5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Albi and Toulouse

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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, Albi, Toulouse, Foix, Montgailhard, Montségur, Bélesta, and Mirepoix. 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 Albi, and 1 night in Toulouse. 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, Toulouse, Foix, Montgailhard, Montségur, Bélesta, and Mirepoix, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Cité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonneMusée Toulouse-LautrecSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiPont VieuxCollégiale Saint-Salvy
Jardin des PlantesMuséum de ToulousePont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Foix CastleLes Forges de PyrèneChâteau de MontségurFountain FontestorbesCathédrale St Maurice
Portail des Jacobins

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Day 1

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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Albi
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 20 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Pont Vieux
  • Collégiale Saint-Salvy
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Albi, 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 Albi. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cité De Carcassonne. This UNESCO world heritage-designated castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Château Comtal, another UNESCO world heritage-designated attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Musée Toulouse-lautrec, one of the town’s most beloved attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Albi Cathedral. This breathtaking church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Pont Vieux, an underrated historical landmark, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Collégiale Saint-salvy (albi) before you head back to your hotel.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Albi. 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 dining experience at O'Sully'S Albi, a popular restaurant in Albi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Albi
  • Toulouse
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Drive 82 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • 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 1 vibrant destinations - Toulouse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Albi. Your adventure starts at Jardin Des Plantes, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Muséum De Toulouse. This curiosity-inducing museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Albi's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pont-neuf. This enchanting monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Couvent Des Jacobins is also worth visiting, along with Place Saint-pierre. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This notable church provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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

As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try L*Agence, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Perche Pinte. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Moloko, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Botanist Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 206 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Foix Castle
  • Les Forges de Pyrène
  • Château de Montségur
  • Fountain Fontestorbes
  • Cathédrale St Maurice
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Foix, Montgailhard, Montségur, Bélesta, and Mirepoix. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Toulouse covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a museum, a waterfall, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Foix Castle. This intriguing castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Les Forges De Pyrène, a must-see museum in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Château De Montségur. This frequently visited castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Fountain Fontestorbes, where you can take in mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cathédrale St Maurice. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

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 frequently visited monument is a popular place to see in the town.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, Place Carnot. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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