6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse 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.
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 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Toulouse, Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Rocamadour, Padirac, Calviac-en-Périgord, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Cahors, Fumel, and Bouziès.

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, 2 nights in Toulouse, and 1 night 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 Château De Beynac, 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, Cordes-sur-Ciel, Rocamadour, Padirac, Calviac-en-Périgord, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Sarlat La Caneda, Cahors, Fumel, and Bouziès, 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 CarcassonneBasilica of St. SerninCouvent des JacobinsMuséum de ToulouseJardin des PlantesPont-Neuf
Parc RochegudeSainte-Cecile Cathedral of AlbiBerbie PalaceMusée Toulouse-LautrecPont VieuxHalles de Cordes-sur-Ciel
La Maison des AbeillesPadirac CaveZoological Reserve CalviacChâteau de Beynac
Manor GissonLa BarbacaneChâteau de FumelTowpath
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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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 lovely meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Rapière is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
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Drive 102 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Muséum de Toulouse
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • Pont-Neuf
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Carcassonne and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Carcassonne, including a castle, a church, a monastery, a museum, a botanical garden, a monument and much more! Start your day at Cité De Carcassonne. This symbolic castle is a top-rated place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Basilica Of St. Sernin. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Couvent Des Jacobins. This historic monastery is a favorite among visitors.

Carcassonne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Muséum De Toulouse is a worthwhile spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the romantic Jardin Des Plantes. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated botanical garden. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Carcassonne's top attractions with a visit to Pont-neuf.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Toulouse. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Moloko, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Botanist Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Toulouse
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Drive 189 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Parc Rochegude
  • Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
  • Berbie Palace
  • Musée Toulouse-Lautrec
  • Pont Vieux
  • Halles de Cordes-sur-Ciel
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Toulouse, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the beloved Parc Rochegude, a stunning park in Toulouse. Next, go to Albi Cathedral.

After visiting Parc Rochegude and Albi Cathedral, have a stroll along Toulouse's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Berbie Palace. This UNESCO world heritage-listed palace offers a unique experience. Musée Toulouse-lautrec is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Pont Vieux, one of the most UNESCO world heritage-designated places to visit in Toulouse. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Halles De Cordes-sur-ciel.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, 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 Madame Bovary, 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 Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Toulouse. 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, Pub O'clock stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, La Loupiote offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Populaire is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Toulouse
  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • La Maison des Abeilles
  • Padirac Cave
  • Zoological Reserve Calviac
  • Château de Beynac
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Rocamadour, Padirac, Calviac-en-Périgord, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sarlat La Caneda. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Toulouse is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and natural wonders! Start at La Maison Des Abeilles, an intriguing museum that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Padirac Cave, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Zoological Reserve Calviac. This zoo is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing 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 Château De Beynac.

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.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Sarlat-la-Canéda
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 409 km, 6 hours 10 min

  • Manor Gisson
  • La Barbacane
  • Château de Fumel
  • Towpath
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Sarlat La Caneda, Cahors, Fumel, and Bouziès. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Carcassonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Manor Gisson. This worthwhile museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Château De Fumel. This often recommended castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Towpath, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at V and B Carcassonne, 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 Auberge des Lices, 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 Adélaïde, a hidden gem nestled in Carcassonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 6

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 up-and-coming monument is a popular place to see in the town.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Carcassonne’s popular marketplace, Place Carnot. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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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