crowded at times. So while late May through August is a popular time to visit, I honestly loved our October trip. 

In October, it is still warm enough to swim most of the time in the earlier part of the month. We had a beach day in Cannes and it was great! We also started to see fall foliage which was charming, especially in the villages. 

Even the winter is much nicer than in northern France, especially along the Riviera. But, I’d say the best time for fewer people and great weather is September-October. 

But, if you’re here for lavender (which I totally understand- we were originally supposed to go for that!), opt for the beginning of July. 

Other Tips For Visiting Provence

Before you book that Provence road trip itinerary, here are some tips:

• Check dates/times of markets. Almost every city and village will have a market. Some are several days a week, while others are once a week. Most of the time they don’t stay open late. The Luberon markets typically wrap up around 12:30 pm. Markets like Les Halles in Avignon close at 2 pm. 
• Enjoy a slower pace. Some days we rushed to see a lot, but on others we relaxed and wandered. Leave room to wander during this trip. Stop at roadside cafes or shops and poke inside. Head to a winery. Pull over near the beach and go for a swim if you wish! Provence is meant to be savored. 
• Pack sunscreen. Provence is a sunny region, so pack sunscreen ! 
• Learn a little French. I’m not saying be fluent (I’m still learning too!), but know a few words/phrases like how to order at a restaurant and ask where the toilets are.
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a France travel thing in general. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Try all the local products! Provence has a plethora of unique products to try including soap, lavender (sprays, candy, syrups-you name it, there is lavender for it), aioli, spices, socca, and more! You may want to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs. 
• Have fun! Provence is a stunning region full of jaw-dropping views and delightful cuisine. Enjoy every second during your 7 days in the South of France. 

A 7-day South of France itinerary is enough time to really savor Provence. You’ll experience local markets, incredible cuisine, dazzling beaches, and even enchanting towns. What could be better than that? 

Would you visit Provence? What would your ideal South of France itinerary look like? 

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16 thoughts on “Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need”

Thank you for this article I enjoyed reading it and I look forward to those vacation more than ever now

Hi am really keen on going to all these places but how did you go with parking your car in each village. Is it expensive and easy to do . I am going in October too

Hi Davinya! Parking isn’t too bad, especially since you’re traveling in the shoulder season. There are places to park around towns and you’ll either need to download a parking app to pay or pay at a pay station. Some bigger towns, like Aix-en-Provence, even have parking garages you can use as well. Parking wasn’t too bad in price either.

Hello there! I just finished reading your article about a South of France road trip itinerary in 7 days, and I must say, it’s an absolutely stunning and enticing journey through this beautiful region. The South of France has always been a dream destination for me, and your detailed insights and recommendations have left me even more eager to embark on this unforgettable road trip.

Your suggested itinerary for the South of France is well-planned and covers a diverse range of experiences. From the charming city of Nice to the picturesque lavender fields of Provence, you’ve curated a perfect route that captures the essence of this enchanting region.

I loved how you included practical tips for travelers, such as the best time to visit and recommended stops along the way. Your insights on where to indulge in delicious French cuisine and experience the local culture were very helpful.

The inclusion of lesser-known gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions was a wonderful addition. It’s evident that you want your readers to have a well-rounded and authentic journey through the South of France.

The captivating images throughout the article truly bring the destinations to life, making me feel like I’m already on this scenic road trip.

Thank you for sharing such a valuable and inspiring guide. Your article is a fantastic resource for travelers planning a South of France road trip, and I’ll be sure to refer to your tips when I plan my own journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel insights and recommendations!

Thank you! That is high praise! I hope you get to enjoy the South of France soon!

Thank you for sharing this it is very helpful

Hello Kat, my family is planning a trip to the south of France in October 2024. I was wondering what would be the best itinerary for a 2 week trip in car leaving from Paris and returning back to Paris. There are so many beautiful villages in the south and will need advice on the best villages to see and stay. Thanks

Hi Nelson! Have so much fun, the South of France is truly incredible. I would definitely recommend spending 7 days doing this itinerary, but, since you have some extra time, I would recommend spending a couple of days in the Luberon and perhaps staying in a town like Gordes. I also would recommend checking out Antibes and Saint-Tropez if you would like to go to more beach destinations. If you want more smaller towns to enjoy, check out L’Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue for its canals and its Sunday market, Grasse if you love perfume (it’s the perfume capital of the world!), and even Saint-Remy-de-Provence for its architecture and landscapes that once inspired Van Gogh. Since you’re driving all the way to Provence from Paris, you could also spend some time in Dijon and the villages of Burgundy as well as Lyon on the way down and perhaps stop by some chateaux of the Loire Valley on the way back to Paris. I hope this helps and have fun!

Hi, Regarding your comment below- is this accessible by train or is there an easy way to see the bridge without hiring a car?

“Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes.”

Yes, it is easiest to see via car. However, you can take the train into Avignon and take Bus Line 115 to Pont du Gard. Timetables can be found here: https://storage.googleapis.com/is-wp-90-prod/uploads-preprod/2023/08/OC-0723-FHliO-30-115.pdf

Hi- is Senanque Abbey or the lavender fields accessible by public transport?

Sadly, this is not available via public transport. However, you could book a tour that stops here. This is a good tour that stops at Senanque Abbey during June and July for the lavender fields: https://gyg.me/UQNw8u9z

Hi Kat, I think you have just sorted out my summer vacation! Thank you so much for the details, pictures and amazing descriptions. I am just wondering how feasible this is to do on a budget and if you have anymore money saving recommendations.

Thanks so much 🙂 x

You’re welcome! You’re going to fall in love with the South of France! It wasn’t too terribly expensive when we went. However, it was in late September/early October. If you can go before peak season of July and August, that helps a bit. Also, instead of renting a car, you could take the train around to the cities and do day trips to places like the Luberon via a tour. Also, there are some B&Bs and hotels that can be found in these places for less money- I like checking for prices on TripAdvisor. Also, you can potentially grab Airbnbs and such too with a kitchen to save some $$$ on dining out every day. I hope this helps and have a great time!

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South of France Road Trip: The Ultimate Two-Week Itinerary

This South of France road trip itinerary is the perfect French holiday for those looking for beautiful beaches, adorable little villages, stunning coastal views, and delicious food. The climate in this area of France is wonderful with long summer days that stretch through to September and October. Winters in Southern France, especially along the Mediterranean coast, are always mild.

If this is your first time in the region, this South of France road trip itinerary will be perfect for you. It takes you through smaller towns, seaside retreats, lush vineyards, larger cities, and the beautiful lavender fields in Provence. You can use some of the larger cities as a base while exploring the smaller towns and villages. You can definitely mix things around in this itinerary if you want to.

There are so many places to visit in this region and of course, time is always of the essence when you are exploring new places.

We’ve put in a lot of thought into what worked best after our experience traveling through the region to bring you this is the ultimate South of France road trip itinerary. These are our tips to make the most of what these regions offer and are meant as a guide to help your Southern France road trip planning.

We’ve broken this down into various regions and included some villages/ towns that you can visit along the way. We have no doubt you’ll find places that you will want to visit more than others or you may even try to cram in as much as you can in your two weeks there! This itinerary for two weeks in the South of France is a great trip to do for families traveling with kids.

Table of Contents

South of France road trip overview

• Start:  Nice
• Suggested route:  Nice ⇒ Monaco ⇒ Cannes ⇒ Aix-en-Provence ⇒ Avignon ⇒ Montpellier ⇒Toulouse ⇒ Bordeaux
• Finish:  Bordeaux
• Duration:  14 days
• Regions covered:  Côte d’Azur, Provence-Alpes, Occitanie
• Best for:  History, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food
• Day 1: Nice (4 nights)
• Day 2: Nice

Day 3: Monaco

Day 4: cannes.

