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

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Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
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Experience France like never before on this 7-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Bouziès, Marcilhac-sur-Célé, Castelnaudary, and Les Cammazes. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in France.

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.

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.

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
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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

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne, and meet locals along the way!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Carcassonne allows for both. Start by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This intriguing church provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Musée De L'ecole, a standout museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne, an impressive castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Porte Narbonnaise. Not far away from the monument, you will find the heritage-rich Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Château Comtal, another gem in Carcassonne with culturally significant features to discover.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Carcassonne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Auberge des Lices, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Adélaïde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Carcassonne.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

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

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in France is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in France.

Today’s itinerary in Carcassonne covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a museum, a monument, a monastery, a public square, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This worthwhile botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Musée Des Augustins, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Pont-neuf. This beloved monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Couvent Des Jacobins, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Place Saint-pierre and Basilica Of St. Sernin. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Toulouse.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moloko, known for its lively atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across France.

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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, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin National. This underrated 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 UNESCO world heritage-designated 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 frequently visited historical landmark provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Madame Bovary offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Toulouse. The bars in Toulouse make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pub O'clock stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Loupiote offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Populaire is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
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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 worthwhile 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 eye-catching 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, a curiosity-inducing cave in the village.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Toulouse has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bapz, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cabaret Le Kalinka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Emile. 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Filochard. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Black Lion offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Dry Dock, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
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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 easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Castelnaudary. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Carcassonne, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Toulouse, including a historical landmark and a museum. Start your adventure at Écluses De Saint-roch. This underrated historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Museum And Garden Of The Canal Du Midi located in Toulouse for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Percée Des Cammazes (voûte De Vauban). Its historic features will captivate you.

In the town of Carcassonne, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

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.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Carcassonne. The bars in Carcassonne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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
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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.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Place Carnot. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Savor your final moments in France at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Portail Des Jacobins, a culturally significant 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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