South of France Road Trip: 14-Day Itinerary From Nice to Bordeaux

If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising along sun-soaked coastal roads, exploring lavender fields and indulging in French cuisine, a South of France road trip is the perfect adventure.

We started our trip on the glamorous French Riviera, winding our way through Provence’s postcard-perfect villages before heading southwest to France’s legendary wine capital, Bordeaux. This itinerary will guide you through the best stops, with my personal tips and experiences along the way.

Explore the South of France by Car! 🚗 See it all at your own pace: coastlines, vineyards, hidden villages, by renting through QEEQ.

💥 Use QRbreathing5 for 5% OFF your booking! Book Your Car →

Day 1-2: Arrival in Nice (French Riviera)

Touch down in Nice, the perfect starting point for a South of France road trip. After landing, we stayed in Nice’s Old Town for a few days and deliberately held off on picking up the car.

You don’t need a vehicle to explore Nice or Monaco, and collecting the car later in the city is easy. I’d actually recommend this, if you plan to spend a few days here since parking in Old Town Nice is notoriously difficult and skipping the car early on saves both time, money and frustration.

Pro tip: From Nice Airport, you can take Tram 2 from the terminals to Grand Arénas, the first tram stop outside the airport, at no cost. Once there, purchase a rechargeable pass (€2) and a single-trip ticket (€1.70). You’ll need to get off the tram, buy your ticket, and then hop on the next tram to continue into central Nice. This is an easy and affordable way to reach the Old Town and your hotel. Alternatively Uber or Taxis are an option.

I booked our car through QEEQ and picked it up from Sixt in Nice, conveniently located near the Promenade des Anglais and within walking distance of our hotel. I chose an automatic, comfortable, easy-to-drive car that handled winding coastal roads just as well as long highway stretches, exactly what you want for a multi-day South of France road trip.

How many days are enough for Nice? I recommend spending 2–3 days in Nice to explore the Old Town, Promenade des Anglais and nearby Riviera highlights like Villefranche-sur-Mer, Monaco and Èze before picking up your car and heading west.

Must-See Spots in Nice

• Promenade des Anglais: Stroll along Nice’s iconic seafront boulevard where sweeping Mediterranean views line the seafront and stylish beach clubs come alive in summer. We did our road trip in early October, when many were just starting to close for the season, but if you can time your visit for August or September, Nice is at its best, so lively, warm and perfectly set up for long days by the sea.
• Vieux Nice (Old Town): Wander narrow streets filled with pastel buildings, lively squares, local boutiques, churches and food and flower markets.
• Cours Saleya Market: A great stop for fresh flowers, fruit and a quick espresso.
• Castle Hill (Colline du Château): Climb or take the lift for panoramic views over the city and coastline. Iconic!

🏨 Where to Stay in Nice

For a central, luxury stay, I recommend booking yourself a room at the Anantara Plaza Nice Hotel, which is hard to beat. Located right on the Promenade des Anglais, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot while offering elegant rooms, sea views and an indulgent start to your journey through the South of France.

Day 3: Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer & Èze

Day two is all about exploring the French Riviera without a car and it’s one of the biggest mistakes people overthink. Nice is exceptionally well connected by train, making it easy to visit Monaco and nearby coastal towns stress-free, no need to drive!

Morning: Villefranche-sur-Mer

Start the day in Villefranche-sur-Mer, just a short train ride from Nice. With its deep-blue harbour, colourful waterfront, and relaxed pace, it’s one of the prettiest stops on the Riviera and perfect for a slow morning stroll or coffee by the water.

Midday & Afternoon: Monte Carlo, Monaco

From Villefranche, continue by train to Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Some highlights here include:

• The Monte Carlo Casino
• Port Hercule and the luxury yacht marina
• Walking parts of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit

We spent most of the day in Monaco, enjoying lunch, exploring the harbour and visiting the casino. That said, if you’re short on time, the main highlights are absolutely doable in half a day.

Late Afternoon Option: Èze

If you finish Monaco earlier, or plan your day differently, consider visiting Èze, the iconic hilltop village perched above the Mediterranean. With cobblestone streets and panoramic views, it’s one of the most scenic villages in the region.

