9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulouse traveling east to Marseille, Lyon, Auxerre, Paris, and Limoges
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Toulouse, Blagnac, Carcassonne, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Auxerre, Paris, Orléans, Limoges, Figeac, and Montauban. 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 3 nights in Toulouse, 1 night in Marseille, 1 night in Lyon, 1 night in Auxerre, 1 night in Paris, and 1 night in Limoges. 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 Toulouse, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Toulouse, Blagnac, Carcassonne, Marseille, Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Auxerre, Paris, Orléans, Limoges, Figeac, and Montauban, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Toulouse - arrival day
- Toulouse - Arrival day
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Say hello to Toulouse! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Toulouse for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Toulouse 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 Place Saint-pierre or 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 Toulouse. 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 in Toulouse. 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 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 evening going at Moloko, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Botanist Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Melting Pot Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Toulouse and Blagnac
- Toulouse
- Blagnac
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Musée Aeroscopia
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Jardin des Plantes
- Grand Rond
- Pont-Neuf
- More
Greet day 2 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Toulouse for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Blagnac and Toulouse.
Get ready for a day filled with a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a historic, a sacred, a symbolic, a charming, an idyllic, and a masterful in the charming town of Toulouse. Your adventure starts at Basilica Of St. Sernin, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Des Plantes. This locally appreciated botanical garden is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Toulouse's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Grand Rond. This serene park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Pont-neuf is also worth visiting.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Toulouse, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Blagnac may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Blagnac, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Musée Aeroscopia, an increasingly popular aviation museum that draws attention for its history-steeped features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Toulouse and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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.
Dine in style at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Madame Bovary boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Toulouse.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pub O'clock, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Loupiote offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Populaire provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Toulouse and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Marseille
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
- Marseille
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Drive 416 km, 4 hours 37 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Palais Longchamp
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Carcassonne and Marseille. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carcassonne. This car ride takes around 1 hour 8 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Château Comtal, a worthwhile castle that everyone visiting Carcassonne should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This romantic castle is one of the most famous attractions in the region.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Marseille. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Palais Longchamp, a locally renowned palace that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Marseille. Marseille offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you explore more of Marseille, 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Mets des Saintes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.
Keep the evening going at Le Traquenard, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to La Dame Du Mont, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Polikarpov, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.
Day 4 – Marseille and Lyon
- Marseille
- Lyon
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Drive 344 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Calanques National Park
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Marseille, 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 Lyon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Marseille allows for both. Start by heading to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. This captivating museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Calanques National Park, a romantic national park, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), a captivating church.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lyon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Nuage café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Rhône offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Agastache Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Lyon.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at L' Antiquaire, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Society provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pompette offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Say good night to Lyon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5 – Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Auxerre
- Lyon
- Caluire-et-Cuire
- Auxerre
- More
Drive 317 km, 3 hours 35 min
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Place Bellecour
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- 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 Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Auxerre, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Lyon’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière. This history-steeped church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Place Bellecour, a must-visit public square in the city.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Auxerre, 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 Caluire-et-Cuire to Auxerre may take around 2 hours 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Auxerre, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De La Tête D'or. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Auxerre. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Auxerre's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 6 – Auxerre and Paris
- Auxerre
- Paris
- More
Drive 185 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Sacré-Cœur
- Tuileries Garden
- More
On day 6 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Auxerre, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Paris. Your travel time is around 1 hour 56 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Champ De Mars, a world-famous park known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Eiffel Tower, a world-famous monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Arc De Triomphe and uncover the details of this culturally significant monument. Make sure to also explore Sacré-cœur, an iconic church that offers a unique experience. For your last stop, consider Tuileries Garden, a romantic park that many travelers find worth the detour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Paris. Paris offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Paris. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café De Paris V, known for its lively atmosphere. Dirty Dick is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 7 – Paris, Orléans, and Limoges
- Paris
- Orléans
- Limoges
- More
Drive 401 km, 4 hours 39 min
- Louvre Museum
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Orléans Cathedral
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Paris and Orléans. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limoges. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Paris promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Louvre Museum. This eye-catching museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Jardin Du Luxembourg, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
Set your GPS to Orléans and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Orléans beckons with new experiences!
Orléans Cathedral is a curiosity-inducing church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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.
Enjoy a delicious 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 satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Limoges this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Chez Bernard, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 8 – Limoges, Figeac, Montauban, and Toulouse
- Limoges
- Figeac
- Montauban
- Toulouse
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Drive 319 km, 3 hours 55 min
- place Nationale
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Figeac and Montauban. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Limoges, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Figeac. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Causses Du Quercy Natural Regional Park, a popular nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking in Figeac’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Montauban. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Montauban, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Place Nationale, a beloved public square known for its awe-inspiring features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Botanical Garden, an increasingly popular botanical garden that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Port Canal and uncover the details of this stunning marina.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Toulouse. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bapz, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cabaret Le Kalinka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Emile. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Filochard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Black Lion, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Dry Dock provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Head back to your accommodation in Toulouse and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 9 – Toulouse - departure day
- Toulouse - Departure day
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- Square Charles de Gaulle
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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 Toulouse before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Toulouse’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Immerse yourself in Toulouse’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Square Charles De Gaulle. This photogenic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulouse.
Savor the flavors at Allegory Coffee Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le 5 Wine Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Toulouse. 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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