Relaxed 11-Day France Road Trip from Bordeaux to Carcassonne, and Toulouse

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 6 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bordeaux and begin your adventure in France.

Kick off the day at Monument Aux Girondins, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This column is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,483 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bordeaux. 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 city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.

Make sure to book a table at Le Cent 33, 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 Le Clemenceau, 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 L'Oiseau Bleu. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Brun, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whose Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 Bordeaux as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Place Du Parlement. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,489 visitors.

Next, make your way to Place De La Bourse. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Miroir D'eau. This reflecting pool is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lormont. This car ride takes around 9 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at La Cité Du Vin, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,487 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Betasom. This submarine base has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,804 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Soléna, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hôtel De Sèze offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Locadillos. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grizzly Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dog And Duck offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 3, 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 Le Bouscat and beyond. With 4 nights left in Bordeaux, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Jardin Public, a remarkable urban park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Porte Cailhau. This city gate has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,609 travelers.

Porte De Bourgogne is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,953 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This well-loved church building boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 4,684 reviews.

Set your GPS to Le Bouscat and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Le Bouscat beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc Bordelais. Previous visitors have rated this urban park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,855 reviews.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le Plana, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Confidentiel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Loco By Jem's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Casey's Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Bar À Vin, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Thecity provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bordeaux Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,591 reviews.

Tour Pey-berland is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This tower is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,070 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop. This tram stop is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,662 reviews.

The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is another outstanding experience in Bordeaux. Around 4,871 travelers have rated this bell tower an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Merignac. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Take the opportunity to see Parc De Bourran. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,592 visitors.

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 JAQEN CRAFT BEER, 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 Arcada, 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 Mirabelle, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lord Lion Bar Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Notre Dame. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at L'engrenage, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Gujan-Mestras, La Teste-de-Buch, and Arcachon destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 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.

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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Lac De La Magdeleine. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 885 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gujan-Mestras, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Teste-de-Buch may take around 8 min. Upon your arrival in La Teste-de-Buch, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Beach Of La Hume. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,788 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Arcachon, 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 La Teste-de-Buch to Arcachon may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arcachon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Parc Mauresque, a remarkable english garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,892 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Observatoire Sainte-cécile. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,811 travelers.

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.

Savor the flavors at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chez Dupont beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Scopitone. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, La Comtesse offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Cock And Bull is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Houses Of Parliament is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 6, 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 Arcachon and beyond. With 1 night left in Bordeaux, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Plage Des Américains. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 768 visitors.

Plage De L'océan is another popular attraction you could visit today. This beach has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,086 visitors.

Chapel Of The Algerian Villa is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,503 visitors.

La Pointe Aux Chevaux is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 687 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Church St Eloi. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 825 visitors.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Pavillon des Boulevards, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherlock Holmes Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at suzzi. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vintage Bar - Rhumerie & Pub, a prime location for a drink.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in 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.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Blagnac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 25 min. When you arrive in Blagnac, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Musée Aeroscopia. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,683 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blagnac and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Grand Rond. Grand Rond is an urban park with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,069 reviews.

Jardin Des Plantes is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 visitors.

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.

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 Carcassonne, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. 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 town.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

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

Perpignan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carcassonne behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Perpignan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Palace Of The Kings Of Majorca. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,906 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Perpignan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salses-le-Château. This drive usually takes around 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Salses Fortress. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,683 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Salses-le-Château, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Narbonne. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Réserve Africaine De Sigean. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 18,879 visitors.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Adélaïde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Carcassonne as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Day 9 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 1 night. 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

Next, make your way to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,201 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This fortress is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Basilique Saint Nazaire. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,146 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marmonières. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Grotte De Limousis your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this show cave an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,361 reviews. More than 15,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

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

Keep the evening going at Moloko, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Botanist Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Melting Pot Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Toulouse as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

Day 10 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!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Toulouse and set your GPS to Montauban. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Montauban, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Place Nationale. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,209 visitors.

Next, make your way to Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,604 reviews.

While in Montauban, we also recommend a visit to Port Canal. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,642 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Montauban, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Moissac. Your travel time is around 33 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Saint-pierre Abbey In Moissac. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,475 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bordeaux in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Loup, 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 Restaurant Son', 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 Molly Malone'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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Bordeaux and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Day 11 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 Bordeaux.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bordeaux is the remarkable Porte Dijeaux. This city gate and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,628 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bordeaux or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Bordeaux, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bordeaux and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.