7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Bayonne, Tarbes, and Carcassonne

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Photo of Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux, France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Arcachon, Bayonne, Biarritz, Lourdes, Tarbes, Mauvezin, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, Carcassonne, and Toulouse.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Bayonne, 1 night in Tarbes, 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Bordeaux, 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Arcachon, Bayonne, Biarritz, Lourdes, Tarbes, Mauvezin, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, Carcassonne, and Toulouse, 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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Day1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Welcome to Bordeaux, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Bordeaux before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bordeaux 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 Monument Aux Girondins. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Originel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Clemenceau. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Café Brun, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Mushroom Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Whose Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 16 km, 59 min

  • parc bordelais
  • Porte Cailhau
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Le Bouscat. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night.

Start your day at Parc Bordelais. This serene park is a frequently visited place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Porte Cailhau. If culturally significant sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Place De La Bourse. This enchanting public square is a favorite among visitors.

Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Miroir D'eau is an interesting spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the art installation, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable La Cité Du Vin. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating museum.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Bordeaux. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Grizzly Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Dog And Duck, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bordeaux
  • Bayonne
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Porte de Bourgogne
  • Dune of Pilat
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bordeaux and Arcachon. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bayonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Experience Bordeaux Cathedral, a locally renowned church in the city. Then, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Porte De Bourgogne. This is one of the city’s most beloved breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the well-known Dune Of Pilat.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bayonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Bayonne 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 Bayonne.

Enjoy a delicious meal at JANINE, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

Keep the evening going at Dame Jeanne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Des Pyrénées, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Kubata & Kukubat, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bayonne
  • Tarbes
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 35 min

  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Biarritz Aquarium
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
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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 3 places, which are Biarritz, Bayonne, and Lourdes. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tarbes, where will spend 1 night.

Rocher De La Vierge makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned rock formation is a mesmerizing place to see in Bayonne. Continue your discovery at Biarritz Aquarium, a mesmerizing aquarium with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bayonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Le Train De La Rhune. This captivating heritage railway offers a stunning encounter with Bayonne. Next, make your way to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary 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 Bayonne.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Tarbes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Tarbes
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 268 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • Massey Garden
  • Château de Mauvezin
  • Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Tarbes, Mauvezin, and Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Massey Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Château De Mauvezin and learn what makes this awe-inspiring castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Saint-bertrand-de-comminges Cathedral.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Begin your culinary exploration in Carcassonne by securing a reservation at La Table de Franck Putelat. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, La Rapière boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 343 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bordeaux, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Château Comtal, a worthwhile castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Cité De Carcassonne, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Carcassonne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Basilica Of St. Sernin.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Locadillos, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Le Plana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Blind. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Casey's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Bar À Vin is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Thecity ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • jardin public
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Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux 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, we recommend visiting Jardin Public, an eye-catching park before you head out.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Bordeaux’s popular marketplace, Rue Sainte-Catherine. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Dine in style at Le Confidentiel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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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