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

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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!

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Itinerary summary

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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

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Day 1

Day 1

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

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!

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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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cité De Carcassonne. This spectacular castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Château Comtal, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Basilica Of St. Sernin, one of the most notable places to see in Carcassonne. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Muséum De Toulouse. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Jardin Des Plantes, a top-rated botanical garden that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L*Agence offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Perche Pinte is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Toulouse.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Moloko. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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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 exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Albi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Toulouse, including a park, a church, a palace, a museum, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Parc Rochegude. This locally appreciated park is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin National, 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 Albi Cathedral, an interesting church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Berbie Palace and Musée Toulouse-lautrec. End your day with a visit to Pont Vieux, a beloved historical landmark that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at O'Sully'S Albi, a top pick for dinner tonight.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Albi
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
  • More

On day 4 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 La Falgueyrade and Sarlat La Caneda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sarlat La Caneda, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Albi, including an adventure park and a museum. Start your day at La Forêt Des Écureuils. This mesmerizing adventure park is an often recommended place to see in Albi. Then, wander over to Manor Gisson. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.

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.

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 to another unforgettable day in France!

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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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s agenda in Sarlat La Caneda includes a bird watching area, a church, a wildlife reserve, a cave and much more! Le Rocher Des Aigles is must-visit bird watching area and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour, an up-and-coming church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Monkey Forest, a romantic wildlife reserve, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sarlat La Caneda. If you’re looking for more, Padirac Cave is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

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

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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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux and Cahors. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Sarlat La Caneda’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This history-steeped museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Lascaux, a must-visit cave in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Église Saint-barthélemy, an intriguing church.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 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 increasingly popular monument is a popular place to see in the town.

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.

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 for something new, try La Métairie, another premier location with a delectable 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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