Are you heading to the south of France by car, maybe even electric? That legendary Route du Soleil is quite a drive, but with the right pit stops, the holiday starts as soon as you get in the car. Saskia went before you and shares in this article the best stops en route to the South of France. Including ideas for awesome Airbnb places to sleep!
Road trip to southern France
In partnership with Airbnb
Going on holiday to the south of France by car means freedom: Mind on zero and go! But, especially in high season, it also requires some extra organisation (hello, monster traffic jams!). Which route are you going to drive? Last but not least, what day and what time will you leave? By getting off the beaten track a little (literally and figuratively), you increase the chances of having a nice drive and a more enjoyable trip. France is relatively close by, so of course you can - with the necessary rest stops - hit the road south in one go. And yes, you can opt for uninspiring hotels along the motorway, but why do that to yourself? Make the journey there a party! Stop at places worthwhile, for lunch or to sleep. Characterful cities abound in France, even on the route to your final destination in southern France, Spain or Italy. So it turns out! See for yourself!
Tip for when travelling to France by electric car
Unfortunately, charging an electric car in France can still be quite a challenge - read: stressful. The further south you drive, the scarcer the charging stations seem to become. If you travel fully electric, it is smart to plan your route and charging moments carefully. During our trip, we regularly came across charging stations that were not working - not a problem with our hybrid car, but a problem if you are driving fully electric. Moreover, we took the warning from the ANWB about extremely expensive charging posts seriously - for example, there is a story of a holidaymaker who paid 480 euros for a charging session. We therefore check the cost at each pole first. One advantage of this road trip is that in cities - often in car parks - there are more good charging points.
Great places to sleep in France
With my family, I went to the south of France for three weeks during the summer holidays. Instead of driving fast and sleeping in roadside hotels, we opted for slow travel. And what a treat it was! We took four days for the outward journey and three days for the return journey to our final destination, the coastal town of Saint-Raphaël. Along the way, we discovered charming, historic towns we would have otherwise rushed past. We enjoyed delicious lunches at French bistros - pausing and perhaps recharging the car is necessary after all - and slept in unusual places in the middle of town. We found those places to stay via Airbnb, which is highly recommended if you want to give your holiday an authentic edge.
Booking and checking in is super easy and with the right search filters you will find the most beautiful gems. Of course, you can search by familiar categories such as accommodation with a swimming pool (great with children), parking space (ideal when passing through) or direct check-in (useful if you decide to stop somewhere last minute). Also very handy to use is the filter ‘favourite of guests’. These are the most popular properties on Airbnb, based on ratings, reviews and experiences of people who have stayed there.
Great stops in northern France: Metz & Reims
Metz
If you drive south via Luxembourg, beautiful Metz is an ideal first stop of your holiday. Located on the Moselle, this charming city is a hidden gem full of history and culture. From Utrecht, it is about 400 kilometres (about 4.5 hours' drive), so perfect for a first stopover. Metz combines beautiful Gothic architecture with modern art. The impressive Saint-Étienne cathedral and the Centre Pompidou-Metz are absolute must-sees. Don't forget to stroll through the quaint streets of the old town and feast on local specialities. Whether you want to take a break or spend the night, Metz does not disappoint.
Some fine Airbnb's in Metz are Metz Cathedral (this is where we stayed) or how about this flat at Place d’ Armes? Also this site named Chèvremont is definitely worth checking out. Want even more choices? Then use the filter ‘favourite of guests’ and discover the wide range of offers in Metz!
The first stop to the south of France is this flat in the heart of Metz.
Reims
If you take the route via Antwerp and Brussels, Reims is the perfect place for a stopover, about 350 kilometres from Utrecht (about 4 hours' drive). Known as the capital of Champagne, this city is a feast for lovers of bubbles and history. The impressive cathedral, where French kings were once crowned, is one of the highlights. After visiting one of the many champagne houses, treat yourself to a delicious lunch in one of the cosy bistros. Reims is not only a place to refuel, but also to indulge your taste buds.
Favourite Airbnb's of guests in Reims include this flat at the foot of the cathedral with private parking (this is where we stayed). Or how about these popular and affordable options: Hypercentre Boulingrin, or this flat also in the city centre and also these ‘French Touch’ is worth checking out if you are going to Reims.
