One-Week France Road Trip from Carcassonne traveling west to Toulouse, Cahors, and Bordeaux

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
8 days & 7 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
7 nights included
Car rental
8 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Carcassonne, Pennautier, Padirac, Figeac, Montauban, Gourdon, Cahors, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, La Teste-de-Buch, Toulouse, and Blagnac. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.

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 Cahors, and 3 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Carcassonne, Pennautier, Padirac, Figeac, Montauban, Gourdon, Cahors, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Bordeaux, Lormont, Le Bouscat, La Teste-de-Buch, Toulouse, and Blagnac, 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!

Read more

Included

Hotel, 7 nights
Rental car, 8 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Carcassonne - city in FranceCarcassonne / 2 nights
Photo of Toulouse and Garonne river aerial panoramic view, France.Toulouse / 1 night
Photo of Bordeaux aerial panoramic view. Bordeaux is a port city on the Garonne river in Southwestern France.Bordeaux / 3 nights
Photo of Dune of Pilat in La Teste-de-Buch, France.La Teste-de-Buch
Gourdon - city in FranceGourdon
Photo of aerial view of Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac that is a French commune located in the Dordogne department , in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac
photo of a beautiful view of Cahors as seen from Mont Saint Cyr in Lot, Midi-Pyrenees, France.Cahors / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Photo of scenic view of Carcassone medieval city in France against summer sky.Cité de Carcassonne
Dune of Pilat
photo of the magnificent Padirac Cave in Padirac, France.Padirac Cave
Cité du VinCité du Vin
photo of the water mirror in front of the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in a beautiful summer morning in France.Place de la Bourse
photo of a beautiful view of the Château de Beynac and Beynac-et-Cazenac town in France.Château de Beynac
photo of Miroir d'eau with the Place de la Bourse in Bordeaux in a beautiful summer morning, France.Miroir d'eau
Jardin PublicJardin Public
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne, New Aquitaine, Metropolitan France, FranceCastelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
Basilica of Saint Sernin is a Roman Catholic church in Toulouse, FranceBasilica of St Sernin
The Marqueyssac gardens, Vézac, Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne, New Aquitaine, Metropolitan France, FranceThe Marqueyssac gardens
Causses du Quercy Natural Regional Park
Saint Andre Cathedral of Bordeaux - France, AquitaineBordeaux Cathedral
Jardin des Plantes, Saint-Michel, Le Busca, Empalot, Saint-Agne, Toulouse Sud-Est, Toulouse, Haute-Garonne, Occitania, Metropolitan France, FranceJardin des Plantes
Musée Aeroscopia, Blagnac, Toulouse, Haute-Garonne, Occitania, Metropolitan France, FranceMusée Aeroscopia
Château Comtal, Carcassonne, Aude, Occitania, Metropolitan France, FranceChâteau Comtal
photo of Monument aux Girondins at morning in Bordeaux, France.Monument aux Girondins
Parc Bordelais, R-105270, R-1667452, R-2202162, R-3792880, R-7405Parc bordelais
Grosse ClocheThe big bell of Bordeaux
photo of The Porte Cailhau or Porte du Palais is a former town gate of the city of Bordeaux, France. It is one of the main touristic attractions of the city.Porte Cailhau
Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
photo of a kiosk at the beautiful Grand Rond Park at morning in Toulouse, France.Grand Rond
Animal Park of Gramat
Place Nationale, Occitanie, FrancePlace Nationale
Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
Chateau de Pennautier
Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
Portail des JacobinsPortail des Jacobins

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Carcassonne - arrival day

  • Carcassonne - Arrival day
  • More
  • Carcassonne Castle Panorama View Point
  • More

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 city.

Carcassonne is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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 in Carcassonne. 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.

Make a reservation at Restaurant La Marquière, a popular dining spot in Carcassonne. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 680 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Brasserie a 4 Temps while indulging in the charm of Carcassonne. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,551 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Adélaïde, a treasured establishment in Carcassonne. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,584 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Comte Roger, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,143 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like The Celt. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,000 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in France!

Read more

Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Carcassonne, Pennautier, and Toulouse

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 106 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne
  • Château Comtal
  • Chateau de Pennautier
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne, Pennautier, and Toulouse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Basilique Saint Nazaire. This extraordinary church has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,146 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cité de Carcassonne. This fortress is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 76,968 reviews.

While in Carcassonne, we also recommend a visit to Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,201 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Château Comtal. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,823 travelers, this castle is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Carcassonne.

Set your GPS to Toulouse and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Toulouse beckons with new experiences!

