Route du Soleil: 7-day road trip
The Route du Soleil — who hasn’t heard of it? This famous highway goes straight through France towards the sunny south. For many tourists, it’s the go-to route to southern France, Spain, or Italy. But why use it just to get there as quickly as possible? Instead of rushing past toll booths, take the time to discover France along the way. On this 7-day road trip, you will stop at the most beautiful destinations on the road from Nancy to Avignon.
Day 1: Nancy
From Utrecht, it’s about a five-and-a-half-hour drive to Nancy. This French city, full of Art Nouveau charm, makes for a perfect first stop on your road trip. Take a stroll through the stunning Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason. Explore the old town, visit a museum, or check out the medieval city gate.
Day 2: Dijon (213 km, approx. 2 hrs 30 min)
Next up is Dijon, the capital of Burgundy. You probably know it for its mustard, but there’s much more to explore. The city centre is full of traditional wooden houses and lively terraces. On Saturdays, there’s a vibrant market where you can sample local specialties — from cheese and wine to, of course, mustard.
Day 3: Chalon-sur-Saône (70 km, approx. 1 hr)
Located on the banks of the Saône River, Chalon-sur-Saône is the perfect stop in the heart of the wine country. Visit the Saint-Vincent Cathedral in the historic city centre or enjoy a walk along the river. Just outside the city, you’ll find countless vineyards and châteaux — perfect for a scenic break from the road.
Day 4–5: Lyon (130 km, approx. 1 hr 45 min)
Lyon is a city you simply can’t skip. Consider staying an extra night to fully enjoy the whole city. Discover the Roman theatre ruins and Vieux Lyon, the charming old town. And for the foodies, Lyon is also known as the gastronomic capital of France.
Day 6: Orange (200 km, approx. 2 hrs 15 min)
Orange is rich in history that stretches back to Roman times. Its Roman Theatre is one of the best preserved in the world — and truly a highlight. Don’t miss the ancient triumphal arch either. On your way to Orange, you can stop in Montélimar, famous for its locally produced nougat.
Day 7: Avignon (30 km, approx. 30 min)
A little further on, you’ll reach the final stop of the Route du Soleil: Avignon, known for its half-finished bridge. The city also offers plenty to discover — such as the Palais des Papes and picturesque streets. Wrap up your day with a glass of local wine at a terrace.
Handy tips
Avoid the “black Saturdays.” During peak season, especially around July 14, roads are extremely busy. Try to travel on weekdays or outside of rush hours.
Don’t forget about the toll roads. Much of the Route du Soleil is toll-operated (péage). You can calculate your toll fees ahead of time.
Book your accommodations in advance. Especially during summer, places fill up quickly. Planning ahead is recommended.
Don’t forget the environmental sticker. You’ll need a French Crit’Air sticker for this route. Make sure to order it before your trip via the official French government website.
