12-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling east to Bordeaux, Sarlat La Caneda, Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Montpellier

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore La Rochelle. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Immerse yourself in La Rochelle’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This breathtaking maritime museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of La Rochelle Aquarium, a must-visit aquarium in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to La Grande Roue, a beloved amusement center. For a change of scene, check out Saint Saviour Church Of La Rochelle, known for its heritage-rich features. We also recommend visiting Bunker La Rochelle (museum). This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Saint Louis Cathedral, yet another curiosity-inducing attraction in La Rochelle.

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.

Treat yourself to a shopping spree in La Rochelle at Le Marché Central. Stroll through shops, where you can browse unique items to take home. Pick up souvenirs for your loved ones, including artisan crafts that beautifully showcase the culture of France. After shopping, explore what Le Marché Central has to offer, connecting you with locals or fellow travelers as you check out its attractions, available services, and seasonal events.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're eager to try something different, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bordeaux. 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around La Rochelle. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Jardin Public is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in La Rochelle. Next, head to Monument Aux Girondins, a locally appreciated monument, known for its breathtaking 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 Miroir D'eau. This romantic art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Place De La Bourse and Bordeaux Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Bordeaux Museum Of Fine Arts, a visually striking museum in La Rochelle.

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 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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Café Brun, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Le Mushroom Café is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Whose Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lormont has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bordeaux by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Don’t miss Rue Sainte-Catherine in Lormont today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the town’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. La Cité Du Vin is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting museum before continuing your journey. Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux is your next stop. This beloved church is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This awe-inspiring historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Parc Mauresque and Dune Of Pilat.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, 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 Restaurant Soléna, 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 Hôtel De Sèze, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grizzly Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dog And Duck offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Peyzac-le-Moustier and Montignac-Lascaux, 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 Sarlat La Caneda. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Dhagpo Kagyu Ling, a worthwhile monastery in the village. Then, head to Roque Saint-christophe and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux, and when you are ready for more, go to Lascaux. This is one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing picturesque spots of interest. After exploring the cave, visit the captivating Lascaux International Center Of Parietal Art.

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

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

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 Sarlat La Caneda, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Sarlat La Caneda, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Château De Beynac, a well-known castle in the village. Then, head to Castelnaud-la-chapelle Castle and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Sarlat La Caneda, and when you are ready for more, go to The Marqueyssac Gardens. This is one of the village’s most captivating remarkable spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the interesting Padirac Cave.

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

As you explore more of Sarlat La Caneda, 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.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Balma and Toulouse. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Toulouse, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Sarlat La Caneda is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Cité De L'espace, a worthwhile science center that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Les Abattoirs, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Pont-neuf. This monument is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Sarlat La Caneda at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Musée Des Augustins. After exploring the museum, head to the beloved Square Charles De Gaulle.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Toulouse, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Le May, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try L*Agence? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Perche Pinte as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Toulouse.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Moloko after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Botanist Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Melting Pot Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Day 8 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Toulouse. You have 1 night left in Toulouse. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Toulouse. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a museum, a church, a monastery, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Jardin Des Plantes. This is an up-and-coming botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Muséum De Toulouse, a locally appreciated museum in Toulouse.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Saint Stephen's Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Couvent Des Jacobins, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Place Saint-pierre, a picture-perfect place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Basilica Of St. Sernin to your itinerary. This popular church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Toulouse.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at La Faim des Haricots/TOULOUSE CENTRE VILLE, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Madame Bovary offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Au Pois Gourmand restaurant gastronomique. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Toulouse.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pub O'clock, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Loupiote is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Populaire provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Carcassonne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carcassonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Toulouse. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a monument, a museum, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Château Comtal. This is a curiosity-inducing castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Porte Narbonnaise, an up-and-coming monument in Toulouse.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cité De Carcassonne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Musée De L'ecole, another of the town’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Basilique Saint Nazaire, a history-steeped place of interest in the town. If time allows, add Portail Des Jacobins to your itinerary. This up-and-coming monument offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Toulouse.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Carcassonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you explore more of Carcassonne, 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.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie a 4 Temps, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, La Rapière beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Domaine d'Auriac. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Carcassonne tonight.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 10 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 Montpellier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Montpellier, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Carcassonne on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular monument, Arc De Triomphe. Afterward, continue to Jardin Des Plantes De Montpellier, a botanical garden every traveler should visit.

As you explore Carcassonne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Montpellier Cathedral. This worthwhile church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Fabre Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, an underrated park in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Comedy Square, a visually striking public square that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Montpellier. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Palavasien, a highly-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're eager to try something different, consider Les Enfants Rouges, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Tord Boyaux. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Triskell Montpellier, known for its lively atmosphere. Kraken Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Rebuffy offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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