South West France Road Trip Itinerary
Take a journey through the stunning South West France with a road trip through the towns of Dijon, Périgueux, Moissac, Carcassonne, and Avignon. This route is a total of 2130 km (1337 miles) and should take around 14 days to complete, making it the perfect trip for a relaxed holiday. The best time to go is between April and October when the weather is at its best.
The route will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes France has to offer, including the rolling vineyards of Burgundy, the stunning valleys of the Dordogne, and the beautiful countryside of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to explore some of the country’s most important historical sites, such as the Roman ruins of Périgueux, the medieval city of Carcassonne, and the magnificent Avignon Palace.
The roads in France are generally in excellent condition, so you can look forward to a smooth journey. There are also a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the route, including the historic city of Carcassonne, the Pont du Gard Aqueduct, and the Palace of the Popes in Avignon.
This South West France Road Trip is suitable for every type of driver, and promises to provide a high level of experience and memories. However, it should be noted that this road trip will require a high budget to complete.
14
number of days
2,187 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Lyon
Distance 2,187 km
Driving time 32.5 h
Pace: fast
656.2 kWh
Airports
LYS
[detailsContainer]
Lyon, France, is the perfect starting point for the South West France Road Trip. Located in the south-east of France and situated on the banks of the Rhone and Saone Rivers, it has been an important transportation hub for centuries. The closest international airport is Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) where you can rent a car to begin your journey through the south of France.
Once you arrive in Lyon, there are plenty of attractions to explore. The city is known for its exquisite cuisine, renowned museums and art galleries, and its historical and cultural landmarks. Visit the Unesco World Heritage Site of Vieux Lyon, a medieval district with some of the oldest buildings and streets in the city. Explore the fascinating Roman ruins at Fourvière, or take a stroll along the banks of the Rhone and Saone rivers.
For art and culture, visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the largest museum in France outside of Paris, or the Musée d’Art Contemporain, a modern art museum. Lyon also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs to explore. For a unique experience, take a night cruise down the Saone river and enjoy the city’s stunning views.
Start your South West France Road Trip in Lyon and experience the city’s unique culture and history. With its rich heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, Lyon is the perfect place to begin your journey.
1
Lyon
- Dijon
Distance 273 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
81.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through the beautiful French countryside? Starting in Lyon, you'll drive 280 km and spend fewer than 4 hours on the road before you reach your final destination, Dijon. Along the way, you'll pass through Cluny, Beaune, and other charming cities. As you travel, be sure to take in the historical sites, some of which are UNESCO Heritage sites. You'll also find plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Don't forget to take a few photos! And if you need more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" for this stage. Bon voyage!
Dijon - France - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
❯
❮
2
Dijon
- Chateauroux
Distance 355 km
Driving time 6.7 h
Pace: modest
92.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 336 km road trip from Dijon, France, to Chateauroux, and discover some of the most interesting places in the region. Along the way, you will pass through Vezelay and Bourges, two of the most beautiful cities in the region. With fewer than 6 hours of driving time, this is the perfect road trip for those who want to explore the area without spending too much time on the road.
Vezelay is home to the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This beautiful church is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe and is a must-see for any traveler. Bourges is a charming city with a rich history, and is home to the Cathedral of Saint-Etienne, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also boasts a number of other attractions, including the Palais Jacques Coeur and the Palais de Jacques Cœur.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of restaurants and accommodation options to choose from. You can also find a number of campsites along the way, making this road trip perfect for those who want to explore the area and stay in the great outdoors. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Chateauroux - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
3
Chateauroux
- Périgueux
Distance 284 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
85.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you looking for an exciting road trip starting in Châteauroux and ending in Périgueux? You’re in luck! This route is only 223 km and will take you less than 3 hours to complete. You’ll get to experience the historical sites of both Châteauroux and Périgueux, such as the Château de Valençay and the Cathédrale Saint-Front de Périgueux. As you drive, make sure to keep an eye out for some of the other attractions along the way, like the Château de La Bussière and the Église Saint-Pierre de La Bussière. There are also plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites to choose from. For more information, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip from Châteauroux to Périgueux!
