7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse, Albi, and Cahors
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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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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.
Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. 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 Carcassonne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
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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 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This increasingly popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Musée De L'ecole, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Cité De Carcassonne, one of the most astonishing places to see in Carcassonne. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Porte Narbonnaise. Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Château Comtal, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.
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.
Visit La Cité Médiévale in Carcassonne for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home, including artisan crafts. After shopping, explore what La Cité Médiévale has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
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
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Carcassonne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Jardin Des Plantes. This stunning botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Muséum De Toulouse, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Pont-neuf, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its respected features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Couvent Des Jacobins. This picture-perfect monastery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Place Saint-pierre, a locally appreciated public square, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Basilica Of St. Sernin before you head back to your hotel.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Toulouse, 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.
Dine in style at Restaurant Le May, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L*Agence boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Perche Pinte. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Toulouse.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Moloko, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Botanist Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Melting Pot Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Albi
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Drive 80 km, 1 hour 31 min
- Parc Rochegude
- Jardin National
- Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
- Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
- Berbie Palace
- Pont Vieux
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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.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming town of Toulouse. Your adventure starts at Parc Rochegude, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin National. This curiosity-inducing park is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Toulouse's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Albi Cathedral. This stunning church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Musée Toulouse-lautrec is also worth visiting, along with Berbie Palace. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Pont Vieux. This increasingly popular historical landmark provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Albi. Albi 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 Albi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at O'Sully'S Albi, a popular restaurant in Albi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 5
- Albi
- Cahors
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Cape Nature Recreation Park
- La Barbacane
- Église Saint-Barthélemy
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Pradines and Cahors. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cahors, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cape Nature Recreation Park. This often recommended amusement park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is La Barbacane, one of the village’s best highlights.
Next, check out Église Saint-barthélemy, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Albi. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cahors. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cahors's best restaurants.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 6
- Cahors
- Carcassonne
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 28 min
- Bouziès
- Towpath
- Vènes Cirque - Lookout Point
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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.
Start by visiting Bouziès, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene hiking area is sure to impress. Next on your list is Towpath, another must-visit landmark and often recommended hiking area renowned for its mesmerizing features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cahors by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Vènes Cirque - Lookout Point. This mesmerizing observation deck is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cahors experience.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Métairie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
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 up-and-coming castle is a popular place to see in the town.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Celt? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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