• Day 5: Aix-en-Provence (1 night)
• Day 6: Villages in Provence ⇒ Avignon (2 nights)

Day 7: Avignon

Day 8: pont du guard ⇒ uzès ⇒ nîmes.

• Day 9: Montpellier (2 nights)

Day 10: Sète

• Day 11: Montpellier ⇒ Carcasonne ⇒ Toulouse (2 nights)

Day 12: Toulouse

• Day 13: Bordeaux (2 nights)

Day 14: Bordeaux

Starting point for your south of france road trip itinerary.

This South of France road trip starts in Nice and ends in Bordeaux. The itinerary covers some of the best places to visit in the South of France. Nice is easy to reach by train from Paris or Milan or another country.

You can of course change things around and start in Toulouse or Bordeaux and finish in Nice if you really wanted to. It really all depends on where you are flying in from and what your budget is. Nice, Toulouse, and Bordeaux all have significant airports in France.

How long do you need in the South of France?

In a perfect world, you could spend weeks or even months exploring all the hidden treasures in the South of France. But if you have two weeks in the South of France, you’ll be able to cover a reasonable amount. I’d say allow a minimum of two weeks to make it a worthwhile trip. Anything less will seem like a rush.

What’s included in this South of France road trip Itinerary

The South of France is so much more than the glitzy towns of Nice or Saint – Tropez. It’s broken into many different regions that consist of everything from seaside towns, medieval countryside villages to some of the South of France’s less touristy cities like Montpellier.

South of France comprises of a number of regions that are covered in this two-week itinerary: The Cote D’Azur (also known as The French Riviera), Provence, Occitanie and Brodeaux.

Côte d’Azur (a.k.a The French Riviera): The Côte d’Azur or French Riviera is filled with glitz and glamour and includes some popular places such as Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and Saint Tropez.

Provence: Provence is one of the most visited areas in the South of France. The lush countryside bursts with charm and history. You’ll find plenty of medieval hilltop towns, beautiful laver fields, and a number of open-air markets. Areas covered in this region are Aix-en-Provence, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Gordes, Uzes, and Avignon.

Occitanie: This region is the southernmost region in France and includes two large cities, Toulouse and Montpellier. Occitanie’s Mediterranean shoreline, mountain ranges, and historical and cultural identity make it a popular tourist destination in France.

Bordeaux Region: Bordeaux is so much more than a city in France. It’s an entire region known for its wine production. Being able to visit and see firsthand how the process takes place and sampling the wine, is one of the best things you will do. And if you don’t drink wine, there’s still plenty this region has to offer.

Wherever you base yourself, there will always be a myriad of villages and towns close by. So don’t feel like you have to do it all. Just pick the places that really appeal to you and enjoy them while you are there.

The South of France invokes many different images; for some, it’s the food, for others, it’s a glamorous getaway in the French Riviera or a visit through some of the hidden treasures. With so many great places to visit, beautiful scenery, food, and culture that is hard to beat; the South of France is a region where there’s truly something for everyone.

In this itinerary, we’ll cover the most beautiful French cities, medieval towns, and natural wonders, and end off in the lush regions of the wine country.

The first stop on this incredible adventure is Nice. We based ourselves in Nice for a few days and used this time to explore the Cote d’Azur. Our check-in for our AirBnb wasn’t till later that afternoon. So, we used the time to drive around the area to get a feel for things.

Day 1: Arrive in Nice, explore Nice and Villefranche–sur–Mer

Nice is known for its beautiful waterfront promenade, lush gardens, and beautiful beaches. Arrive at Nice in the morning if you can or alternatively, the day before you start your South of France road trip. You’ll spend 4 nights here exploring the Cote d’Azur.

On arrival in Nice, we picked up our leased car and went to the neighboring town, Villefranche-sur-Mer . What a dream this little seaside town was! It is a hidden gem in the French Riviera!

Take a stroll through the Old Town and spend a few hours getting lost in the narrow cobbled streets. At the foot of the Old Town is the Romanesque Saint-Pierre Chapel. This chapel is small but worth the visit. The best thing to do in Villefranche is to walk around town and spend some time relaxing by the water. We grabbed some lunch and did exactly that.

Later in the afternoon make your way back to Nice and checked into your accommodation if you haven’t already. Our little Airbnb was the cutest little place that offered great views of the sea.

Exploring Nice

Walk through the narrow streets of Promenade des Anglais to soak up the sights of the gorgeously blue Mediterranean Sea. You never tire of strolling along this famous avenue which runs along the coast for 8 kilometers. The city is beautiful and displays traces of many different styles.

Find a cute restaurant by the beach along the way and grab an early dinner. Alternatively, grab some food from the supermarket and have a picnic at the beach. Either way, soak up the atmosphere along the French Riviera, you’ll definitely be in for a treat.

We happened to be in Nice on Assumption Day and witnessed a huge firework display that evening which we thoroughly enjoyed. It does get pretty crowded so if you aren’t a fan of the crowds, find a spot in the distance and enjoy the fireworks display.

Day 2: Explore Nice

Today you’ll continue exploring Nice. The city is known for its glittering Mediterranean beaches, picturesque Old Town, and its century-old promenade. You can spend 2 to 3 days discovering Nice. There’s something irrevocably special about the city.

Things to do in Nice

• Go for a scenic walk along Promenade des Anglais
• Explore the Vieille Ville (Old Town) on foot
• Marvel at the Musée Matisse
• Visit the gorgeous Dome of the Nice Cathedral
• Buy colorful fresh flowers in the Cours Saleya Market
• Sample the famous Niçoise Salad
• Experience the colorful Nice Carnival
• Discover the idyllic French Riviera beaches
• Take day trips to neighboring cities or towns

Start day 3 nice and early. You’ll want to head to the train station to catch one of the first few trains to Monaco. You only have a day in Monaco, so you’ll definitely want to check out the best things to do in Monaco to make the most of your time there.

This independent city-state on the French Riviera is known for its yacht-lined harbor, upscale casino, and prestigious Grand Prix. Monaco is the perfect day trip from Nice. It’s about a 30-minute train journey and slightly longer on the bus.

You’ll be wondering why we’ve suggested catching a train when you’ve probably hired a car for your duration in the South of France. We recommend against driving to Monaco. It’s a busy place, parking can be hard to find and expensive. Whereas a bus or train ride is very affordable and most of Monaco is easily walkable. We provide more detail in our Monaco guide .

You’ll spend most of day 3 sightseeing in Monaco. The key to exploring Monaco is to see the things that make it special – the glamour and the opulence. But also to go a little deeper to discover its heritage and local life. You’ll find the best things to do in Monaco are a mix of all of these.

Things to do in Monaco

• Stroll through Old Town
• Visit Palais du Prince (The Prince’s Palace)
• Marvel at the Monaco Cathedral
• Visit Oceanographic Museum
• Take in beautiful views at Port de Fontvieille Viewpoint
• Wander around Jardin Exotique
• Explore Monaco Harbour
• Take a walk along the Formula One Track
• Take a few photos at the Casino Square
• Visit the famous Monte Carlo Casino
• Coffee at Cafe de Paris
• Monte Carlo neighborhood
• Visit the Japanese Gardens
• Watch a race at the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix

On your return to Nice you could head back to Promenade des Anglais for some dinner. Alternatively, grab some food and take it back to your apartment or hotel and have a relaxing evening. We choose to stay in and enjoy the views from our balcony.

You’ll drive to Cannes from Nice this morning (you can also take a train if you prefer). There are plenty of parking garages so check ahead so you know exactly where to head to when you get to the city.

Cannes is your last stop on the French Riviera. Known for its luxurious accommodations, private beach clubs, and high-end shopping, as well as the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, Cannes truly is a dream destination for many travelers. You’ll find the rich and famous spending their free time in this city. Cannes is the kind of place you visit when you want to relax and enjoy some luxury.

