Relaxed 11-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Carcassonne and Toulouse

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Bordeaux and Lormont destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 5 nights left in Bordeaux. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Place Du Parlement is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Place De La Bourse, a captivating public square, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Miroir D'eau. This noteworthy art installation offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Lormont. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 9 min. Upon reaching Lormont, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum that everyone visiting Lormont should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Betasom. This photogenic museum is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

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

Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Soléna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel De Sèze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Grizzly Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Bordeaux will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Jardin Public. This notable park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Porte Cailhau, a history-steeped monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Porte De Bourgogne, a curiosity-inducing monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Le Bouscat. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 9 min. Upon reaching Le Bouscat, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Parc Bordelais, an often recommended park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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 Bordeaux, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to book a table at Locadillos, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Le Plana, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Blind. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.

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 Bordeaux. The bars in Bordeaux make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Casey's Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bar À Vin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Thecity offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bordeaux, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

A blend of a charming, a gorgeous, a photogenic, a historic, a monumental, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed await you in Bordeaux on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable church, Bordeaux Cathedral. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Tour Pey-berland. A visit to this monument is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Bordeaux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop. This increasingly popular museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about France. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in France and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Confidentiel, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Loco By Jem's, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lord Lion Bar Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Notre Dame, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'engrenage likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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 Bordeaux and beyond. With 2 nights left in Bordeaux, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gujan-Mestras. This drive usually takes around 49 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lac De La Magdeleine. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the lake before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Gujan-Mestras’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Teste-de-Buch. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in La Teste-de-Buch, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Beach Of La Hume, an often recommended beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of La Teste-de-Buch, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arcachon. Your travel time is around 16 min.

Begin your journey at Parc Mauresque and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Observatoire Sainte-cécile, another highlight in the town.

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

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 delightful dinner at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Arcada? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Mirabelle as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Comtesse, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Cock And Bull. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Houses Of Parliament, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arcachon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 21 min. When you arrive in Arcachon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to La Plage Des Américains, an often recommended beach that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Plage De L'océan, a serene beach that stands out in the city. Next, visit Chapel Of The Algerian Villa, an underrated church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore La Pointe Aux Chevaux, a nearby beach, which is highly recommended by other travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arcachon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Andernos-les-Bains may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Andernos-les-Bains, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Church St Eloi. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

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

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 Bordeaux.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chez Dupont, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Scopitone, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vintage Bar - Rhumerie & Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Blagnac and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Toulouse and the town of Carcassonne. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Blagnac’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bordeaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Blagnac may take around 2 hours 25 min. Upon your arrival in Blagnac, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Musée Aeroscopia and explore the history-steeped features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a locally renowned church that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Grand Rond, a romantic park that stands out in the town. Next, visit Jardin Des Plantes, a locally appreciated botanical garden that offers a unique experience.

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 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.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 8 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.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. Start at the famous Cité De Carcassonne, a romantic castle in Carcassonne.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Perpignan. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Palace Of The Kings Of Majorca, an increasingly popular palace that everyone visiting Perpignan should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salses-le-Château, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Perpignan to Salses-le-Château may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Salses-le-Château, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Salses Fortress and explore the breathtaking features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Narbonne. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a notable wildlife reserve known for its scenic features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at V and B Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adélaïde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Carcassonne and drive in the direction of the hamlet of Marmonières for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Toulouse, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Carcassonne, including a castle and a church. Start your day at Château Comtal. This majestic castle is an up-and-coming place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. If romantic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Basilique Saint Nazaire. This inviting church is a favorite among visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Marmonières. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Head to Grotte De Limousis, an increasingly popular cave in Marmonières. Explore its scenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

In the city of Toulouse, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L*Agence offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Perche Pinte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moloko, known for its lively atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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