12-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Limoges, Blois, Tours, Angers, La Rochelle, Bordeaux, and Pau

Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Carcassonne is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Portail des Jacobins or taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Carcassonne. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Pennautier. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,201 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Château Comtal. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

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

Journey into the unknown at Château de Pennautier, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 585 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Toulouse. Toulouse 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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.

Dine in style at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bapz boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Emile. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Toulouse.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Botanist Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Melting Pot Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Pub O'Clock provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Toulouse and Padirac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limoges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Square Charles de Gaulle. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Toulouse, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,579 visitors.

Basilica of St. Sernin is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Padirac Cave. This extraordinary pit cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,172 visitors.

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

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Chez Bernard, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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 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 La Basse Cour, Selles-sur-Cher, and Fougères-sur-Bièvre. In the evening, you’ll end up in Blois, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in La Basse Cour. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Valençay. This château is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,125 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Selles-sur-Cher, 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 Basse Cour to Selles-sur-Cher may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Selles-sur-Cher, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château de Selles-sur-Cher. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Selles-sur-Cher, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 1,297 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a top-rated dining destination in Blois.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, and Goualoup. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Château de Blois one of your first sightseeing stops in Blois. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,926 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chambord. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Take the opportunity to see Château de Chambord. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,219 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Tours. Tours 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Tours.

Don’t miss out on dining at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Au Fût et à mesure, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cave à Vins et à Bières Vins sur 20, Bar et soirées à thème, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to PIRAAT CAFE TOURS. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at L'Alexandra, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Amboise, Chenonceaux, and Tours, 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 Angers. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Jardin botanique de Tours, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,560 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Château de Villandry. Château de Villandry is a château with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,506 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tours, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Amboise. This drive usually takes around 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château d'Amboise. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Amboise, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,016 visitors.

Château du Clos Lucé is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,292 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Chenonceaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Amboise behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Chenonceaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Château de Chenonceau your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,253 reviews.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Wallaby's Australian Café, a popular restaurant in Angers. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Angers at La Cour - Angers, 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 Brasserie de la Gare. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Angers tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Snooker stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Les BerThoM Angers offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Welsh is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Angers and Le Puy du Fou. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Balzac Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,646 reviews.

Next up is Château d'Angers. This château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,556 visitors.

Set your GPS to Le Puy du Fou and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Le Puy du Fou beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Puy du Fou. This extraordinary theme park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 65,610 visitors. Each year, around 2,300,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Boussole, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Les Flots, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palem Café, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Plan B for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Dock Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bordeaux, 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 Rochelle to Bordeaux may take around 1 hour 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like jardin public. This extraordinary urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 visitors.

Next, make your way to Monument aux Girondins. This column is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,483 reviews.

While in Bordeaux, we also recommend a visit to Porte Cailhau. This city gate has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,609 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Porte de Bourgogne. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,953 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bordeaux.

Make your way to Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux, perhaps the most famous church building in Bordeaux. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,684 reviews.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Le Plana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Confidentiel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Bar à Vin, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Comtesse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Le Bouscat for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at place de la Bourse. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

When you’re finished at place de la Bourse, head to miroir d'eau. This one-of-a-kind reflecting pool is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,462 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

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 Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), 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 Chez Dupont, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 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 Arcachon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,591 visitors.

Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop is another popular attraction you could visit today. This tram stop has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,662 visitors.

The big bell of Bordeaux is also highly recommended by travelers. This bell tower has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 visitors.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dune of Pilat. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,111 reviews.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Henri IV, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Garage is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Resto Dit Vin. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Pau tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Snug. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Winfield Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Galway, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tarbes, Mauvezin, and Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Pau’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tarbes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Tarbes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Massey Garden. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,710 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Tarbes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Mauvezin. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Kick off the day at Château de Mauvezin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,605 reviews.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at V and B Carcassonne, 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 Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Day 12 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.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the town’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Take home a piece of France with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to André Chénier Garden. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Carcassonne, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 169 visitors.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Métairie, another premier location with a delectable 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!