12-Day France Road Trip from Bordeaux traveling west to Nantes, Saint-Malo, Vannes, and La Rochelle

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 6 nights 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.

Bordeaux 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 Monument aux Girondins or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bordeaux. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 delicious meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Le Plana, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Confidentiel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Brun. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Bar à Vin offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in France!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bordeaux for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Drop by the renowned miroir d'eau. This popular reflecting pool has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,462 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is place de la Bourse. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to place du Parlement. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,489 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is The big bell of Bordeaux. This bell tower and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,871 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,662 travelers, this tram stop is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Bordeaux.

You can learn more about Bordeaux today by going on a tour. Bordeaux offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bordeaux.

Have a fantastic dining experience at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans) offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chez Dupont is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Comtesse. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Cock And Bull offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Merignac. You have 4 nights left in Merignac. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Make jardin public one of your first sightseeing stops in Bordeaux. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,341 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in France that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Merignac has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in France by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Le Pavillon des Boulevards, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sherlock Holmes Pub, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of suzzi, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Houses Of Parliament is an excellent place to start. You could also check out VINTAGE BAR - Rhumerie & Pub, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bordeaux. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux. This extraordinary church building has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,684 visitors.

Next, make your way to Porte de Bourgogne. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,953 reviews.

While in Bordeaux, we also recommend a visit to Porte Cailhau. This city gate has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,609 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Tour Pey-Berland. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,070 travelers, this tower is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Bordeaux.

Make your way to Bordeaux Cathedral, perhaps the most famous catholic cathedral in Bordeaux. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,591 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Bordeaux, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Bordeaux below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Molly Malone's, a top-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Melodie, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at ROCKWOOD - Good place & Good taste. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Bordeaux and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bordeaux, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Andernos-les-Bains’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. Andernos-les-Bains welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Church St Eloi. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 825 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Andernos-les-Bains and set your GPS to La Teste-de-Buch. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 46 min. Upon reaching La Teste-de-Buch, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Beach of La Hume is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,788 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to La Teste-de-Buch, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 16 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Parc Mauresque. This english garden is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,892 reviews.

Continue your journey at Observatoire Sainte-Cécile. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,811 travelers from near and far.

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

As you explore more of Bordeaux, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to reserve a table at A Cantina Comptoir Corse, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le 7 Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Books & Coffee, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in France. With 1 night left in Bordeaux, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Biarritz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Biarritz beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Rocher de la vierge is a great place to start. This rock is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,700 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Biarritz Aquarium. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,072 travelers.

Saint Jean De Luz’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Biarritz behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Saint Jean De Luz welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fort du Socoa. Previous visitors have rated this fortress an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,851 reviews.

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

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 La P'tite Brasserie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Connemara boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chai Les Copains. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Nantes. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bordeaux, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nantes may take around 3 hours 21 min. Upon your arrival in Nantes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Machines of the Isle of Nantes. This art project is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,332 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Le Lieu Unique. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,945 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Botanical Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Château des ducs de Bretagne. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 visitors. Visiting Château des ducs de Bretagne means you'll be one of 167,867 people who do so every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nantes, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nantes. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Gigg's Irish Pub, a popular restaurant in Nantes. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Nantes at Le 1, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is L'instinct gourmand. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Nantes tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Chat noir. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Oceania Hôtel de France Nantes offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Ducey, Le Mont-Saint-Michel, La Ville Huchet, and Saint-Malo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Saint-Malo, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Nantes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ducey. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 55 min. When you arrive in Ducey, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Château des Montgommery, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 395 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Ducey, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Mont-Saint-Michel. Your travel time is around 30 min.

Kick off the day at Le Mont-Saint-Michel, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This commune of france is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 87,688 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Saint-Malo, 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 Saint-Malo.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Home Burger - Saint-Malo Intra Muros, a top-rated dining spot in Saint-Malo. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bergamote, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les Embruns. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Saint-Malo.

Continue your lively evening at Saint Patrick, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Hôtel Oceania Saint-Malo is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Dinan, Le Ménec, Kervozès, and Kerzerho. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vannes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Saint-Malo and set your GPS to Dinan. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 37 min. Upon reaching Dinan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Basilique Saint-Sauveur, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,242 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dinan, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Ménec may take around 2 hours. Upon your arrival in Le Ménec, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Carnac stones. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 15,035 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Vannes. Vannes offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Vannes's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Piano Barge, an excellent option for tonight's dining. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Vannes.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Vannes, Suscinio, and Bois Charmé. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in La Rochelle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Remparts de Vannes. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,952 visitors.

Suscinio’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vannes behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Suscinio welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Suscinio Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,549 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to La Rochelle, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of La Rochelle, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at La Boussole, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Les Flots is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Palem Café. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in La Rochelle tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Mac Ewan's Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Plan B offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Le Dock Café. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Rochefort, Le Château-d'Oléron, and La Conche, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rochefort. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pont Transbordeur. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,311 visitors.

Set your GPS to Le Château-d'Oléron and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Le Château-d'Oléron beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Citadelle du Château-d'Oléron, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 7,363 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at L'Autre Petit Bois, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ô p'tit Bahut? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le K Baroque as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!

Day 12 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Bordeaux’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of France. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of France forever.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Porte Dijeaux. This city gate is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bordeaux, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,628 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Symbiose, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. 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!