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.
Photo of Chateau and vineyard in Margaux, Bordeaux, France.
Photo of vineyards of Saint Emilion village in Bordeaux region, France.
Photo of colored trees and footbridge of the Jardin Public park in Autumn in Bordeaux, France.
Photo of woman enjoying Saint Emilion village in green vineyard, Bordeaux in France.
Photo of Pont de pierre at sunset in the famous winery region Bordeaux, France.
Photo of tourist standing back in front of the famous bell tower in Bordeaux city in France.
Photo of National Opera of Bordeaux ,France.
View on the small square with bicycles in Bordeaux city in France
Photo of basilique Saint-Michel de Bordeaux, France.
Bayonne aerial panoramic view. Bayonne is a city and commune in south-western France.
Gorhic facade of Sainte-Marie de Bayonne cathedral in Bayonne, Nouvelle Aquitaine, France
Chateau Vieux, also known as the Old Castle of Bayonne, is a castle, located in Bayonne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
Woman tourist in Bayonne- France, basque country
Bayonne aerial panoramic view. Bayonne is a city and commune in south-western France.
Bayonne Mairie or City Hall in Bayonne town in France
Bayonne, Aquitaine, France
Photo of details of the facade and sides of Tarbes town hall, France.
Photo of Massey Gardens in Tarbes, France.
Photo of house with a turret and its reflection in the lake, Tarbes, France.
Photo of Jardin Massey Park in Tarbes, France.
Photo of Different details of Jardin Massey in Tarbes  ,France.
Photo of Sunny day in Tarbes, street view, summertime, France.
Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of the Gambetta square in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of landscape with Carcassonne castle, France.
Photo of Carcassonne biggest medieval castle and walled town in Europe, France.
Photo of happy woman visiting Castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of two children looking at beautiful castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of Carcassonne a fortified French town in the Aude department, Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of Cité de Carcassonne ,France.
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Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Arcachon, Bayonne, Biarritz, Lourdes, Tarbes, Mauvezin, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges, Carcassonne, and Toulouse. 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 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 got 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. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Le Train De La Rhune.

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, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Monument aux Girondins
parc bordelaisPorte Cailhauplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du Vin
Bordeaux CathedralThe big bell of BordeauxPorte de BourgogneDune of Pilat
Rocher de la viergeBiarritz AquariumLe Train de La RhuneBasilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
Massey GardenChâteau de MauvezinSaint-Bertrand-de-Comminges Cathedral
Château comtal de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneJardin des PlantesBasilica of St. Sernin
jardin public

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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, or just 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 Bordeaux. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 2

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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Day 2 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Le Bouscat. You have 1 night left in Bordeaux. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bordeaux is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a monument, a public square, an art installation, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved Parc Bordelais and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porte Cailhau, a history-steeped monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Place De La Bourse, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Miroir D'eau. When you're finished at the art installation, La Cité Du Vin awaits your visit. This museum is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Bordeaux, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Bordeaux. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Grizzly Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Dog And Duck likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

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
  • 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 2 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux and Arcachon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bayonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Bordeaux covers several incredible sights, including a church, a historical landmark, a monument, a sand dunes and much more! Start your adventure at Bordeaux Cathedral. This interesting church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Porte De Bourgogne. This up-and-coming monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Dune Of Pilat, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bayonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Dame Jeanne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Café Des Pyrénées offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Kubata & Kukubat, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day 4

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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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 Biarritz, Bayonne, and Lourdes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tarbes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Bayonne. Begin your sightseeing with Rocher De La Vierge. This well-known rock formation is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Biarritz Aquarium, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bayonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Le Train De La Rhune. This locally renowned heritage railway is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Tarbes. Tarbes offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Tarbes, 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.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tarbes.

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

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Day 5

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
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tarbes, Mauvezin, and Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Tarbes, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Massey Garden, a beloved botanical garden in the town. Then, head to Château De Mauvezin and soak in the ambiance of this standout castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Tarbes, and when you are ready for more, go to Saint-bertrand-de-comminges Cathedral. This is one of the town’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at La Table de Franck Putelat, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

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

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Day 6

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
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Toulouse, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the underrated castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Cité De Carcassonne, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes. This intriguing botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Casey's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Bar À Vin, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Thecity likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

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, begin at Jardin Public. This well-known park is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Bordeaux’s shopping center, the lively Les Grands Hommes. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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