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

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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

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, Toulouse, Albi, Bouziès, Marcilhac-sur-Célé, Castelnaudary, and Les Cammazes. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Carcassonne and 3 nights in Toulouse. 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 Albi Cathedral.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Basilica Of St. Sernin. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Jardin Des Plantes. Get close to the spectacular Château Comtal and the wonderful Couvent Des Jacobins. 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Church of Saints Nazaire and CelseMusée de l'EcoleCité de CarcassonnePorte NarbonnaiseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneÉglise Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
Jardin des PlantesMusée des AugustinsPont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Parc RochegudeJardin NationalSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont Vieux
TowpathBouzièsEmergence du Ressel
Écluses de Saint-RochMuseum and Garden of the Canal du MidiPercée des Cammazes (Voûte de Vauban)
Portail des Jacobins

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point, or just 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 feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Carcassonne and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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
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Drive 6 km, 31 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Carcassonne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Carcassonne, including a church, a museum, a castle, a monument and much more! Start your day at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This history-steeped church is a beloved place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Musée De L'ecole. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cité De Carcassonne. This visually striking castle is a favorite among visitors.

Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Porte Narbonnaise is a beloved spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the history-steeped Château Comtal. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular castle. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Carcassonne's top attractions with a visit to Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne.

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

Bring home unique finds from Carcassonne's bustling shopping hub, La Cité Médiévale. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs, including artisan crafts and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, La Cité Médiévale offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Carcassonne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Auberge des Lices is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Adélaïde. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

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.

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 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Musée des Augustins
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

On day 3 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Carcassonne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a museum, a monument, a monastery, a public square, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This is a beloved botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Musée Des Augustins, an intriguing museum in Carcassonne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Pont-neuf. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Couvent Des Jacobins, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Place Saint-pierre, a romantic place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Basilica Of St. Sernin to your itinerary. This notable church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Carcassonne.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Toulouse, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Toulouse. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Moloko is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Botanist Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Melting Pot Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
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Drive 157 km, 2 hours 19 min

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 4, 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 Toulouse and beyond. With 2 nights left in Toulouse, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin National. This beloved park is known for its instagrammable 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 culturally significant church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Berbie Palace is also worth visiting, along with Musée Toulouse-lautrec. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Pont Vieux. This beloved historical landmark provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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

Exploring the food culture in Toulouse 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Madame Bovary, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Pub O'clock, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Loupiote is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Populaire ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 307 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Towpath
  • Bouziès
  • Emergence du Ressel
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Toulouse and visit amazing attractions in Bouziès and Marcilhac-sur-Célé destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Toulouse. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Toulouse, including a hiking area and a cave. Start your day with a visit to Towpath. This locally appreciated hiking area is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bouziès, 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 Emergence Du Ressel, an underrated cave in the village.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at Bapz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cabaret Le Kalinka beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Emile. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toulouse tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Toulouse and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Filochard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Black Lion is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dry Dock also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 123 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Écluses de Saint-Roch
  • Museum and Garden of the Canal du Midi
  • Percée des Cammazes (Voûte de Vauban)
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Toulouse is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Écluses De Saint-roch and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Museum And Garden Of The Canal Du Midi, a respected museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Percée Des Cammazes (voûte De Vauban), one of the town’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Carcassonne. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in France by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Restaurant La Marquière, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Métairie offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Buffalo Grill Carcassonne is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
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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.

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Portail Des Jacobins, a photogenic monument before you head out.

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 in the mood for something new, try The Celt, another premier location with a delectable 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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