11-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling west to Lourdes, Bayonne, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Angers, Paris, and Limoges

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 2 nights 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 Porte de l'Aude or 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 in Carcassonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous 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 satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in France!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Drop by the renowned Cité de Carcassonne. This popular fortress has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Basilique Saint Nazaire. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 visitors, this church deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,201 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Château Comtal. This castle and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,823 local and international travelers.

You can learn more about Carcassonne today by going on a tour. Carcassonne offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lourdes, Gez, and Aspin-en-Lavedan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lourdes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,163 reviews.

When you arrive in Lourdes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Grottes de Bétharram, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable show cave has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,262 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lourdes, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lourdes. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a popular restaurant in Lourdes. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Lourdes at Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, 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 Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Lourdes tonight.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bayonne and Saint Jean De Luz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bayonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Bayonne Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,743 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Bayonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Le Train de La Rhune. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 16,223 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Caves of Sare. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,831 visitors, this archaeological site deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Set your GPS to Saint Jean De Luz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Saint Jean De Luz beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Fort du Socoa, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This fortress is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,851 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bayonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bayonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at JANINE, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Victor Hugo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant La Grange. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bayonne.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dame Jeanne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café des Pyrénées is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Biarritz, Bidart, and Anglet, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Anglet, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Biarritz. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rocher de la vierge. This rock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,700 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Biarritz Aquarium. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,072 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Plage de Bidart. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,406 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Le Plana, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Confidentiel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

Continue your lively evening at Café Brun, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Bar à Vin is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, La Comtesse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

On day 6 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 Bordeaux and Le Bouscat. In the evening, you’ll end up in La Rochelle, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 Le Bouscat. Your travel time is around 8 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Monument aux Girondins is a great place to start. This column is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,483 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is place de la Bourse. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,251 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at miroir d'eau. The reflecting pool has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting jardin public. This urban park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Bouscat. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like parc bordelais. This extraordinary urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,855 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at La Boussole, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Les Flots, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palem Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mac Ewan's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Plan B is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Dock Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nantes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angers. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nantes. This car ride takes around 1 hour 50 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Machines of the Isle of Nantes. This art project is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 visitors.

When you’re finished at Machines of the Isle of Nantes, head to parc de Procé. This one-of-a-kind urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,256 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Île de Versailles (Nantes). This river island is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,112 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Botanical Garden. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Château des ducs de Bretagne. This famous museum welcomes around 167,867 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Angers, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Angers, 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at Wallaby's Australian Café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Cour - Angers boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Brasserie de la Gare. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Angers.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Snooker offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Les BerThoM Angers is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Welsh is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Say good night to Angers and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Paris. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Paris, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Arc de Triomphe. This popular triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 2,743,823 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is place de la Concorde. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Tuileries Garden. This garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 92,172 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Louvre Museum, drawing over 2,825,000 yearly visitors. This art museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 local and international travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Paris. Paris offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Paris's best restaurants.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at L'Imprévu Café, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Petit Châtelet, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurant Guy Savoy, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café de Paris V after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dirty Dick, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Paris and Déols. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limoges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Déols and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Déols beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Jardin du Luxembourg. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 94,043 reviews.

Continue your journey at Champ de Mars. This urban park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 travelers from near and far.

Paris is also the home of Eiffel Tower. This lattice tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 visitors. Each year, around 6,207,303 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

Déols’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Paris behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 43 min. Déols welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Public Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 438 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limoges, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Limoges. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Le Paris, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Pont Saint Etienne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Geyracois. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Limoges tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Chez Bernard, a prime location for a drink.

Head back to your accommodation in Limoges and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Padirac, Martel, and Rocamadour, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Padirac, 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 Martel to Padirac may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Padirac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Padirac Cave, a remarkable pit cave where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,172 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Limoges, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Martel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Railway Tourist Haut Quercy, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,626 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant La Marquière, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Métairie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 11 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.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Carcassonne’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in France, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of France home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. If you're eager to try something different, consider L'Oliveraie, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!