6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling east to Montpellier and Marseille
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Montpellier, Avignon, Marseille, Arles, and Nimes.
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, 1 night in Montpellier, and 2 nights in Marseille. 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 Calanques National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Montpellier, Avignon, Marseille, Arles, and Nimes, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Carcassonne
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
- More
- Portail des Jacobins
- More
Say hello to Carcassonne! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Carcassonne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
- Montpellier
- More
Drive 153 km, 1 hour 59 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Porte Narbonnaise
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- More
On day 2 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 Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.
Carcassonne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a monument, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Château Comtal and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a history-steeped castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Porte Narbonnaise, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Cité De Carcassonne. When you're finished at the castle, Basilique Saint Nazaire awaits your visit. This church is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Montpellier by securing a table at Reflet d'Obione. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and mediterranean menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Jardin des Sens, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Leclère, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Montpellier. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy 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 3
- Montpellier
- Marseille
- More
Drive 200 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Arc de Triomphe
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Montpellier and Avignon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Montpellier, including a monument, a public square, a park, a historical landmark, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Arc De Triomphe. This frequently visited monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Comedy Square located in Montpellier for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon). Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this historical landmark. Next up is Palais Des Papes, a highly recommended palace.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Marseille's best restaurants.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Petit Nice in Marseille by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Le Petit Nice offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Signature, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Traquenard, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Dame Du Mont. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Polikarpov, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 4
- Marseille
- More
Drive 39 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Calanques National Park
- Palais Longchamp
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Le Panier
- More
Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Set aside time today to explore Le Panier, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Marseille today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Calanques National Park. This eye-catching national park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Palais Longchamp and learn what makes this visually striking palace unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. After exploring the museum, head to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This notable church is a highlight in Marseille.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Marseille, 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 Le Bistro Du Panier, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Marseille at Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, 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 AM par Alexandre Mazzia. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Marseille tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Au Petit Nice after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Marengo for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, L'unic Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Marseille and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Marseille
- Carcassonne
- More
Drive 324 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Roman Theatre of Arles
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Museum Romanité
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Arles and Nimes. 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Roman Theatre Of Arles is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic archeological site before continuing your journey. Arles Amphitheatre is your next stop. This popular archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jardin De La Fontaine. This romantic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée De La Romanité.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at Auberge des Lices, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Carcassonne - Departure day
- More
- André Chénier Garden
- More
Day 6 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, we recommend visiting André Chénier Garden, a romantic park before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant La Marquière, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Métairie offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in France
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.