6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Marseille and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, Toulouse, Nimes, and Marseille. 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 Bordeaux, 1 night in Toulouse, and 1 night in Marseille. 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 Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dune Of Pilat, learn more about the unique Calanques National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of La Cité Du Vin.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, Toulouse, Nimes, and Marseille, 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, 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 Rapière, 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 Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
- Bordeaux
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Drive 340 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Château et Remparts de la Cité 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 Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Carcassonne, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Château Comtal, an increasingly popular castle in the town. Then, head to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Carcassonne and when you are ready for more, go to Cité De Carcassonne. This is one of the town’s most impressive spots. After exploring the castle, visit the frequently visited Basilique Saint Nazaire.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, 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 Le Clemenceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
- Toulouse
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Drive 378 km, 4 hours 31 min
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Dune of Pilat
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lormont, Bordeaux, 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is La Cité Du Vin. This locally renowned museum is a visually striking place to see in Bordeaux. Continue your discovery at Place De La Bourse, an enchanting public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Bordeaux, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Miroir D'eau. This locally renowned art installation offers a visually striking encounter with Bordeaux. Next, make your way to Dune Of Pilat to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bordeaux.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le May, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L*Agence? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Perche Pinte as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Marseille
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Drive 416 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
- Jardin de La Fontaine
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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 and Nimes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Marseille, where you will stay for 1 night.
Toulouse is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a botanical garden, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Basilica Of St. Sernin. Just a short distance away is Jardin Des Plantes, an awe-inspiring botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Jardin De La Fontaine, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Marseille. Marseille 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 Marseille. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Chez Roger, an iconic dining spot in Marseille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Mets des Saintes, a popular restaurant in Marseille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port, a hidden gem nestled in Marseille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Traquenard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Dame Du Mont offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Polikarpov is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5
- Marseille
- Carcassonne
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Drive 346 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Parc Borély
- Calanques National Park
- Palais Longchamp
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Marseille. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic church before continuing your journey. Parc Borély is your next stop. This captivating park is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.
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 Calanques National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Palais Longchamp.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Dine in style at V and B Carcassonne, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Auberge des Lices boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Adélaïde. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This curiosity-inducing 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. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant La Marquière, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Métairie beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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