Things to do in Cannes

• Explore Le Suquet (the Old Town)
• La Croix des Gardes neighborhood
• Take a photo on the famous Red Carpet
• Find the walk of stars
• The Old Port
• Take a stroll down Boulevard de La Croisette
• Unwind on the beautiful sandy beaches
• Have a drink at one of the luxury hotels
• Climb up to the castle

Other destinations in the French Riviera include Saint-Tropez which is where you’ll find the rich and famous holidaying. The French Riviera also has smaller lesser-known towns that are full of charm; Antibes, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, and Menton.

However, with this two-week Southern France itinerary, we chose to visit a few of the places to allow us more time to explore the rest of South France.

Day 5: Aix – en – Provence

From Cannes, you’ll make your way to Aix-en-Provence, a typical Provencal city in Southern France. The drive from Cannes to Aix is about 1 hr 45 mins.

Aix’s historic center boasts beautiful architecture, and artistic heritage inspired by the greatest and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains. The markets of Aix are also worth exploring alongside the historical monuments. Aix-en-Provence exudes an undeniable charm, you have to walk through its streets and squares to experience it. You’ll spend a night here which will give you a chance to relax before you start the next leg of this Southern France road trip.

The old center of Aix is small enough to explore on foot. The main center of Aix is lined with cafes, restaurants, and plenty of places to relax and enjoy the sun.

Things to do in Aix – en – Provence

• Take a walk through the city center and Old Aix
• Visit Cathedral de Aix-en-Provence
• Explore the Mazarin neighborhood
• Taste the famous calissons (a mix of almonds and candied melon with orange blossom fragrance, marzipan is a sun trap all by itself. This is the specialty of Aix-en-Provence)
• Head to Granet Museum (art museum)
• Take a walk through the gardens at Hotel de Caumont
• Visit Montagne Sainte-Victoire (if you feel up to a hike)

Market days in Aix-en-Provence are Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. You can find local products, antiques, and local crafts.

Marseille is about a 30-minute drive from Aix. So if you are feeling up to it in the evening, you can head to Marseille for great shopping and a delicious meal. It’s a city worth exploring however, with only 2 weeks in this itinerary, you’ll have to pick and choose what places you really want to visit.

Sightseeing in Marseille

• Notre-Dame de la Garde 
• Château d’If
• Cathédral de La Major
• MuCEM – Museum of Europe and Mediterranean Civilizations
• La Panier – the oldest district

Day 6: Explore small villages in Provence ⇒ Avignon

You’ll depart Aix-en-Provence nice and early to make your way to Avignon. You’ll spend 2 nights in this city exploring the region.

On your way to Avignon, you will explore the Luberon region including the beautiful villages of Provence such as Lourmarin, Roussillon, and Gordes. These villages will see you come across local farmers’ markets, beautiful streets lined with olive trees, and incredible lavender scents.

• Aix-en-Provence – Lourmarin – 40 mins
• Lourmarin – Roussillon – 35 mins
• Roussillon – Gordes – 18 mins

The Luberon Valley is known for its beauty and is a must-visit on any Provence itinerary. With beautiful hilltop villages and rolling countryside filled with lavender fields, this part of your Southern France road trip will blow your minds as it did ours.

A visit to the Luberon is to walk through the narrow streets of the perfectly perched villages such as Gordes or Lourmarin, to hike in the Ochres de Roussillon, or discover the local Provençal markets.

Nestled in the heart of vineyards, the village of Lourmarin is one of Southern France’s most beautiful villages and offers picturesque scenery, historical attractions, and delicious local cuisine. Take a walk through its narrow cobblestone streets and grab a coffee at one of the quaint cafes, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle of the city.

The walk through the village is an absolute delight. You can explore the village’s beautiful chateau, stroll through its lush vineyards, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Don’t miss the bell tower that houses the village clock. It was built in the 17th century.

Roussillon is another small village that sits at the foot of the Vaucluse mountains. It’s filled with cafes, galleries, and markets. It is famous for its colorful houses and its ocher quarries and its uniqueness comes from the orange–yellow–red cliffs. This along with the lush green vegetation and blue sky makes Roussillon magical.

Plan to spend a couple of hours here to explore the town and walk the ochre trail that goes through the natural red quarries and cliffs. The town is full of old red buildings with colorful doors. It’s a must-see on a road trip through the Provence region

Be sure to climb to the very top of the village where you’ll get incredible views of the Vaucluse mountains and Mont Ventoux. There is also a museum, Ôkhra, the Ocher eco-museum, which offers a very interesting experience. You can take a guided tour to learn all about ochres and colors, from prehistory to the present day.

Senanque Abbey

Before you make your way to Gordes, take a slight detour and head to Abbey Senaque, a sight in Provence you definitely don’t want to miss. It’s a fully functioning monastery that was founded in the 12th century and is one of the most picturesque sights you will come across in this region. They have guided tours that start every hour, and it’s one of the best ways to soak in all of the information.

They also have a little shop where you can buy some amazing lavender products and delicious fig jam.

You’ll finally finish off with this region in beautiful Gordes, a Provençal village perched up on a hilltop. Gordes is one of the most well-known hillside villages in Provence. Tourists flock to this region to take in the incredible views and atmosphere of the village. Its charm has a way of captivating everyone who visits.

Take a walk through the cobbled streets and discover the cute houses, dry stone walls, fountains, and an incredible panoramic view. In the center of Gordes, you’ll find a 10th-century castle that houses the town hall. Don’t forget to stop by Saint Firmin church, built in the 18 th century.

They have a weekly farmers market that runs on Tuesdays, so if you happen to be here on this day be sure to take a walk through the market. You can find some great local delicacies here.

You can finish your time off in this region by grabbing dinner at one of the local spots in Gordes. Then make your way to Avignon where you’ll spend the next 2 nights.

Depending on when you get into Avignon, settle into your accommodation and get a first glimpse of the city. You can make your way into town and visit the impressive Papal Palace. Avignon was once the home of popes so this place is not one to miss off the itinerary.

Today is all about exploring the city of Avignon. Avignon is a historic city best known for being the location the Popes fled to after leaving Rome in the 14th century. This led to the construction of the incredible Palais des Papes – one of the city’s most famous attractions. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as you walk through its ancient streets, you will quickly understand why! Staying here will make you feel like you are transported back in time.

The city is a popular base for exploring the wider Provence region. It has its own attractions that has a way of charming people over. In the center, you’ll find restaurants and cafes where you can stop for a well-deserved break. The streets of Avignon are filled with history and music bustling the inner-city walls.

The Notre-Dame-des-Doms cathedral, built  in  the 12th century, is famous for its bell tower at the top of which sits a golden Virgin. The stained glass windows and frescoes are sumptuous! On leaving the cathedral, be sure to cool off in Jardin des Doms (Dom’s garden’). A real haven of peace!

Here are some of the top things to do in Avignon:

• Marvel at Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace)
• Place du Palais
• Take a stroll along Pont Saint -Bénézet
• Basilique Saint-Pierre d’Avignon
• Place de l’Horloge
• Rue des Teinturiers
• Avignon Les Halles
• Take a cruise along the Rhone
• Visit the city’s museums

While you’re in Avignon, you’ll absolutely want to visit the Pont Du Gard. The 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct is incredibly impressive and only a 30-minute drive from Avignon. You’ll do this tomorrow after a good night’s rest.

Make your way to Pont du Guard from Avignon. You’ll want to get there when it opens to ensure you get a good parking spot and avoid larger crowds that make their way through the day.

The aqueduct is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman buildings. Pont du Guard is the most visited ancient monument in France and remains one of humankind’s greatest masterpieces. You have to see it for yourself to understand the magnitude of this structure.

It is 48 metres high, has three vertical rows of arches: 6 on the lowest level, 11 on the second level and 35 on the third and top level. It served as an aqueduct until the 6th century before becoming a tollgate in the Middle Ages and finally a road bridge from the 18th to 20th century.  

