Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Bordeaux

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Description

Explore France and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Carcassonne, Palaja, Lastours, Montolieu, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Carcassonne, Palaja, Lastours, Montolieu, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and Lormont. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Carcassonne and 2 nights in Bordeaux. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cité De Carcassonne. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Place De La Bourse.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Miroir D'eau. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Jardin Public. Get close to the spectacular Bordeaux Cathedral and the wonderful Château Comtal. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
LE PARC AUSTRALIEN parc animalier intéractifCité de CarcassonneLes Quatre Châteaux de LastoursGrotte de Limousis
Saint Michael of CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneVillage du Livre et des Arts de Montolieu
Basilica of St. Michael, BordeauxThe big bell of BordeauxBordeaux CathedralTour Pey-Berland
Parc de Bourranparc bordelaisMusée d'Aquitaine tram stopjardin publicBase sous-marine
Monument aux GirondinsPorte Cailhauplace du Parlementmiroir d'eauplace de la Bourse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

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 taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Carcassonne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Carcassonne as you soak in the town’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 64 km, 1 hour 30 min

  • LE PARC AUSTRALIEN parc animalier intéractif
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Carcassonne and beyond. With 2 nights left in Carcassonne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Today’s itinerary in Carcassonne covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a castle, and a cave. Start your adventure at Le Parc Australien Parc Animalier Intéractif. This up-and-coming zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Cité De Carcassonne, a must-see castle in the village.

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 Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours. This beloved castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Grotte De Limousis, where you can take in enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Carcassonne and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Carcassonne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the town.

Have a fantastic dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Adélaïde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Palaja can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Saint Michael of Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Village du Livre et des Arts de Montolieu
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Carcassonne will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of France.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Next, go to Basilique Saint Nazaire.

After visiting Carcassonne Cathedral and Basilique Saint Nazaire, take time to explore Carcassonne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Château Comtal. This history-steeped castle offers a unique experience. Village Du Livre Et Des Arts De Montolieu is another noteworthy stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Carcassonne.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Carcassonne.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant La Marquière, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Métairie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Carcassonne and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Carcassonne!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 336 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Tour Pey-Berland
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll end your day in the city of Bordeaux, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This up-and-coming church is a historic place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a picture-perfect historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bordeaux Cathedral. This interesting church offers a majestic encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Tour Pey-berland 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 Carcassonne.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bordeaux. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring the food culture in Bordeaux offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Brun offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Whose Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Parc de Bourran
  • parc bordelais
  • Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop
  • jardin public
  • Base sous-marine
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Le Bouscat, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Le Bouscat, and meet locals along the way!

Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Parc De Bourran. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of Parc Bordelais, a must-visit park in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, a beloved museum. For a change of scene, check out Jardin Public, known for its peaceful features.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in France more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Le Bouscat offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bordeaux, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Soléna, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel De Sèze, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bordeaux’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grizzly Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Dog And Duck is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 340 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Porte Cailhau
  • place du Parlement
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • More

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in France. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in France.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Monument Aux Girondins is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Porte Cailhau, a locally appreciated monument, known for its romantic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Place Du Parlement. This awe-inspiring public square offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Miroir D'eau adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Place De La Bourse, an enchanting public square in Bordeaux.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Carcassonne in this laid-back road trip in France. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Carcassonne.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Celt, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Oliveraie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in France.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Carcassonne.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, La Cité Médiévale. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Carcassonne or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Blé Noir, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Carcassonne and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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