6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse and Albi
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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, 1 night in Toulouse, 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, Balma, Toulouse, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon, 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.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
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Drive 6 km, 31 min
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Musée de l'Ecole
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Porte Narbonnaise
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the up-and-coming Basilique Saint Nazaire, a culturally significant church in Carcassonne. Next, go to Musée De L'ecole.
After visiting Basilique Saint Nazaire and Musée De L'ecole, take time to explore Carcassonne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cité De Carcassonne. This culturally significant castle offers a unique experience. Porte Narbonnaise is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Château Comtal, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-designated places to visit in Carcassonne.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Auberge des Lices, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Adélaïde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3
- Carcassonne
- Toulouse
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Drive 102 km, 2 hours 5 min
- Cité de l'Espace
- Muséum de Toulouse
- Jardin des Plantes
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Place Saint-Pierre
- Pont-Neuf
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Balma and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Carcassonne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cité De L'espace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic science center before continuing your journey. Muséum De Toulouse is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jardin Des Plantes. This idyllic botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Basilica Of St. Sernin and Place Saint-pierre.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse 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 Toulouse. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Moloko, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Botanist Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Albi
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 9 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 4 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.
Toulouse is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Parc Rochegude, an up-and-coming park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Albi Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Musée Toulouse-lautrec. This museum is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Toulouse at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Berbie Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the intriguing Pont Vieux. This historical landmark will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Albi. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Albi, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at O'Sully'S Albi, a top-rated dining destination in Albi.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 5
- Albi
- Carcassonne
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Drive 338 km, 4 hours 20 min
- Viaduc de Millau
- Vélorail et train touristique du Larzac
- Église Sainte-Eulalie de Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon
- The Reptile Larzac
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Issis and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon. 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.
Today’s itinerary in Albi covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a heritage railway, a church, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Millau Viaduct. This often recommended monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Vélorail Et Train Touristique Du Larzac, a must-see heritage railway in the hamlet.
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 Église Sainte-eulalie De Sainte-eulalie-de-cernon. This increasingly popular church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The Reptile Larzac, where you can take in instagrammable features.
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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Marquière, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Métairie, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Buffalo Grill Carcassonne, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Portail des Jacobins
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Day 6 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, we recommend visiting Portail Des Jacobins, a respected monument before you head out.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Celt offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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