The admissions ticket to the site allows entry to the facilities situated on the two banks of the Gardon:

• The Museum of the Pont du Gard, which you can learn about the history of the aqueduct’s construction
• A small cinema showcasing the site
• An outdoor exhibition about human occupation here since 2000 years ago
• Ludo, an entertaining and educational space for children
• Temporary artistic and scientific exhibitions
• A restaurant-cafeteria on both sides of the river

Pack a swimsuit and a picnic to take with you. When you first get there, you can walk around and cross the bridge. Find a spot where you can set up your picnic and enjoy a swim. You can also kayak under the bridge if you are feeling up to it.

It’s a fascinating historic site and one that you shouldn’t miss if you are traveling through this region.

After lunch head back on the road and make your way to Uzès which is about 20 minutes from Pont du Guard.

Known for its Middle Ages Bell Tower and picture-perfect market square, Uzès is a place you must explore for a couple of hours. You can pick up a map at the tourist office which will give you a walking route of the town. Like most small French towns, you cannot drive through the town.

Walk through the cobblestone streets, pop into a café, and grab some delicious pastries. Indulge as you walk through the town center. We found a shady tree in the central square of Place aux Herbes and sat there while we enjoyed our croissants and macaroons. La Fougasse d’Uzès has some delicious french pastry. We went back for more!

Be sure to visit the Uzè Cathedral as you make your way through the town.

Your last stop for the day in the Occitanie region is Nîmes, a 30-minute drive from Uzès. Visiting Nîmes will be like stepping back in time. Nîmes is home to several well-preserved architectural marvels from the Roman Empire, the most important one being the Arène de Nîmes (the Roman Arena), which is still used for concerts and events.

Stop by to get some gelato and snacks before you walk through the scenic 18th-century garden, Jardins de la Fontaine. Grab a seat under a tree and enjoy some quiet time here.

Other notable attractions in Nîmes include:

• Amphitheatre of Nîmes
• Nîmes Old Town and Place du Marché
• Maison Carrée
• Temple de Diane
• Carré d’Art
• La Tour Magne
• Jardin de la Fontaine

You can grab some dinner in Nîmes or head back to the town center in Avignon and finish your night off there.

Day 9: Montpellier

On day 9, you’ll make your way to Montpellier. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Avignon.

Montpellier is one of the larger cities in France but sneaks under the mass tourism radar. Most of the main attractions in Montpellier can be found in the rather condensed historic city center.

The city is best explored on foot. Make your way through the cobbled streets and discover historic monuments, museums, churches, and art galleries, or stop by one of the cafes for a bit of a break from all the sightseeing.

The weather here is incredible boasting 300 sunny days a year. So, you should have no problems exploring the city on foot.

Some of the best places to visit in Montpellier are as follows:

• Promenade du Peyrou
• Place de la Comédie
• L’Écusson (Old Montpellier)
• Cathédrale Saint-Pierre
• Quartier Saint-Roch
• Palais des Congrès de France

You’ll spend 2 nights in Montpellier to give you a bit of a breather from the fast-paced itinerary.

Sète wasn’t even a town we had heard of prior to visiting the South of France. It was when we got to the country, that our friend who is a local, suggested we make a day trip to this cute town. It’s only 45 minutes from Montpellier. If you are driving, there are a few car parks around the city, but these can get quite busy. So just be mindful of this when visiting.

Sète is etched with waterways and boasts a beautiful old port. The town falls into two parts, the low and high town. The port, canals, and bridges cover the low town, while the high town covers Mont St Clair.

It is referred to by the locals as the Venice of Languedoc. The town lies at the foot of Mont St. Clair, 175 meters above sea level. You get spectacular views of the town from the top of Mt St. Clair. You can hike, drive or catch the bus to the top.

Every year Sète hosts the ‘Joutes de Sète’ a jousting tournament from boats. The competition takes place from the end of June to the beginning of September. So if you are around this time of the year, try and plan your visit to the town during this time.

If you are short on time, take a  ‘little train’ guided tour to see the highlights of Sète.

Top attractions in Sète include:

• Sète Old Port
• Cimetière Marin
• Water Jousting
• Saint-Louis Lighthouse
• Mont Saint-Clair
• Notre-Dame-de-la-Salette
• Musée Paul Valéry
• Petit Train
• Delicious Gastronomy

Day 11: Montpellier ⇒ Carcasonne ⇒ Toulouse

On departing Montpellier, you’ll make your way to Toulouse. But before, you’ll explore a charming medieval town on the way called Carcassone.

Where do we even begin when it comes to Carcassonne? The walled, fortified city is best known for its historic city center that has been heavily restored. The city is now considered a UNESCO world heritage site. You’re guaranteed to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time and been transported right into the Middle Ages.

The city’s walls are 3km long (1.9 miles) and include 52 huge towers. There are only a handful of houses where residents live permanently within the city walls.

You can park your car in the parking lot and head over to explore the city. The beauty is you can enter and just walk through inside the city walls.

When you are done exploring Carcassone, you’ll make your way to  Toulouse.  Take your time to get there. Tomorrow, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city. Check in to your accommodation and get the first glimpse of the place.

Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France and is also known as the ‘Pink City’, where you’ll see plenty of buildings built with pale-colored bricks.

The city offers plenty of art, culture, history, and of course, mind-blowing gastronomy. Toulouse is the perfect place to try some delicious cuisine from the French countryside.

Did you know that the headquarters of European Airbus and the French space agency are located in Toulouse? If you are a space enthusiast, check out the City of Space.

You’ll have the whole day to wander around the city at your own pace. Explore the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city. The food here is some of the most divine French cuisine.

Top attractions in Toulouse include:

• Toulouse Cathedral
• Canal du Midi
• Place du Capitol
• Basilique Saint-Sernin
• Cité de l’Espace

Day 13: Bordeaux

The end of the Southern France road trip is nearing. You’ll spend your last two days in the heart of France’s most famous wine lands, Bordeaux, the world’s wine capital.

Bordeaux is mainly known for its delicious wine but the city is also so beautiful with outstanding architecture. It reminded us a lot of Paris, without the same level of mass tourists.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city and the majority of the city’s best sights are based in and around the city centre. Once you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is the spectacular  Miroir d’eau  in front of the  Place de la Bourse . The Water Mirror creates a beautiful square.

Did you know around 80% of the land around Bordeaux is used for wine production? And aren’t you just lucky enough you’ll get to taste some of that delicious wine!

Top attractions in Bordeau

• Place de la Bourse
• La Grosse Chloche
• Pey Berland Tower
• Cathédrale Saint-André
• Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux
• Quais de Bordeaux
• La Cité du Vin
• Pont de Pierre

Don’t forget to try ‘canneles’ – local French dessert that originated here. It’s a rum and vanilla-flavored pastry with custard cream in the middle and caramelized crust. Delicious!!

Explore Bordeaux by yourself or take a guided tour. On your final day tomorrow, you’ll take a day trip and visit some of the wineries.

Today you’ll explore some of the famous wine locations in southern France. Whether you are wine tasting or visiting a small little village, you are in for a treat. You’ll at St. Emilion village, the most popular, charming town that is surrounded by some of Bordeaux’s most famous vineyards. You will also visit Medoc and Graves, two more popular towns in this region.

If you plan to visit more than one place, we would recommend either driving or takings a guided tour. You can check them out here . The good thing about a guided tour is the transportation from and back to Bordeaux is included, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. During these guided tours, you’ll experience real wine production and will get to taste some of the world’s best wine classes.

Enjoy your last evening in Bordeaux before you fly out.

That concludes this spectacular two-week South of France road trip. The purple fields of lavender, delectable food, and beautiful landscapes make your two weeks in the South of France one of the most enjoyable experiences.

This itinerary covers what we did on a two-week itinerary in the South of France. These are our insights and travel tips that will help you make the most of these regions and are meant as a guide to help your French road trip planning.

