Relaxed 7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse

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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 7-day road trip in France with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Bouziès, Marcilhac-sur-Célé, Castelnaudary, and Les Cammazes. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Carcassonne and 3 nights in Toulouse. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Carcassonne, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Cité De Carcassonne. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Albi Cathedral.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Basilica Of St. Sernin. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Jardin Des Plantes. Get close to the spectacular Château Comtal and the wonderful Couvent Des Jacobins. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through France's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in France. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed 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
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Church of Saints Nazaire and CelseMusée de l'EcoleCité de CarcassonnePorte NarbonnaiseChâteau comtal de CarcassonneÉglise Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
Jardin des PlantesMusée des AugustinsPont-NeufCouvent des JacobinsPlace Saint-PierreBasilica of St. Sernin
Parc RochegudeJardin NationalSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont Vieux
TowpathBouzièsEmergence du Ressel
Écluses de Saint-RochMuseum and Garden of the Canal du MidiPercée des Cammazes (Voûte de Vauban)
Portail des Jacobins

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
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  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
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Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible town of Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Carcassonne and begin your adventure in France.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Brasserie a 4 Temps, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Rapière, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Domaine d'Auriac, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Carcassonne and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Carcassonne as you soak in the town’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
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Drive 6 km, 31 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Carcassonne, and meet locals along the way!

Immerse yourself in Carcassonne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Basilique Saint Nazaire. This grand church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Musée De L'ecole, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cité De Carcassonne, a spectacular castle. For a change of scene, check out Porte Narbonnaise, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting Château Comtal. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, yet another intriguing attraction in Carcassonne.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Experience shopping bliss at Carcassonne as you explore La Cité Médiévale. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Don't miss the chance to discover artisan crafts that reflect the fascinating culture of France. Beyond shopping, La Cité Médiévale offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Carcassonne.

Savor the flavors at V and B Carcassonne, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Auberge des Lices beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Adélaïde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Carcassonne and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 96 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Musée des Augustins
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • More

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through France gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Toulouse. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Toulouse, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Carcassonne, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Jardin Des Plantes, an underrated botanical garden in the city. Then, head to Musée Des Augustins and soak in the ambiance of this standout museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Carcassonne, and when you are ready for more, go to Pont-neuf. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the often recommended Couvent Des Jacobins. Not far away, you'll also find Place Saint-pierre. This public square is a picture-perfect highlight in Carcassonne. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin, a notable church in the city.

In the city of Toulouse, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in France.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Toulouse has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L*Agence is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Perche Pinte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Toulouse tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Moloko. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Botanist Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
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Drive 157 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Parc Rochegude
  • Jardin National
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Toulouse will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Toulouse allows for both. Start by heading to Parc Rochegude. This beloved park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Jardin National, a mesmerizing park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Albi Cathedral, a well-known church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Berbie Palace. Not far away from the palace, you will find the visually striking Pont Vieux, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Musée Toulouse-lautrec, another gem in Toulouse with eye-catching features to discover.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Toulouse at Madame Bovary, 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 Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Toulouse tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Toulouse and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your lively evening at Pub O'clock, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. La Loupiote is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Populaire ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Toulouse!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Toulouse
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Drive 307 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Towpath
  • Bouziès
  • Emergence du Ressel
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Toulouse and visit amazing attractions in Bouziès and Marcilhac-sur-Célé destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Toulouse. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Toulouse is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a hiking area and a cave. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Towpath and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Bouziès, an eye-catching hiking area that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Emergence Du Ressel, one of the village’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Toulouse, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bapz, a top-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cabaret Le Kalinka, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Emile. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Toulouse. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Filochard, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Black Lion is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Dry Dock also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in France. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in France tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 123 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Écluses de Saint-Roch
  • Museum and Garden of the Canal du Midi
  • Percée des Cammazes (Voûte de Vauban)
  • More

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Castelnaudary and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the hamlet of En Salvan and the village of Les Cammazes. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Toulouse promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Écluses De Saint-roch. This respected historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Museum And Garden Of The Canal Du Midi, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Percée Des Cammazes (voûte De Vauban), one of the town’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Carcassonne. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant La Marquière, an iconic dining spot in Carcassonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Métairie, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Buffalo Grill Carcassonne, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Carcassonne.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in France is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Carcassonne.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Portail Des Jacobins. This frequently visited monument is a popular place to see in the town.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Carcassonne or just grab something light to keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Celt offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Oliveraie.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Carcassonne and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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