6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Carcassonne
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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 Montpellier, Toulouse, Lormont, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Carcassonne, and Gruissan. 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 Montpellier, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Bordeaux, and 1 night 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Montpellier, 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 La Cité Du Vin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Toulouse, Lormont, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Carcassonne, 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, 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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Day 1 – Montpellier - arrival day
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Welcome to Montpellier, 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 Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe or taking a stroll in the city 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier. 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 Le Palavasien, a top-rated dining spot in Montpellier. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Enfants Rouges, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Tord Boyaux. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Montpellier.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Montpellier and Toulouse
- Montpellier
- Toulouse
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Drive 249 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Planet Ocean World
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Montpellier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a romantic, a picturesque, a gorgeous, a visually striking, and a history-steeped. Whether you decide to explore Montpellier on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching botanical garden before continuing your journey. Comedy Square is your next stop. This notable public square is one of the best-rated sights in Montpellier.
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 Esplanade Charles De Gaulle. This romantic park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Planet Ocean World.
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.
As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Le May, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L*Agence offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Perche Pinte. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3 – Toulouse, Lormont, and Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- Lormont
- Bordeaux
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Cité du Vin
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
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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 Lormont and Bordeaux. 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.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Toulouse, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lormont may take around 2 hours 32 min. Upon your arrival in Lormont, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum in Lormont. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Lormont, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bordeaux. Your travel time is around 14 min.
Make your way to Jardin Public, a well-known park that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Monument Aux Girondins, a respected monument that stands out in the town. Next, visit Miroir D'eau, an interesting art installation that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Place De La Bourse, a nearby public square, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
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 Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Cent 33, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L'Originel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Clemenceau as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Brun, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Whose Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4 – Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Toulouse, and Carcassonne
- Bordeaux
- Le Bouscat
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 343 km, 4 hours 1 min
- parc bordelais
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
- place de la Bourse
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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 Le Bouscat, Bordeaux, and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings a charming, an enchanting, a photogenic, a historic, a culturally significant, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. The first attraction of today is Bordeaux Cathedral. This well-known church is a romantic place to see in Bordeaux.
Set your GPS to Le Bouscat and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Le Bouscat beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Bordelais. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 2 hours 28 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular church that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Jardin Des Plantes. This mesmerizing botanical garden is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.
Say good night to Carcassonne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Carcassonne, Narbonne, Gruissan, and Montpellier
- Carcassonne
- Gruissan
- Montpellier
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Réserve Africaine de Sigean
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan, 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Château Comtal. This is a beloved castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, an up-and-coming castle in Carcassonne.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cité De Carcassonne.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Narbonne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a locally renowned wildlife reserve 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 Narbonne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gruissan. Your travel time is around 34 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a worthwhile nature reserve known for its instagrammable features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Montpellier, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Banane, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Black Out after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Petit Nice, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6 – Montpellier - departure day
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
- Comedy Square
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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 Montpellier before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Montpellier’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Get ready for a day filled with a stunning, an instagrammable, a standout, and a majestic in the charming city of Montpellier. Your adventure starts at Aqueduc Saint-clément, a locally appreciated local hot spot.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Montpellier.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Balthazar café & restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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