One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Montpellier traveling west to Toulouse, Bordeaux, Cahors, and Carcassonne

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Photo of lighthouse and old fishing port of Grau du Roi in Camargue zoological nature reserve, Montpellier, South of France.
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Explore the best of France on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Cahors, Blagnac, Carcassonne, and Gruissan.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Montpellier, 1 night in Toulouse, 2 nights in Bordeaux, 1 night in Cahors, 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Montpellier, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Cahors, Blagnac, Carcassonne, and Gruissan, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Montpellier - Arrival day
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  • Arc de Triomphe
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Montpellier and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Montpellier, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Montpellier 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 Arc De Triomphe. Taking a stroll in the city 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 Montpellier. 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 Montpellier, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Palavasien, an iconic dining spot in Montpellier. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Les Enfants Rouges, a popular restaurant in Montpellier. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Tord Boyaux, a hidden gem nestled in Montpellier. 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 Triskell Montpellier after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Kraken Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Montpellier
  • Toulouse
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Comedy Square
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • Planet Ocean World
  • More

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Montpellier. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Comedy Square, an enchanting public square in Montpellier. Next, go to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle.

After visiting Comedy Square and Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, have a stroll along Montpellier's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. This romantic botanical garden offers a unique experience. Planet Ocean World is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Le May, an iconic dining spot in Toulouse. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of L*Agence, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Perche Pinte, a hidden gem nestled in Toulouse. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Moloko, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Botanist Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Toulouse
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Porte Cailhau
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • jardin public
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Bordeaux’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Toulouse behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 23 min. Bordeaux welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bordeaux is Porte Cailhau, a beloved monument that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Miroir D'eau, a visually striking art installation that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Place De La Bourse, a notable public square that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Monument Aux Girondins, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Jardin Public, an awe-inspiring park and the perfect final attraction in Bordeaux.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining spot in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood for something new, try L'Originel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Clemenceau. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bordeaux.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Brun. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Whose Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • Lormont
  • Le Bouscat
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Drive 149 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing The Big Bell Of Bordeaux and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Bordeaux Cathedral, an inviting church that draws visitors from far and near.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lormont. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Savor the day by heading to La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Le Bouscat. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Parc Bordelais is a curiosity-inducing park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Soléna offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hôtel De Sèze is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grizzly Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Dog And Duck is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Beynac
  • La Roque-Gageac
  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
  • Cahors
  • More

Drive 260 km, 3 hours 50 min

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

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 3 places, which are Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cahors, where will spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Beynac-et-Cazenac. Your travel time is around 2 hours 25 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château De Beynac, an interesting castle known for its visually striking features.

When you’ve had your share of Beynac-et-Cazenac, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Roque-Gageac. Your travel time is around 5 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Marqueyssac Gardens, a well-known botanical garden in La Roque-Gageac. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of La Roque-Gageac, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. Your travel time is around 7 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle, a notable castle that everyone visiting Castelnaud-la-Chapelle should see.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cahors's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Cahors
  • Blagnac
  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 221 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Blagnac and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cahors and set your GPS to Blagnac. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Blagnac, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Musée Aeroscopia is an underrated aviation museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Basilica Of St. Sernin. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Couvent Des Jacobins. This frequently visited monastery is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Jardin Des Plantes. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the botanical garden.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Rapière offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Domaine d'Auriac is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne
  • Gruissan
  • Montpellier
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Réserve Africaine de Sigean
  • Le Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Château Comtal set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped castle before continuing your journey. Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne is your next stop. This increasingly popular castle is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.

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 Cité De Carcassonne. This enchanting castle is a sight to behold.

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

Savor the day by heading to Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a well-known wildlife reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gruissan. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, a beloved nature reserve known for its serene features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Montpellier. Montpellier 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 Montpellier's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Banane offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Petit Troc. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Montpellier.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Black Out, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Petit Nice is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Espit Chupitos Montpellier provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Montpellier - Departure day
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  • Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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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 Montpellier 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 Aqueduc Saint-clément. This frequently visited monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Polygone Montpellier. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Montpellier. 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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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.
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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