Relaxed 10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore France and discover its unique charm on this 10-day relaxed road trip through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Avignon, Nimes, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Apt, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, and Montpellier. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Carcassonne, Toulouse, Avignon, Nimes, Lourmarin, Roussillon, Apt, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, and Montpellier. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Carcassonne, 3 nights in Avignon, and 2 nights in Aix-en-Provence. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 10-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cité De Carcassonne. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Palais Des Papes.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Pont Du Gard. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Jardin De La Fontaine. Get close to the spectacular Le Sentier Des Ocres and the wonderful Comedy Square. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 9 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 10 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 10-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Carcassonne

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Church of Saints Nazaire and CelseMusée de l'EcoleCité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonneÉglise Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
Muséum de ToulouseMusée des AugustinsPont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Remparts d'AvignonJardin des domsPalais des Papes
Pont du GardMusée des beaux-arts de NîmesMuseum RomanitéClock TowerJardin de La Fontaine
Château de LourmarinLe Sentier des OcresSénanque Abbey

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
  • More
  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Carcassonne and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Carcassonne as you soak in the town’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 6 km, 28 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Carcassonne, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Basilique Saint Nazaire. This worthwhile church is an inviting place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Musée De L'ecole, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This top-rated castle offers a visually striking encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Château Comtal to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, a worthwhile church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Carcassonne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Carcassonne.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Carcassonne.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Carcassonne!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 188 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Musée des Augustins
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Carcassonne will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a museum, a monument, a monastery, a public square, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Muséum De Toulouse. This curiosity-inducing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Musée Des Augustins located in Carcassonne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pont-neuf. Its enchanting features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Couvent Des Jacobins. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this monastery. Next up is Place Saint-pierre, a highly recommended public square. For a change of pace, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. As one of the most locally renowned attractions in Carcassonne, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Carcassonne and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Carcassonne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant La Marquière, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Métairie beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Carcassonne.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 240 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • Jardin des doms
  • Palais des Papes
  • More

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Avignon for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Remparts D'avignon. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a breathtaking place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Jardin Des Doms, a romantic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Palais Des Papes. This well-known palace offers a breathtaking encounter with Carcassonne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Avignon. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Avignon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Pollen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, La Cuisine de Papa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Avignon.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Avignon’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Keep the evening going at Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Barberousse Avignon, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Red Sky, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 118 km, 2 hours 23 min

  • Pont du Gard
  • Musée des beaux-arts de Nîmes
  • Museum Romanité
  • Clock Tower
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Avignon and beyond. With 2 nights left in Avignon, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Avignon is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a museum, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Pont Du Gard and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Des Beaux-arts De Nîmes, an instagrammable museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Musée De La Romanité, one of the hamlet’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the curiosity-inducing Clock Tower. When you're finished at the monument, Jardin De La Fontaine awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Avignon.

Exploring the food culture in Avignon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Carré du Palais, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Avenio offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, BAR DU CHANGE is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Avignon.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Avignon. The bars in Avignon make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at O'collins's Irish Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gambrinus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 152 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Château de Lourmarin
  • Le Sentier des Ocres
  • Sénanque Abbey
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Avignon and visit amazing attractions in Lourmarin, Roussillon, and Apt destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Avignon. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today's adventure in Avignon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Château De Lourmarin. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Le Sentier Des Ocres, another idyllic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sénanque Abbey, one of the village’s most underrated attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Avignon and your accommodation.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music, a highly-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vivotto Avignon, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ma belle cuisine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Avignon and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Lourmarin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Avignon
  • Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Drive 89 km, 1 hour 33 min

  • Fontaine de la Rotonde
  • Hôtel de Caumont
  • Musée Granet
  • place d'Albertas
  • Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Avignon today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Fontaine De La Rotonde. This majestic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hôtel De Caumont and learn what makes this picture-perfect museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Musée Granet. After exploring the museum, head to Place D'albertas. This often recommended public square is a highlight in Avignon. As your day continues, stop by Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence, known for its monumental features.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aix-en-Provence in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Côté Cour, a top-rated dining spot in Aix-en-Provence. If you're in the mood for something new, try Château de Beaupré, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aix-en-Provence.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Aix-en-Provence.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Brigand, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Céleste, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, St James Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in France!

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • More

Drive 115 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Calanque de Port-Miou
  • Route des crêtes
  • Falaises de Cassis
  • More

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Aix-en-Provence will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Aix-en-Provence on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing marina, Calanque De Port-miou. Afterward, continue to Route Des Crêtes, a point of interest every traveler should visit.

As you explore Aix-en-Provence’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Falaises De Cassis. This increasingly popular cliff is an essential stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Aix-en-Provence.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Aix-en-Provence.

Make sure to reserve a table at O'Gustus restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Aix-en-Provence. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Café du Temps, a popular restaurant in Aix-en-Provence. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le bouche à Oreille, a hidden gem nestled in Aix-en-Provence. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Aix-en-Provence. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Aix-en-Provence!

Read more
Day 9

Day 9

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 308 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Comedy Square
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Musée Fabre
  • Montpellier Cathedral
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • promenade of Peyrou
  • More

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Montpellier. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Carcassonne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Aix-en-Provence is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a park, a museum, a church, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Comedy Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fabre Museum, one of the city’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Montpellier Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Arc De Triomphe awaits your visit. This monument is a historic highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a public square - the underrated Promenade Of Peyrou.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Carcassonne. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Carcassonne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Celt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Oliveraie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Carcassonne and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Montpellier can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

Read more
Day 10

Day 10

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Carcassonne.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, Place Carnot. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Carcassonne, a culturally significant castle before you head out.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Carcassonne or just grab something light to keep you going.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Buffalo Grill Salvaza Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Blé Noir is another top choice with a popular menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Carcassonne and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.