One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Rocamadour
Description
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Domme, La Roque-Gageac, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Padirac, Autoire, Rocamadour, and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon. 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 3 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Toulouse, 1 night in Albi, 1 night in Sarlat La Caneda, and 1 night in Rocamadour. 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 Château De Beynac, 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, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Domme, La Roque-Gageac, Montignac-Lascaux, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Padirac, Autoire, Rocamadour, and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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- Carcassonne
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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 2 nights 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, 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!
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
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Carcassonne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Carcassonne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Carcassonne, including a church, a museum, a castle, a monument and much more! Start your day at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This majestic church is an underrated place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Musée De L'ecole. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cité De Carcassonne. This romantic castle is a favorite among visitors.
Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Porte Narbonnaise is a curiosity-inducing spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the UNESCO world heritage-designated Château Comtal. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming castle in Carcassonne.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Bring home unique finds from Carcassonne's bustling shopping hub, La Cité Médiévale. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs, including artisan crafts and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, La Cité Médiévale offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at V and B Carcassonne, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Auberge des Lices? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Adélaïde as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.
Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Carcassonne
- Toulouse
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Drive 96 km, 2 hours
- Jardin des Plantes
- Muséum de Toulouse
- Pont-Neuf
- Couvent des Jacobins
- Place Saint-Pierre
- Basilica of St. Sernin
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of 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.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Carcassonne. Your adventure starts at Jardin Des Plantes, a curiosity-inducing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Muséum De Toulouse. This increasingly popular museum is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Carcassonne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pont-neuf. This respected monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Couvent Des Jacobins is also worth visiting, along with Place Saint-pierre. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This notable church provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
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 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 meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.
Keep the evening going at Moloko, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Botanist Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Melting Pot Pub, 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.
Day 4
- Toulouse
- Albi
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Drive 125 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
- Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
- Berbie Palace
- Pont Vieux
- Halles de Cordes-sur-Ciel
- Porte de l'Horloge
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Toulouse promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Albi Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Musée Toulouse-lautrec, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Berbie Palace, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Pont Vieux. This history-steeped historical landmark is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel, a locally appreciated market, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Albi. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at O'Sully'S Albi, highly recommended for tonight's dining.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5
- Albi
- Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 269 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Panorama
- The Marqueyssac gardens
- Lascaux 2
- Château de Beynac
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Domme, La Roque-Gageac, Montignac-Lascaux, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sarlat La Caneda. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Albi on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Panorama is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring observation deck before continuing your journey. The Marqueyssac Gardens is your next stop. This interesting botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Albi.
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 Lascaux. This picture-perfect cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Château De Beynac.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Sarlat La Caneda's best restaurants.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Sarlat-la-Canéda
- Rocamadour
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Drive 90 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Padirac Cave
- Cascade d'Autoire
- La Maison des Abeilles
- Monkey Forest
- Rocher des Aigles
- Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour
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On day 6 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 Padirac, Autoire, and Rocamadour. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rocamadour, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Sarlat La Caneda. Begin your sightseeing with Padirac Cave. This interesting cave is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Cascade D'autoire, another must-visit attraction that enhances the village’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Sarlat La Caneda, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to La Maison Des Abeilles. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Monkey Forest, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Le Rocher Des Aigles and uncover why it's recognized as one of the village's most often recommended attractions.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rocamadour. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the village, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7
- Rocamadour
- Carcassonne
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Drive 493 km, 6 hours 17 min
- Viaduc de Millau
- Sublime Point
- Église Sainte-Eulalie de Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Issis, Le Mas Rouch, and Sainte-Eulalie-de-Cernon, 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 Rocamadour allows for both. Start by heading to Millau Viaduct. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Sublime Point, a serene cliff, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Église Sainte-eulalie De Sainte-eulalie-de-cernon, an up-and-coming 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 explore more of Carcassonne, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Métairie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 8
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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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 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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point. This beloved castle is a popular place to see in the town.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Carcassonne’s shopping center, the lively Place Carnot. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France. Take one last moment to soak in France, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
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 The Celt, 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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