5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Bordeaux and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in France as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like La Rochelle, Poitiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, and La Roche Sur Yon.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in La Rochelle and 2 nights in Bordeaux. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in La Rochelle, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Dune Of Pilat and La Cité Du Vin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Miroir D'eau, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin Public.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Poitiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, and La Roche Sur Yon, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
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Day 1
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
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- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach La Rochelle and pick up your car. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
La Rochelle is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in La Rochelle. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in La Rochelle, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Boussole, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Les hédonistes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Mac Ewan's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Cadre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Plan B ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
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Drive 429 km, 4 hours 51 min
- The machine Traveling in Time
- Dynamic Vienne
- L'Extraordinaire Voyage
- Les Lapidiales
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Poitiers and Les Goumaillauds. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today's adventure in La Rochelle promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at The Machine Traveling In Time. Next, head over to The Extraordinary Voyage, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its visually striking features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Les Lapidiales. This detailed sculpture garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Le Cent 33, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Originel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Clemenceau. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Cité du Vin
- jardin public
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Dune of Pilat
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lormont. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming town of Bordeaux. Your adventure starts at La Cité Du Vin, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Jardin Public. This captivating park is known for its instagrammable appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bordeaux's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Miroir D'eau. This noteworthy art installation offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Place De La Bourse is also worth visiting, along with Dune Of Pilat. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bordeaux. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Soléna is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hôtel De Sèze. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.
Keep the evening going at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Grizzly Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Dog And Duck, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- La Rochelle
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Drive 379 km, 4 hours 12 min
- Le Jardin de la Mairie
- The Animal Place - Le Crocodile
- St Louis Church
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Roche Sur Yon, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bordeaux. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Le Jardin De La Mairie is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most underrated places to visit in Bordeaux. Next, head to The Animal Place - Le Crocodile, a frequently visited zoo, known for its picture-perfect features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to St Louis Church. This standout church is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to La Rochelle, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Les Flots, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Palem Café beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Christopher Coutanceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Dock Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mary Lili is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, L'alibi also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Say good night to La Rochelle and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- La Rochelle - Departure day
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- Grosse Horloge
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Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of La Rochelle before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Grosse Horloge, a historic monument before you head out.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at La Rochelle’s popular marketplace, Les Minimes Marina. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.
You’ll then say farewell to La Rochelle. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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