Happy Travels!

If you have more time

If you have more time in this region, I’d suggest spending a few more days in Bordeaux. Explore Archacon Bay and Dunes de Pilat in Arcachon. The dreamy beaches and delicious seafood make it a nice way to escape from the hustle and bustle of Bordeaux. 

If you are driving there, the car park is located just 400m from the dunes.

Dunes de Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe. It gets 2 million visitors per year and when you visit this place you’ll see exactly why. The views from up top are spectacular. And if you are feeling a bit adventurous you can surf down on a bodyboard.

You can also drive a bit further and visit Basque country. It’s a part of France that is so underrated. You have a mix of beautiful seaside towns like Biarritz, Bilbao, and Bayonne and quaint villages such as Espelette and Saint Jean de Luz amongst others.

Best Time for a South of France Road Trip

There is really no bad time to visit the South of France as it has something unique to offer any time of the year. But it’s best to plan ahead so you can make the most of your time while visiting.

The summer months between June and August are peak seasons which means higher prices and larger crowds all around. The locals also tend to take this time off and holiday in the region, making beaches and other tourist spots incredibly crowded.

September sees the end of peak season and tourism starts to quieten down. It’s generally a good time to visit southern France. The region isn’t as crowded and the temperatures are still warm during the day. If you do plan to visit the lavender fields, which is one of the highlights in Provence, you’ll need to plan your trip between June and the end of July. This is when the lavender fields are fully in bloom. By August, you’ll miss the lavenders in bloom.

Tips for Planning Your South of France Road Trip

Decide where you will fly into.

There are a few big airports you can fly into in this region, Nice, Toulouse, Marseille, and Bordeaux. You could fly into and out of Nice or either one of the other cities. Have a plan so it helps you structure your trip. We chose to fly into Nice as we were making our way from Eastern Europe. So, it made more sense for us to do it that way. We’d recommend checking flight costs to see which cities provide a cheaper option to fly in and out of.

While transport is great in France and you can use trains and buses to move between larger cities, if you really want to see some of the smaller towns and villages, we would highly recommend renting a car. In our opinion, it’s the best way to get around the South of France and find some of those hidden treasures.

Now I’m not saying you absolutely must rent a car, but what I will say is that renting a car to make your way through the South of France will be a convenient and enjoyable experience. While you may be able to get to some places by train or bus, it’s those hidden gems that you’ll miss out on if you don’t have your own vehicle. Plus, you have the added luxury of stopping as many times as you like and heading to any location your heart desires rather than being dependent on a tour. Just make sure you get insurance and a small car to make your way through some of the narrow roads.

Most highways in France are subject to road tolls. You pay at the Toll Gates, either by cash or by credit card. Make sure you’re in the right lane at these toll booths! Look for the ‘$’ and coins signs, which means you can only pay by cash at that Toll Booth. Card payments will be accepted at the toll booths under the card symbol.

You can rent through several internationally well-known companies. We leased our car as we were traveling through Europe for a number of months so it made better economic sense to lease for the duration.

Dont Change Accommodation Constantly

Base yourself in a couple of locations rather than constantly moving from hotel or Airbnb at each new place you visit. One thing we’ve learned from being on the road for months at a time is you don’t have to move each time you want to see another town or city. Sometimes basing yourself in a central location could have you well set to discover the towns and villages in the area.

Packing and unpacking your belongings, checking in and out of your hotels and/or apartments, loading and unloading the car, all these things take up more time than you might think. So, try and limit the number of times you have to move your accommodation. We’d recommend changing accommodation every 3 to 4 days if possible. Structure your trip so you can do more day trips from your base location. Choose accommodation in one part of each region. Keep in mind that this will only work if you have your own vehicle and are planning your own itinerary.

Take Time into Consideration

Plan ahead so that you can get the most out of your time in the South of France. If you have an itinerary to follow you more or less know how much time you can spend in each place.

Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before you can as things tend to change from time to time.

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2 weeks in France, our French Road Trip Itinerary

Over summer we spent a magical 2 weeks in France. We travelled from the UK by ferry and car heading straight through the centre of the country all the way down to Bordeaux and back, trying to take in some of the lesser explored parts of the Country. Here’s our French road trip itinerary so you can start planning your next family holiday to France.

This post contains affiliate links. This means I receive a small commission if you book through one of these links. At no extra cost to you. 

List of Contents

• 1.1 Day One on our French Road Trip Itinerary
• 2.1 Day two
• 3.1 Day Three
• 4.1 Day Four
• 5.1 Day Five
• 7.1 Day 7 to 11
• 8.1 Day 11 and 12
• 10.1 Day 14
• 11 A final thought on our two weeks in France

UK – Lille

Day one on our french road trip itinerary.

Miles Traveled:

This one took most of the day, we left home super early to catch the lunchtime ferry from Dover to Dunkerque. The sailing was around two hours. On arrival on French soil the drive from Dunkerque to Lille took about an hour and a quarter. In total this was just over 300 miles. And a great start to this France road trip with kids.

Where we stayed:

On arriving into Lille we immediately headed to our hotel. The Ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand-Place  was the perfect location for exploring Lille. Right in the centre of town with a carpark just across the road. This was the first of several Ibis hotels we stayed in during our trip. They’re such great value, always clean with good sized family rooms.

Where we ate:

As with most meals during our two weeks in France we just wandered the town and stopped wherever had space and looked good. This time we totally struck gold. We found La Pate Brisee on Rue de la Monnaie and grabbed one of their pavement tables. This is a great French restaurant with super friendly waiting staff and great food (and wine). Of course we had to try the local delicacy, Le Welsh. It’s kind of a supercharged rarebit. Bread soaked in beer, covered in Cheese with an egg on top. Baked in the oven to make it super gooey. It was delicious but crazy rich, I could never manage it all. Piper had a fish and chips which she gobbled up and Nigel enjoyed a rich beef stew.

Lille – Chantilly

Miles Travelled:

Lille to Chantilly is a fairly easy 120 miles. The drive took around two hours and included some toll roads.

We stayed at the beautiful Mercure Chantilly Resort . It’s set in stunning countryside and forests making it the perfect place for a family friendly walk. We had a family room which easily slept the 3 of us. It even has a swimming pool if you are traveling with a little mermaid like us!

Eating in Chantilly was all about the cake. The bakeries lining the main road through town serve up some delectable treats and we mainly survived on these. They also create some amazing savoury treats and we enjoyed fresh pizza and pastries picnic style as we walked around town. We also stopped for a super strong coffee hit at one of the pavement cafes. Perfect!

Chantilly – Versailles

The drive from Chantilly to Versailles is just over 40 miles. It will take quite a while, maybe up to two hours as you’ll no doubt get stuck in traffic on the outskirts of Paris. It was very cool however to see the Eiffel Tower from the motorway. This route also includes toll roads. Read all about our trip to Versailles with kids and our visit to the spectacular Palace.

In Versaille we were back to another brilliant Ibis, and this one was right across the road from the train station. The ibis Versailles Chateau  hotel is a great value 3 star located within easy walking distance to the Palace and plenty of places to eat and shop. We opted for a family room and had a great continental breakfast before heading off the next day.

Again we wandered the streets and stopped at a pavement restaurant that looked popular with locals. We were after a bit of comfort food so shared a pizza whilst Piper opted for spaghetti bolognese. Then it was early to bed before a busy day, with full stomachs and happy memories. I recommend just wandering down the Rue de Satory and picking somewhere you like the look of.

Versailles – Paris

Paris with kids is absolutely magical and this was a super easy travel day. It’s around 13 miles from Versailles to Paris and we traveled by train. It took less than an hour on a direct train which was very clean and extremely quiet. I loved that we utilised public transport for one of the days of our France road trip with kids.

Read more about how we managed Paris in one day here.

We enjoyed our second night at the ibis Versailles Chateau hotel.