Must-see highlights in Èze:

• Jardin Exotique d’Èze: A beautiful cliffside garden with sweeping views of the coast.
• Èze Village Streets: Wander narrow, winding cobblestone lanes filled with artisan shops, galleries and cafés.
• Fragonard Perfumery: Tour the historic perfume factory and pick up a signature fragrance.
• Chapel of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption: A charming, quiet spot in the village center.
• Views of the Mediterranean: Multiple scenic viewpoints along the village path, perfect for photos at sunset.

Car Rental Tips for the South of France

• Book in advance: Especially in the summer months, popular spots like Nice, Saint-Tropez and Biarritz sell out fast. Booking your accommodation & rental car usually gets you better rates.
• Choose the right car: Small cars are perfect for narrow village streets and parking in old towns, while a larger car works if you’re carrying lots of luggage or travelling with a bigger family.
• Manual vs. automatic: Yes, manual cars are cheaper to rent, but if you’re not used to them or drive on the left like we do in Australia, automatic makes the whole experience much easier.
• Check insurance options: Basic coverage is usually included in a rental, but it’s worth adding full coverage for extra peace of mind, especially if you’ll be driving on gravel or rural roads.
• Parking in cities: Street parking is limited and often paid. Look for public parking garages and check if your hotel provides parking.
• Fuel rules: Like most countries, rentals are full-to-full. Always refill before returning to avoid extra charges.
• Toll roads: This caught us off guard more than once! French highways nearly always have tolls. Have cash or a card on hand or see if your rental offers a post-paid electronic toll pass.
• Watch for local rules: France has strict speed limits, alcohol limits and low-emission zones in cities like Nice and Marseille.
• GPS & apps: Use Google Maps or Waze, which I personally love, to navigate and dodge traffic on those scenic coastal drives.

Days 4-6: Riviera Villages & Saint-Tropez

On day three, we picked up our rental car through QEEQ (use code QRbreathing5 for 5% OFF when booking) right in the heart of Nice. Starting the day early gave us complete flexibility to explore the Riviera at our own pace.

Morning: Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Biot

Head west from Nice and stop in Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Biot for breakfast. Both are charming, quiet villages perfect for a slow morning coffee and a stroll through cobblestone streets before continuing along the coast.

Midday: Antibes

Next, make your way to Antibes for lunch. Wander the Provençal market, admire the historic town walls or take a short walk along the scenic harbour with its many superyachts.

Afternoon: Cannes

Continue to Cannes, where you can walk the famous La Croisette, spot the iconic red-carpet steps and enjoy a seaside stroll. If you're here in summer, I recommend you also check out one of the many beach clubs, though early October is quieter, perfect for avoiding crowds.

Optional Stop: Port Grimaud

If time allows, stop by Port Grimaud, often called the “Venice of Provence.” Its canals, colourful houses and relaxed dinner spots make it a charming detour before ending the day.

Having a car booked through QEEQ made hopping between these towns super easy, especially where public transport would have been slow or restrictive.

🏨 Where to Stay in Saint-Tropez

We arrived in Saint-Tropez in the evening, once the day-trippers had cleared out, giving us the chance to soak up the town’s glamorous yet relaxed vibe. While Saint-Tropez isn’t cheap, it’s absolutely worth splurging on a night or two to experience the cobblestone streets, chic cafés and stunning coastal views.

Some options for where to stay in Saint-Tropez:

• Le Yaca Saint-Tropez: Right in the heart of town, perfect if you want to be steps from the harbour, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Hôtel Villa Marie Saint-Tropez: Located just outside town, closer to the famous Pampelonne Beach, offering luxury, privacy, and breathtaking views. Since you’re driving, staying a bit outside town is no problem and gives you easy access to the coast.

Whether you choose a central location or a quieter seaside retreat, Saint-Tropez is a splurge-worthy stop on your South of France road trip.

Beach clubs worth checking out:

• Byblos: We had a lovely lunch here! An iconic Saint-Tropez spot known for its elegant Mediterranean menu and stylish setting, perfect for a mid-day treat before exploring the town.
• Nikki Beach: Famous for lively music, stylish vibes, and international crowds.
• Club 55 (Pampelonne Beach): Iconic and classic, perfect for a leisurely lunch or sunset drinks.
• Bagatelle St Tropez: Gourmet dining right on the sand with a chic atmosphere.
• La Réserve à la Plage: Upscale, relaxed and ideal for a more private, luxurious beach day.

