7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Cahors, Bordeaux, and Toulouse

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Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Cahors, 2 nights in Bordeaux, and 1 night in Toulouse. 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château De Beynac.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Cahors, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Le Bouscat, Lormont, Toulouse, and Blagnac, 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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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
Château comtal de CarcassonneChâteau et Remparts de la Cité de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseGrotte de Limousis
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle CastleThe Marqueyssac gardensChâteau de Beynac
Dune of Pilatparc bordelaisjardin publicMonument aux GirondinsCité du Vin
Bordeaux CathedralThe big bell of BordeauxPorte Cailhaumiroir d'eauplace de la Bourse
Basilica of St. SerninPlace Saint-PierrePont-NeufMusée AeroscopiaJardin des Plantes
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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Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Dine in style at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Rapière boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Cahors
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne and Marmonières. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cahors. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Château Comtal. This often recommended castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Carcassonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This astonishing castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Basilique Saint Nazaire, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Grotte De Limousis is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cahors. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cahors
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 264 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • Château de Beynac
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Cahors’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle. This culturally significant castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of The Marqueyssac Gardens, a must-visit botanical garden 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 Château De Beynac, a popular castle.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux, 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 Le Cent 33, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, L'Originel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Clemenceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Keep the evening going at Café Brun, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Mushroom Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whose Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 156 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Dune of Pilat
  • parc bordelais
  • jardin public
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Cité du Vin
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Bordeaux on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known sand dunes, Dune Of Pilat. Afterward, continue to Parc Bordelais, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bordeaux’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Jardin Public. This notable park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Monument Aux Girondins, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by La Cité Du Vin, an interesting museum in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Grizzly Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Dog And Duck. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Toulouse
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Drive 247 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Porte Cailhau
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
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On day 5 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 Bordeaux. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bordeaux Cathedral is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped church before continuing your journey. The Big Bell Of Bordeaux is your next stop. This up-and-coming historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Porte Cailhau. This history-steeped monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miroir D'eau and Place De La Bourse.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Le May, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Toulouse at L*Agence, 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 Le Perche Pinte. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Toulouse tonight.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 124 km, 2 hours 12 min

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse and Blagnac, 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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This notable church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Place Saint-pierre, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Pont-neuf, one of the most underrated places to see in Toulouse. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Musée Aeroscopia. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this aviation 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 Carcassonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

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.

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 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 up-and-coming 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.

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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