Relaxed 10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Carcassonne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Carcassonne, and meet locals along the way!

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.

Basilique Saint Nazaire makes a great addition to your morning plans. This curiosity-inducing church is a history-steeped place to see in Carcassonne. Continue your discovery at Musée De L'ecole, a standout museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Carcassonne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cité De Carcassonne. This top-rated castle offers a visually striking encounter with Carcassonne. Next, make your way to Château Comtal to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Église Saint-vincent De Carcassonne, a locally appreciated church that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Carcassonne.

France makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, France also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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 is coming to an end, stop at some of Carcassonne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in France!

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 3 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Carcassonne and beyond. With 1 night left in Carcassonne, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Muséum De Toulouse, a frequently visited museum in Toulouse. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Musée Des Augustins. This frequently visited museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Pont-neuf is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most majestic monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the underrated Couvent Des Jacobins and discover what makes this monastery unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Place Saint-pierre, an eye-catching public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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. Also, be sure to check out Buffalo Grill Carcassonne. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Carcassonne. The bars in Carcassonne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip in France, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Avignon and visit amazing attractions in La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard and Nimes, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Avignon, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Avignon and set your GPS to La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 33 min. Upon reaching La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Pont Du Gard. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nimes may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Musée Des Beaux-arts De Nîmes and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Musée De La Romanité, another highlight in Nimes. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Clock Tower, a picture-perfect monument.

Nearby, you will also find Jardin De La Fontaine. This notable park is a top place to see in the area.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of France. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Avignon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Carré du Palais, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Avenio offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss BAR DU CHANGE. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Avignon.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Avignon’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in France.

Cap off your dinner by heading to O'collins's Irish Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Gambrinus is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across France, you’ll explore the area around Avignon, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Avignon will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of France.

Lourmarin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 56 min. Lourmarin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Château De Lourmarin is a worthwhile castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Lourmarin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Roussillon. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Savor the day by heading to Le Sentier Des Ocres, a notable hiking area that draws visitors from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Roussillon and set your GPS to Apt. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 27 min. Upon reaching Apt, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sénanque Abbey, a locally appreciated monastery in Apt. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in France, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Avignon.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music, a popular restaurant in Avignon. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Avignon at Vivotto Avignon, 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 Ma belle cuisine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Avignon tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Avignon.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Avignon!

Day 7 of your easy, relaxed road trip through France lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Aix-en-Provence. By evening, drive toward the Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aix-en-Provence. This car ride takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Fontaine De La Rotonde is a frequently visited monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Hôtel De Caumont, a picture-perfect museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Musée Granet, a standout museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Place D'albertas, an awe-inspiring and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at Paroisse Cathédrale Saint Sauveur Aix-en-provence, an underrated church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

Continue your laid-back road trip in France as you make your way to Aix-en-Provence. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aix-en-Provence, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at Côté Cour, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Château de Beaupré beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Château de la Pioline, Restaurant Gastronomique à Aix-en-provence. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aix-en-Provence tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Aix-en-Provence. The bars in Aix-en-Provence make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Le Brigand, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Céleste. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at St James Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across France.

Your relaxed road trip in France continues on day 8 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know France better by exploring the top attractions of Aix-en-Provence and beyond. With 1 night left in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cassis, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Aix-en-Provence to Cassis may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cassis, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Calanque De Port-miou, a locally appreciated marina that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Marseille’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aix-en-Provence. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Aix-en-Provence, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Marseille is Falaises De Cassis, a beloved cliff that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Aix-en-Provence and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aix-en-Provence, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at O'Gustus restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café du Temps offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le bouche à Oreille is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Aix-en-Provence.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aix-en-Provence.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in France!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across France offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Montpellier and drive in the direction of Carcassonne for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Carcassonne, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Montpellier may take around 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Montpellier, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Comedy Square, a well-known public square known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, a frequently visited park.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Fabre Museum and uncover the details of this standout museum. Make sure to also explore Montpellier Cathedral, a worthwhile church. For your last stop, consider Arc De Triomphe, a culturally significant monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

In Carcassonne, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in France.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Carcassonne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Carcassonne, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Celt is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'Oliveraie. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Carcassonne tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in France!