9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, and Tours

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Carcassonne. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming Château Comtal, an enchanting castle in Carcassonne. Next, go to Porte Narbonnaise.

After visiting Château Comtal and Porte Narbonnaise, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cité De Carcassonne. This visually striking castle offers a unique experience. Musée De L'ecole is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire, one of the most enchanting places to visit in Carcassonne. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Saint-gimer Church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a shopping spree at Carcassonne's top shopping destination, La Cité Médiévale! Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, browsing unique shops and discovering local treasures. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect for bringing a touch of France into your home. Beyond shopping, La Cité Médiévale has plenty to offer, including essential services, seasonal events, and unique attractions for all ages.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at V and B Carcassonne, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Balma and Toulouse are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balma. This drive usually takes around 59 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Balma is Cité De L'espace, a beloved science center that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Balma’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Toulouse. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Toulouse, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Des Plantes. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Musée Des Augustins. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Basilica Of St. Sernin. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Place Saint-pierre, an intriguing public square. Conclude your sightseeing at Pont-neuf, known for its history-steeped features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, 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 Toulouse, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Moloko is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Botanist Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Melting Pot Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Albi, where you'll spend 1 night.

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.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Parc Rochegude, an increasingly popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Albi Cathedral and admire its stunning features.

When you’re ready, continue to Berbie Palace, an often recommended palace beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Musée Toulouse-lautrec, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Pont Vieux, a history-steeped place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Upon your arrival in Cordes-sur-Ciel, 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 Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel, a locally appreciated market that everyone visiting Cordes-sur-Ciel should see.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at O'Sully'S Albi, a top pick for dinner tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Blois and Cheverny. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Tours, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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

Set your GPS to Blois and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 4 hours 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blois beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Jacques-gabriel Bridge, an often recommended monument known for its visually striking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blois and set your GPS to Cheverny. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Cheverny, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Exposition Permanente Tintin Les Secrets De Moulinsart. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TIA Gourmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Les Bartavelles offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tours.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Piraat Cafe Tours offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out L'alexandra. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Limoges. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Limoges, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Tours to Limoges may take around 2 hours 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Limoges, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Victor Thuillat. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Limoges Cathedral. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Jardin Botanique De L'evêché. 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Métairie? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Buffalo Grill Carcassonne 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 to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.