10-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to Nantes, La Rochelle, Bayonne, Pau, and Carcassonne and surrounding area

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nantes, where you'll spend 1 night.

Bordeaux Cathedral is an ideal stop early in the day. This locally renowned church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Miroir D'eau, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bordeaux on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Place De La Bourse, an interesting public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for La Cité Du Vin.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Nantes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Parallèle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Nantes.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Chat Noir, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Nantes and La Forge. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle, where will spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Le Lieu Unique and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, an eye-catching art installation that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Puy Du Fou, one of the city’s most astonishing spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at La Côte Rôtie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Boussole beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Les hédonistes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.

Keep the evening going at Mac Ewan's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Cadre, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Plan B, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in France.

On day 4 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Arcachon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bayonne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

To truly experience La Rochelle, make sure to drop by Le Quartier De La Ville D'hiver. This underrated street is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Parc Mauresque, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Observatoire Sainte-cécile, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in La Rochelle. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dune Of Pilat. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this sand dunes offers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bayonne. Bayonne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bayonne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bayonne.

Make sure to reserve a table at JANINE, an iconic dining spot in Bayonne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Josie Factory, a popular restaurant in Bayonne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Belzunce, a hidden gem nestled in Bayonne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Dame Jeanne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Des Pyrénées is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Bayonne, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Biarritz, Saint Jean De Luz, and Bayonne.

Rocher De La Vierge leaves a lasting impression. This rock formation is one of the most interesting places to visit in Bayonne. Next, head to Biarritz Aquarium, an interesting aquarium, known for its awe-inspiring 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 Fort Du Socoa. This enchanting castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Le Train De La Rhune and Caves Of Sare. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bayonne.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bayonne's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Victor Hugo, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Remy, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Grange. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Karafe is an excellent place to start.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Lourdes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Pau, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes. This majestic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary and learn what makes this culturally significant church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Basilica Of St. Pius X. After exploring the minor basilica, head to Grottes De Bétharram. This worthwhile cave system is a highlight in Bayonne.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Pau's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Henri IV, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Garage? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Au Fin Gourmet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Pau.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Snug, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Winfield Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Galway, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Aspin-en-Lavedan, Lourdes, and Gez. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carcassonne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Funiculaire Du Pic Du Jer brings Pau's character to life. This romantic tramway is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Pont D'espagne, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, one of the village’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its picturesque features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top-rated dining destination in Carcassonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Rapière, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Domaine d'Auriac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Carcassonne this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Carcassonne, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Nimes is brimming with adventures.

Awaiting your discovery is the captivating Jardin De La Fontaine, a grand park in Carcassonne. Next, go to Château Comtal.

After visiting Jardin De La Fontaine and Château Comtal, have a stroll along Carcassonne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Basilique Saint Nazaire. This enchanting church offers a unique experience. Cité De Carcassonne is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Carcassonne and your accommodation.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Carcassonne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at V and B Carcassonne, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Auberge des Lices boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Adélaïde. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Carcassonne.

Head back to your accommodation in Carcassonne and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Toulouse and Blagnac. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bordeaux, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Jardin Des Plantes is always a good idea. This up-and-coming botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the peaceful wonders of Grand Rond, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Basilica Of St. Sernin. This well-known church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Musée Aeroscopia, where you can take in photogenic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bordeaux. Bordeaux offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Soléna, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hôtel De Sèze. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Grizzly Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Dog And Duck is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.