13-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne to Toulouse, Limoges, Blois, Paris, Auxerre, Lyon, and Marseille

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.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Carcassonne by securing a reservation at La Table de Franck Putelat. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern, and creative cuisine. 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 13-day road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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

Next up, make your way 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 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée de l'Ecole. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 287 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,146 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Toulouse, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Toulouse. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra in Toulouse by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Michel Sarran, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Moloko, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Botanist Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Toulouse. Melting Pot Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse, and Padirac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limoges, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Square Charles de Gaulle. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,579 reviews.

Basilica of St. Sernin is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Padirac. This car ride takes around 2 hours.

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.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Limoges'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 Le Paris, an iconic dining spot in Limoges. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Pont Saint Etienne, a popular restaurant in Limoges. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Geyracois, a hidden gem nestled in Limoges. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Chez Bernard after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Chenonceaux, and Amboise, 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 Blois. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Limoges, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chenonceaux may take around 2 hours 27 min. Upon your arrival in Chenonceaux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Amboise. This drive usually takes around 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Château d'Amboise. This extraordinary château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,016 visitors.

Next, make your way to Chapel of Saint-Hubert. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 444 reviews.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire in Blois by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Blois, Chambord, Versailles, and Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château de Blois. This much-appreciated château is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,926 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chambord, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Chambord, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Château de Chambord. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,219 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Paris, 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 Paris, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Paris by reserving a table at Kei. Known for its 3-star Michelin reputation, Kei captivates its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Pré Catelan, renowned for its delectable creative, and contemporary dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Arpège, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 3-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

Continue your lively evening at Café de Paris V, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dirty Dick is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Little Red Door ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at Jardin des plantes, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable botanical garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 40,461 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Panthéon is a recommended place to visit. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 43,649 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Paris is Jardin du Luxembourg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Paris offers an experience you will remember.

Les Invalides is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Paris. This building complex promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 30,459 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Pont Alexandre III. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,899 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Sens Unique offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Caveau de l'isle. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.

Continue your lively evening at Prescription Cocktail Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Boucan is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mamie Paris ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 2 nights left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Kick off the day at Champ de Mars, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Eiffel Tower. Eiffel Tower is a lattice tower with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews. Attracting more than 6,207,303 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Tuileries Garden is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée d'Orsay. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 71,115 visitors. Visiting Musée d'Orsay means you'll be one of 3,651,616 people who do so every year.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Louvre Museum, a famous art museum in Paris. This attraction welcomes 2,825,000 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 260,788 travelers.

Your discoveries in Paris do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Paris on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Paris. 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 The Harp Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Bistro des Augustins beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Petit Châtelet. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Sherry Butt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Highlander provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Le Sully offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Arc de Triomphe. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 visitors and gets around 2,743,823 visits every year.

Place de la Concorde is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 54,229 travelers.

Paris is also the home of Palais Garnier. Around 34,053 people have rated this opera house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Sacré-Cœur, which hosts up to 11,000,000 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 118,527 reviews, a visit to this church building is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Paris is also your chance to admire La Villette. This must-visit commune of france enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 56,497 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 explore more of Paris, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Guy Savoy, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Saint James Paris, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Klein Holland stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Tiger offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The 46 Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 9 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Auxerre, where you will stay for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Notre-Dame de Paris. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 visitors and gets around 12,000,000 visits every year.

Sainte Chapelle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This chapel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 travelers.

Paris is also the home of Centre Georges Pompidou. This art museum gets more than 3,273,867 visitors on an annual basis. Around 55,213 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is bois de Vincennes. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 35,777 reviews, a visit to this urban park is a great idea.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Auxerre, 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 Auxerre. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Beaune. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lyon. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Beaune and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 33 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beaune beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at La Moutarderie Fallot, 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 3,107 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Basilica of Our Lady. This church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 773 travelers.

Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,805 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Neuvième Art, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative, and modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Mère Brazier, known for its delicious classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Lyon is Takao Takano, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. L' Antiquaire is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Society, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The James Joyce Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lyon, and Avignon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Marseille, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Place Bellecour, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,560 reviews.

Set your GPS to Avignon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avignon beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 17,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palais des Papes. This palace is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers from near and far. Approximately 616,210 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Avignon.

Avignon is also the home of Jardin des doms. This urban park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,201 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Marseille, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Marseille by securing a table at Saisons. Esteemed as a much-enjoyed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Le Petit Nice, famous for its scrumptious seafood dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Marseille. Located in the heart of the city, this 3-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Traquenard. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, La dame du mont offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Polikarpov, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille, and Nimes, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,053 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,446 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 36,436 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Marseille, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Auberge des Lices is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Adélaïde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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

Day 13 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.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

When you're ready to see some sights, André Chénier Garden is a great place to start. This park is rated an average 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Métairie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Buffalo Grill Carcassonne.

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!