One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors

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Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Cahors
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in France! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Saint-Hilaire, Toulouse, Albi, Montignac-Lascaux, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Domme, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Cahors, Bouziès, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Gaillac.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. 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 Cahors. 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 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 Château De Beynac are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Saint-Hilaire, Toulouse, Albi, Montignac-Lascaux, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Domme, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Cahors, Bouziès, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Gaillac, 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, accommodations, 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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Day1

Day 1

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

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 Castle Panorama View Point. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Rapière, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Saint-Hilaire
  • More

Drive 41 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Abbaye de Saint-Hilaire
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Carcassonne and Saint-Hilaire. With 1 night to stay in Carcassonne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Enjoy all that Château Comtal has to offer. This is a beloved castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, an intriguing castle in Carcassonne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cité De Carcassonne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Basilique Saint Nazaire, another of the town’s up-and-coming attractions.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint-Hilaire. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Abbaye De Saint-hilaire is a frequently visited monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 96 km, 2 hours 2 min

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Toulouse and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Toulouse beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Des Plantes, an up-and-coming botanical garden known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Pont-neuf, an often recommended monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Couvent Des Jacobins and uncover the details of this historic monastery. Make sure to also explore Place Saint-pierre, a curiosity-inducing public square. For your last stop, consider Basilica Of St. Sernin, a picture-perfect church that many travelers find worth the detour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
  • More

Drive 80 km, 1 hour 24 min

  • Parc Rochegude
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Albi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you explore Albi’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Albi may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Albi, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Parc Rochegude, an underrated park in Albi. Explore its peaceful features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Albi Cathedral. This notable church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Berbie Palace is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most UNESCO world heritage-listed palace in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Musée Toulouse-lautrec and discover what makes this museum unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the town, head to Pont Vieux, a romantic historical landmark many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Albi. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at O'Sully'S Albi, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

Say good night to Albi and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Albi
  • Montignac
  • La Roque-Gageac
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • More

Drive 294 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 5 destinations, including La Falgueyrade, Montignac-Lascaux, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, and Domme. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — La Falgueyrade, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Albi to La Falgueyrade may take around 2 hours 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Falgueyrade, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to La Forêt Des Écureuils, an increasingly popular adventure park that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Montignac-Lascaux, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Falgueyrade to Montignac-Lascaux may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Montignac-Lascaux, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, La Roque-Gageac. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Marqueyssac Gardens, a notable botanical garden known for its history-steeped features.

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

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 Sarlat La Caneda, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Rocamadour
  • Cahors
  • More

Drive 120 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Rocher des Aigles
  • Monkey Forest
  • La Maison des Abeilles
  • La Barbacane
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rocamadour and Cahors are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cahors, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Sarlat La Caneda, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rocamadour. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

Le Rocher Des Aigles is a beloved bird watching area we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Monkey Forest, a picturesque wildlife reserve that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by La Maison Des Abeilles, an eye-catching museum.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cahors may take around 58 min. Upon your arrival in Cahors, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to La Barbacane, a frequently visited sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Cahors should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cahors. Cahors offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Cahors
  • Bouziès
  • Cordes-sur-Ciel
  • Gaillac
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 268 km, 4 hours 11 min

  • Bouziès
  • Towpath
  • Porte de l'Horloge
  • Parc du Chateau de Foucaud manège Belle Epoque
  • Parc de Foucaud
  • More

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Bouziès, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Gaillac. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cahors, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bouziès. This drive usually takes around 32 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Bouziès and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Towpath, another highlight in Bouziès.

Cordes-sur-Ciel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bouziès behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Cordes-sur-Ciel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Porte De L'horloge, a beloved point of interest that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gaillac, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cordes-sur-Ciel to Gaillac may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gaillac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc Du Chateau De Foucaud Manège Belle Epoque and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Parc De Foucaud, another highlight in Gaillac.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Carcassonne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Carcassonne.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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Day8

Day 8

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More
  • Portail des Jacobins
  • More

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 Portail Des Jacobins. This beloved monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Carcassonne’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Celt offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse 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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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