7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Toulouse, Albi, and Sarlat La Caneda

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

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, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Padirac, Montignac-Lascaux, and Cahors. 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 2 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Albi, and 2 nights in Sarlat La Caneda. 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 Padirac Cave are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, learn more about the unique Albi Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of St. Sernin.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Padirac, Montignac-Lascaux, and Cahors, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Carcassonne

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Cité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonneBasilica of St. SerninMuséum de ToulouseJardin des Plantes
Parc RochegudeJardin NationalSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont Vieux
La Forêt des ÉcureuilsManor Gisson
Rocher des AiglesSanctuaire Notre-Dame de RocamadourMonkey ForestPadirac Cave
Lascaux International Center of Parietal ArtLascaux 2Église Saint-BarthélemyLa Barbacane
Portail des Jacobins

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
  • More
  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
  • More

Say hello to Carcassonne! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the town. You will stay in Carcassonne for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 103 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Carcassonne. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Cité De Carcassonne is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most famous places to visit in Carcassonne. Next, head to Château Comtal, an up-and-coming castle, 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin. This picture-perfect church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Muséum De Toulouse and Jardin Des Plantes. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Moloko offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Botanist Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Melting Pot Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 80 km, 1 hour 31 min

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

On day 3 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 Albi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albi, where you will stay 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 worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin National. This increasingly popular 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 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.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Albi, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Sully'S Albi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Albi.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Albi
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 202 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Falgueyrade and Sarlat La Caneda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Albi, including an adventure park and a museum. Start your day with a visit to La Forêt Des Écureuils. This worthwhile adventure park is a must-visit in the hamlet. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Manor Gisson, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

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

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 127 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Rocher des Aigles
  • Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour
  • Monkey Forest
  • Padirac Cave
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sarlat La Caneda, featuring fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at Le Rocher Des Aigles, an intriguing bird watching area in the village. Then, head to Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting church.

There are many interesting places to see in Sarlat La Caneda, and when you are ready for more, go to Monkey Forest. This is one of the village’s most intriguing idyllic spots of interest. After exploring the wildlife reserve, visit the locally renowned Padirac Cave.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Sarlat La Caneda. 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.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 337 km, 4 hours 31 min

  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • Lascaux 2
  • Église Saint-Barthélemy
  • La Barbacane
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Montignac-Lascaux and Cahors, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Sarlat La Caneda allows for both. Start by heading to Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This notable museum provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Lascaux, a standout cave, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Église Saint-barthélemy, an up-and-coming church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile La Barbacane.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Carcassonne's best restaurants.

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.

Say good night to Carcassonne and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More
  • Portail des Jacobins
  • More

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 Portail Des Jacobins. This often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the town.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area, La Cité Médiévale. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.

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 La Métairie, 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.