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 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Montpellier, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Arcachon, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Cahors, Blagnac, Carcassonne, and Gruissan. 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 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 got 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. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Réserve Africaine De Sigean, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Place De La Bourse.

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, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Arc de Triomphe
Comedy Squareesplanade Charles de GaulleJardin des plantes de MontpellierPlanet Ocean World
Porte Cailhaumiroir d'eauplace de la BourseMonument aux Girondinsjardin public
Cité du Vinparc bordelaisThe big bell of BordeauxBordeaux CathedralDune of Pilat
Château de BeynacThe Marqueyssac gardensCastelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
Musée AeroscopiaBasilica of St. SerninCouvent des JacobinsJardin des Plantes
Château comtal de CarcassonneChâteau et Remparts de la Cité de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneRéserve Africaine de SigeanLe Salin de l'île Saint-Martin de Gruissan
Aqueduc Saint-Clément

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Montpellier - Arrival day
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  • Arc de Triomphe
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Welcome to Montpellier, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Montpellier's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Montpellier. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Palavasien, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Les Enfants Rouges? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Tord Boyaux as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Montpellier.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Triskell Montpellier, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Kraken Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Rebuffy also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

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
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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 Montpellier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Montpellier, including a public square, a park, a botanical garden, an aquarium and much more! Start your adventure at Comedy Square. This well-known public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Esplanade Charles De Gaulle located in Montpellier for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier. Its standout features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Planet Ocean World. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this aquarium.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Moloko offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Botanist Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Melting Pot Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 3

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

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 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Toulouse promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Porte Cailhau. This culturally significant monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Miroir D'eau, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Place De La Bourse, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Monument Aux Girondins. This breathtaking monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Jardin Public, a captivating park, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whose Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 149 km, 3 hours 4 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • parc bordelais
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • Dune of Pilat
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Lormont, Le Bouscat, Bordeaux, and Arcachon. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux.

Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at La Cité Du Vin, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Parc Bordelais, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This historical landmark is one of the town’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Bordeaux Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the well-known Dune Of Pilat.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Soléna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel De Sèze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Dog And Duck. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bordeaux
  • Cahors
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 50 min

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cahors, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Château De Beynac. This awe-inspiring castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to The Marqueyssac Gardens and learn what makes this visually striking botanical garden unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle.

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.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Cahors
  • 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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Blagnac and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites await you in Cahors on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated aviation museum, Musée Aeroscopia. Afterward, continue to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cahors’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Couvent Des Jacobins. This increasingly popular monastery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Jardin Des Plantes, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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 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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne
  • 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
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne, Narbonne, and Gruissan, 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 Montpellier. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Carcassonne includes a castle, a wildlife reserve, and a nature reserve. Château Comtal is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, an often recommended castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne, an UNESCO world heritage-designated castle, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Carcassonne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the popular Réserve Africaine De Sigean. If you’re looking for more, Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Banane, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Troc. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Black Out, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Petit Nice, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Espit Chupitos Montpellier likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

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 often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace, Odysseum. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Balthazar café & restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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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