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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Carcassonne and Lastours. 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 itinerary in Carcassonne covers several incredible sights, including a castle and a church. Start your adventure at Château Comtal. This frequently visited castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne, a must-see castle in the town.

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 Cité De Carcassonne. This widely recognized castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Les Quatre Châteaux De Lastours, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This inviting church offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you explore more of Cahors, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cahors by booking a table at L'Ô à la Bouche. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lacave, Rocamadour, and Padirac. 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 well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Cahors on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Lacave Caves is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking cave system before continuing your journey. Monkey Forest is your next stop. This beloved wildlife reserve is one of the best-rated sights in Cahors.

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 Padirac Cave. This peaceful cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Railway Tourist Haut Quercy.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Limoges. 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 Limoges. 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 Le Paris, an iconic dining spot in Limoges. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Pont Saint Etienne, a popular restaurant in Limoges. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Geyracois, a hidden gem nestled in Limoges. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Chez Bernard stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Basse Cour and 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 Tours. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Limoges. Begin your sightseeing with Château De Valençay. This curiosity-inducing castle is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Château De Cheverny, another must-visit attraction that enhances the hamlet’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Limoges, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Château De Blois. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Robert-houdin House Of Magic, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at L'Opidom, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L'Évidence is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Tours. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Piraat Cafe Tours. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at L'alexandra, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Tours and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

On day 5 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 Amboise and Tours. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angers, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Tours’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Château D'amboise.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Château De Chenonceau, a captivating castle. For a change of scene, check out Château De Villandry, known for its awe-inspiring features.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Angers. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Gribiche in Angers by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Gribiche delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious traditional cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Lait Thym Sel, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at L'Ardoise, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated Bib Gourmand-establishment, it's a top choice for mediterranean and traditional cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Snooker, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Velenjak, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parc Mauresque. This intriguing park is a romantic place to see in La Rochelle. Continue your discovery at Église Notre-dame-des-passes D'arcachon, a history-steeped church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around La Rochelle, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dune Of Pilat. This locally renowned sand dunes offers a mesmerizing encounter with La Rochelle.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bordeaux by reserving a table at Ressources. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin 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 Bordeaux.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Brun, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Mushroom Café is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Whose Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

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 3 vibrant destinations - Lormont, Bordeaux, and Toulouse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a museum, a public square, an art installation, a church and much more! Start your day at La Cité Du Vin. This visually striking museum is a locally renowned place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Place De La Bourse. If romantic sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Miroir D'eau. This noteworthy art installation is a favorite among visitors.

Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Basilica Of St. Sernin is an interesting spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at La Table de Franck Putelat in Carcassonne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, La Table de Franck Putelat offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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