Périgueux - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Périgueux - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
4
Périgueux
- Arcachon
Distance 202 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
60.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Beginning in Périgueux, France, this 202 km road trip is the perfect way to explore the region of Aquitaine. With a driving time of fewer than three hours, you will be able to take in the beautiful sights and sounds of the region. On your journey, you will pass through the historical city of Bordeaux, where you can explore the city's UNESCO Heritage sites. You can also admire the picturesque landscapes of the region as you make your way to the seaside town of Arcachon. Here, you can explore the stunning beaches and enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. For a break from the beach, you can take a stroll along the boardwalk and admire the view of the harbor. With so much to see and do, you won't want to miss out on this road trip! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Arcachon - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
5
Arcachon
- Moissac
Distance 262 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: modest
68.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Arcachon to Moissac? This 269 km journey will take you less than 5 hours, so you can make the most of your time in this stunning region of France.
Start your journey in Arcachon, a beautiful coastal town on the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can visit the Dune du Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, and take a boat tour to the Île aux Oiseaux, a small island with a wide variety of bird species.
Continue your journey to the charming town of La Réole, located on the banks of the Garonne River. Here you can explore the historical center and the old castle, and take a stroll along the river to admire the stunning views.
After La Réole, drive to the picturesque village of Mont-de-Marsan. Here you can admire the old buildings and the impressive cathedral, and take a walk around the city walls to get a better view of the city.
Finally, your journey will end in Moissac, a charming town located on the banks of the Tarn River. Here you can explore the impressive abbey, the old bridge, and the stunning gardens.
Along the way, you can also take time to explore more of the stunning countryside, and take in the beautiful views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Moissac - France - Europe - Road Trip - en.m.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
6
Moissac
- Albi
Distance 154 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
46.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Let's start the adventure with an amazing road trip from Moissac to Albi, with a distance of 161 km and a driving time of fewer than 3 hours. This stage of the tour is full of historical sites and UNESCO Heritage sites, so be sure to keep an eye out for them! On the way, make sure to visit the beautiful city of Toulouse, with its stunning architecture, churches, and museums. Don't forget to take a stroll along the Garonne River and visit the Basilica of St. Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in the world. And of course, Albi is the perfect destination, with its historic center, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, and the Episcopal City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So don't miss out on this incredible journey and all the sights it has to offer! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Albi - France - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
Albi - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
7
Albi
- Carcassonne
Distance 120 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
31.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your road trip adventure in Albi, France, a beautiful city in the south of the country. Here you can explore the historic old town, visit the iconic Cathedrale Sainte-Cecile, and take in the stunning views of the Tarn River. After that, continue your journey to Carcassonne, a stunning medieval fortified city. The journey is only 121 km and can be completed in less than 3 hours. Along the way, you can visit the picturesque village of Castres and the breathtakingly beautiful Lac de la Raviège. Once you reach Carcassonne, you can explore the city's impressive ramparts and the Château Comtal. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Carcassonne - France - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Carcassonne - France - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Carcassonne - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
❯
❮
8
Carcassonne
- Sete
Distance 137 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
41.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Carcassonne to Sete, a journey of 137 km that will take you less than two hours to complete. Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of France's southern coast.
Start your journey in Carcassonne, a fortified city with a rich history. Be sure to take some time to explore the old town and its famous castle. Then, continue on to the Mediterranean coast and the small fishing village of Sète. Here you can wander the streets, visit the harbor, and try some of the local seafood.
Your next stop is the walled city of Aigues-Mortes. This ancient city is full of history, with winding streets and towers that were built in the 13th century. After exploring the city, you can head to the nearby salt marshes, where you can observe the wildlife and take in the beautiful views.
Finally, continue on to Sete, the largest port town in the south of France. Here you can stroll along the beach, visit the many shops, and enjoy the local cuisine.
As you travel from Carcassonne to Sete, be sure to take some time to appreciate the stunning scenery of the French countryside. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Sete - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Sete - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Sete - France - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
❯
❮
9
Sete
- Avignon
Distance 157 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
47.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a fantastic road trip from Sete to Avignon? This 157km journey is an amazing way to explore southern France. With a driving time of fewer than 3 hours, you can easily fit in a few stops along the way. Start off in Sete, then head to Nimes, known for its ancient Roman ruins and amphitheater. Next, you'll drive to Arles, where you can explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, end your journey in Avignon, a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and plenty of culture.
