6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Marseille and surrounding area
Description
Included
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.
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!
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Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Carcassonne - arrival day
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 in Carcassonne. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Carcassonne and Bordeaux
- Carcassonne
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 340 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Carcassonne includes a castle and a church. Château Comtal is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a frequently visited castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Carcassonne. If you’re looking for more, Basilique Saint Nazaire is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Brun, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Mushroom Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Whose Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, and Toulouse
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- Arcachon
- Toulouse
- More
Drive 378 km, 4 hours 31 min
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- More
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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring a charming, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a masterful. Start at Place De La Bourse, a notable public square in the town. Then, head to Miroir D'eau and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking art installation.
Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lormont.
Your self-guided tour starts at La Cité Du Vin, an interesting museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arcachon. Your travel time is around 1 hour 4 min.
Make your way to Dune Of Pilat, a notable sand dunes that draws attention for its eye-catching 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 Toulouse. Toulouse 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Toulouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Le May, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Toulouse at L*Agence, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Perche Pinte. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Toulouse tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moloko, known for its lively atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Toulouse, Nimes, and Marseille
- Toulouse
- Nîmes
- Marseille
- More
Drive 416 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- More
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 - Toulouse and Nimes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with an enchanting, an eye-catching, a historic, an inviting, a grand, a charming, and a beautiful in the charming city of Toulouse. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of St. Sernin, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Des Plantes. This beloved botanical garden is known for its culturally significant appeal.
Set your GPS to Nimes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 52 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nimes beckons with new experiences!
Head to Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park in Nimes. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Marseille. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Chez Roger, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Les Mets des Saintes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Marseille.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Le Traquenard, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Dame Du Mont, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Polikarpov likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Marseille and Carcassonne
- Marseille
- Carcassonne
- More
Drive 346 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Parc Borély
- Calanques National Park
- Palais Longchamp
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Marseille is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a standout, a profound, a culturally significant, a detailed, and a peaceful! Start at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), an interesting church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Parc Borély, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at Calanques National Park. This national park is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Marseille at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to 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.
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.
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 6 – Carcassonne - departure day
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Portail des Jacobins
- Cité de Carcassonne
- More
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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Start your day at Portail Des Jacobins. This symbolic monument is an up-and-coming place to see in Carcassonne.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in 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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