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Oh la vache!, a popular restaurant in Toulouse. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,333 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Bapz during your stay in Toulouse. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,239 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of La Cantine Des Sales Gosses, a renowned dining destination in Toulouse. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,095 satisfied guests.

If you're looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend The Hopscotch Pub & Brewery, claiming it's one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 647 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is The Black Lion. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,606 customers.

La Gourmandine - Côté Marché - Toulouse is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,396 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Read more

Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Padirac, Figeac, Montauban, Gourdon, and Cahors

  • Cahors
  • Gourdon
  • More

Drive 268 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Place Nationale
  • Causses du Quercy Natural Regional Park
  • Animal Park of Gramat
  • Padirac Cave
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Padirac, Figeac, Montauban, Gourdon, and Cahors. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cahors, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Toulouse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Montauban. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cahors, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Gourdon to Cahors may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cahors, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cahors.

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

Read more

Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Bordeaux

  • Bordeaux
  • Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac
  • More

Drive 264 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
  • The Marqueyssac gardens
  • Château de Beynac
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cahors to Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac may take around 1 hour 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bordeaux may take around 2 hours 31 min. Upon your arrival in Bordeaux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Book a table at Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans), a famous dining establishment in Bordeaux. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,090 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Bordeaux is suzzi, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.8 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 852 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Bordeaux’s Symbiose for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 896 satisfied diners.

The Connemara is a must-visit. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,896 customers.

You can also enjoy having some snacks and drinks at Molly Malone's. This bar is a popular hangout spot among locals and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,951 customers.

Le Bar à Vin is another top-rated city bar we recommend in Bordeaux. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,327 customers, this bar is a great place to cap off the night.

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

Read more

Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Bordeaux

  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 3 km, 45 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • The big bell of Bordeaux
  • Porte Cailhau
  • Place de la Bourse
  • Miroir d'eau
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Bordeaux has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in France by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at L'Autre Petit Bois, an acclaimed dining establishment in Bordeaux. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,474 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of Books & Coffee while experiencing the best of Bordeaux. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,243 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Restaurant Melodie, an elegant culinary destination in Bordeaux. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,499 previous guests.

Make your way to Café Brun. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,749 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Restaurant Le Plana? This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 1,688 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is The Houses Of Parliament. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,469 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Read more

Experiences

Day 6

Day 6 – Lormont, Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, and La Teste-de-Buch

  • Bordeaux
  • La Teste-de-Buch
  • More

Drive 150 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Cité du Vin
  • Monument aux Girondins
  • Jardin Public
  • Parc bordelais
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lormont has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Lormont by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Lormont has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Lormont offers and add your favorites to your France travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bordeaux.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Le Confidentiel while you’re in Bordeaux. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,544 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Bordeaux is A Cantina Comptoir Corse. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,274 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Bordeaux, enjoy Le K Baroque’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,059 satisfied guests.

Sherlock Holmes Pub is a great bar to relax after a busy day. About 1,224 customers have given this spot an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, making it one of the most popular bars in the area.

Another bar in Bordeaux we recommend is Chez Dupont, an excellent place to meet new friends. This bar offers customers plenty of snack and drink options and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 831 customers.

The Cock And Bull is also one of the best places to go to unwind and chat with locals. Over 773 bar-goers have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

Read more

Experiences

Day 7

Day 7 – Toulouse, Blagnac, and Carcassonne

  • Toulouse
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 352 km, 4 hours

  • Musée Aeroscopia
  • Basilica of St Sernin
  • Grand Rond
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Toulouse, Blagnac, and Carcassonne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne. Carcassonne will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Toulouse’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min. Toulouse welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Basilica of St. Sernin. Previous visitors have rated this minor basilica an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,287 reviews.

Grand Rond is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This urban park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,069 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Jardin des Plantes. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,847 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carcassonne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Carcassonne. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Auberge des Lices while you’re in Carcassonne. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 908 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Carcassonne is Le Blé Noir. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 932 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

While in Carcassonne, enjoy Le Parc Franck Putelat’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 621 satisfied guests.

La Métairie is one of the best bars you can visit in Carcassonne tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 756 customers.

You can also enjoy a glass or two at a popular place like Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 3,813 customers.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Read more

Experiences

Day 8

Day 8 – Carcassonne - departure day

  • Carcassonne - Departure day
  • More
  • Portail des Jacobins
  • More

Day 8 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.

As your final day in France unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Carcassonne’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of 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!

Read more

Experiences

Similar travel packages

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.