5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Albi
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 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 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Jardin Des Plantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Comtal.
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, 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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- 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 in Carcassonne for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, 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, or just 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. 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!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
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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
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On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Carcassonne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Carcassonne and Le Magasin to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This often recommended church provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Cité De Carcassonne, a romantic castle, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Porte Narbonnaise, a locally appreciated monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Château Comtal. Not far away from the castle, you will find the eye-catching Écluse De L'aiguille, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, another gem in Carcassonne with culturally significant features to discover.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Carcassonne.
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 town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 3
- Carcassonne
- Albi
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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
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parc Rochegude. This often recommended park is a mesmerizing place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Albi Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Toulouse-lautrec. This increasingly popular museum offers a history-steeped encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Berbie Palace to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Pont Vieux, an up-and-coming historical landmark that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel, an underrated market in the town. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Albi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at O'Sully'S Albi, an iconic dining spot in Albi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.
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.
Day 4
- Albi
- Carcassonne
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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
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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 Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Albi, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a notable church in the city. Then, head to Place Saint-pierre and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.
There are many interesting places to see in Albi, and when you are ready for more, go to Couvent Des Jacobins. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the monastery, visit the frequently visited Pont-neuf. Not far away, you'll also find Muséum De Toulouse. This museum is an instagrammable highlight in Albi. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Jardin Des Plantes, an up-and-coming botanical garden in the city.
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.
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 Restaurant La Marquière, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 5
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Portail des Jacobins
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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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This increasingly popular monument is a popular place to see in the town.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
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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