9-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling west to Cahors, Limoges, Tours, Angers, La Rochelle, and Bordeaux

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Carcassonne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

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 or taking a stroll in the town center. 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 in Carcassonne. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Domaine d'Auriac. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Carcassonne tonight.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!

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

Set your GPS to Cahors and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cahors beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Château Comtal. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors.

Next, make your way to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,201 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 76,968 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Musée de l'Ecole. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 287 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,146 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cahors, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cahors.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Padirac, Lacave, Martel, and Rocamadour, 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 Limoges. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Rocamadour, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Padirac. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Kick off the day at Padirac Cave, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This pit cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 25,172 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lacave. This car ride takes around 57 min.

Make Lacave caves your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,757 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limoges, 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 Limoges's best restaurants.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Le Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Limoges. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Pont Saint Etienne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Geyracois. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Limoges this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Chez Bernard, where the evening is just getting started.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Cheverny, La Basse Cour, and Blois. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Cheverny’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Basse Cour behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Cheverny welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château de Cheverny. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,031 reviews.

Continue your journey at Parc du château de Cheverny. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 442 travelers from near and far.

Set your GPS to La Basse Cour and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. La Basse Cour beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Château de Valençay, a remarkable château where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,125 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Tours. Tours offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TIA Gourmet, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Au Fût et à mesure offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tours.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cave à Vins et à Bières Vins sur 20, Bar et soirées à thème, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out PIRAAT CAFE TOURS, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, L'Alexandra provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 5 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 Rigny-Ussé, Tours, Chenonceaux, and Amboise. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angers, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tours, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rigny-Ussé may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Rigny-Ussé, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château d'Ussé. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Rigny-Ussé, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,588 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tours and set your GPS to Amboise. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Amboise, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Château de Villandry. This château is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,506 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Angers, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Angers's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Wallaby's Australian Café, a top-rated dining destination in Angers. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Cour - Angers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brasserie de la Gare. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Angers this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Snooker, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Les BerThoM Angers offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Welsh. 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 Angers and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

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 Angers and Le Puy du Fou. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Le Puy du Fou. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parc de la Garenne. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,395 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Château d'Angers. This château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,556 reviews.

Le Puy du Fou’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Angers behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Le Puy du Fou welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Puy du Fou. This extraordinary theme park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 65,610 visitors. Each year, around 2,300,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

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

As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at La Boussole, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Les Flots boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Palem Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in La Rochelle.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Plan B is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Dock Café is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bordeaux and Lormont. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to jardin public. This urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,341 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Monument aux Girondins. This column has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,483 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to place de la Bourse. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,251 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit miroir d'eau. This reflecting pool is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of La Rochelle, 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 1 hour 56 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to La Cité du Vin. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 21,487 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. 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 Le Plana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Confidentiel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Bar à Vin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, La Comtesse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bordeaux and 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Toulouse, 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 Bordeaux to Toulouse may take around 2 hours 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Porte Dijeaux your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this city gate an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,628 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Bordeaux Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this catholic cathedral every year.

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 2 hours 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Basilica of St. Sernin, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable minor basilica has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,287 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Jardin des Plantes is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,847 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Carcassonne, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Auberge des Lices, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Adélaïde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

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

Day 9 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.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in Carcassonne’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the town’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of France with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Métairie, another premier location with a delectable 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!