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

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Photo of Castillet tower hosting a museum of history and culture in Perpignan, France.
Photo of Castillet tower hosting a museum of history and culture in Perpignan, France.
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne
5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne
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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 Perpignan, Carcassonne, Rouffiac-des-Corbières, Caunes-Minervois, and Gruissan.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Perpignan and 2 nights in Carcassonne. 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 Perpignan, 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 Réserve Africaine De Sigean are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Carcassonne, Rouffiac-des-Corbières, Caunes-Minervois, and Gruissan, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Perpignan - Arrival day
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  • Sports Park
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Perpignan and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Perpignan, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Perpignan is a beautiful city 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 Sports Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Perpignan. 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 Perpignan, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le 17, a highly-rated dining destination in Perpignan. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Buffalo Grill Perpignan. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Perpignan this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dry States after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Pearl 66 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café De La Source is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Perpignan
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 119 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Saint Michael of Carcassonne
  • Portail des Jacobins
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne, where will spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Perpignan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Carcassonne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive in Carcassonne, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire, an underrated church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, where you can soak in the UNESCO world heritage-listed surroundings.

Next, explore Château Comtal, yet another intriguing place to see in the area. After the castle, make time to go to Carcassonne Cathedral. Lastly, head to Portail Des Jacobins, an often recommended monument you won’t want to miss.

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

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Rouffiac-des-Corbières
  • More

Drive 252 km, 5 hours 2 min

  • Château de Peyrepertuse
  • Château de Quéribus
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

On day 3 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 still have 1 night to spend in Carcassonne, there’s no need to rush. Experience Rouffiac-des-Corbières, Narbonne, Marmonières, and Caunes-Minervois to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Rouffiac-des-Corbières is brimming with adventures.

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 Rouffiac-des-Corbières. Your travel time is around 1 hour 50 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Peyrepertuse, a curiosity-inducing castle known for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rouffiac-des-Corbières and set your GPS to Narbonne. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 19 min. Upon reaching Narbonne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Château De Quéribus, an up-and-coming castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Marmonières. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Grotte De Limousis, an often recommended cave known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Carcassonne.

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at V and B Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adélaïde. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Narbonne
  • Gruissan
  • Perpignan
  • More

Drive 182 km, 2 hours 52 min

  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • Palais-Musée des Archevêques, Palais Vieux
  • La Via Domitia
  • Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Narbonne and Gruissan. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Perpignan, where you'll spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Set your GPS to Narbonne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Narbonne beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a notable wildlife reserve known for its scenic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Narbonne may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Narbonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Palais-musée Des Archevêques, Palais Vieux, an increasingly popular museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to La Via Domitia, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gruissan may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Gruissan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a locally appreciated nature reserve in Gruissan. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Perpignan. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Access - TotalEnergies, a top-rated dining spot in Perpignan. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Tartard, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Perpignan.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Perpignan - Departure day
  • More
  • Perpignan Cathedral
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Perpignan 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 Perpignan Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a hotspot among locals.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Perpignan’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Arena Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Perpignan. 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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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.
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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