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

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Photo of chateau comtal in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of the Gambetta square in Carcassonne, France.
Photo of landscape with Carcassonne castle, France.
Photo of Carcassonne biggest medieval castle and walled town in Europe, France.
Photo of happy woman visiting Castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of old town of Carcassonne and pont vieux in France.
Photo of two children looking at beautiful castle of Carcassonne in France.
Photo of Carcassonne a fortified French town in the Aude department, Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of aerial view of Carcassonne, France.
Photo of Cité de Carcassonne ,France.
Photo of beautiful cityscape with The River Garonne and La Grave dome in the background at sunset, Toulouse, France.
Photo of Japanese Garden with small pond on a sunny day. Compans Caffarelli district, Toulouse, France.
Photo of panorama of Saint-Etienne square with Saint Stephen's Cathredal in Toulouse, France.
Photo of Garonne river and Dome de la Grave in Toulouse, France.
Photo of Toulouse and Garonne river aerial panoramic view, France.
Photo of Toulouse and Pont Neuf bridge across Garonne river, France.
Photo of Toulouse landmarks on the bank of river Garone at sunset. France.
Photo of late spring look on Canal du Midi canal in Toulouse, Southern France.
Photo of beautiful view of the Tarn River and a garden with flowers in the Toulouse-Lautrec museum in Albi in France.
Photo of tourist woman in French ancient town Toulouse and Garonne river, France.
Photo of city Hall is the municipal administration of the Toulouse city in France.
Photo of panoramic view at the Basilica of Saint Sernin in Toulouse ,France.
Photo of the Canal du midi, Toulouse, France.
Photo of Hotel d'Assezat in Toulouse ,France.
Photo of typical building near the Esquirol district, in Toulouse in Occitanie, France.
View at Cathedral of Saint Cecilia of Albi, France.
Cathedral Basilica of Saint Cecilia, claimed to be the largest brick building in the world, itâ??s located in Albi, Tarn region, Midi Pyrenees, France
Beautiful view of the Tarn River and a garden with flowers in the Toulouse-Lautrec museum in Albi in France.
View of the August bridge and The Saint Cecile church in Albi, France. Horizontal shot
Photo of Aerial View of Sarlat La Caneda in France by Chensiyuan
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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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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.

Find your way to your hotel in Carcassonne. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

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
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Toulouse, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Carcassonne. Begin your sightseeing with Cité De Carcassonne. This extraordinary castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Château Comtal, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Carcassonne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Muséum De Toulouse, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Jardin Des Plantes is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, 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 Toulouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try L*Agence, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Perche Pinte. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Moloko stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Botanist Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Melting Pot Pub is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 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

On day 3 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 Albi. In the evening, you’ll end up in Albi, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parc Rochegude. This intriguing park is an idyllic place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Jardin National, a majestic park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Albi Cathedral. This notable church offers a stunning encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Berbie Palace to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Musée Toulouse-lautrec, an up-and-coming museum that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Pont Vieux, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark in the town. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Toulouse.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Albi. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you explore more of Albi, 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.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Falgueyrade and Sarlat La Caneda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Albi on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended adventure park, La Forêt Des Écureuils. Afterward, continue to Manor Gisson, a museum every traveler should visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sarlat La Caneda. Sarlat La Caneda 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 Sarlat La Caneda's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Rocamadour and Padirac. You still have 1 night left in Sarlat La Caneda.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at the beloved Le Rocher Des Aigles, a stunning bird watching area in Sarlat La Caneda. Next, go to Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour.

After visiting Le Rocher Des Aigles and Sanctuaire Notre-dame De Rocamadour, have a stroll along Sarlat La Caneda's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Monkey Forest. This visually striking wildlife reserve offers a unique experience. Padirac Cave is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 337 km, 4 hours 31 min

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Montignac-Lascaux and Cahors, 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Lascaux, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated cave renowned for its picturesque features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Sarlat La Caneda by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Église Saint-barthélemy. This respected church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Sarlat La Caneda experience. We also recommend visiting La Barbacane, a beloved sightseeing destination.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Adélaïde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 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 frequently visited monument is a popular place to see in the town.

As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne's best shopping area, La Cité Médiévale. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to 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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