South of France road trip
South of France road trip in 10 days
This road trip covering the regions of Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Cote de Azur can be completed in 10 days covering some of the major destinations and the not so popular destinations. This road trip starts and ends in Lyon. Alternatively you can start in Lyon and end in Nice to save a day.
How to Get to Lyon
Lyon is a major city in France and there are flights to Lyon from several cities in Europe. From the US you can either take Air France, British Airways, KLM to connect through their hubs.
The Best Time to do the road trip is between May and October especially summer gets really crowded during lavender season when all the tourists flock to Provence.
We chose winter for this exact reason - to avoid the crowds and have the place rather quiet without the tourists.
Our itinerary for 10 days:
Day 1&2: Lyon
Day 3&4: Avignon
Day 5&6: Aix en-Provence
Day 7,8,9: Cote D’Azur
Day 10: Drive back to Lyon
Day 11: Go home
Day 1: Arrive in Lyon
When it comes to choosing a city to explore in France, Lyon may not be the first that comes to mind for many. However, for those with a penchant for gastronomic delights, Lyon stands tall as the undisputed gastronomic capital of the country. Our journey into this culinary haven began in the afternoon as we landed, opting for a cab ride to our Airbnb. A quick freshening up, and by 4 pm, we were ready to delve into the heart of Lyon.
Our first stop was the enchanting Saint Jean Cathedral in the old town. Unable to resist the allure of an ancient church, we immersed ourselves in the rich history and architecture of this iconic site. The exploration continued as we meandered through the largest Renaissance neighborhoods, savoring the charm embedded in Lyon's old town. A highlight not to be missed on this historical trail was the discovery of the Traboules of Lyon—secret passageways clandestinely weaving through buildings, courtyards, and connecting streets.
Then we ventured across the Passerelle St. Georges, gracefully spanning the Saone and Rhone rivers. On the opposite bank, a plethora of restaurants awaited, each promising a unique culinary experience. Our choice for the evening was Casabea, a Mediterranean gem offering not only delectable cuisine but also impeccable service.
Renowned for its Michelin-starred establishments and distinctive bouchons (unique to Lyon), the city offers a diverse gastronomic landscape
Day 2: Explore Lyon
We took the funicular to the top of the hill to see the Basilique de Notre Dame de Fourviere. After visiting the church we took in the views of the city from the top which was quite spectacular actually. Then we walked down the hill to vieux Lyon to have lunch at one of the various bouchons. We got lunch at the traboule. This place is a fancy food hall - 1 building with 12 counters, 2 bars, 1 coffee shop with 7 rooms offering different kinds of food. Make sure to get reservations or you might have a little bit of a wait. In the afternoon we walked around the city, did a bit of shopping before we headed for dinner. While we were researching we found that Lyon had a restaurant from the Big Mamma group so we booked it for dinner Carmelo. These restaurants across France, England, Germany & Spain are well known to be instagramworthy. The food is quite delicious too and the service was excellent. After dinner we walked around some more looking at the pretty storefronts and then went back home.
Day 3: Drive from Lyon to Avignon
Next morning we bid farewell to our cozy Airbnb, gearing up for the next leg of our adventure. We made a pitstop at a local gem named Shawerman—it was, quite simply, so good!
With satisfied palates, we hit the road bound for Avignon, a picturesque city awaiting our exploration. The drive, a little over two hours, promised scenic views and the anticipation of discovering the charm that Avignon had in store for us.
En route, we made a strategic halt at the Theatre Antique d’Orange—a UNESCO recognized gem and one of France's most extraordinary sites. This exceptionally well-preserved Roman theater stood as a testament to grandeur and historical significance. Its colossal size, with a seating capacity for 10,000 spectators and an imposing stage wall measuring 37m high, 103m wide, and 1.8m thick, left us in awe.
To our delight, we stumbled upon the Christmas market of the charming town enveloping the theater. The unexpected festive encounter beckoned us to linger, exploring the stalls and soaking in the holiday spirit before embarking on the next stretch of our journey.
Soon, Avignon beckoned with promises of medieval wonders. Our Airbnb, strategically nestled in the old town, provided the perfect launchpad for our exploration. After a swift check-in, we strolled through the charming labyrinthine streets, immersing ourselves in the historical ambiance.
