5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Perpignan and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Lastours, Prades, Ille-sur-Têt, Villefranche-de-Conflent, Collioure, Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Albi. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. 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 got 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 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 taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Domaine d'Auriac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
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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
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Carcassonne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cité De Carcassonne is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Basilique Saint Nazaire is your next stop. This beloved church is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Château Comtal. This romantic castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Carcassonne.
As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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 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 satisfying 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!
Day 3
- Carcassonne
- Perpignan
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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
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On day 3 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 Prades, Ille-sur-Têt, Villefranche-de-Conflent, and Collioure. In the evening, you’ll end up in Perpignan, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Gorge De Galamus. This romantic canyon is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Les Orgues D’ille-sur-têt, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Ramparts Of Villefranche De Conflent, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Perpignan, 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 Perpignan's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le 17, a top-rated dining spot in Perpignan. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Buffalo Grill Perpignan. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Perpignan.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Dry States, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Black Pearl 66, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café De La Source provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4
- Perpignan
- Carcassonne
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Drive 444 km, 4 hours 42 min
- Perpignan Cathedral
- Salses Fortress
- Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Perpignan, Salses-le-Château, and Albi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Perpignan on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Perpignan Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant church before continuing your journey. Salses Fortress is your next stop. This up-and-coming castle is one of the best-rated sights in Perpignan.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Albi Cathedral. This stunning church is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Métairie? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.
Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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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 experience in France. 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.
Savor the flavors at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Celt beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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