9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Lourdes and surrounding area
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Marseille, Avignon, Arles, Nimes, Toulouse, La Teste-de-Buch, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, Biarritz, and Lourdes.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Carcassonne, 2 nights in Marseille, 1 night in Toulouse, 2 nights in Bordeaux, and 1 night in Lourdes. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Carcassonne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palais Des Papes, learn more about the unique Dune Of Pilat, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of La Cité Du Vin.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Marseille, Avignon, Arles, Nimes, Toulouse, La Teste-de-Buch, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, Biarritz, and Lourdes, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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- Portail des Jacobins
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Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Carcassonne is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Portail Des Jacobins, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Carcassonne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
- Marseille
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Porte Narbonnaise
- Cité de Carcassonne
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Carcassonne covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a church, and a monument. Start your adventure at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This frequently visited castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Château Comtal, a must-see castle in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This increasingly popular church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Porte Narbonnaise, where you can take in respected features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Mets des Saintes, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Traquenard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, La Dame Du Mont is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Polikarpov also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 3
- Marseille
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Drive 216 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Palais des Papes
- Pont d'Avignon
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Palais Longchamp
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Marseille, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Avignon and Marseille. You still have 1 night left in Marseille.
Immerse yourself in Marseille’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Palais Des Papes. This historic palace is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon), a must-visit historical landmark in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, a popular museum. For a change of scene, check out Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), known for its symbolic features. We also recommend visiting Palais Longchamp. This palace is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Marseille.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Marseille. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Au Petit Nice, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Marengo is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, L'unic Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 4
- Marseille
- Toulouse
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Drive 415 km, 4 hours 48 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arles and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Marseille, including an archeological site, a park, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Arles Amphitheatre. This well-known archeological site is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin De La Fontaine, which may be one of the most remarkable places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Marseille on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Musée De La Romanité, a locally appreciated museum in the town.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Toulouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 5
- Toulouse
- Bordeaux
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Drive 378 km, 4 hours 36 min
- Beach of La Hume
- Parc Mauresque
- Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
- Dune of Pilat
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On day 5 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in La Teste-de-Buch and Arcachon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Toulouse, including a beach, a park, an observation deck, a sand dunes and much more! Start your adventure at Beach Of La Hume. This beloved beach is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parc Mauresque located in Toulouse for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Observatoire Sainte-cécile. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Dune Of Pilat. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this sand dunes.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Brun stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Whose Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Bordeaux
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bordeaux for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bordeaux and Lormont.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bordeaux. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a historical landmark, a public square, an art installation, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Bordeaux Cathedral. This is a popular church you should not miss. Another must-see is The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, an up-and-coming historical landmark in Bordeaux.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Place De La Bourse. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miroir D'eau, another of the city’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at La Cité Du Vin, an enchanting place of interest in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Bordeaux, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Soléna, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hôtel De Sèze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Grizzly Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dog And Duck also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Bordeaux
- Lourdes
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Drive 408 km, 5 hours 5 min
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- Rocher de la vierge
- Le Train de La Rhune
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux, Biarritz, and Bayonne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lourdes. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Jardin Public. This serene park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Monument Aux Girondins and learn what makes this culturally significant monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Rocher De La Vierge. After exploring the rock formation, head to Le Train De La Rhune. This captivating heritage railway is a highlight in Bordeaux.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lourdes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lourdes's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top-rated dining destination in Lourdes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lourdes this evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Lourdes
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Basilica of St. Pius X
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lourdes and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in Lourdes. Begin your sightseeing with Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This worthwhile church is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Basilica Of St. Pius X, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Lourdes, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Jardin Des Plantes, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Carcassonne, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Savor the flavors at V and B Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Auberge des Lices beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Adélaïde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 9
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- André Chénier Garden
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Day 9 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Carcassonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at André Chénier Garden. This underrated park is a popular place to see in the town.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing La Cité Médiévale. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
If you're in the mood for something new, try La Métairie, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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