On our way back to the train station we wandered past the brilliant Quai Liberte on the river front. It’s a lovely beer garden with a real “vacay” vibe. It’s only open over the summer months but is well worth stopping in if you’re passing. Food is small, fresh and simple but it’s the atmosphere that should convince you to stay!

Versailles – Limoges

This was a fairly intense travel day as we wanted to get down South as soon as possible. We covered over 250 miles in around 4 hours. Again there were toll roads to pass through but we were so impressed with them. It’s very easy to navigate and the roads never got too busy.

We booked ourselves in at the Novotel Limoges Le Lac  mainly due to the fact it has an outdoor pool. This is always a massive positive for Piper and she loved cooling off after being in the car for so long. It’s slightly out of town in what feels like a rather industrial area but the Lake in the grounds of the hotel made for the perfect place for a post walk dinner. We saw some amazing sunsets.

As none of us could face getting back in the car we chose to eat at the hotel. The restaurant was nice and food excellent. I had a delicious Caesar salad and Piper was delighted to discover her first kids menu of the holiday. It was of course super expensive but that’s to be expected in a hotel.

Limoges – Perigueux

Miles Travelled: 

This was one of the easiest legs of the journey with just 60 miles to travel. We took it slow and covered the distance in under two hours.

The Ibis Perigueux Centre  is a brilliant place to stay in Perigueux with kids. It’s right in the centre of town near the cathedral. So you wont struggle for things to do or great places to eat. You can park onsite for a small charge and family sized rooms are available which are great value.

We stopped for lunch at a tiny bistro we found in a small town we passed through. I love these places, they often have locals indoors watching TV, enjoying an afternoon beer. Don’t be afraid to stop somewhere and give it a go.

Perigueux is very much a tourist town so you definitely won’t struggle to find good restaurants. We went boringly British and opted for Watson’s Pub . It’s absolutely huge with heaps of indoor and outdoor seating and serves pub classics such as burgers and fish and chips.

Perigueux – Pessac-sur-Dordogne

Day 7 to 11.

You can read all about visiting the Dordogne with kids over on this post, it will give you a great idea on the activities that we tried but some of our favourites included visiting Chateauxs, pretty French towns , vineyards and inland Dordogne beaches .

Another super easy travel day and the start of our rest break. It was around 50 miles from Perigueux to our lovely Dordogne holiday rental. With a stop for coffee along the way the journey was around an hour and a half.

Being the longest stay of our two weeks in France we chose a holiday rental for accommodation in this part of the Dordogne. We loved having the extra space to fully unpack and a kitchen to cook some healthy food in. We spent evening sat on the terrace watching the sunset over nearby vineyards. While Piper raided the DVD library and caught up with friends.

This part of the stay was all about cooking. We mooched into town each day and stocked up of local produce and meat for the barbeque. We took picnics on our day trips and had lazy breakfasts before heading out. These slow days are so important when covering long distances and I highly recommend including some in your French road trip itinerary.

Pessac-sur-Dordogne – Talence near Bordeaux

Day 11 and 12.

After our lovely few days relaxing the 45 mile drive to our hotel on the outskirts of Bordeaux felt completely manageable. Although it took us longer than expected – around two hours as we got a bit lost looking for the hotel.

This had to be my favourite hotel of our stay. And was actually the reason we chose to stay in Talence rather than Bordeaux city centre. Domaine de Raba  is an absolutely stunning Boutique hotel. It’s quirky design coupled with its focus on wellness and the outdoors made for a wonderful stay. They even have a private cinema you can book! I think this was our favourite hotel on the whole of this France road trip with kids. Read more about this stunning hotel near Bordeaux and get booking!

We loved the hotel so much we just didn’t want to leave so ate onsite at Les Petits Caprices . The food was amazing and the decor beautiful. I recommend a visit even if you’re not staying in the hotel.

Talence – Le Mans

And so the long trip home begins. We wanted to get as close to the North Coast as possible so covered just under 300 miles. It was an exhausting 5 hours and one of the longest travel days of this France road trip itinerary.

We opted for the Novotel Le Mans  again because it had a pool. We only needed somewhere en route, clean and good value. The Novotel ticked off all those boxes. Piper loved a dip in the small outdoor pool and we got a great nights sleep before our long drive home the next day.

We ate at the hotel for convenience. It was a lovely end to the break. We opted for a charcuterie board, breads and cheeses. Plenty of fine French food for our last supper.

Le Mans – Home

Finally it was the last 500 mile stint home. This time we sailed from Calais which cut down the driving distance further but the journey did still take the whole day. We arrived home happy, disheveled and with case loads of washing and many happy memories.

A final thought on our two weeks in France

Long travel days call for a good hotel, preferably with a pool to burn some energy. On days when we were exploring cities, budget hotels were fine as we weren’t in them for long.

If we were to head off on another trip around France I would hopefully extend this French road trip itinerary to include more beach time and make it further South. France is immense and varied, I don’t really feel we scratched the surface.

For more French inspiration make sure you check out my post on Bergerac, France .

Make sure you pin for later to plan your next French road trip itinerary.

Road Trip in Provence – Itinerary 10 Days

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Roman cities, medieval towns, stunning nature, delicious food and good wine – Provence has all this and more. With so much to see and do, Provence is a treat for all the senses and there’s no better way to explore this region than on four wheels. If you’re thinking about a holiday to Southern France, you must put a Provence road trip on your France bucket list!

Here’s our suggested Provence road trip itinerary, ten days, which explores the best of this wonderful region in Southern France.

This road trip south of France is one of the best French road trips . Read more about road tripping in France:

Provence Road Trip Overview

• Start:  Avignon
• Finish:  Avignon
• Duration:  10 days
• Suggested route:  Avignon – St Rémy – Arles – Camargue – Marseille – Cassis – Aix-en-Provence – Avignon
• Total distance:  404 Km, 6 hrs 20 min drive in total
• Region covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for:  history, sightseeing, outdoors, small towns, food & wine

This road trip in Provence itinerary starts from Avignon, where you will pick up and drop off your rental car. Avignon is easy to reach by train from Paris, Lyon, or Dijon. The journey from Paris to Avignon by train takes around 3 hours while Lyon to Avignon by train only takes 2 hrs 45 minutes.  

If you don’t want to drive back to Avignon, you can end this trip in Provence in Aix-en-Provence and explore the villages of the Luberon (day 10) on a day trip from Aix. If you are renting a car, the rental price will probably come with a drop charge – a fee for picking up a rental car at one location and returning it to a different location.

Road Trip in Provence Map

Click here to see the Map of this Provence road trip itinerary on Google

Provence Road Trip Itinerary

For this Provence road trip, you don’t need the car until day 2, so if you are taking a self-drive trip in a hire car, wait until then to pick up your rental car in Avignon. Click here for our best tips for  renting a car in France .

Click here to rent your car in Avignon

Day 0 | Arrival at Avignon

Arrive at Avignon the day before the start of this Provence itinerary. For your two nights in Avignon, book at the Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon . This hotel is located in a beautiful 16th-century building with original arches and vaulted ceilings surrounded by a beautiful garden and an outdoor swimming pool (a must for Provence in the summer months!)

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis Avignon

Day 1 | Avignon

Avignon is one of the most beautiful walled cities in France , full of history. Avignon is set on the South Bank of the Rhône River and in the Middle Ages, it was home to seven Popes. The Papal Palace , where they lived, is a jewel of civil gothic architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.

Enjoy  one day in Avignon . Here everything is within walking distance, and you can easily explore the city while strolling through its small cobblestone lanes. Be sure to visit the Palace of the Popes ( book well in advance! ), and wander along the  Pont d’Avignon  (the famous bridge) or admire it from afar.

You can combine your visit to Avignon with this afternoon wine trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape . Châteauneuf-du-Pape was the Popes’ summer residence, world known for its beautiful heritage and excellent wines.

