One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon

1 / 84
Photo of Castillet tower hosting a museum of history and culture in Perpignan, France.
Photo of Castillet tower hosting a museum of history and culture in Perpignan, France.
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon
One-Week France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Perpignan traveling north to Carcassonne and Avignon
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through France. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in France. You will spend 2 nights in Perpignan, 2 nights in Carcassonne, and 3 nights in Avignon. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Perpignan, 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 Palais Des Papes are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Perpignan, Carcassonne, Toulouse, Avignon, Arles, Apt, Roussillon, Gargas, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, and Montpellier, 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, accommodations, 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

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Perpignan

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Perpignan - Arrival day
  • More
  • Sports Park
  • More

Say hello to Perpignan! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Perpignan for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Perpignan is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Sports Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Perpignan. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Perpignan, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le 17, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Les Brunettes: bar et restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Buffalo Grill Perpignan is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Perpignan.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Dry States, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Black Pearl 66, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café De La Source likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Perpignan
  • Carcassonne
  • More

Drive 119 km, 1 hour 37 min

  • Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse
  • Musée de l'Ecole
  • Cité de Carcassonne
  • Porte Narbonnaise
  • Château comtal de Carcassonne
  • Église Saint-Vincent de Carcassonne
  • More

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

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 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Basilique Saint Nazaire. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Musée De L'ecole. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Cité De Carcassonne. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the castle. Next, take your journey to Porte Narbonnaise, an underrated monument. Conclude your sightseeing at Château Comtal, known for its symbolic features.

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.

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasserie a 4 Temps, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Rapière? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Domaine d'Auriac as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Carcassonne.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Carcassonne
  • Toulouse
  • More

Drive 196 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Basilica of St. Sernin
  • Place Saint-Pierre
  • Couvent des Jacobins
  • Pont-Neuf
  • Musée des Augustins
  • Jardin des Plantes
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Toulouse. With 1 night to stay in Carcassonne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Toulouse.

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 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Toulouse, 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 Basilica Of St. Sernin, an interesting church that everyone visiting Toulouse should see. Next, head to Place Saint-pierre. This romantic public square is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Couvent Des Jacobins, a grand monastery popular among locals as well as travelers. Pont-neuf is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular monument before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Musée Des Augustins, a photogenic museum and a top attraction in the city.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at V and B Carcassonne, a top-rated dining spot in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Auberge des Lices, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Adélaïde. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Carcassonne.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Carcassonne
  • Avignon
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 5 min

  • Jardin des doms
  • Palais des Papes
  • Collection Lambert Avignon
  • Remparts d'Avignon
  • Musée Lapidaire
  • Basilique Saint-Pierre
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Avignon. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Avignon, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Carcassonne and set your GPS to Avignon. 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 2 hours 29 min. Upon reaching Avignon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Jardin Des Doms, a worthwhile park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Palais Des Papes, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Hotel Caumont, yet another underrated place to see in the area. After the art gallery, make time to go to Remparts D'avignon. This standout historical landmark is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Musée Lapidaire D'avignon, an underrated museum you won’t want to miss.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Pollen, a highly-rated dining destination in Avignon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chez Bodus Le Garçon Boucher, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Cuisine de Papa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Avignon this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Le 17 Place Aux Vins Avignon • Bar À Vin / Caviste is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Barberousse Avignon, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Red Sky. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Avignon
  • Arles
  • More

Drive 85 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
  • L'espace Van Gogh
  • Saint-Trophime Primatial Catholic Church
  • Roman Theatre of Arles
  • Jardin d'été
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Avignon, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 2 nights to spend in Avignon, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arles to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Arles’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avignon behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Arles welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Musée Départemental De L'arles Antique, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at L'espace Van Gogh, an often recommended cultural center.

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 Saint-trophime Primatial Catholic Church and uncover the details of this UNESCO world heritage-listed church. Make sure to also explore Roman Theatre Of Arles, an increasingly popular archeological site. For your last stop, consider Jardin D'été, an instagrammable park that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Carré du Palais, 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 Avenio, 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 BAR DU CHANGE. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Avignon tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at O'collins's Irish Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gambrinus, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Avignon
  • arrondissement of Apt
  • Roussillon
  • More

Drive 197 km, 4 hours 29 min

  • Pont du Gard
  • Sénanque Abbey
  • Le Sentier des Ocres
  • More

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

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

Pont Du Gard is an interesting monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-designated features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Apt, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Bégude de Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Apt may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Apt, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sénanque Abbey. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Roussillon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Roussillon beckons with new experiences!

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

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

Avignon 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 Avignon.

Dine in style at Bar La place ☀️ Terrasse 🍸 Cocktail 🎶 Music, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vivotto Avignon boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ma belle cuisine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Avignon.

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

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Avignon
  • Montpellier
  • Perpignan
  • More

Drive 254 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • Musée Fabre
  • esplanade Charles de Gaulle
  • Comedy Square
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • promenade of Peyrou
  • Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Montpellier. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Perpignan, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Avignon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Montpellier. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Fabre Museum, a beloved museum known for its historic 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 Comedy Square and uncover the details of this romantic public square. Make sure to also explore Arc De Triomphe, an often recommended monument. For your last stop, consider Promenade Of Peyrou, a romantic public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Perpignan. Perpignan offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Savor the flavors at Access - TotalEnergies, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Tartard beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider La Villa Duflot Perpignan Restaurant Hôtel&Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Perpignan tonight.

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

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Perpignan - Departure day
  • More
  • Perpignan Cathedral
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Perpignan before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Perpignan Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a hotspot among locals.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Perpignan.

You’ll then say farewell to Perpignan. 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

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

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.