5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Pau and Bordeaux
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, Pau, Biarritz, Arcachon, Bordeaux, and Lormont. 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 2 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Pau, and 1 night in Bordeaux. 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rocher De La Vierge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Pau, Biarritz, Arcachon, Bordeaux, and Lormont, 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 1 night 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 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
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 291 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Carcassonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Carcassonne, including a castle and a church. Start your day with a visit to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This beloved castle is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château Comtal, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Carcassonne on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Cité De Carcassonne, one of the town’s most extraordinary castle. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Basilique Saint Nazaire.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Pau. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Henri IV, a popular restaurant in Pau. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Pau at Le Garage, 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 Au Fin Gourmet. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Pau tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Snug, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Winfield Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Galway likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Pau and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Biarritz
- Arcachon
- Bordeaux
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Drive 390 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Rocher de la vierge
- Biarritz Aquarium
- Dune of Pilat
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Biarritz and Arcachon, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Pau, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Biarritz may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Biarritz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rocher De La Vierge. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the rock formation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Biarritz Aquarium. This popular aquarium is a traveler-favorite in the town.
After soaking in Biarritz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arcachon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 7 min. When you arrive in Arcachon, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Dune Of Pilat, a notable sand dunes in Arcachon. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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 Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Brun offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Whose Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
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
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- Carcassonne
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Drive 347 km, 3 hours 56 min
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux and Lormont. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Jardin Public. This interesting park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Place De La Bourse, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Miroir D'eau. This captivating art installation is a traveler-favorite.
Make your way to La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum that draws attention for its romantic features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at V and B Carcassonne, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous 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.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area, La Cité Médiévale. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Start your adventure at Portail Des Jacobins. This curiosity-inducing monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.
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!
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