10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Cahors, Limoges, Tours, Angers, La Rochelle, and Bordeaux
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Carcassonne, Cahors, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Montignac-Lascaux, Limoges, Blois, Tours, Amboise, Angers, Nantes, La Rochelle, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Blagnac, and Toulouse.
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 Cahors, 1 night in Limoges, 1 night in Tours, 1 night in Angers, 1 night in La Rochelle, and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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 Dune Of Pilat are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Château De Chenonceau, learn more about the unique Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Château D'amboise.
As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Cahors, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Montignac-Lascaux, Limoges, Blois, Tours, Amboise, Angers, Nantes, La Rochelle, Lormont, Le Bouscat, Bordeaux, Arcachon, Blagnac, and Toulouse, 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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- Portail des Jacobins
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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 Portail Des Jacobins, 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 10-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- Carcassonne
- Cahors
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Drive 208 km, 2 hours 29 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Musée de l'Ecole
- Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cahors, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Carcassonne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Château Comtal is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic castle before continuing your journey. Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne is your next stop. This beloved castle is one of the best-rated sights in Carcassonne.
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 Cité De Carcassonne. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Musée De L'ecole and Basilique Saint Nazaire.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cahors. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cahors's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Cahors
- Limoges
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
- The Marqueyssac gardens
- Château de Beynac
- Lascaux International Center of Parietal Art
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, Beynac-et-Cazenac, and Montignac-Lascaux, 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 Limoges. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Cahors includes a castle, a botanical garden, and a museum. Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to The Marqueyssac Gardens, an interesting botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Château De Beynac, an awe-inspiring castle, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Limoges. Limoges offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Limoges. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Paris, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Pont Saint Etienne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Geyracois is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Limoges.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Chez Bernard after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 4
- Limoges
- Tours
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Drive 294 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Château de Valençay
- Château de Cheverny
- Château de Blois
- Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin
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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 2 vibrant destinations - La Basse Cour and Blois. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tours. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Limoges. Begin your sightseeing with Château De Valençay. This intriguing castle is one of the top attractions in the hamlet. Proceed to Château De Cheverny, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Limoges, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Château De Blois. This popular castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Robert-houdin House Of Magic, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tours, 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 Tours. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at TIA Gourmet, a popular restaurant in Tours. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tours at Les Bartavelles, 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 The Originals Relais, Château de Beaulieu et Magnolia Spa. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tours tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Piraat Cafe Tours is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, L'alexandra is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Tours and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Tours
- Angers
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Drive 199 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Château d'Amboise
- Château du Clos Lucé
- Château de Chenonceau
- Balzac Park
- Château d'Angers
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On day 5 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 Amboise and Angers. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angers, where you will stay for 1 night.
Tours is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Château D'amboise, a popular château that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Continue your exploration at Château De Chenonceau. This castle is one of the town’s most interesting spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Tours at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Balzac Park. After exploring the park, head to the popular Château D'angers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Angers. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Angers. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Wallaby's Australian Café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Cour - Angers is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Brasserie de la Gare. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Angers tonight.
Keep the evening going at Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Snooker, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Velenjak, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Say good night to Angers and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6
- Angers
- La Rochelle
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Drive 228 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Parc du Plessis Tison
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- Botanical Garden
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Nantes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Angers promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Parc Du Plessis Tison. This picturesque park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Île De Versailles (nantes), another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This historic castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a captivating art installation, and take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in La Rochelle. La Rochelle offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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.
Savor the flavors at La Côte Rôtie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Boussole beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les hédonistes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Plan B provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 7
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
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Drive 199 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Cité du Vin
- parc bordelais
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- Monument aux Girondins
- jardin public
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lormont, Le Bouscat, and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around La Rochelle. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! La Cité Du Vin is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in La Rochelle. Next, head to Parc Bordelais, an often recommended park, known for its mesmerizing features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Bordeaux Cathedral. This enchanting church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Monument Aux Girondins and Jardin Public. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 8
- Bordeaux
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Drive 140 km, 2 hours 30 min
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Porte Cailhau
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- Dune of Pilat
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On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Miroir D'eau is the perfect place to start. This art installation is one of the most captivating places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to Place De La Bourse, a well-known public square, known for its romantic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Porte Cailhau. This grand monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find The Big Bell Of Bordeaux and Dune Of Pilat. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bordeaux and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Soléna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel De Sèze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Dog And Duck. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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 9
- Bordeaux
- Carcassonne
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Drive 352 km, 4 hours
- Musée Aeroscopia
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Grand Rond
- Jardin des Plantes
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Blagnac 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 Carcassonne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Musée Aeroscopia, an underrated aviation museum in the town. Then, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin and soak in the ambiance of this symbolic church.
There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Grand Rond. This is one of the town’s most up-and-coming idyllic spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the up-and-coming Jardin Des Plantes.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carcassonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Auberge des Lices, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Adélaïde. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 10
- Carcassonne - Departure day
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- André Chénier Garden
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Day 10 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 André Chénier Garden. This worthwhile park is a popular place to see in the town.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Carcassonne.
Dine in style at Restaurant La Marquière, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Métairie boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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