One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling east to Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Toulouse, and Carcassonne
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Sarlat La Caneda, 1 night in Rocamadour, 1 night in Toulouse, and 1 night in Carcassonne. 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 Bordeaux, 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 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 Bordeaux, Lormont, Saint-Émilion, Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Balma, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Montpellier, 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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Day 1
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
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- jardin public
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Bordeaux is a beautiful city 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 Jardin Public, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Brun. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Le Mushroom Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whose Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Bordeaux
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Drive 95 km, 2 hours 3 min
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
- Rue Sainte-Catherine
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On day 2 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bordeaux, Lormont, and Saint-Émilion to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Bordeaux is Rue Sainte-Catherine. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Bordeaux Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most interesting places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Place De La Bourse, a locally renowned public square, known for its visually striking 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 Miroir D'eau. This romantic art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find La Cité Du Vin and Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.
Keep the evening going at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Grizzly Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Dog And Duck, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
- Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 328 km, 4 hours 56 min
- Lascaux 2
- Padirac Cave
- Château de Beynac
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Bordeaux includes a cave and a castle. Lascaux is must-visit cave and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Padirac Cave, a notable cave, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Château De Beynac, a romantic castle, also available for your discovery 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.
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!
Day 4
- Sarlat-la-Canéda
- Rocamadour
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Drive 54 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Grotte des Carbonnières
- Monkey Forest
- La Maison des Abeilles
- Rocher des Aigles
- Parc Durandal
- Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Les Boulangers and Rocamadour. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rocamadour, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Sarlat La Caneda. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cave, a wildlife reserve, a museum, a bird watching area, a performing arts theater, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Grotte Des Carbonnières. This is a worthwhile cave you should not miss. Another must-see is Monkey Forest, a locally appreciated wildlife reserve in Sarlat La Caneda.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to La Maison Des Abeilles. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Le Rocher Des Aigles, another of the hamlet’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Parc Durandal, an instagrammable place of interest in the hamlet. If time allows, add Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour to your itinerary. This frequently visited church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Sarlat La Caneda.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Rocamadour. Rocamadour 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 Rocamadour's best restaurants.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 5
- Rocamadour
- Toulouse
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Drive 178 km, 2 hours 45 min
- Cité de l'Espace
- Jardin des Plantes
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Musée des Augustins
- Square Charles de Gaulle
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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 Balma and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Rocamadour, including a science center, a botanical garden, a church, a museum, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Cité De L'espace. This curiosity-inducing science center is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Jardin Des Plantes, which may be one of the most mesmerizing places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Rocamadour 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin, a notable church in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Musée Des Augustins and Square Charles De Gaulle.
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.
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.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 6
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 98 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Porte Narbonnaise
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Musée de l'Ecole
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Saint-Gimer Church
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, 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.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Toulouse on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular castle, Château Comtal. Afterward, continue to Porte Narbonnaise, a monument every traveler should visit.
As you explore Toulouse’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Cité De Carcassonne. This top-rated castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Musée De L'ecole, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Basilique Saint Nazaire, a locally appreciated church in the town. Finally, end your day with a visit to Saint-gimer Church, a heritage-rich church that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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.
Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne 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.
Day 7
- Carcassonne
- Bordeaux
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Drive 641 km, 6 hours 39 min
- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
- Arc de Triomphe
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Montpellier. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Aqueduc Saint-clément. This increasingly popular monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Arc De Triomphe, 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 Comedy Square. This locally renowned public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Locadillos, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Le Plana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Blind as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Casey's Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Bar À Vin offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Thecity. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Say good night to Bordeaux and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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- Monument aux Girondins
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Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux 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 Monument Aux Girondins. This intriguing monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Bordeaux’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Les Grands Hommes. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux.
You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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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