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

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Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. 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 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, 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, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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Say hello to Carcassonne! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Carcassonne for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. 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 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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
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Drive 5 km, 30 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Saint-Gimer Church
  • More

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Carcassonne. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your day at Château Comtal. This visually striking castle is a beloved place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Porte Narbonnaise. If respected sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cité De Carcassonne. This enchanting castle is a favorite among visitors.

Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Musée De L'ecole is an intriguing spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Basilique Saint Nazaire. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended church. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Carcassonne's top attractions with a visit to Saint-gimer Church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

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.

Say good night to Carcassonne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours

  • 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 place, which are Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse, where will spend 1 night.

One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Jardin Des Plantes. This eye-catching botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Muséum De Toulouse and learn what makes this history-steeped museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Pont-neuf. After exploring the monument, head to Couvent Des Jacobins. This frequently visited monastery is a highlight in Carcassonne. As your day continues, stop by Place Saint-pierre, known for its romantic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the well-known Basilica Of St. Sernin. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

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.

Toulouse 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 Toulouse.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Le May, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L*Agence beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Perche Pinte. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toulouse tonight.

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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

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
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Parc Rochegude brings Toulouse's character to life. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Albi Cathedral, another UNESCO world heritage-listed attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Musée Toulouse-lautrec, one of the town’s most often recommended attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Berbie Palace. This culturally significant palace is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Pont Vieux, an up-and-coming historical landmark, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel before you head back to your hotel.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Albi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at O'Sully'S Albi, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.

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

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Day 5

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
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Issis and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Millau Viaduct makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile monument is a stunning place to see in Albi. Continue your discovery at Vélorail Et Train Touristique Du Larzac, an instagrammable heritage railway with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Albi, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Église Sainte-eulalie De Sainte-eulalie-de-cernon. This often recommended church offers a culturally significant encounter with Albi. Next, make your way to The Reptile Larzac 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 Albi.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant La Marquière, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Métairie, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Carcassonne
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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 Carcassonne. This intriguing castle is a hotspot among locals.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Place Carnot. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. Savor your final moments in France at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Celt is another top choice with a popular 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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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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