On your journey, you'll find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. Make sure to keep an eye out for some historical sites, too. And don't forget that some UNESCO Heritage sites are along the route. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, hop in the car, and enjoy this incredible journey from Sete to Avignon!
Avignon - France - Europe - Road Trip - pxhere.com
Avignon - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
❯
❮
10
Avignon
- Lyon
Distance 243 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
73.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Avignon to Lyon? This 242 km journey will take you less than three hours, with plenty of interesting sights to see along the way. Start your journey in Avignon, a city filled with historical sites, including the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world. From there, you can visit the Pont Saint-Bénézet, a bridge built in the 12th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you drive along, take a break in Orange and visit the Roman theatre, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, you will arrive in Lyon, a beautiful city known for its Roman ruins, museums, and art galleries. While in Lyon, don't forget to visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a 19th century church with a stunning view of the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!
Lyon - France - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
❯
❮
Lyon
[detailsContainer]
Lyon is the perfect ending point for a South West France Road Trip. This city has so much to offer that you'll want to spend some time here. Located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France. Here, you can visit the Vieux Lyon district and enjoy its cobblestone streets and Renaissance buildings. The city also has a unique Roman amphitheatre, the Théâtre Gallo-Romain, which is one of the most well-preserved Roman sites in all of Europe.
If you're looking to explore, head to the Parc de la Tête d'Or. This large park features a zoo, botanical gardens, and a lake with pedal boats that you can rent. There's also the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses the world's largest collection of paintings by the French artist Paul Cézanne. If you're looking for an adventure, head to the nearby mountains for a hike or bike ride.
For those coming by car, Lyon is easily accessible from the A6 motorway. The nearest international airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) and it is just a short drive away. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Lyon has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant city and make sure to check out all of the great sights and activities that are waiting for you.
South West France Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Lyon
-
End:
Lyon
-
Distance:
2,187 km
-
Stay:
14 days
-
Getting there:
Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 14-day Road Trip spanning approximately 2130 km (1337 miles) through the picturesque South West of France. This well-rounded journey offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, taking you from the culinary delights of Dijon to the Roman legacy in Périgueux, the serene cloisters of Moissac, the fortified grandeur of Carcassonne, and the papal history of Avignon. It's an ideal itinerary for those wanting a leisurely pace with ample time to savor each destination's unique offerings.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Dijon: Not only celebrated for its tangy mustard, but Dijon is also the gateway to the Route des Grands Crus, where you can tour some of Burgundy's most prestigious vineyards. The city's well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings add charm to your visit.
- Périgueux: Step back in time with the city's rich Roman heritage, including the Vesunna Museum, and admire the Byzantine-inspired architecture of the Saint-Front Cathedral, part of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.
- Moissac: The Abbey of Saint-Pierre is a jewel of Romanesque art, boasting a tranquil cloister adorned with intricately carved capitals that are considered masterpieces of medieval sculpture.
- Carcassonne: Feel transported to the Middle Ages in this fortified city, known for its double-walled fortifications and fairy-tale castle. Carcassonne hosts an impressive array of festivals and events, especially during the summer months.
- Avignon: A center of art and culture, Avignon's historic center is dominated by the imposing Palais des Papes, a testament to the city's past as the seat of the papacy. The nearby Pont d'Avignon is immortalized in the famous French song `Sur le Pont d'Avignon.`
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for this Road Trip is between April and October when the weather is typically mild and the landscape is vibrant. Spring brings colorful blooms and autumn offers a palette of warm hues, both adding to the region's charm.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should budget carefully as this region can be costly, especially during peak tourist season. It's wise to plan for contingencies and travel insurance to cover any unexpected events.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- South West France is renowned for its gastronomy, so indulge in local specialties like cassoulet, foie gras, and truffles.
- The Lascaux Caves near Périgueux feature some of the world's most famous prehistoric cave paintings.
- Carcassonne comes to life in July with its renowned Festival de Carcassonne, featuring music, theater, and dance.
- Avignon's annual Festival d'Avignon is one of the oldest and most famous theater festivals in the world, transforming the city into a stage.
A good choice for:
This journey through South West France is more than a Road Trip; it's a passage through time and a feast for the senses. With each destination steeped in history and natural beauty, it promises a memorable exploration of one of Europe's most diverse and culturally rich regions. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of picturesque landscapes, this itinerary has something to enchant every traveler.
-