Since you’ll have a car, getting to Pampelonne Beach and the surrounding beach clubs is easy, even if you’re staying in town.

Days 7-9: Provence Highlights

Leaving the glamour of the Riviera behind, we headed inland to explore the timeless villages and landscapes of Provence. This stretch of the South of France road trip combines coastal charm, rolling vineyards and historic towns, perfect for those who love scenic drives and authentic French culture.

Day 7: Cassis & Aix-en-Provence

• Cassis: Start the day along the coast with a visit to this charming port town, famous for its dramatic calanques (cliffs and hidden bays). A short walk along the harbour and a coffee by the waterfront sets the tone for the day.
• Aix-en-Provence: Continue inland to Aix, a picturesque town known for its fountains, tree-lined streets, and lively markets. Take time to wander the historic centre, enjoy lunch at a local café, and soak in the Provençal atmosphere.

Day 8-9: Avignon & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

• Avignon: Famous for the Palais des Papes and medieval streets, Avignon is perfect for a morning stroll. Don’t miss walking along the historic city walls and across the Pont Saint-Bénézet.
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: End the day in this charming village, known for its Provençal markets, artisan shops, and relaxed pace. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy a late afternoon coffee, and soak up village life.

🏨 Where to Stay in Provence

Provence offers a range of charming and luxurious hotels, from historic town centres to peaceful countryside retreats. Here are some of our favourites along the route:

• Hôtel 1770 & Spa: Located just outside of Avignon, this boutique hotel offers modern comfort, a serene atmosphere, and a relaxing spa—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
• Le Cloître des Augustins: A 5-star gem in the heart of Avignon, blending historic charm with spa and fitness facilities. Quaint streets and central location make it ideal for strolling the city’s medieval lanes.
• Setclub Hôtel & Spa Aix-en-Provence: We loved our stay here! It's got an excellent spa and wellness facilities. Perfect for a relaxing overnight stop while exploring the fountains, markets and streets of Aix.

Travel Tips for Exploring Provence

Driving through Provence is as much a part of the experience as the destinations themselves. Take your time and make spontaneous stops at smaller villages, vineyards or local markets, you never know what hidden gems you’ll discover along the way.

While the roads are generally well-maintained, many village streets are narrow and winding, so a compact, comfortable car (like the one we booked through QEEQ) makes exploring stress-free and more enjoyable.

If you have extra time, consider detours to Gordes or Roussillon, two of Provence’s most picturesque hilltop villages. Both offer breathtaking views, charming cobbled streets, and endless photo opportunities.

Day 10: Carcassonne – The Perfect Medieval Stopover

After exploring Provence, we continued westward and made a midway stop in Carcassonne, one of France’s most iconic medieval towns. Perfect for breaking up the drive between Provence and the Atlantic coast, Carcassonne offers history, charm and plenty of photo opportunities.

Highlights to see in Carcassonne:

• La Cité de Carcassonne: The medieval walled city is the star attraction, with cobblestone streets, turrets and ramparts that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
• Château Comtal: Explore this 12th-century castle inside the citadel for incredible views and a deep dive into medieval history.
• Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus: A beautiful Gothic church within the walls, full of history and striking stained glass.
• Walk the Ramparts: The city walls offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, perfect at sunset.
• Petit Train Tour: If you want a relaxed overview, hop on the small tourist train for a scenic ride around the citadel.

🏨 Where to Stay in Carcassonne

For the full medieval experience, consider staying within the old town. Walking the cobbled streets after the day-trippers leave is truly magical, with the castle walls and turrets bathed in sunset light.

Parking tip: It’s easier to park outside the citadel, but the short walk in is well worth it for the immersive experience. We arrived mid-afternoon, giving us plenty of time to explore the highlights: La Cité de Carcassonne, Château Comtal and the ramparts before sunset.

Hotels I recommend in Carcassonne:

• SOWELL HOTELS Les Chevaliers: A 4-star option with stunning views over the citadel, combining modern comfort with historic charm.
• Tribe Carcassonne: A stylish alternative; make sure to book a room with a balcony and city view to fully enjoy the medieval atmosphere.

