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Should we plan time in Bordeaux? Or redirect to Albi and Carcassonne?

We will have three weeks for independent travel in France in May. We plan about one week in Paris followed by a week in Sarlat. For the remaining time, we are considering venturing further south (perhaps to Albi and Carcassonne) or spending some time in Bordeaux and surrounding area. I note that Rick Steves does not cover Bordeaux in his latest France guidebook and am wondering if it's a worthwhile stop for a few nights. Any suggestions?

Posted by
527 posts

It's been several years but I think the question is how much you are into wine. We are and made reservations at top wineries in Bordeaux and St Emillion. I have never been to Albi and we only visited the castle in Carcassonne and a small winery. Loved Sarlat.

Posted by
3150 posts

For me Carcassonne was a long stop over, but not an overnight, between the back door town of Cucugnan and Albi. We spent three nights in Albi and enjoyed the time there. For me the highlight was taking most of a day driving leisurely to the bastide towns to the west. The lunch we had in the town of Puycelci was remarkable. We dined at the restaurant that is part of L’Ancienne Auberge.