5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi

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Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
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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, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Toulouse.

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 Albi. 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Toulouse, 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
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Day1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Carcassonne and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Carcassonne, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 55 km, 1 hour 28 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • Écluse de l'Aiguille
  • More

Greet day 2 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Carcassonne, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Carcassonne and Le Magasin.

Basilique Saint Nazaire is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Cité De Carcassonne, a famous castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Porte Narbonnaise, a breathtaking monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Carcassonne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the increasingly popular Château Comtal. If you’re looking for more, Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’ve had your share of Carcassonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Magasin. Your travel time is around 30 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Magasin is Écluse De L'aiguille, an up-and-coming historical landmark that draws attention for its respected features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at V and B Carcassonne, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Auberge des Lices? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Adélaïde as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Albi
  • Cordes-sur-Ciel
  • More

Drive 217 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Parc Rochegude
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Berbie Palace
  • Pont Vieux
  • Halles de Cordes-sur-Ciel
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Albi, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Albi. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Parc Rochegude, an underrated park in Albi. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Albi Cathedral. This well-known church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Musée Toulouse-lautrec is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Berbie Palace and discover what makes this palace unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the town, head to Pont Vieux, a visually striking historical landmark many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Cordes-sur-Ciel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel is a locally appreciated market we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Albi is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Albi.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Sully'S Albi, an excellent option for tonight's dining.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Albi
  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 171 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Toulouse are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Toulouse, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Albi to Toulouse may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular church that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Next, head to Place Saint-pierre. This eye-catching public square is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Couvent Des Jacobins, a breathtaking monastery popular among locals as well as travelers. Pont-neuf is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this frequently visited monument before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Muséum De Toulouse, a photogenic museum and a top attraction in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant La Marquière, 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 Métairie, 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 Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
  • 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This worthwhile monument is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Carcassonne, we recommend the lively La Cité Médiévale. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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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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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