Carcassonne is a must-stop for history buffs and photographers alike, offering a unique contrast to the Riviera and Provence landscapes. It’s a perfect midpoint on the Nice-to-Bordeaux road trip.

Days 11-13: Atlantic Coast Base – Biarritz & Hossegor

After soaking up the charm of Carcassonne, we headed to France’s Atlantic coast, making Biarritz and Hossegor our base for several days. This stretch combines surf towns, scenic beaches and the opportunity for cultural day trips across the border into Spain.

Biarritz is an elegant seaside town offering a mix of Belle Époque architecture, surfing culture and fine dining.

Highlights include:

• Grande Plage: The main beach with dramatic waves and a lively promenade.
• Rocher de la Vierge: A cliffside viewpoint with panoramic Atlantic views.
• Biarritz Lighthouse & Museum: Learn about the town’s maritime history and enjoy stunning vistas.

Hossegor in contrast is a lot more laid-back surf town famous for its beaches and European surf competitions. Perfect for sunset walks, beach cafés and a slower pace than Biarritz. We personally loved it a lot more than the hyped Biarritz!

• Day Trips to Spain: Both Bilbao (famous for the Guggenheim Museum) and San Sebastián (famous for its beaches and foodie scene) are easily accessible by car for a day trip.

🏨 Where to Stay on the Atlantic Coast

Hotels I recommend in Biarritz:

• Hotel Barnea: One of my favs, this boutique hotel blends modern design with boutique comfort near the beach and trendy shops and cafés.
• Hotel du Palais Biarritz: If you had the budget, this iconic luxury seafront hotel is a must-stay! With elegant rooms, ocean views and historic charm just steps from the main beach of Biarritz, Grande Plage.
• Hotel de La Plage: Check into this relaxed coastal retreat with breezy, beach‑inspired rooms and easy access to the beach, perfect for a seaside escape.

Hotels I recommend in Hossegor:

• Hotel de La Plage: Seafront hotel on Place des Landais with ocean-view balconies, an exclusive on-site surf school and fresh continental breakfasts.
• Hotel & Spa Villa Seren: Stylish 4-star hotel with air-conditioned rooms, lake-view terrace, on-site restaurant and bar, continental breakfast and easy access to Hossegor.
• Hotel La Baïne: I loved staying at this charming coastal hotel just metres from the beach, the rooms are on the smaller side but comfortable with modern amenities. The owners make pizza out of their truck every night!

Day 14: Bordeaux – The Final Stop

We wrapped up our South of France road trip in Bordeaux, the heart of France’s world-famous wine region.

Highlights include:

• Place de la Bourse & Miroir d’Eau: Stunning architecture with reflective pools perfect for photos.
• Historic City Centre: Walk the cobbled streets, visit cafés, and enjoy local gastronomy.
• Wine Tours: Explore nearby vineyards in Médoc, Saint-Émilion, or Pessac-Léognan for tastings and vineyard views.

Travel Tip: Bordeaux is very walkable, so if you decide to stay another few nights here, you don’t need a car in town, just drop off your QEEQ rental. We only had a day to explore and finally dropped off the car at Bordeaux airport, from where we flew to Amsterdam, ending a two-week adventure through the South of France.

🏨 Where to Stay in Bordeaux

Hotels I recommend in Bordeaux:

• Villa Reale: Luxurious 5‑star aparthotel in a historic building on Place du Parlement, featuring elegant, fully equipped suites, just a short stroll from Place de la Bourse.
• Hotel Burdigala: Modern lifestyle hotel offering sleek rooms, a lively restaurant and bar, ideally located within walking distance of Bordeaux’s city center.

South of France Road Trip – Final Words

A road trip through the South of France is hands down the best way to take in everything this region has to offer, from the glitz and glamour of Nice and Saint-Tropez, to the surf beaches of Hossegor, the rolling vineyards around Bordeaux, quaint Provencal villages and the charming coastal towns along the Atlantic.

Driving in a rental car gives you the freedom to stumble across hidden gems, wander local markets and enjoy long, relaxed lunches in picturesque spots, which we loved and can’t recommend enough! Whether you’re chasing waves, indulging in amazing food or just soaking up the sun and scenery, I hope this South of France itinerary delivers the perfect mix of adventure, culture and pure relaxation.