Cheap 9-Day France Road Trip from Carcassonne to Marseille, Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Lourdes and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

Carcassonne is a popular cheap holiday destination in France with something to offer every traveler. More than a town in France, Carcassonne is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Portail des Jacobins. This extraordinary gate is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 296 visitors.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the town's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Carcassonne offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is La Rapière, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Le Domaine d'Auriac, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in France!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in France, you’ll tour 1 destination: Carcassonne. You'll stay in Marseille for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Drop by the renowned Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,201 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Château Comtal. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 visitors, this castle deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,146 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Porte Narbonnaise. This city gate and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 425 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cité de Carcassonne. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 76,968 travelers, this fortress is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Carcassonne.

Marseille offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Marseille, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Chez Roger, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Traquenard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La dame du mont offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Polikarpov is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Marseille!

On day 3 of your affordable vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Marseille, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Marseille, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,446 reviews.

Next up is Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). This church building has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 36,436 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Palais Longchamp. This water tower has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

Avignon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Avignon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Palais des Papes. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 36,931 visitors and gets around 616,210 visits every year.

Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon) is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 17,658 travelers.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Marseille should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Marseille, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your foodie adventure at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Une Table au Sud, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Coogee, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Marseille, Au Petit Nice. Bar Marengo is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend L'unic Bar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in France will take you to the city of Toulouse, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Toulouse, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in France, including Arles, and Nimes.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Marseille behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Arles, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,060 visitors.

After soaking in Arles’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Nimes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Nimes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Jardin de La Fontaine one of your first sightseeing stops in Nimes. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,878 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Musée de la Romanité is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,534 reviews. Up to 25,271 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Nimes special.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Toulouse has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Toulouse on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Toulouse is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Restaurant Le May, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. L*Agence is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Le Perche Pinte.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

A road trip vacation in Arles can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in France!

Day 5 of your road trip across France is another proof that cheap holidays in France can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — La Teste-de-Buch, and Arcachon. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Bordeaux, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. La Teste-de-Buch, 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 Toulouse to La Teste-de-Buch may take around 2 hours 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in La Teste-de-Buch, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Beach of La Hume. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,788 reviews.

Set your GPS to Arcachon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arcachon beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Parc Mauresque. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,892 visitors.

Observatoire Sainte-Cécile is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,811 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arcachon. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Kick off the day at Dune of Pilat, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 35,111 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Bordeaux. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Bordeaux, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

A cheap, budget vacation in Bordeaux should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Bordeaux, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your foodie adventure at Le Cent 33, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Le Clemenceau, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss L'Oiseau Bleu, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Brun is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Mushroom Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whose bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Bordeaux on day 6 of your affordable vacation in France. You’ll continue your stay in Bordeaux for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in France, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Bordeaux Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,591 visitors.

When you’re finished at Bordeaux Cathedral, head to The big bell of Bordeaux. This one-of-a-kind bell tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,871 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit place de la Bourse. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to miroir d'eau. This reflecting pool is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,462 visitors.

Lormont’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at La Cité du Vin, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 21,487 reviews.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in France by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bordeaux that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Restaurant Soléna, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Hôtel De Sèze - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Locadillos promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Lila and the Barber - Café ludique - Bar à Jeux offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Bordeaux, check out The Grizzly Pub. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at The Dog And Duck.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in France!

Day 7 of your road trip across France offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Bordeaux, Biarritz, and Bayonne. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Lourdes, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at jardin public, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,341 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Monument aux Girondins is a recommended place to visit. This column is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,483 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Biarritz. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Rocher de la vierge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This rock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,700 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Biarritz, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bayonne may take around 38 min. Upon your arrival in Bayonne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Le Train de La Rhune. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 16,223 visitors.

Lourdes offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in France. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the town's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Lourdes offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in France.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Hôtel Saint-Sébastien, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in France!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across France, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Lourdes, and Toulouse. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,163 reviews.

Next up is Basilica of St. Pius X. This minor basilica has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,690 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Lourdes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Toulouse. Your travel time is around 1 hour 53 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Basilica of St. Sernin. This much-appreciated minor basilica is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Next up is Jardin des Plantes. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,847 visitors.

While exploring France is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Carcassonne has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Carcassonne on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Carcassonne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to V and B Carcassonne, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Auberge des Lices - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Adélaïde promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across France. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in France!

Your budget road trip vacation in France is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Carcassonne.

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Carcassonne is the remarkable André Chénier Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 169 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Carcassonne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Restaurant La Marquière, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, La Métairie features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Buffalo Grill Carcassonne is a highly recommended spot.

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!