9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Cahors, Limoges, Blois, Angers, La Rochelle, and Bordeaux

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Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Cahors, Lacave, Rocamadour, Padirac, Limoges, Blois, Amboise, Angers, Nantes, La Rochelle, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Toulouse. 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 Carcassonne, 1 night in Cahors, 1 night in Limoges, 1 night in Blois, 1 night in Angers, 1 night in La Rochelle, and 1 night in Bordeaux. 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 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 Chambord are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dune Of Pilat, learn more about the unique Château De Chenonceau, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Cahors, Lacave, Rocamadour, Padirac, Limoges, Blois, Amboise, Angers, Nantes, La Rochelle, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Toulouse, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Château comtal de CarcassonneChâteau et Remparts de la Cité de CarcassonneCité de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelseGrotte de Limousis
Lacave cavesMonkey ForestPadirac CaveRailway Tourist Haut Quercy
Château de ChevernyChâteau de ChambordChâteau de BloisMaison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
Château du Clos LucéChâteau d'AmboiseChâteau de ChenonceauChâteau d'AngersJardin des Plantes d'Angers
Île de Versailles (Nantes)Machines of the Isle of NantesLe Lieu uniqueBotanical GardenChâteau des ducs de Bretagne

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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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 just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Carcassonne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Cahors
  • More

Drive 249 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Grotte de Limousis
  • More

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Château Comtal. This intriguing castle is a majestic place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a romantic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This extraordinary castle offers a visually striking encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Basilique Saint Nazaire to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Grotte De Limousis, an underrated cave that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

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 3

Day 3

  • Cahors
  • Limoges
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Lacave caves
  • Monkey Forest
  • Padirac Cave
  • Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
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On day 3 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 Lacave, Rocamadour, and Padirac. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limoges, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cahors, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Lacave Caves, a curiosity-inducing cave system in the village. Then, head to Monkey Forest and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking wildlife reserve.

There are many interesting places to see in Cahors, and when you are ready for more, go to Padirac Cave. This is one of the village’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the cave, visit the increasingly popular Railway Tourist Haut Quercy.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Limoges. Limoges 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 Limoges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Le Paris, a top-rated dining destination in Limoges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Pont Saint Etienne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Geyracois. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limoges this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Chez Bernard, a prime location for a drink.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Limoges
  • Blois
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Château de Cheverny
  • Château de Chambord
  • Château de Blois
  • Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Blois, 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 Blois. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Limoges, including a castle and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Château De Cheverny. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Château De Chambord, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Limoges on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Château De Blois, a captivating castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Robert-houdin House Of Magic.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Blois. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Blois. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Relais de la Tour, a top-rated dining spot in Blois. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Blois
  • Angers
  • More

Drive 213 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • Château du Clos Lucé
  • Château d'Amboise
  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Château d'Angers
  • Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Amboise and Angers. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Angers, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Blois allows for both. Start by heading to Château Du Clos Lucé. This popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Chenonceau, a locally renowned castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Château D'angers. Round off your day at Jardin Des Plantes D'angers, another gem in Blois with romantic features to discover.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Angers, 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 Angers's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Wallaby's Australian Café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Cour - Angers beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Brasserie de la Gare. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Angers tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Snooker, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Velenjak. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 6

Day 6

  • Angers
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 233 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Île de Versailles (Nantes)
  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Le Lieu unique
  • Botanical Garden
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nantes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Angers covers several incredible sights, including a park, an art installation, a cultural center, a botanical garden, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Île De Versailles (nantes). This intriguing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a must-see art installation in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Le Lieu Unique. This locally appreciated cultural center offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Botanical Garden, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in La Rochelle. La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Côte Rôtie, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at La Boussole, 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 Les hédonistes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in La Rochelle tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Mac Ewan's Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Cadre offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Plan B. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • La Rochelle
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 328 km, 4 hours

  • Dune of Pilat
  • miroir d'eau
  • place de la Bourse
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • More

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in La Rochelle on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating sand dunes, Dune Of Pilat. Afterward, continue to Miroir D'eau, an art installation every traveler should visit.

As you explore La Rochelle’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Place De La Bourse. This notable public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Monument Aux Girondins, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Bordeaux, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bordeaux
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 346 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • jardin public
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

On day 8 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 Lormont, Bordeaux, and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carcassonne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Bordeaux. Begin your sightseeing with La Cité Du Vin. This interesting museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Jardin Public, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This captivating church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Jardin Des Plantes, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at V and B Carcassonne, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Auberge des Lices, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Adélaïde, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This often recommended monument is a popular place to see in the town.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, La Cité Médiévale. 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 Carcassonne.

If you're eager to try something different, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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