As evening settled, we ventured to a local restaurant, a well-kept secret among the locals. The culinary journey continued with incredible dishes that showcased the essence of the region. The hostess, intrigued by our discovery of this hidden gem, shared a smile, noting that it's a rarity for tourists to find their way there—mostly cherished by the discerning locals.
Our first night in Avignon unfolded with the whispers of history and the flavors of local authenticity. The journey, both on the road and through the city's rich tapestry, had begun.
Day 4: Explore Avignon & Arles
Avignon is an excellent home base and if there’s one thing that one should do here it is tour the Palais des Papes.
Avignon is probably most famous for being the seat of the papacy in the 14th century, when the popes fled Rome due to unstable political conditions.
The Palais des Papes is one of the largest medieval gothic buildings in the world and is an Avignon must see! It is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its architecture and its historical importance as the seat of the papacy. The Palais des Papes is huge and it takes a couple of hours to go through it.
If you want to see the Pont d’Avignon go to the Jardin Des Doms. Avignon is also home to many churches, cathedrals & theatres.
After the Palais des Popes we stopped to get lunch at a previously starred Michelin Star restaurant Hiely Lucullus. Fortunately we were able to get a table and loved the food that combines Provencal with Peruvian flavors.
Post lunch we took the train to Arles. We got this insider tip from the lady at the restaurant to give up the drive & take the train instead. It was a short train ride and we didn’t have to find parking so this was valuable. The Roman monuments at Arles is a UNESCO world heritage site. In addition Arles is known for Vincent Van Gogh who painted many of his famous pieces while living here. One last attraction to admire here is the Cathedrale Saint Tropheme which is now a UNESCO world heritage site.
Then we took the evening train back to Avignon
Day 5: Drive to Aix-en-Provence
We bid adieu to our cozy Airbnb in the morning, with the final destination of Aix-en-Provence. Little did we know that the day would unfold with unexpected yet delightful detours, making it a memorable chapter of our journey through the South of France.
Our plans took an unexpected turn as two members of the family, fueled by the spirit of adventure and the region's reputation for exquisite wines, proposed a pitstop for some wine tasting. With no prior reservations, we turned to our trusty companion, Google, and stumbled upon an intriguing vineyard named Tara. Its location on our route and the allure of its name sealed the deal, setting the stage for an impromptu wine-tasting experience.
Armed with a few carefully selected bottles for the road and to grace our homes with a taste of the region, we set our course towards the medieval treasure of Roussillon. If there's one village that deserves a place on your must-visit list, it's Roussillon. The ochre-hued houses, bathed in the warm glow of the Provencal sun, paint a picturesque scene that lingers in the heart. We meandered through the narrow lanes, marveling at the timeless beauty that earned Roussillon its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Our journey continued towards the vibrant cityscape of Aix-en-Provence, where we arrived just before the golden hour. Nestled in the heart of town, our chosen Airbnb welcomed us with the promise of a true Provencal experience. Eager to explore, we ventured into the lively streets, immersing ourselves in the diverse offerings of local shops.
As the evening unfolded, we found ourselves seated at Tita, a Mediterranean restaurant predestined to captivate the Ajayan family's taste buds. The culinary journey that followed was nothing short of extraordinary – a perfect 10/10 in the realm of Mediterranean delights. Tita not only met but exceeded our expectations, leaving us with a savory conclusion to an eventful day.
And so, with the taste of Roussillon's ochre beauty and Tita's Mediterranean masterpieces lingering on our palates, we retired to our Aix-en-Provence abode, ready to embrace the adventures that awaited on day six of our South of France sojourn.
Day 6: Explore Aix-En-Provence
A Cozy NYE in Aix-en-Provence: Charcuterie, Rainy Strolls, and Raclette Bliss
As the clock struck midnight on the eve of the New Year, our family found itself in the charming embrace of Aix-en-Provence, ready to bid adieu to the old and welcome the new in the most heartwarming way possible. Day 6, also known as New Year's Eve, unfolded as a day of spontaneous plans, culinary adventures, and heartfelt reflections.
