5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Perpignan and surrounding area

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Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Carcassonne, Lastours, Prades, Ille-sur-Têt, Villefranche-de-Conflent, Collioure, Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Albi.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in Carcassonne and 1 night in Perpignan. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Carcassonne, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Cité De Carcassonne and Albi Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château Comtal, learn more about the unique Château Royal De Collioure, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Salses Fortress.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Lastours, Prades, Ille-sur-Têt, Villefranche-de-Conflent, Collioure, Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Albi, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.

Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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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 2 nights discovering what to see in Carcassonne 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 taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Carcassonne. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 42 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Cité De Carcassonne leaves a lasting impression. This castle is one of the most famous places to visit in Carcassonne. Next, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire, an often recommended church, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Château Comtal. This visually striking castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at V and B Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Auberge des Lices beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Adélaïde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Perpignan
  • More

Drive 246 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Gorge De Galamus
  • Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt
  • Ramparts of Villefranche de Conflent
  • Royal Castle of Collioure
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Prades, Ille-sur-Têt, Villefranche-de-Conflent, and Collioure are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perpignan, where you will stay for 1 night.

Gorge De Galamus leaves a lasting impression. This canyon is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Carcassonne. Next, head to Les Orgues D’ille-sur-têt, an intriguing rock formation, known for its majestic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Ramparts Of Villefranche De Conflent. This picture-perfect castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Château Royal De Collioure. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Perpignan. Perpignan offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Perpignan. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le 17, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffalo Grill Perpignan as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Perpignan.

Continue your lively evening at Dry States, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Pearl 66 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café De La Source ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Perpignan
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 444 km, 4 hours 42 min

  • Perpignan Cathedral
  • Salses Fortress
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Albi. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne, where will spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Perpignan Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Salses Fortress located in Perpignan for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Albi Cathedral. Its stunning features will captivate you.

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 a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Marquière, 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 Métairie, 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 Buffalo Grill Carcassonne, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More

Day 5 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 in the buzzing Place Carnot. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. Savor your final moments in France at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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