Relaxed 7-Day France Road Trip Starting from Bordeaux to Toulouse
Description
Summary
Description
Explore France and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Moissac, Montauban, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Blagnac. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Moissac, Montauban, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Blagnac. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Bordeaux, and 2 nights in Toulouse. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cité De Carcassonne. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating La Cité Du Vin.
Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Place De La Bourse. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!
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Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
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- Monument aux Girondins
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Bordeaux and begin your adventure in France.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Monument Aux Girondins. This column is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bordeaux, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,483 visitors.
Find your way to your hotel in Bordeaux. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Clemenceau, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Oiseau Bleu. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bordeaux and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
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.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Bordeaux as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Bordeaux, and Lormont
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
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Drive 12 km, 57 min
- Porte Cailhau
- Place de la Bourse
- Miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- Base sous-marine
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bordeaux and beyond. With 2 nights left in Bordeaux, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Porte Cailhau, a remarkable city gate where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,609 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Place De La Bourse. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,251 travelers.
Miroir D'eau is another must-visit attraction. This renowned reflecting pool offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.
Lormont’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make La Cité Du Vin one of your first sightseeing stops in Lormont. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 21,487 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Betasom is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This submarine base is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,804 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bordeaux, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Soléna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hôtel De Sèze offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Locadillos is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bordeaux. The bars in Bordeaux make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Grizzly Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.
Day 3 – Bordeaux, and Le Bouscat
- Bordeaux
- Le Bouscat
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Drive 9 km, 52 min
- Parc Bordelais
- Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux
- Grosse Cloche
- Porte de Bourgogne
- Basilique Saint-Michel
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bordeaux and visit amazing attractions in Le Bouscat, and Bordeaux destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bordeaux, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 visitors.
The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.
If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Porte De Bourgogne. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,953 reviews.
Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a church building rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 4,684 reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bordeaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Bouscat may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Le Bouscat, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Parc Bordelais. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,855 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Le Plana, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Confidentiel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Loco By Jem's. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Casey's Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Bar À Vin offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Thecity, another top-rated bar in the area.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 4 – Bordeaux, Moissac, Montauban, and Toulouse
- Toulouse
- Moissac
- Montauban
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Drive 273 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Place Nationale
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Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Moissac. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Toulouse, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Moissac. 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 1 hour 57 min. Upon reaching Moissac, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Saint-pierre Abbey In Moissac. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,475 visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Moissac, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Montauban may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Montauban, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take the opportunity to see Port Canal. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,642 visitors.
Place Nationale is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,209 travelers.
Montauban is also the home of Botanical Garden. Around 1,604 people have rated this park an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.
In the city of Toulouse, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.
Exploring the food culture in Toulouse offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Toulouse and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Moloko offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Botanist Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Melting Pot Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 5 – Toulouse, and Carcassonne
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 201 km, 2 hours 49 min
- Château Comtal
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Carcassonne will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.
Make Basilica Of St. Sernin your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Place Saint-pierre. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,139 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carcassonne, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Toulouse to Carcassonne may take around 1 hour 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Château Comtal. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,823 reviews.
Next up is Cité De Carcassonne. This fortress has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Toulouse and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Toulouse offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, an iconic dining spot in Toulouse. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Madame Bovary, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Toulouse. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Toulouse.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pub O'clock offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, La Loupiote is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Populaire is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!
Day 6 – Toulouse, Blagnac, and Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- Blagnac
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Drive 265 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Square Charles de Gaulle
- Pont Neuf
- Jardin des Plantes
- Grand Rond
- Musée Aeroscopia
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Day 6 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.
Journey into the unknown at Square Charles De Gaulle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,579 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Pont-neuf is a recommended place to visit. This deck arch bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,845 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Toulouse is Jardin Des Plantes. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,847 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Toulouse offers an experience you will remember.
Grand Rond is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Toulouse. This urban park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,069 reviews.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Blagnac, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Toulouse to Blagnac may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Blagnac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Musée Aeroscopia. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Blagnac, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,683 visitors.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Bordeaux in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.
Have a fantastic dining experience at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arcada offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Mirabelle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bordeaux.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lord Lion Bar Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Notre Dame provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'engrenage offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!
Day 7 – Bordeaux - departure day
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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- Jardin Public
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bordeaux.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Bordeaux’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bordeaux is the remarkable Jardin Public. This urban park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bordeaux or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chez Dupont? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bordeaux and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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