14-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Carcassonne to Toulouse, Albi, Sarlat La Caneda, Bordeaux, Blois, and Lyon

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Carcassonne has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Carcassonne.

Make time for Basilique Saint Nazaire, a curiosity-inducing church that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Musée De L'ecole, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Cité De Carcassonne. This castle is one of the town’s most famous spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Carcassonne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Château Comtal.

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.

Treat yourself to a shopping spree in Carcassonne at La Cité Médiévale. Stroll through shops, where you can browse unique items to take home. Pick up souvenirs for your loved ones, including artisan crafts that beautifully showcase the culture of France. After shopping, explore what La Cité Médiévale has to offer, connecting you with locals or fellow travelers as you check out its attractions, available services, and seasonal events.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at V and B Carcassonne, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Auberge des Lices offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Adélaïde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Carcassonne.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Toulouse are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Toulouse, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Carcassonne to Toulouse may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Grand Rond and explore the detailed features. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes, another highlight in Toulouse. When you’re done exploring the botanical garden, continue to Muséum De Toulouse, a visually striking museum.

Nearby, you will also find Pont-neuf. This beloved monument is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Couvent Des Jacobins, a grand monastery that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

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 Toulouse, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Le May, a highly-rated dining destination in Toulouse. If you're eager to try something different, consider L*Agence, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Perche Pinte. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Toulouse this evening.

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.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Albi. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Albi, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Madeleine Church, a frequently visited church that everyone visiting Albi should see. Next, head to Pont Vieux. This enchanting historical landmark is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Berbie Palace, a picture-perfect palace popular among locals as well as travelers. Musée Toulouse-lautrec is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this beloved museum before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Albi Cathedral, a culturally significant church and a top attraction in the town.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Albi. Albi 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 Albi. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at O'Sully'S Albi, a popular restaurant in Albi. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, La Roque-Gageac, and Beynac-et-Cazenac. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sarlat La Caneda, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Albi’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 32 min. When you arrive in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, it's time to take a break from the road.

Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Roque-Gageac. Your travel time is around 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit The Marqueyssac Gardens, an interesting botanical garden 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 La Roque-Gageac’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Beynac-et-Cazenac. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 6 min. When you arrive in Beynac-et-Cazenac, it's time to take a break from the road.

Château De Beynac is an interesting castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Sarlat La Caneda, 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 Sarlat La Caneda's best restaurants.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Sarlat La Caneda, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Sarlat La Caneda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Your adventure in Sarlat La Caneda is only getting started when you visit Manor Gisson, a worthwhile local hot spot.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Montignac-Lascaux. This car ride takes around 26 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art, a notable 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. Next, head to Lascaux and admire its picture-perfect features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Padirac. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Padirac Cave, a well-known cave in Padirac. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Bordeaux. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bordeaux, where will spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Bordeaux and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bordeaux beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux, a beloved church known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, a frequently visited museum.

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 Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts and uncover the details of this eye-catching museum. Make sure to also explore Bordeaux Cathedral, a notable church. For your last stop, consider Porte Dijeaux, a culturally significant monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Cent 33, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Originel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Clemenceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mushroom Café offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Whose Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the worthwhile Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux, a romantic museum in Bordeaux. Next, go to Jardin Public.

After visiting Musée Du Vin Et Du Négoce De Bordeaux and Jardin Public, have a stroll along Bordeaux's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Monument Aux Girondins. This remarkable monument offers a unique experience. Place De La Bourse is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Miroir D'eau, one of the most noteworthy places to visit in Bordeaux. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Porte Cailhau.

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.

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.

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Grizzly Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Dog And Duck. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blois and set your GPS to Lyon. 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 4 hours 27 min. Upon reaching Lyon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Basilica Of Notre-dame De Fourvière, a well-known church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Lyon Cathedral, where you can soak in the grand surroundings.

Next, explore Place Bellecour, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lyon, 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 Lyon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Nuage café, a top-rated dining spot in Lyon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Café du Rhône, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Agastache Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lyon.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. L' Antiquaire is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Society, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pompette. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

On day 12 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Bron, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Lyon. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Bron is brimming with adventures. La Croix-Rousse is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Bron. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming La Maison Des Canuts, a photogenic museum in Lyon.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bron may take around 24 min. Upon your arrival in Bron, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bron is Great Mosque Of Lyon, a beloved mosque that draws attention for its photogenic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bron and set your GPS to Caluire-et-Cuire. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Caluire-et-Cuire, 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 Parc De La Tête D'or, a spectacular park in Caluire-et-Cuire. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Lyon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bulle - Restaurant de Fourvière - Guy Lassausaie, an iconic dining spot in Lyon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bernachon Chocolats, a popular restaurant in Lyon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of La Mère Léa, a hidden gem nestled in Lyon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The James Joyce Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Broc'bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, La Passagère is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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