13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne traveling west to Lourdes, Bayonne, Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Nantes, Angers, Paris, and Limoges

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

Start your day at Château Et Remparts De La Cité De Carcassonne. This majestic castle is a worthwhile place to see in Carcassonne. Then, wander over to Château Comtal. If grand sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cité De Carcassonne. This symbolic castle 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, Basilique Saint Nazaire is an often recommended spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

Lourdes 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 Lourdes.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel Saint-Sébastien. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lourdes tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lourdes, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Lourdes and Gez.

Lourdes is brimming with adventures.

Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area.

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 39 min. Lourdes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Grottes De Bétharram, an underrated cave system in Lourdes. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Pont D'espagne. This often recommended waterfall is a top recommendation in the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gez. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, a curiosity-inducing zoo that everyone visiting Gez should see.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hôtel Sainte Rose, a top-rated dining spot in Lourdes. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hôtel Alba, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hôtel La Source - Lourdes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lourdes.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bidart and Biarritz. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bayonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bidart, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lourdes to Bidart may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bidart, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bidart is Plage De Bidart, an often recommended beach that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bidart and set your GPS to Biarritz. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Biarritz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Rocher De La Vierge is a captivating rock formation we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Biarritz Aquarium, a breathtaking aquarium that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Biarritz Lighthouse, a visually striking lighthouse. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Chambre D'amour Playground, a breathtaking and truly unique playground.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bayonne. Bayonne 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 Bayonne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at JANINE, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Josie Factory? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Belzunce as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bayonne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Dame Jeanne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Des Pyrénées offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Kubata & Kukubat is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Le Bouscat and Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bordeaux, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Jardin Public brings Bordeaux's character to life. This idyllic park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Monument Aux Girondins, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Place De La Bourse, one of the town’s most interesting attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Miroir D'eau. This romantic art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Le Bouscat. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Le Bouscat, 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 town's best attractions, visit Parc Bordelais, an often recommended 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.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

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.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Fouras and La Rochelle. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in La Rochelle, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fouras. This car ride takes around 1 hour 44 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Fouras Fort, a locally appreciated castle that everyone visiting Fouras should see.

After soaking in Fouras’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Rochelle. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in La Rochelle, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, an often recommended maritime museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready, continue to Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, a beloved park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, 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 La Rochelle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Côte Rôtie, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Boussole, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les hédonistes, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Mac Ewan's Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Cadre, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Le Plan B. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Nantes and Rezé. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Nantes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nantes may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Nantes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, an interesting art installation that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Natural History Museum, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Next, explore Parc De Procé, yet another up-and-coming place to see in the area. After the park, make time to go to Parc De La Gaudinière. This romantic park is well worth the visit.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rezé.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Jardin Extraordinaire (nantes). Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

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

Dine in style at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Parallèle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nantes.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Chat Noir, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 9 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Nantes, Sainte-luce-sur-loire, and Clisson are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Angers, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Île De Versailles (nantes) set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this remarkable park before continuing your journey. Botanical Garden is your next stop. This captivating botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Nantes.

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 Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This breathtaking castle is a sight to behold.

When you’ve had your share of Nantes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sainte-luce-sur-loire. Your travel time is around 10 min.

Savor the day by heading to Grand Blotterau Parc, an underrated park that draws visitors from near and far.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Clisson may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Clisson, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Château De Clisson, Grand Patrimoine De Loire-atlantique, an often recommended castle in Clisson. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Angers. 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 Angers's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Wallaby's Australian Café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Cour - Angers offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Brasserie de la Gare is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Angers.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Snooker offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Angers. Velenjak is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 12 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Padirac and Toulouse. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Limoges’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Padirac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive in Padirac, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Padirac Cave and explore the enchanting features.

Set your GPS to Toulouse and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Toulouse beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis, a well-known park that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Next, head to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This majestic church is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at V and B Carcassonne, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Auberge des Lices offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adélaïde. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

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