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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Le Bouscat. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start by visiting Parc Bordelais, a prime spot to begin your journey. This peaceful park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Porte Cailhau, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular monument renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bordeaux by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Place De La Bourse. This UNESCO world heritage-listed public square is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Miroir D'eau also adds charm to your journey, and La Cité Du Vin wraps up your day with its enchanting appeal.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Bordeaux as you explore Rue Sainte-Catherine. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Rue Sainte-Catherine offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Bordeaux by securing a reservation at Ressources. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Grizzly Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Dog And Duck is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with Bordeaux Cathedral. This well-known church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Porte De Bourgogne. This intriguing monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dune Of Pilat, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bayonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bayonne. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at JANINE, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Josie Factory beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Belzunce. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bayonne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Dame Jeanne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Des Pyrénées offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kubata & Kukubat is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Biarritz, Bayonne, and Lourdes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tarbes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bayonne includes a rock formation, an aquarium, a heritage railway, a church and much more! Rocher De La Vierge is must-visit rock formation and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Biarritz Aquarium, a locally renowned aquarium, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Le Train De La Rhune, a mesmerizing heritage railway, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Bayonne. If you’re looking for more, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is also a locally appreciated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tarbes, 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 Tarbes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

On day 5 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 Tarbes, Mauvezin, and Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Tarbes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a castle, and a church. Begin your adventure at Massey Garden. This is an underrated botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Château De Mauvezin, an underrated castle in Tarbes.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Saint-bertrand-de-comminges Cathedral.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Carcassonne by reserving a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? La Rapière offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Toulouse. 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Carcassonne, including a castle, a botanical garden, and a church. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This frequently visited castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cité De Carcassonne located in Carcassonne for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Jardin Des Plantes. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This church has a picture-perfect appeal.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.

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

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!