Southwest France by Car in 10 Days: Vineyards, Villages & a lot of Nature
Our new 10 day tour of Southwest France takes an in-depth look at all the key wine regions on tour. Along the way you visit many excellent wine producers, a host of lovely medieval towns and villages and even some ancient history. Traveling by car is by far the best way to see France as it gives you so much flexibility to stop and see anything you want along the way. You can start off in the elegant city of Bordeaux where you can sample some of the world’s best wines and take in the beautiful views of the River Garonne and take in the many sights and streets of the city. You then travel to the stunning prehistoric area of the Dordogne. A beautiful region with lovely golden-stone medieval towns such as Sarlat, and many, many sites of prehistoric paintings in caves. Moreover, you will also visit local markets, see perched villages such as the spectacular Rochamadour (perched on the edge of a cliff) and of course experience the full depth of Malbec in the wines of Cahors before arriving in the last region of Southwest France, Toulouse, ‘La Ville Rose’ or ‘Pink City’. This tour can also be done by train or/ and private drivers can be also arranged to and from the airports should you prefer.
What's included
Itinerary
Welcome to France and to Bordeaux, one of the country's most elegant and rewarding cities for lovers of wine, architecture and riverside living. After collecting your rental car in the morning, head to your hotel to drop off your bags before heading to explore the historic center of Bordeaux, a UNESCO world heritage site. The historic center of Bordeaux is filled with beautiful golden facades, large squares and lively cafes. We recommend starting your exploration of Bordeaux from the Place de la Bourse and the Chartrons district. The Chartrons were a wealthy trade community that played a major role in Bordeaux’s wine trade in the 17th and 18th centuries. Later, board a river cruise to explore Bordeaux from the river and enjoy a sailing cruise on the Garonne with fine dining on board or wine tasting on board with samples of local wines in an informal setting.
Today is dedicated to the beauty and character of Bordeaux. With a private guide, discover the city's architectural layers, from medieval lanes and monumental gates to broad 18th-century avenues that speak to its prosperous trading past. Highlights may include the Cathédrale Saint-André and the Pey Berland Tower, where sweeping views reward those who climb to the top. The day continues with the flavors that made Bordeaux world-famous. Enjoy a wine tasting experience in a local château or if you wish to deepen your understanding of the region's wine culture, visit the impressive Cité du Vin. By evening, the city's restaurants and wine bars invite you to linger over seasonal dishes and carefully chosen local vintages.
Leave Bordeaux behind and drive into the vineyard landscapes of Saint-Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage village where wine, history and honey-colored stone come together beautifully. Wander through its steep lanes, explore the remarkable Monolithic Church and underground passages, and pause for a tasting at a local estate to experience the depth and elegance of the area's celebrated wines. After time among the vines, continue east toward Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of the Dordogne's most atmospheric medieval towns. Check into your accommodation and enjoy an evening at leisure, perhaps with a quiet walk through lamplit lanes and a first taste of the region's generous Perigord cuisine.
Sarlat is a beautiful old town with honey-colored stones, shaded squares and winding streets with unexpected surprises around each corner. You have the option to visit the Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral, to stroll along the Place de la Liberté and to visit the local market where you can discover the many flavors of the Dordogne. You will find local products such as truffles, walnuts, foie gras… And if you are looking for some soft adventure, Sarlat is the right place for you: kayaking on the Dordogne, renting bikes to discover the countryside, slow dinners in bistro restaurants serving the long and detailed local Perigord dishes. A slow, rich and authentic experience.
Today brings a fascinating journey into the deep past. Begin at the Cro-Magnon rock shelter, one of the most important sites connected to early modern humans in Europe. Continue to Font-de-Gaume, among the rare decorated Paleolithic caves still open to visitors, where ancient art offers a moving glimpse into human imagination thousands of years ago. Your exploration continues with Lascaux, famous for its extraordinary prehistoric cave paintings and immersive interpretation of this remarkable heritage. After a day filled with archaeology, storytelling and wonder, return to Sarlat for a relaxed evening in the medieval heart of town.
Depart Sarlat and make your way toward Cahors, with an unforgettable stop at Rocamadour along the route. Built dramatically into the cliffs above the Alzou canyon, this pilgrimage village is one of the most striking sights in Southwest France. Wander its medieval streets, visit its sanctuaries and take in the views that have captivated travelers for centuries. Continue to Cahors, a historic town wrapped by the River Lot and known for its deep, expressive Malbec wines. Visit the 14th-century Pont Valentré, a UNESCO-listed fortified bridge, before enjoying a tasting at a local vineyard. The evening is yours to relax by the river and settle into the slower pace of Lot Valley life.
Cahors is a great place for a flexible day where you can do as you wish. The old town and market are worth a visit and you can do a guided tour of the Secret Gardens of Cahors which is really interesting. The countryside around Cahors is lovely with some great views and country lanes to drive along. You can drive to the stunning village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie which is perched on the top of a cliff and is said by many to be the most beautiful village in France. For those interested in ancient history there is the prehistoric cave of Pech Merle which has huge chambers and some fantastic cave paintings. In the evening feel free to take a walk along the River Lot and find a river side restaurant where you can have dinner and you are able to sample some of the local Cahors Malbec wines.
After breakfast, drive south to Toulouse, affectionately known as La Ville Rose for the warm pink tones of its brick architecture. Once you have checked into your hotel, begin your discovery with the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of the finest Romanesque churches in Europe and a major stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Continue to the Capitole de Toulouse, the grand heart of the city, where elegant arcades, lively cafes and local shops create a welcoming first impression. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether you choose a relaxed dinner, a riverside stroll or a first taste of the city's famously convivial atmosphere.
Your final full day in France is all about savoring Toulouse at your own rhythm. Wander through the Carmes district, a stylish neighborhood of boutiques, food shops and historic streets, then make your way toward the banks of the Garonne for peaceful views across the river and the city's warm brick skyline. This is also a lovely moment for last discoveries, whether you visit a museum, explore a local market or simply enjoy the cafe culture that gives Toulouse its easy charm. In the evening, sit down for a farewell dinner and taste regional favorites such as cassoulet, a fitting final flavor of Southwest France.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and one last morning in Toulouse. Depending on your departure time, you may have a chance for a final little adventure in the city center, a bit of shopping or a relaxed coffee before returning your rental car at the airport or train station. Your Southwest France journey comes to a close with memories of vineyards, medieval villages, prehistoric wonders and warm local hospitality. Safe travels and until next time in France.
