Your France road trip itinerary

Begin your journey in one of France’s most elegant cities. Wander through the golden 18th-century squares, explore the lively quays along the Garonne, and dive into the region’s world-famous wine culture. Visit La Cité du Vin for an immersive introduction to wine history, join a tasting in a nearby château, or stroll through the historic center with its cafés, boutiques, and markets. In the evening, enjoy Bordeaux’s vibrant culinary scene before watching the Place de la Bourse glow beautifully at dusk.

Rich in medieval charm, prehistoric caves, and dramatic river valleys, the Dordogne offers a peaceful yet fascinating stop. Explore fortified towns like Sarlat with its honey-colored stone and lively markets. Drift along the Dordogne River on a traditional gabare boat, or wander through ancient sites such as Lascaux or the cliffside village of La Roque-Gageac. With rolling countryside, farm-to-table cuisine, and quiet hiking paths, the Dordogne invites you to slow down and savor rural France.

Step into the Middle Ages as you approach Carcassonne’s iconic double-walled fortress. Wander the cobblestone lanes of La Cité, visit the imposing Château Comtal, and take in panoramic views from the ramparts. Between history tours and scenic walks along the Canal du Midi, the atmosphere feels straight out of a storybook. In the evening, enjoy traditional southern French dishes in one of the town’s cozy restaurants inside the walls.

Montpellier blends youthful energy with Mediterranean flair. Discover the historic Écusson district with its maze of narrow streets, elegant mansions, and sunny squares. Visit the striking contemporary architecture of Antigone, relax at a café on Place de la Comédie, or cycle to the nearby coast for a refreshing afternoon by the sea. With markets, museums, and a vibrant food scene, Montpellier offers the perfect mix of culture and coastal living.

Once the seat of the papacy, Avignon impresses with grand medieval landmarks and a warm Provençal atmosphere. Visit the monumental Palais des Papes, stroll across the famous Pont d’Avignon, and explore the charming old town full of boutiques and shaded terraces. The surrounding Rhône Valley offers excellent vineyards and countryside drives. Whether you wander through historic squares or relax with a glass of local wine, Avignon reveals Provence at its most timeless.

End your trip in the elegant town that inspired Cézanne. Aix-en-Provence invites you to wander leafy boulevards, lively markets, and sunlit squares. Browse local boutiques, enjoy pastries at a café, or follow in the artist’s footsteps on a walking route dedicated to his life and work. Nearby, the Montagne Sainte-Victoire provides beautiful trails and scenic viewpoints. With warm light, refined cuisine, and a relaxed Provençal pace, Aix is the perfect finale to your road trip.