Another nice first stop to the south of France is this flat in the heart of Reims. We visited Metz on the way there and Reims on the way back.
Great stops in central France: Beaune & Dijon
Beaune
In the heart of Burgundy lies Beaune, a city synonymous with wine and gastronomy. From Utrecht, it is about 700 kilometres (about 7 hours' drive), so time for a well-earned break. Here you will taste the best wines straight from the source. The historic Hospices de Beaune, with its colourful roof tiles, is a must-visit. But Beaune is more than just wine; the city also has a beautiful old centre with narrow streets, boutiques and authentic French charm. A perfect stop for a longer break or to spend the night and enjoy a sumptuous dinner with a good glass of Burgundy.
Three Airbnb's in Beaune that are favourites according to other Airbnb users include this beautiful city centre flat with parking, this little gem with a garden, or how about this luxuriously furnished flat in the city centre? As in the other cities, the same applies here: take a look for yourself with the desired filters, because the offer in Burgundy is huge!
Dijon
Just a short distance from Beaune is Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, some 720 kilometres from Utrecht (about 7.5 hours' drive). This is also an awesome stop if you are travelling to France by car on holiday. Dijon is - surprisingly - famous for its mustard, but with so much more to offer. Stroll through the beautiful old town with its palaces and museums, or visit the market halls of Les Halles for a truly French culinary experience. Dijon is a lively city where you can really taste the Burgundian lifestyle - it is not the gastronomic capital of France for nothing. Whether you fancy a short break or extensive exploration, Dijon offers something for everyone.
Sleeping spots also abound. Some guest favourites include this affordable flat in the city centre, this spacious flat in the Antiquaires neighbourhood and this fine flat.
Fun cities of southern France worth visiting: Avignon & Aix-en-Provence
Avignon
A personal favourite! When you reach the south, Avignon should not be missing from your list. This city, famous for the Palace of the Popes, is about 1,150 kilometres from Utrecht (about 11.5 hours' drive). Avignon exudes the atmosphere of history and culture. Its medieval walls surround a city full of life, with squares where you can have lunch and enjoy the Provençal atmosphere. Avignon is also an excellent base to explore the surrounding vineyards and lavender fields. A stop in Avignon is a step back in time, but with all the conveniences of the present.
Some fine Airbnb's in Avignon are this city centre flat with small private pool (this is where we stayed - a real winner!) or this bright and quiet flat.
A great city in the south of France is Avignon and then this Airbnb flat with private pool is a great tip!
Aix-en-Provence
Finally, there is Aix-en-Provence, a city steeped in art, culture and an unmistakable southern charm. Aix-en-Provence is about 1,250 kilometres from Utrecht (about 12.5 hours away), so probably almost at the end point of your trip to southern France or northern Spain. Aix-en-Provence is known for its bustling markets, elegant squares and the famous Cours Mirabeau, The atmosphere is relaxed, and life largely takes place outside, with plenty of cafés and terraces. Here you can experience the real Provençal lifestyle before continuing your journey south. Whether you decide to stay overnight or just take a long lunch break, Aix will not bore you.
Finally, some favourite flat in this city: a stay in the historic city centre near Cours Mirabeau, or this spacious and bright flat also in the old part of town and also this small house with outdoor space is definitely worth checking out.
So many fun stops on the way to southern France
Hopefully I was able to poke you for a road trip through France. Even if you're just passing through and only have a short time, it's precisely with these fun cities on the route that you can turn the long, boring car journey into something. And remember: location is everything! Go for a charming Airbnb, in a good location and when searching, don't forget to filter by ‘favourite of guests’ to find the real gems. If you have another great France stopover tip, we'd love to hear from you! Below are the contact and follow buttons and we'd love to hear from you!
More greener holiday tips in Europe
- Are you also going to Saint-Raphael? Check out the best beach bars and snorkelling spots nearby.
- More tips for holidays in Languedoc. You want to see this!
- A city break to Lisbon with a green edge. We'll take you with us!
- On holiday to Tossa de Mar in Spain! A great holiday destination in Europe.
Photo credits: thegreenlist.nl.
