6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Tarbes, Bordeaux, and Toulouse
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Carcassonne, Tarbes, Bayonne, Anglet, Bordeaux, Lormont, Toulouse, and Blagnac. 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 2 nights in Carcassonne, 1 night in Tarbes, 1 night in Bordeaux, and 1 night in Toulouse. 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 La Cité Du Vin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Miroir D'eau, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin Public.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Tarbes, Bayonne, Anglet, Bordeaux, Lormont, Toulouse, and Blagnac, 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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Day 1
- Carcassonne - Arrival day
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- Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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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 Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Carcassonne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a highly-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
- Tarbes
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Drive 295 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Grotte de Limousis
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Château comtal 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 2 vibrant destinations - Marmonières and Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tarbes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Carcassonne includes a cave, a church, and a castle. Grotte De Limousis is must-visit cave and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Basilique Saint Nazaire, an often recommended church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cité De Carcassonne, an enchanting castle, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tarbes. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tarbes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Day 3
- Tarbes
- Bordeaux
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Drive 342 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Bayonne Cathedral
- Forêt de Chiberta
- Basque Museum in Bayonne
- Pierre IBAIALDE - Artisan du jambon à Bayonne
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Bayonne and Anglet, 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 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Tarbes, including a church, a park, a museum, a food market and much more! Start your day with a visit to Bayonne Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Forêt De Chiberta, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Tarbes on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Basque Museum In Bayonne, an underrated museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Pierre Ibaialde - Artisan Du Jambon À Bayonne.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, 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 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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Ressources in Bordeaux by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Ressources delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.
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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- Toulouse
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 16 min
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
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On day 4 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 and Lormont. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Bordeaux’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Jardin Public. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the romantic features of La Cité Du Vin, a must-visit museum 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 popular public square. For a change of scene, check out Miroir D'eau, known for its instagrammable features.
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.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Toulouse by booking a table at Stéphane Tournié - Les Jardins de l'Opéra, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Toulouse, Py-r shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Hedone is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative cuisine in Toulouse. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Moloko, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Botanist Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Melting Pot Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Place Saint-Pierre
- Pont-Neuf
- Jardin des Plantes
- Musée Aeroscopia
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Toulouse and Blagnac. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Toulouse, including a church, a public square, a monument, a botanical garden, an aviation museum and much more! Start your adventure at Basilica Of St. Sernin. This popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Place Saint-pierre located in Toulouse for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pont-neuf. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardin Des Plantes. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this botanical garden. Next up is Musée Aeroscopia, a highly recommended aviation museum.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Carcassonne by reserving a table at La Table de Franck Putelat. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- Portail des Jacobins
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Day 6 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, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This underrated monument is a popular place to see in the town.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Carcassonne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing La Cité Médiévale. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
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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