9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Toulouse traveling west to Pau, Bayonne, Bordeaux, and Perigueux
Description
Included
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, Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Bayonne, Biarritz, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, Perigueux, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Peyzac-le-Moustier, Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, and Gourdon. 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 Pau, 1 night in Bayonne, 1 night in Bordeaux, and 2 nights in Perigueux. 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. Dune Of Pilat and Padirac Cave 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 Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Rocher De La Vierge.
As you hit the open road and drive through Toulouse, Blagnac, Pau, Lourdes, Gez, Bayonne, Biarritz, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, Perigueux, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Peyzac-le-Moustier, Montignac-Lascaux, Padirac, and Gourdon, 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
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- Place Saint-Pierre
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Toulouse and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Toulouse for 2 nights 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 city.
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 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 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Toulouse, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Le May, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L*Agence beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Perche Pinte. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Toulouse tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Moloko, known for its lively atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Toulouse
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Musée Aeroscopia
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Couvent des Jacobins
- Pont-Neuf
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Toulouse, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Toulouse, including an aviation museum, a church, a monastery, a monument and much more! Start your day at Musée Aeroscopia. This instagrammable aviation museum is a worthwhile place to see in Toulouse. Then, wander over to Basilica Of St. Sernin. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Couvent Des Jacobins. This awe-inspiring monastery is a favorite among visitors.
Toulouse offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Pont-neuf is a locally appreciated spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Toulouse and your accommodation.
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.
Start your culinary exploration in Toulouse by securing a reservation at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Py-r, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Hedone, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pub O'clock, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, La Loupiote offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Toulouse. Café Populaire is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 3
- Toulouse
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
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Drive 193 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Saint Stephen's Cathredal
- Grand Rond
- Jardin des Plantes
- Muséum de Toulouse
- jardin Royal
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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 Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Toulouse. Begin your sightseeing with Saint Stephen's Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Grand Rond, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Toulouse, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Jardin Des Plantes. This often recommended botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Muséum De Toulouse, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Jardin Royal is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, 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 Pau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Jumo & Co, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Garage is another top choice with a popular menu.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Snug offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Winfield Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Galway is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4
- Pyrénées-Atlantiques
- Bayonne
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Drive 228 km, 2 hours 59 min
- Grottes de Bétharram
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Basilica of St. Pius X
- Animal Park of the Pyrenees
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Lourdes and Gez, 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 Bayonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at the up-and-coming Grottes De Bétharram, an idyllic cave system in Pau. Next, go to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary.
Animal Park Of The Pyrenees is another noteworthy attraction 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 Bayonne. Bayonne 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 Bayonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at JANINE, a top-rated dining spot in Bayonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Josie Factory, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Belzunce. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bayonne.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Dame Jeanne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Café Des Pyrénées, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Kubata & Kukubat likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night 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 5
- Bayonne
- Bordeaux
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Drive 286 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Rocher de la vierge
- Biarritz Aquarium
- Parc Mauresque
- Dune of Pilat
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Biarritz and Arcachon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bayonne allows for both. Start by heading to Rocher De La Vierge. This locally renowned rock formation provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Biarritz Aquarium, a visually striking aquarium, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Parc Mauresque, a frequently visited park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Dune Of Pilat.
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 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 6
- Bordeaux
- Périgueux
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Drive 138 km, 2 hours 11 min
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
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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 Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Perigueux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Place De La Bourse is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this majestic public square before continuing your journey. Miroir D'eau is your next stop. This well-known art installation is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jardin Public. This awe-inspiring park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit La Cité Du Vin.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Perigueux, 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 Perigueux, 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Perigueux by reserving a table at Le Bel'Art. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of traditional cuisine. For a different taste, head over to L'Essentiel, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Table du Pouyaud, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Perigueux.
Say good night to Perigueux and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 7
- Périgueux
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Drive 181 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
- The Marqueyssac gardens
- Château de Beynac
- La Roque St. Christophe
- Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
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Greet day 7 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Perigueux for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Peyzac-le-Moustier, and Montignac-Lascaux.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Perigueux allows for both. Start by heading to Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle. This popular castle provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover The Marqueyssac Gardens, an enchanting botanical garden, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Beynac, a popular castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Roque Saint-christophe. Round off your day at Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, another gem in Perigueux with UNESCO world heritage-listed features to discover.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Perigueux.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Perigueux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 8
- Périgueux
- Toulouse
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Drive 307 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
- Padirac Cave
- Animal Park of Gramat
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Padirac and Gourdon. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Perigueux, including a heritage railway, a cave, and a zoo. Start your day at Railway Tourist Haut Quercy. This awe-inspiring heritage railway is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Perigueux. Then, wander over to Padirac Cave. If visually striking sites excite you, this cave will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Animal Park Of Gramat. This visually striking zoo is a favorite among visitors.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Toulouse. Toulouse offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Toulouse's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bapz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cabaret Le Kalinka? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Emile as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Filochard, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Black Lion offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Toulouse. The Dry Dock is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 9
- 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Square Charles De Gaulle. This underrated public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Toulouse.
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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