Scenic French Road Trip and Culinary Journey from Hyères to San Sebastián

Day 1: Provence Exploration

Hyères, France on August 7, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at La Cuisine d'Aglaé

Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring local Provençal specialties in this cozy, family-friendly bistro. They open at 8:00AM.
EUR20, 1h

10:00AM

Visit the Botanical Garden of Villa Noailles

Explore beautiful gardens with panoramic views of Hyères and the Mediterranean, perfect for a relaxing stroll with the family.
EUR5 per adult, free for under 18, 1h30m

12:00PM

Lunch at La Méditerranéenne

Savor fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean dishes right on the harbor. Great variety for kids and adults alike.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30PM

Drive to Cassis (1.5h drive)

Head northwest to Cassis to enjoy stunning calanques and coastal scenery.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1h30m

4:00PM

Calanques National Park boat tour

Take a scenic 2-hour boat tour through the cliffs and coves of the Calanques; a breathtaking experience for all ages.
EUR25 adult, EUR15 youth, 2h

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Grand Large

Enjoy dinner with spectacular sea views and fresh local dishes. Open till 10PM.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 2: Marseille & Coastal Drive

Marseille, France on August 8, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Start your day with organic breads and tasty pastries in the historic center of Marseille.
EUR15, 1h

10:00AM

Explore Old Port and Le Panier District

Walk through Marseille’s Old Port and charming Le Panier neighborhood, soaking in vibrant street art and local culture.
Free, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at Chez Fonfon

Enjoy traditional Bouillabaisse soup, a must-try Marseille specialty. Lunch service from 12PM to 2PM.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:30PM

Drive to Montpellier (2h drive)

Travel west along the coast with scenic stops en route.
Fuel approx EUR25, 2h

5:00PM

Explore Place de la Comédie and Promenade du Peyrou

Discover the lively plazas and green spaces in Montpellier’s historic center.
Free, 1h

7:30PM

Dinner at Leclere Cuisine d’Arrivage

Relax with contemporary French dishes that focus on fresh, seasonal local ingredients.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 3: Carcassonne Adventure

Carcassonne, France on August 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café

Start breakfast early to prepare for a day of castle sightseeing.
EUR15, 1h

9:00AM

Drive to Carcassonne (1.5h drive)

Travel inland north west to the spectacular medieval fortress city of Carcassonne.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1h30m

10:30AM

Visit Cité de Carcassonne

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage medieval fortress, ramparts, and castle; fascinating history and excellent views.
EUR10 adults, EUR5 kids, 2h

1:00PM

Lunch at Bistro Un Bouchon

Casual dining with classic cassoulet and regional dishes. Open 12PM to 2:30PM.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00PM

Walk along the Canal du Midi

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon stroll or bike by the scenic and historic Canal du Midi nearby.
Free, 1h30m

5:00PM

Drive to Toulouse (1h drive)

Continue west to Toulouse, the 'Pink City,' known for vibrant culture and cuisine.
Fuel approx EUR15, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Bibent

Experience stylish brasserie dining with local specialties like duck confit in central Toulouse.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 4: Toulouse & Pyrenees Drive

Toulouse, France on August 10, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Le Petit Délice

Start with fresh pastries and coffee at this welcoming café near the city center.
EUR12, 1h

8:30AM

Visit Capitole de Toulouse and Nearby Markets

Explore the grand Capitole square and browse the lively outdoor markets for local produce and snacks.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Drive toward the Pyrenees, stop at Saint-Lizier (1.5h drive)

A charming mountain village to explore Romanesque architecture and enjoy scenic mountain views.
Free, 1h

1:00PM

Lunch at Auberge des Pyrénées in Saint-Lizier

Taste traditional Pyrenean dishes in a rustic setting, perfect for families. Open 12PM to 2PM.
EUR28, 1h30m

3:00PM

Drive to Pau (1h drive)

Travel further into the foothills and explore the beautiful city of Pau, known for castle views and gardens.
Fuel approx EUR20, 1h

4:00PM

Visit Chateau de Pau

Tour the historic castle overlooking the Pyrenees, a fascinating cultural experience for the whole family.
EUR8 adults, EUR5 youth, 1h30m

7:30PM

Dinner at Brasserie Le Lion

Enjoy hearty French and Basque-inspired dishes in a lively brasserie setting.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 5: Pyrenees to San Sebastián

San Sebastián, Spain on August 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Fuyi in Pau

Delight in local pastries and strong coffee before the final leg of the trip.
EUR12, 1h

9:00AM

Drive to San Sebastián (2h drive, including border cross)

Enjoy the changing landscape as you cross from picturesque France into the Basque Country of Spain.
Fuel approx EUR25, 2h

11:30AM

Arrival and check-in

Settle into your accommodation and get ready to explore the city’s culinary offerings.
Varies, 1h

12:30PM

Lunch at Bar Nestor

Famous for its tomato salad and chuleta (steak), this laid-back spot offers authentic Basque flavors. Open for lunch until 3PM.
EUR35, 1h30m

2:30PM

Stroll along La Concha Beach

Relax and enjoy the sandy beach and stunning bay with family-friendly swimming.
Free, 2h

5:00PM

Explore Old Town (Parte Vieja)

Discover charming streets, pintxo bars, and local shops perfect for a late afternoon treat.
Free, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner Pintxo Crawl

Experience San Sebastián’s famous pintxo bars (small tapas), ideal for sampling multiple local dishes with the family.
EUR30 per person approx., 2h

Day 6: San Sebastián Culinary Day

San Sebastián, Spain on August 12, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Old Town Café

Start with churros and hot chocolate, a local morning favorite.
EUR10, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Monte Igueldo Amusement Park

Take a funicular ride for panoramic views and enjoy family-friendly rides and the vintage charm.
EUR7 funicular, rides extra, 3h

1:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante Arzak

For an unforgettable fine dining experience, book in advance to savor creative Basque cuisine; kid-friendly options available.
EUR80 per person approx., 2h

4:00PM

Relax at Zurriola Beach

Popular surfing spot with golden sands and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for afternoon relaxation and activities.
Free, 2h

7:30PM

Dinner at Gandarias Jatetxea

Enjoy hearty Basque cuisine like grilled meats and fish in a welcoming setting.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 7: Day Trip to Getaria

Getaria, Spain on August 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at local bakery

Grab fresh pastries before heading out to this picturesque fishing village.
EUR8, 1h

9:00AM

Drive to Getaria (30 min drive)

Short scenic drive along the coast to explore the charming seaside town.
Fuel approx EUR5, 30m

9:30AM

Explore Getaria Old Harbor and Balenciaga Museum

Visit the birthplace of famed fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga and stroll the quaint harbor.
Museum EUR10 adults, EUR5 youth, 2h

12:00PM

Lunch at Elkano

Famous for its wood-grilled seafood, especially turbot; a must-try dining experience booked well ahead.
EUR50 approx., 1h30m

2:00PM

Beach time and walk along the coast

Enjoy the peaceful beach and beautiful coastal trails suitable for all ages.
Free, 2h

4:30PM

Drive back to San Sebastián

Return to your base for final evening in the city.
Fuel approx EUR5, 30m

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Rekondo

Celebrate your trip with traditional Basque cuisine and excellent wine selection.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 8: Departure

San Sebastián, Spain on August 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel or local café

Enjoy your last meal relaxing with local coffee and pastries.
EUR10, 1h

9:00AM

Prepare for departure and car return

Pack and organize for your onward journey or flight home.
Varies, 1h