7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse, Albi, and Cahors

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Description

Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Pradines, Cahors, Bouziès, and Tour-de-Faure. 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 Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Albi, and 1 night in Cahors. 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 Carcassonne, 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 Albi Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Basilica Of St. Sernin, learn more about the unique Jardin Des Plantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château Comtal.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Pradines, Cahors, Bouziès, and Tour-de-Faure, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne
Church of Saints Nazaire and CelseMusée de l'EcoleCité de CarcassonnePorte NarbonnaiseChâteau comtal de Carcassonne
Jardin des PlantesMuséum de ToulousePont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Parc RochegudeJardin NationalSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiMusée Toulouse-LautrecBerbie PalacePont Vieux
Cape Nature Recreation ParkLa BarbacaneÉglise Saint-Barthélemy
BouzièsTowpathVènes Cirque - Lookout Point
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne
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Welcome to Carcassonne, 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 immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Carcassonne is a beautiful town 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 Carcassonne, or just taking a stroll in the town 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 Carcassonne. 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 Carcassonne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 5 km, 27 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Carcassonne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Carcassonne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved church, Basilique Saint Nazaire. Afterward, continue to Musée De L'ecole, a museum 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 Cité De Carcassonne. This extraordinary castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Porte Narbonnaise, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Château Comtal, a curiosity-inducing castle in the town.

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 Carcassonne as you explore Place Carnot. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Place Carnot offers more options, including restaurants, cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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 a lovely dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at Auberge des Lices, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Adélaïde. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

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

Start by visiting Jardin Des Plantes, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Muséum De Toulouse, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular museum renowned for its history-steeped features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Carcassonne by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Pont-neuf. This enchanting monument is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Couvent Des Jacobins also adds charm to your journey, and Place Saint-pierre wraps up your day with its romantic appeal.

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

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

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

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.

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 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 80 km, 1 hour 31 min

  • Parc Rochegude
  • Jardin National
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Berbie Palace
  • Pont Vieux
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Albi, 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 Albi. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Toulouse, including a park, a church, a museum, a palace, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Parc Rochegude. This underrated park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin National, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Toulouse on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Albi Cathedral, a locally renowned church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Musée Toulouse-lautrec and Berbie Palace. End your day with a visit to Pont Vieux, an up-and-coming historical landmark that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

As you explore more of Albi, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at O'Sully'S Albi, an iconic dining spot in Albi. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Albi
  • Cahors
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • Cape Nature Recreation Park
  • La Barbacane
  • Église Saint-Barthélemy
  • More

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 Pradines and Cahors. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cahors, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Cape Nature Recreation Park. This increasingly popular amusement park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to La Barbacane located in Albi for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Église Saint-barthélemy. Its photogenic features will captivate you.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cahors, 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 Cahors's best restaurants.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Cahors
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Bouziès
  • Towpath
  • Vènes Cirque - Lookout Point
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bouziès and Tour-de-Faure. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Cahors on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bouziès is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic hiking area before continuing your journey. Towpath is your next stop. This underrated hiking area is one of the best-rated sights in Cahors.

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 Vènes Cirque - Lookout Point. This awe-inspiring observation deck is a sight to behold.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Métairie? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

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 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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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 Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point. This curiosity-inducing castle is a popular place to see in the town.

Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Carcassonne’s shopping center, the lively Place Carnot. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Take one last moment to soak in France, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Celt, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Carcassonne. 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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