7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling north to Toulouse, Albi, and Sarlat La Caneda

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Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Padirac, Montignac-Lascaux, and Cahors.

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 Toulouse, 1 night in Albi, and 2 nights in Sarlat La Caneda. 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 Padirac Cave are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, learn more about the unique Albi Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Basilica Of St. Sernin.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, Rocamadour, Padirac, Montignac-Lascaux, and Cahors, 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
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Cité de CarcassonneChâteau comtal de CarcassonneBasilica of St. SerninMuséum de ToulouseJardin des Plantes
Parc RochegudeJardin NationalSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont Vieux
La Forêt des ÉcureuilsManor Gisson
Rocher des AiglesSanctuaire Notre-Dame de RocamadourMonkey ForestPadirac Cave
Lascaux International Center of Parietal ArtLascaux 2Église Saint-BarthélemyLa Barbacane
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 road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Carcassonne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Carcassonne for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Carcassonne. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 7-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
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Drive 103 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Jardin des Plantes
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On day 2 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 Carcassonne and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the extraordinary castle, Cité De Carcassonne. Afterward, continue to Château Comtal, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This notable church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Muséum De Toulouse, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Jardin Des Plantes, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden in the town.

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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Moloko, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Botanist Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Toulouse
  • Albi
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Drive 80 km, 1 hour 31 min

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Albi, 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 Albi. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Toulouse is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Parc Rochegude, an intriguing park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Jardin National, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Albi Cathedral. This church is one of the town’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Toulouse at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Berbie Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the often recommended Musée Toulouse-lautrec. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Pont Vieux, a place of culturally significant interest in Toulouse.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Albi's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Sully'S Albi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Albi.

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 4

Day 4

  • Albi
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 202 km, 2 hours 39 min

  • La Forêt des Écureuils
  • Manor Gisson
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Falgueyrade and Sarlat La Caneda. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Albi. Begin your sightseeing with La Forêt Des Écureuils. This beloved adventure park is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Manor Gisson, another must-visit attraction.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sarlat La Caneda, 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 Sarlat La Caneda. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 127 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Rocher des Aigles
  • Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Rocamadour
  • Monkey Forest
  • Padirac Cave
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Sarlat La Caneda for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rocamadour and Padirac.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Sarlat La Caneda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Le Rocher Des Aigles is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picturesque bird watching area before continuing your journey. Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour is your next stop. This frequently visited church is one of the best-rated sights in Sarlat La Caneda.

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 Monkey Forest. This scenic wildlife reserve is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Padirac Cave.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
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Drive 337 km, 4 hours 31 min

  • Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
  • Lascaux 2
  • Église Saint-Barthélemy
  • La Barbacane
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Montignac-Lascaux and Cahors. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art. This captivating museum is a standout place to see in Sarlat La Caneda. Continue your discovery at Lascaux, a picturesque cave with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Sarlat La Caneda, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Église Saint-barthélemy. This curiosity-inducing church offers a heritage-rich encounter with Sarlat La Caneda. Next, make your way to La Barbacane to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Sarlat La Caneda.

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.

Dine in style at V and B Carcassonne, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Auberge des Lices boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Adélaïde. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
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  • Portail des Jacobins
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Day 7 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 Portail Des Jacobins, a heritage-rich monument before you head out.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, La Cité Médiévale. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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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