With no prior reservations and a desire for a more intimate celebration, the kids took charge and decided on a delightful charcuterie board for our New Year's Eve dinner. As raindrops painted the cityscape, we embarked on a family stroll to the local market, determined to gather the finest ingredients for our festive feast. Armed with a shopping list that reflected the kids' meticulous Google searches for the best cheese and meat shops, we dove into the culinary treasures that Aix-en-Provence had to offer.
The local market buzzed with activity, offering a last glimpse of the festive Christmas market, which was bidding farewell on this final day. Embracing the spirit of the season, we picked up delectable empanadas at Chez Matias for a satisfying lunch before continuing our culinary exploration.
While the kids retreated home to transform our haul into a feast, Ajayan and I seized the opportunity to explore the churches and winding streets of Aix-en-Provence. The rain couldn't dampen the city's allure, and our leisurely walk provided a serene backdrop to the impending celebrations.
Back home, the aroma of fresh bread, exquisite cheeses, and carefully selected meats filled the air as the charcuterie board took shape. My personal highlight, the raclette, made its grand entrance, bringing immense joy and satisfying my craving for this quintessential French delight.
As the clock approached midnight, the family gathered around the table to share not just a meal but reflections and resolutions for the upcoming year. The warmth of togetherness filled the room as we recounted cherished memories and envisioned the adventures that lay ahead.
To cap off the night, we indulged in a shared laughter session, courtesy of the timeless classic, Pink Panther. With hearts full of gratitude and the promise of new beginnings, we bid each other a Happy New Year before drifting off into a peaceful slumber.
Day 7: Drive to Cote D’Azur
We embarked on the final leg of our South of France escapade, venturing towards the sun-kissed shores of Cote D’Azur. New Year's Day greeted us with the promise of exploration, and our first stop was the glitzy town of Cannes.
While the town's renowned Film Festival red carpet lay quiet on this winter day, we could still feel the residual glamour in the air. Yet, it was evident that the magic of Cannes truly awakens during its cinematic celebrations. The streets, although bustling with tourists, seemed to lack the quintessential French charm I had envisioned. However, unexpected discoveries awaited us, including the delightful Mumbai Cafe, where we found comfort in a taste of home for my rice-loving husband.
With a satisfied appetite, we meandered through Cannes, exploring some iconic Film Festival landmarks. Our next destination beckoned, and Antibes, a resort town steeped in history between Cannes and Nice, awaited our discovery. Enclosed by 16th-century ramparts, Antibes unveiled its old town, and while charming, we couldn't help but feel that it might have been a skip-able chapter in our adventure. But the highlight of the entire day was the spectacular sunset we saw. Under the soft glow of the sun, the distant snow-capped peaks were bathed in a gentle pink hue, creating a spectacular and awe-inspiring scene, complemented by the serene presence of the water to the right.
The true highlight of the day awaited us in Cagnes Sur Mer, a tiny village that turned out to be the unexpected gem of our journey. Our Airbnb, nestled in the heart of this quaint village, exceeded all expectations. A house entirely to ourselves allowed us to immerse in the local rhythm, and the authenticity of Cagnes Sur Mer stole our hearts.
Exhausted from the day's explorations, we decided to embrace the convenience of modern times. An evening of Uber Eats and the comfort of our cozy Airbnb became the perfect way to conclude a day filled with new experiences.
Day 8: Explore Eze & Villefranche Sur Mer
As the morning sun painted the sky with hues of warmth, we embarked on a leisurely adventure along the captivating French Riviera. Our day commenced with a delightful breakfast at Copenhagen Coffee Lab, setting the perfect tone for what lay ahead.
Our first destination was the charming village of Eze, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the azure Mediterranean. Wandering through narrow cobblestone streets, we immersed ourselves in the medieval allure of Eze. Quaint boutiques, artisan shops, and the scent of blooming flowers adorned our path. The Jardin Exotique offered breathtaking panoramic views, a perfect vantage point to capture the essence of this historic village. A lazy lunch at a local bistro allowed us to savor the flavors of this lovely village.
With Eze's charm etched in our memories, we descended towards the picturesque Villefranche-sur-Mer, a coastal gem known for its vibrant waterfront and pastel-hued buildings. Our afternoon unfolded in the company of sea breezes and stunning views.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we retreated to our cozy abode, A delightful takeout with the comfort of home. We settled in for a quiet night, indulging in a movie that transported us far beyond the bounds of our surroundings.