Day 2 | Avignon – Arles

It’s time to hit the road to explore what Provence has to offer on four wheels! From Avignon, take the D571 route south to Saint-Rémy.

Saint-Rémy de Provence is a quintessential Provençal town and a picturesque place to get lost for a couple of hours. The town is located in the Parc Régional des Alpilles , between Avignon and Arles, and has a beautiful heritage of private mansions from the Renaissance and 18th-century chapels and convents.

Take the time to explore its winding streets, always with lovely surprises, perhaps with a coffee break in one of the shaded squares adorned with old stone fountains and the terraces of the cafés.

Just south of St. Rémy lies the ancient Roman ruins of  Glanum , with ancient monuments such as the Triumphal Arch and the Jules Mausoleum.

After visiting Saint Remy, drive southwest to Arles where you will spend one night. For your stay in Arles, book into the Hotel du Musée , a former private mansion built in the 17th century in the heart of the city turned into a charming hotel. Hotel du Musée offers stylish rooms with comfortable beds and a delicious breakfast in its lovely inner garden.

Click here to book your stay in Hotel du Musée

Day 3 | Arles – Camargue

Located in the heart of Provence, Arles is always a favorite.  Arles  has it all: an interesting Roman heritage, beautiful 17th-century mansions, a maze of streets, modern museums, and the wide rolling Rhône River. When the temperatures are warm, all the café-terraces and restaurants are full of locals and tourists alike until late at night, creating a lively atmosphere.

Arles was also home to Paul Gauguin and Van Gogh. It was here where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous masterpieces. If you like the works of Van Gogh, don’t miss the Espace Van Gogh (a former hospital where Van Gogh recovered after the infamous episode of cutting off his left earlobe) and the Fondation Van Gogh , dedicated to the work and legacy of Vincent Van Gogh in Arles.

Day 4 and 5 | Camargue

This 10 days in Provence itinerary continues south, to the stunning Camargue. From Arles, take the road D570 to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer , located in the heart of the Camargue. The  Camargue Regional Natural Park  is the largest wetland in France, covering a surface of ​​100,000 hectares. It is famous worldwide for its stunning landscapes, lakes, and exceptional fauna.

Located on a major migratory route for birds from northern Europe to Africa, this area is also home to one of the main nesting sites for pink flamingos in France. But above all, the Camargue is an area for breeding Camargue horses and bulls! Here, bulls and horses live in semi-wild conditions, most often in herds, watched over by herdsmen on horseback.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is the perfect place to relax for a couple of days, surrounded by beautiful beaches, wild nature, and some places of interest. For your stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, book two nights at the Hotel La Tramontane . The hotel offers individually-decorated, airy rooms which lead to the outdoor swimming pool, a lovely garden, and a private pond.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Tramontane

From Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, you can take this 4×4 guided safari around the scenic countryside, with several departure times during the day. Learn the history of the Camargue, photograph the pink flamingoes and other birds, and see the famous white Camargue horses roaming freely in the fields from the heights of the convertible 4×4 motor – Click here to book this 2-hour safari in the Camargue .

Day 6 | Camargue – Marseille

Morning in Martigues

After an early breakfast in the gardens of Hotel La Tramontane, drive back to Arles, and then take the N568 road to Marseille.

On the way, stop for a second coffee in Martigues . Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Berre (the largest inland seawater lake in Europe), Martigues has a lovely old city center split into three parts by the canals that join the Etang de Berre with the ocean. Because of its many canals, Martigues is nicknamed the ‘Provencal Venice’.

Explore the harbor area around Quai Brescon and along the canal Saint-Sebastien, with its picturesque pastel houses for the fishermen, little shops, and cafés. If you want to venture further, visit the 17th-century Eglise de la Madelaine, with a beautiful Baroque façade.

Afternoon in Marseille

The next stop of this Provence itinerary 10 days is Marseille , where you will spend one night. If you arrive for lunch, try the bouillabaisse, Marseille’s traditional fish stew; it’s delicious!

Use the afternoon to walk around the harbor and visit the Le Panier neighborhood . Then, end the day on the water with this top-rated sunset cruise with dinner and drinks . Admire Marseille’s coastline all in light and visit the Frioul Islands with some time for swimming and snorkeling.

For your night in Marseille, we recommend the  Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port , a charming hotel with the perfect location right on the banks of the Old Port.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port

Day 7 | Marseille – Cassis

Spend the day visiting Marseille. Marseille  is the capital of the region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA between friends) and a famous port city. It’s an exciting place to explore, quite different from other Provençal cities like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Marseille . You can choose your favorites or check them all! We recommend starting the day with an early visit to the Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde before the crowds arrive.

After visiting Marseille’s top sights, drive to  Cassis , a cute fishing town located at one of the sides of the  Parc National des Calanques de Marseille-Cassis . This colorful fishing town near Marseille, so typical of Provence, is one of the  most beautiful coastal towns in France , perfect for a couple of relaxing days by the Mediterranean Sea.

For your stay in Cassis, book two nights at Le Jardin d’Emile . This characteristic Provençal house has the perfect location by the beach and offers uniquely decorated rooms with a garden, and an outdoor terrace overlooking Cape Canaille.

Click here to book your stay in Le Jardin d’Emile

Day 8 | Cassis – PN des Calanques

Spend day 8 of this Provence road trip itinerary in Cassis . The town is dominated by a castle built in the 8th century and it is renowned for its trails running along the Cap Canaille, its round pebble beaches, and – a little bit further away – its creeks and their majestic cliffs plunging into deep blue water (calanques). There’s also an adorable little port lined with multicolored buildings, cafés, and traditional restaurants offering seafood, bouillabaisse, and other fish dishes.

From western Cassis, the Calanque de Port-Miou is a short, easy hike. If you feel more adventurous, take this 2-hour guided tour with an electric mountain bike to explore the stunning landscapes of the Calanques National Park.

Day 9 | Aix-en-Provence

From Cassis, take the A50 highway, then the A52, to Aix-en-Provence , the next stop of this road trip in Provence. For a unique stay in Aix-en-Provence, book a night at the Hotel des Augustins , a former 12-century convent just off the famous Cours Mirabeau in the heart of the old town. The hotel features spacious rooms combining historic and modern features and a magnificent lobby.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel des Augustins

Aix-en-Provence is a typical Provencal city and a wonderful place to explore in Southern France. Aix’s historic center with Italian influences boasts beautiful architecture, colorful markets, and pretty squares adorned with stone fountains.

A stroll along Cours Mirabeau is one of the musts of Aix-en-Provence, perhaps with a stop at one of its sunny café-terraces for a drink and people-watching. The markets of Aix are also worth exploring for their colorful stalls and delicious local products.

Aix was Cézanne’s hometown and a visit to his studio, where he painted most of his masterworks, is one of the best things to do in Aix-en-Provence. There’s also a walking trail dedicated to the painter and you can get the map of the walking tour itinerary (self-guided) and a short description for each stop at Aix’s tourist information.

TIP: Cézanne’s studio is a popular tourist attraction in Aix-en-Provence, and booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended. You can buy your tickets (for a specific date and time slot in the afternoon) at the tourist information office or online on their website .

Day 10 | Luberon’s Hilltop Villages – Avignon

The last day of this Provence itinerary 10 days explores the Luberon , a massif in central Provence which is part of the French Prealps. This region is well known for its stunning landscapes, beautiful hilltop villages, and medieval castles. In the summertime, the Luberon boasts some of the most photogenic lavender fields in Provence. If you are visiting Provence during the lavender season , check out our quick guide to the lavender fields of Provence and add a couple of locations to your day trip.

Visit Lourmarin , considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in France, and noted for its Renaissance castle. Next, visit Bonnieux , a picture-perfect Provençal village that features a 12th-century church surrounded by ancient cedars. Continue to Roussillon via the Roman-era Pont Julien. Roussillon, perched atop an ochre-colored cliff, is a favorite of painters, and a magical place where combinations of oxides give the ochre an infinite variety of colors. Depending on the time, consider visiting Roussillon’s Ochre Trail , the colors are stunning!

