7-day itinerary Central France

Hello. Keep in mind that it's February, and your trip will take place partly in the Massif Central, a mountainous region that can get cold in winter, sometimes with snow. Personally, I think it would be better to visit mountainous areas rather than Clermont-Ferrand. Because of the ski resorts, there will be plenty of activity. For example, Murat/Le Lioran in the Cantal region, or the Mont Dore area (an ancient volcano) where there are several interesting historic towns, such as Mont Dore and Besse-en-Chandesse. Alternatively, you could also visit Sarlat in the Dordogne Valley.

Given the route you might take through central France, keep in mind that in February the "Mountain Law" applies in mountainous regions. If you are driving a car, it is mandatory to have snow tires, or snow socks/chains in your vehicle.

This requirement applies until the end of March, regardless of the weather, throughout the entire Haute-Loire and Cantal departments (shown in dark blue on the map below), and partially on some roads in other departments (shown in light blue on the map). These areas may be on your route.

https://www.loimontagne.info/carte

I would also tend to recommend central France, but in February, if you don't have the necessary equipment and want to avoid the risks of snow, ice, or fog, it would be better to take the coast via Narbonne and Montpellier, where there are quite a few nice places to stop overnight.

Montauban is a nice town to stay in for a few hours when the weather is good, but in February it won't offer you much.

It's worth noting that there's a TER regional train line from Toulouse to Clermont-Ferrand, which runs through the Massif Central and serves Villefranche-de-Rouergue, Figeac/Capdenac (two interesting historical towns), as well as the Lioran ski resort and, a little further on, Murat. It's very slow, but the scenery is lovely, especially in the Cantal region. You can also take the train from Clermont-Ferrand to Mont-Dore. During the February school holidays, it's advisable to book well in advance in some places, as the resorts get very crowded.

I have zero experience visiting France in the winter or driving there at any time of the year, but I liked both Limoges (side trip to WWII memorial/museum at Oradour-sur-Glane recommended) and Figeac among the suggestions you've received. Being carless, I spent most of my Dordogne/Lot time in towns rather than rural areas. I liked Bergerac, Brive-la-Gaillarde and Cahors also.

Thanks everyone for the great feedback!