Day 9: Day trip to Monaco
As our South of France escapade approached its final chapters, Day 9 unfolded with a day trip to the glamorous principality of Monaco. With lunch reservations at the renowned Cozz Izakaya, our expectations were high for an indulgent day filled with luxury and exploration.
Our day kicked off in the opulent surroundings of Monaco, a playground for the rich and famous. The boys couldn't resist the allure of the casinos, and after a bit of indulgence in games of chance, we found ourselves yearning for a change of scenery.
Inspired by captivating pictures of Menton, we spontaneously decided to veer off our planned itinerary. However, the hands of time weren't in our favor, and by the time we reached Menton, the sun had bid its adieu. While the sights remained elusive, our disappointment quickly transformed into delight as we discovered the culinary gem - Creperie Fleur de Sel.
Menton may have kept its scenic treasures hidden, but Creperie Fleur de Sel emerged as an unexpected highlight. Nestled in the narrow streets of this charming town, the quaint creperie offered an exquisite dining experience. The galettes, a savory delight of buckwheat perfection, surpassed our expectations and became the culinary highpoint of our day.
As nightfall draped Menton in mystery, we retraced our steps back home. Our last night in the South of France concluded with a blend of excitement, unexpected discoveries, and culinary enchantment. The next morning would see us bidding adieu to the azure landscapes and quaint villages, taking with us the memories of Monaco's glamour, Menton's culinary treasures, and the collective magic of the French Riviera.
Day 10: Drive back to Lyon stopping at Saint Paul deVence & Grasse
As our South of France adventure reached its final chapter, Day 10 beckoned with a bittersweet mix of anticipation for the road ahead and a yearning to savor every moment. With our bags packed and Lyon awaiting our return, we embarked on a journey that would weave together the charms of Saint Paul de Vence, the aromatic allure of Grasse, and the comfort of a halfway stop before our final leg.
With Lyon in our sights, we bid farewell to our cozy Airbnb, ready for the day's explorations. Our first stop was the enchanting Saint Paul de Vence, a village that had left an indelible mark on our hearts earlier in the journey. The morning sunlight bathed the cobblestone streets in a golden glow, inviting us to stroll through its artistic corridors and lose ourselves in its timeless charm.
The road to Lyon was paved with fragrant detours, and Grasse, the perfume capital, stood as an aromatic oasis. Nestled among hills blanketed with flowers, Grasse beckoned us to explore its perfumeries and indulge our senses in the art of fragrance creation. The air was infused with the delicate notes of blossoms, a fitting prelude to our journey's end.
As the sun began its descent, we hit the road towards Lyon, knowing that the journey was as much about the stops as the destination. Our halfway point provided a haven for the night, a pause in our travels that allowed us to reflect on the memories etched in the landscapes we traversed.
Day 11: Spend the day in Lyon
Refreshed from a night's rest, we set our sights on Lyon, the city where our journey had begun. The road unfolded before us, each kilometer bringing us closer to the familiar embrace of Lyon's streets. The journey had come full circle, and as we entered the city, we carried with us the imprints of the South of France, a tapestry woven with picturesque villages, vibrant cities, and the fragrant whispers of Grasse.
As our South of France escapade drew to a close, Day 11 marked our return to Lyon, the city where it all began. With rental cars returned and bags in tow, we checked into the comfort of the Pullman Hotel, ready to savor the final moments of our memorable journey.
Lyon's skies decided to bid us adieu with a touch of rain, prompting a change in plans. Undeterred, we sought refuge in the nearby mall, where a bout of retail therapy provided a delightful interlude. Lyon's shopping scene offered a perfect diversion as we explored the stylish boutiques and indulged in a bit of souvenir hunting.
With the rain subsided, we returned to the Pullman Hotel, where the culinary journey reached its grand finale at La Pampa, the hotel's exquisite restaurant. Amidst a setting of elegance, we relished a sumptuous dinner, savoring each bite as a culmination of the diverse flavors we had encountered throughout the South of France.
As the night embraced Lyon, we retired to our rooms for a few precious hours of rest. Anticipating an early morning departure, we bid adieu to the city that had been our travel hub for this enchanting journey. With bags packed and memories treasured, we ventured to the airport, ready to board our flight back home.