The last stop is Gordes , which offers an extraordinary vision of a stone village erected on a massive rock. Its fortress castle and church dominate the houses of the village, which were built with stones taken from the rock on which they sit.

On the way back to Avignon, you can stop at the town of Fontaine de Vaucluse for an apéritif. Stretch your legs walking the short path up to the source of the River Orge and spend a pleasant and refreshing soirée in one of the eateries by the river.

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6 replies to this topic

For context, we will be travelling with two children, aged 12 and 10.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Hello Katie

For the location specific information you want, a suitable rough itinerary, " must see" stop offs" etc, Id recommend reposting to the France " Destination" Forum directly

You'll get more knowledgeable responses by posting to Tripadvisors actual dedicated France Forum itself...

Thats where other members who live there, or France Destination Experts give the sort of details youre looking for....

Occasionally we have one member whos done this type of holiday post here, but shes an infrequent poster, so not sure when, or even if she'll see your post tbh...

Heres a link to Tripadvisors France Destination Forum

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowForum-g187070-i12-France.html

Another idea is to use the " Search" function on the Forum , type " France drive holiday" , or similar to find past discussions of the topic

Good luck with your planning

Many thanks - I appreciate your advice. I've just posted into the forum you suggested.

Youre welcome

Some Information about European FERRY Routes/Timetables etc- see link below

http://Seat61.com

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A foodie road trip from southern Portugal to France’s Jura mountains

I t had always been the case that either the children were too young, or the car was too old for me and my family to embark on the 1,221 mile road trip , which would take us from our home in southern Portugal to our wooden chalet in France’s Jura mountains.

We had long wanted to do it, so that our yellow labrador, Baloo, could come on holiday with us, but sadly at the grand old age of 17, she left us for greener pastures. Perhaps that was what pushed us, now empty nesters, to bundle Bellini, our 3 year old yellow labrador into our (newer) car and take to the road.

The route was carefully planned to include stops in places that involved good food (the carrot to drive us on during long hours behind the wheel), were culturally interesting and, of course, accepted dogs . European hotels , in general, have always been less dog-friendly than in the UK, but with glorious ease our journey came together. It was in spite of setting off on day two in the pouring rain before dawn, guided by Google, and taking my husband into an incredibly narrow street which became impassable. As we, inch by painful inch, reversed our way up and out of the winding medieval alley, I did think of Hemmingway’s words ‘Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.’ But our marriage survived and road trips might just become ‘our thing’ for the feeling of freedom they engender.

First stop was Cáceres, in Spain’s Extremadura region. One of the best-preserved historic centres, it is an extraordinarily beautiful town, encircled by 12th century Moorish walls, with over 30 towers. A mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture flank cobbled medieval streets, in one of which was Atrio, our home for the night.

Hotel Atrio Cáceres (rooms from £333, atriocaceres.com ) skilfully inserts 21st century comforts into ancient walls. It has 14 rooms in the main building and across the road the newly opened Atrio Paredes Saavedra Palace has a further 11 rooms, which hang heavy with history.

We were in the main building, in a room with a terrace and an elegant, marble-clad bathroom. On the ground floor was the 3* Michelin Restaurant run by owners José Polo and Toño Péres. It was beyond dazzling. Dogs can accompany you, but wanting to concentrate on the 22 courses undisturbed, we left Bellini upstairs, having tired her out in the plaza and alleyways of Cáceres.

Don’t miss the home-baked biscuits and cakes from the convent opposite Atrio, where the nuns still operate the turnstile system of yesteryear.

Before we began our dinner, we were given a glimpse of Atrio’s wine cellar, famous as the scene of a daring robbery some years ago. Security has tightened, with no photographs allowed, but it was one of the most memorable cellars I have seen. In contrast to the standard aesthetic of dusty dim shelves where you need to sweep away cobwebs to see what is there, this one was an essay in pale wood, the 42,000 wine bottles illuminated by soft lighting. It has a large collection of Chateau d ’Yquem, ranging from 1891 to 2016, the back-lighting of the bottles making it easy to see how the colour of the wine darkens as it matures.

The menu is an exploration of Iberian pork — think ink brioche with squid and pork’s ear stew, pork jowl pudding with caviar, and glazed lobster with pork sauce, green curry, and lemongrass. The courses were tiny but oh, so good. And they just kept on coming, while José and Toño circulated in the packed restaurant, chatting to newcomers and returnees alike.

Sated and somewhat nervous to see how Bellini had spent the evening we staggered upstairs. We had not needed to worry. Bellini had abandoned her basket to lie, legs in the air, across our bed. You would have thought she had had the 22 courses.

Rain followed us most of the way on our nine-hour journey to our next stop in Bordeaux. But as we drove in under the stone gateway to Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey (rooms from £273, lafauriepeyragueylalique.com ), the sun cast its evening light onto the ancient mellow stone. Parts of the Château date back to the 13th century, and vines have been grown there since 1618. They had a cameo role in Evelyn Waugh’s Brideshead Revisited, when Sebastian Flyte arrives to the Oxford college rooms of Charles Ryder saying, “I’ve got a motor car and a basket of strawberries and a bottle of Château Peyraguey….It’s heaven with strawberries.”

It is still “heaven with strawberries” and a variety of other things such as duck with morello cherries and chestnuts at the 2* Michelin restaurant presided over by Chef Jérôme Schilling. The menu here is also an excuse to showcase the château’s glorious sauternes, whose surrounding vines you can admire through the restaurant’s glass walls. The 400-year-old Lafaurie-Peyraguey was the first premier cru wine estate in France to become a hotel under Lalique when they took it on with an aim to combine the worlds of wine, crystal, gastronomy, and hospitality. Something they have also successfully achieved in Scotland with Glenturret.

We also stopped in Bordeaux on our return, but this time just outside the charming town of St. Émillion. Medieval houses line the narrow streets and parts of the 12th century ramparts remain, the rest is given over to wine merchants, wine bars and restaurants. Saving ourselves for our dinner, we walked down the steep streets rather than settling in for a meal, but I have already earmarked Logis de la Cadène, tucked away in a narrow street, for the next time.

Château Troplong Mondot (rooms from £184, troplong-mondot.com ) was our home for the night. A perfect base from which to explore the wines of the region with the glinting spires of St. Émilion visible from its vineyards. A Premier Grand Cru Classé wine estate it has recently opened its doors to guests, with a handful of rooms in its 18th century Château and a beautifully designed two bed cottage in which we were installed. Think flagstone floors, a large fireplace, wooden shutters and bath tubs on claw feet alongside crisp linen sheets, lamps and soft blue walls. Cosiness personified.

Exercising for our dinner continued there as we were shown around the estate of 43 hectares, a pioneer in sustainable wine making. But Bellini was far more interested in the kitchen garden, especially its Indian Runner Ducks and its rather noisy pigs. Neither of which we found on our dinner plate that night at the Chateau’s restaurant, Les Belles Perdrix, recipient of both a red and a green Michelin star. But bounty from the garden there was, in the form of celeriac, stuffed and candied with mushrooms and lovage jus and a light peated cream. ll served by a roaring fire.

The sandstone wonder of Salamanca was our final stop. It was harder to find a nice hotel here that accommodated dogs but we settled for the Palacio de Castellanos (rooms from £120, nh-hotels.com ), and a room with views onto the beautiful 15th century Convento de las Dueñas.

We only had an evening to explore, but the golden city shimmered under the rain and the soft light of the lamps. A few minutes’ walk to the Plaza Mayor, the humming heart of the city, was enough to convince us that next time this should be our first stop. Bellini, however, pulled through the rain rather than, as before, left to enjoy the luxury of her abode, might well have other views.

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