One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Valence, Auxerre, Paris, and Limoges
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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 2 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Valence, 1 night in Auxerre, 2 nights in Paris, and 1 night in Limoges. 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Disneyland Paris, learn more about the unique Arc De Triomphe, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Champ De Mars.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Valence, Sainte-Colombe, Auxerre, Serris, Paris, Chilly-Mazarin, Limoges, and Toulouse, 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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- Portail des Jacobins
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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 Portail Des Jacobins or 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
- Valence
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Drive 351 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Cité de Carcassonne
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On day 2 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 Carcassonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Valence, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Carcassonne covers several incredible sights, including a castle and a church. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This worthwhile castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Basilique Saint Nazaire, a must-see church in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This astonishing castle offers an enriching experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Valence. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Valence. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Les Cèdres - Bertrand Frères, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Valence
- Sainte-Colombe
- Auxerre
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Drive 405 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Museum and site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal Vienne
- Muséum d’Histoire naturelle d’Auxerre
- Église Saint-Eusèbe
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sainte-Colombe and Auxerre. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Auxerre, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Sainte-Colombe. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sainte-Colombe, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Valence to Sainte-Colombe may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sainte-Colombe, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Museum And Site Of Saint-romain-en-gal Vienne. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Auxerre and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Auxerre beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Muséum D’histoire Naturelle D’auxerre, an underrated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Église Saint-eusèbe, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Auxerre. Auxerre offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Auxerre. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Auxerre
- Serris
- Paris
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Drive 225 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Disneyland Paris
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Serris and Paris. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Serris, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Paris. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Place De La Concorde, an extraordinary public square in Paris. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Tuileries Garden. This widely recognized park is a top recommendation in the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Paris, 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 Paris's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mumi, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café De Paris V, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Dirty Dick, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Red Door provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 5
- Paris
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Champ de Mars
- Jardin du Luxembourg
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Paris today. One of the most wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is Sacré-cœur. This culturally significant church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Arc De Triomphe and learn what makes this culturally significant monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the world-famous Eiffel Tower. After exploring the monument, head to Champ De Mars. This world-famous park is a highlight in Paris. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the astonishing Jardin Du Luxembourg. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Sens Unique, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Caveau de l'isle, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Prescription Cocktail Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Boucan, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mamie Paris also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Paris and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Paris
- Chilly-Mazarin
- Limoges
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Drive 398 km, 4 hours 23 min
- Louvre Museum
- Musée d'Orsay
- Parc de l'hôtel de ville Chilly-Mazarin
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Paris and Chilly-Mazarin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limoges. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Louvre Museum. This globally renowned museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Musée D'orsay, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Chilly-Mazarin, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Paris to Chilly-Mazarin may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chilly-Mazarin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Parc De L'hôtel De Ville Chilly-mazarin, a curiosity-inducing park that everyone visiting Chilly-Mazarin should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Limoges. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Limoges. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Paris, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Pont Saint Etienne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Geyracois. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Limoges.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Chez Bernard, a 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.
Day 7
- Limoges
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 383 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Grand Rond
- Jardin des Plantes
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Toulouse’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
Set your GPS to Toulouse and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Toulouse beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a captivating church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Grand Rond and admire its eye-catching features. When you’re ready, continue to Jardin Des Plantes, an intriguing botanical garden beloved by locals and tourists alike.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Carcassonne. Carcassonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at V and B Carcassonne, 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 Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 8
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- André Chénier Garden
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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.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing La Cité Médiévale. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Carcassonne. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. André Chénier Garden is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Carcassonne.
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 eager to try something different, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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