To the South of France: a family friendly road trip

There is more to France than baguettes, wine and fashion. Here is an itinerary to drive to the South of France and back while discovering the specialities of each region. This itinerary is useful for anyone who wants a amuse-bouche experience of France. Most of the drive time between each stop is 3 to 5 hours, making it ideal for families with kids. The journey also begins and ends at Calais.

Read less

Updated ago

Tips before travelling

Car preparation:

- Ensure your car has a valid MOT and appropriate insurance cover for driving in France.

- You will need a warning triangle, reflective vests for passengers and a first aid kit in the car. The RAC shop has a full European driving kit which includes the above items.

Driving Kit through RAC shop

www.racshop.co.uk

Documentation:

- Check if you need an International Driving Permit. UK drivers can use their valid UK driving licence.

- Carry your vehicle registration document (V5 certificate) and proof of insurance.

- Certain cities in France (including a few on this list) require a Crit'Air clean air sticker.

Apply for Crit'Air sticker

www.certificat-air.gouv.fr.

Travelling with pets

- Your pet needs to be microchipped and have a current rabies vaccination.

- Contact a registered vet ahead of time to get an Animal Health Certificate (UK). These are valid for single entry only.

- On your return journey, plan to stop at a vet 24 to 120 hours (5 days) before your entry back into the UK to get a tapeworm treatment. Make sure the vet signs and stamps the Animal Health Certificate.

- When booking your Eurotunnel or ferry tickets, be sure to include your pet!

While driving

- Remember to drive on the right hand side of the road and go anti-clockwise at the roundabouts!

- The toll roads are a little expensive but worth it for a shorter drive time. The toll booths are on the left hand side, so it is handy to have a passenger to make the payments. Or buy a prepaid pass for convenience.

- There are many fuel stations along the main roads with cafes, shower facilities and an occasional playground. It is free to use the restrooms.

Calais

@anniekatt

Two options to enter France from England: the sleek speed of the Eurotunnel or the breezy journey on the ferry.

Add to

Details

Amiens

@anniekatt

2 hours drive from Calais. Amiens is a charming city known for its art and history. You can visit the largest cathedral in France, and explore idyllic floating gardens.

Add to

Details

Clermont-Ferrand

@anniekatt

6 hours drive from Amiens. This university city is surrounded by a chain of dormant volcanoes that offer numerous hiking opportunities.

Add to

Details

Avignon

@anniekatt

4 hours drive from Clermont-Ferrand. Explore the Old City streets and cruise along The Rhone.

Add to

Details

Cassis

@anniekatt

2 hours drive from Avignon. Visit the Calanques and relax on the Plage de la Grande Mer.

Add to

Details

Nice

@anniekatt

2 hours drive from Cassis. Spend a few days discovering this art, culture, food and beach destination. It is also centrally located in the South of France, making it easy to explore the rest of the French Riviera.

Add to

Details

Lyon

@anniekatt

5 hours drive from Nice. A city full of restaurants, so expect gastronomy delights and fine wines.

Add to

Details

Dijon

@anniekatt

2 hours drive from Lyon. A city of art, cassis and of course, mustard!

Add to

Details

Reims

@anniekatt

3 hours drive from Dijon and 3 hours to Calais. Visit the world famous champagne houses for tastings.

Add to

Details

* * *

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Annie Kattapuram

Hello, I'm Annie, a self-professed global citizen looking for cultural experiences, beautiful cities, great food and amazing memories. After country-hopping for the last 15 years, I'm now based in the UK, so the holidays are spent driving around Europe with young kids and an old dog. My Thatch guides include: 🛣️ family inspired road trip routes for our European destinations 🐾 child and pet friendly itineraries 🥘 tried and tested food guides 🗽 recommended city sights 🏛️ interesting history and cultural info. Most of the cities that I visit are 'discoveries' - offering a taste of the city's history, culture and atmosphere through a family friendly lens. If you have more days in each location, start here, then wander and see what else you find! Join me on our explorations and be inspired to discover your next family adventure!

Read less

Send A Tip

Support Annie Kattapuram’s work.

Select your tip amount

$10

$20

$50

Or type in other amount

Explore related destinations

France