12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling south to Pau, Bayonne, Tarbes, Carcassonne, Marseille, Narbonne, and Toulouse

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Bordeaux and Lormont.

Your adventure in Bordeaux is only getting started when you visit Miroir D'eau, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Place De La Bourse. This popular public square is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bordeaux's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Porte Cailhau. This history-steeped monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Porte De Bourgogne is also worth visiting.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Lormont, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to Lormont may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lormont, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to La Cité Du Vin, a well-known museum that everyone visiting Lormont should see.

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

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

Savor the flavors at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Soléna beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hôtel De Sèze. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

Keep the evening going at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Grizzly Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Dog And Duck, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bordeaux and Arcachon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Pau, where you'll spend 1 night.

No visit to Bordeaux is complete without Bordeaux Cathedral. This interesting church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bordeaux, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This often recommended historical landmark is a traveler-favorite.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Arcachon. 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 59 min. Upon reaching Arcachon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arcachon is Dune Of Pilat, a popular sand dunes that draws attention for its idyllic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Henri IV, a highly-rated dining destination in Pau. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Au Fin Gourmet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Pau this evening.

Keep the evening going at Snug, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Winfield Café, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Galway, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Pau and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

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 3 places, which are Saint Jean De Luz, Bayonne, and Biarritz. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bayonne, where will spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Saint Jean De Luz, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Pau to Saint Jean De Luz may take around 1 hour 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint Jean De Luz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Fort Du Socoa, a beloved castle that everyone visiting Saint Jean De Luz should see.

Set your GPS to Bayonne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bayonne beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Le Train De La Rhune, a popular heritage railway that draws visitors from near and far.

Biarritz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rocher De La Vierge and explore the serene features. Next, make your way to Biarritz Aquarium, another highlight in Biarritz. When you’re done exploring the aquarium, continue to Chambre D'amour Playground, a picture-perfect playground.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bayonne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Bayonne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bayonne.

Don’t miss out on dining at JANINE, a top-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dame Jeanne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Des Pyrénées is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bayonne and Hendaye are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tarbes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Visiting Pierre Ibaialde - Artisan Du Jambon À Bayonne is always a good idea. This underrated food market is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Bayonne Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Hendaye.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Abbadia Castle. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Bayonne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tarbes. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 6 min. When you arrive in Tarbes, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Caves Of Sare, an intriguing cave system that everyone visiting Bayonne should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Tarbes. Tarbes 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 Tarbes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Gez and Lourdes. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Tarbes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gez. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Gez, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, a locally appreciated zoo in Gez. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Lourdes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Gez behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Lourdes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Basilica Of St. Pius X, another highlight in Lourdes.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and relax 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 a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a popular restaurant in Carcassonne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Carcassonne at La Rapière, 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 Le Domaine d'Auriac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Carcassonne tonight.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Carcassonne and Nimes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Marseille, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Let Château Comtal set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this enchanting castle before continuing your journey. Cité De Carcassonne is your next stop. This spectacular 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 Basilique Saint Nazaire. This enchanting church is a sight to behold.

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 2 hours 3 min. Upon your arrival in Nimes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Jardin De La Fontaine, a popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Marseille, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Marseille, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Chez Roger, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Les Mets des Saintes is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Maison Montgrand Vieux-Port. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Marseille tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Le Traquenard. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to La Dame Du Mont, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Polikarpov provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Marseille for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy all that Calanques National Park has to offer. This is an interesting national park you should not miss. Another must-see is Parc Borély, a notable park in Marseille.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Palais Longchamp. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Mucem - Museum Of Civilizations Of Europe And The Mediterranean, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Notre-dame De La Garde (marseille), a majestic place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Marseille's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Bistro Du Panier, a popular restaurant in Marseille. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Marseille at Le Drip's Hôtel & Restaurant Arty, 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 Restaurant Les Arcenaulx Marseille Vieux Port. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Marseille tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Au Petit Nice stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Marengo offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. L'unic Bar 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 France.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Arles and Les Baux-de-Provence. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Narbonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Marseille and set your GPS to Arles. 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 1 hour 9 min. Upon reaching Arles, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Alpilles Natural Regional Park, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Baux-de-Provence.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château Des Baux-de-provence, a notable castle known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Carrières Des Lumières, a captivating art installation.

When you’ve had your share of Marseille, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arles. Your travel time is around 1 hour 9 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Arles Amphitheatre, a notable archeological site 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 up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Narbonne. Narbonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Les Halles de Narbonne, a top-rated dining spot in Narbonne.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Gruissan, Narbonne, and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Toulouse, where will spend 1 night.

Gruissan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Gruissan is Le Salin De L'île Saint-martin De Gruissan, an intriguing nature reserve that draws attention for its serene features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Toulouse. This car ride takes around 1 hour 41 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Réserve Africaine De Sigean, a notable wildlife reserve in Narbonne. Explore its gorgeous features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Narbonne and set your GPS to Toulouse. 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 1 hour 41 min. Upon reaching Toulouse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Jardin Des Plantes, an increasingly popular botanical garden known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Grand Rond, an increasingly popular 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 Square Charles De Gaulle and uncover the details of this photogenic public square.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Le May, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L*Agence boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Perche Pinte. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Toulouse.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Moloko offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Botanist Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Melting Pot Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Toulouse and Blagnac are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Couvent Des Jacobins. This symbolic monastery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Place Saint-pierre and learn what makes this instagrammable public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Basilica Of St. Sernin.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Blagnac, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Toulouse to Blagnac may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Blagnac, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Musée Aeroscopia, an intriguing aviation museum that everyone visiting Blagnac should see.

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.

Bordeaux is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Locadillos, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Le Plana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Blind is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Casey's Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Le Bar À Vin, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Thecity likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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