9-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Lourdes and surrounding area

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 2 nights in Marseille, 1 night in Toulouse, 2 nights in Bordeaux, and 1 night in Lourdes. 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 Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille) are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Palais Des Papes, learn more about the unique Dune Of Pilat, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of La Cité Du Vin.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Marseille, Avignon, Arles, Nimes, Toulouse, La Teste-de-Buch, Arcachon, Bordeaux, Lormont, Biarritz, and Lourdes, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Portail des Jacobins
Château et Remparts de la Cité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonneChurch of Saints Nazaire and CelsePorte NarbonnaiseCité de Carcassonne
Palais des PapesPont d'AvignonMucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the MediterraneanBasilica of Notre-Dame of la GardePalais Longchamp
Arles AmphitheatreJardin de La FontaineMuseum Romanité
Beach of La HumeParc MauresqueObservatoire Sainte-CécileDune of Pilat
Bordeaux CathedralThe big bell of Bordeauxplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du Vin

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
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Welcome to Carcassonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Carcassonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Portail Des Jacobins, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Carcassonne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Marseille
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Cité de Carcassonne
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Marseille. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Carcassonne includes a castle, a church, and a monument. Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Château Comtal, an intriguing castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Basilique Saint Nazaire, a visually striking church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Carcassonne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the beloved Porte Narbonnaise. If you’re looking for more, Cité De Carcassonne is also a widely recognized attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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 in Marseille. 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.

Savor the flavors at Chez Roger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Les Mets des Saintes beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Marseille tonight.

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Marseille
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Drive 216 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • Palais des Papes
  • Pont d'Avignon
  • Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
  • Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
  • Palais Longchamp
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Marseille, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Marseille today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Palais Des Papes. This historic palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Pont Saint-benezet (le Pont D'avignon) and learn what makes this enchanting historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean. After exploring the museum, head to Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille). This well-known church is a highlight in Marseille. As your day continues, stop by Palais Longchamp, known for its masterful features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Marseille and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Marseille. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Bistro Du Panier, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Marseille.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Au Petit Nice, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Marengo is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'unic Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Marseille
  • Toulouse
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Drive 415 km, 4 hours 48 min

  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • Jardin de La Fontaine
  • Museum Romanité
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Arles and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Marseille on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Arles Amphitheatre is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking archeological site before continuing your journey. Jardin De La Fontaine is your next stop. This well-known park is one of the best-rated sights in Marseille.

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 Musée De La Romanité. This photogenic museum is a sight to behold.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Moloko, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
  • Bordeaux
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Drive 378 km, 4 hours 36 min

  • Beach of La Hume
  • Parc Mauresque
  • Observatoire Sainte-Cécile
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Teste-de-Buch and Arcachon, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Toulouse, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Beach Of La Hume, a beloved beach in the town. Then, head to Parc Mauresque and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.

There are many interesting places to see in Toulouse, and when you are ready for more, go to Observatoire Sainte-cécile. This is one of the town’s most beloved romantic spots of interest. After exploring the observation deck, visit the popular Dune Of Pilat.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, 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 Le Clemenceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Brun, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Mushroom Café is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whose Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bordeaux and Lormont. You still have 1 night left in Bordeaux.

Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Bordeaux Cathedral. This culturally significant church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Place De La Bourse, a locally renowned public square. For a change of scene, check out Miroir D'eau, known for its noteworthy features. We also recommend visiting La Cité Du Vin. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bordeaux.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Grizzly Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Dog And Duck also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bordeaux
  • Lourdes
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Drive 408 km, 5 hours 5 min

  • jardin public
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Rocher de la vierge
  • Le Train de La Rhune
  • More

On day 7 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 Bordeaux, Biarritz, and Bayonne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lourdes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Jardin Public. This noteworthy park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Monument Aux Girondins and learn what makes this historic monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Rocher De La Vierge. After exploring the rock formation, head to Le Train De La Rhune. This interesting heritage railway is a highlight in Bordeaux.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top-rated dining destination in Lourdes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lourdes this evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Lourdes
  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 272 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
  • Basilica of St. Pius X
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Jardin des Plantes
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lourdes and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Lourdes is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary, a frequently visited church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Continue your exploration at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This church is one of the town’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lourdes at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Jardin Des Plantes.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 delicious dinner at V and B Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adélaïde. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • André Chénier Garden
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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, we recommend visiting André Chénier Garden, an eye-catching park before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Place Carnot. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Savor your final moments in France at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

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 in the mood to try something new, consider La Métairie, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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