13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bayonne traveling east to Bordeaux, Blois, Paris, Angers, and La Rochelle
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Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 13-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bayonne, Biarritz, Bordeaux, Tours, Blois, Talcy, Paris, Versailles, Angers, Maulévrier, and La Rochelle. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Bayonne, 1 night in Bordeaux, 4 nights in Blois, 3 nights in Paris, 1 night in Angers, and 1 night in La Rochelle. 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 Bayonne, 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. Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bayonne, Biarritz, Bordeaux, Tours, Blois, Talcy, Paris, Versailles, Angers, Maulévrier, and La Rochelle, 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 – Bayonne - arrival day
- Bayonne - Arrival day
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Welcome to Bayonne, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bayonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bayonne is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bayonne. 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 town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bayonne. 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 JANINE, a highly-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dame Jeanne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Café Des Pyrénées for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Kubata & Kukubat is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Bayonne, Biarritz, and Bordeaux
- Bayonne
- Biarritz
- Bordeaux
- More
Drive 252 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Bayonne Cathedral
- Rocher de la vierge
- Biarritz Aquarium
- More
On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bayonne and Biarritz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Bayonne Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Biarritz.
Your self-guided tour starts at Rocher De La Vierge, a captivating rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Biarritz Aquarium and admire its breathtaking features.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Brun after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whose Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Tours, and Blois
- Bordeaux
- Tours
- Blois
- More
Drive 447 km, 4 hours 42 min
- Château de Villandry
- Jardin botanique de Tours
- Cathédrale Saint-Gatien
- place de la Bourse
- More
Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Tours, 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 Blois. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.
Today's adventure in Bordeaux promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Place De La Bourse. This enchanting public square is a highlight of any visit in the city.
When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tours. Your travel time is around 3 hours 23 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Château De Villandry, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Jardin Botanique De Tours, where you can soak in the mesmerizing surroundings. Next, explore Tours Cathedral, yet another beloved place to see in the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Blois. Blois offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blois. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Relais de la Tour, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner.
Say good night to Blois and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Blois
- Blois
- More
Drive 2 km, 13 min
- Bishopric Rose Garden
- Château de Blois
- More
On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Blois. You’ll stay in Blois for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Start by visiting Jacques-gabriel Bridge, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Natural History Museum, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated museum renowned for its photogenic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Blois by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bishopric Rose Garden. This romantic botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Château De Blois also adds charm to your journey.
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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Blois. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cote Loire Auberge Ligerienne, a top-rated dining destination in Blois.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Blois and Talcy
- Blois
- Talcy
- More
Drive 114 km, 2 hours 12 min
- Château de Talcy
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Trinity
- Château de Blois
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Blois, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Start your day at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Trinity. This stunning church is an increasingly popular place to see in Blois.
When you’ve had your share of Blois, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Talcy. Your travel time is around 29 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Château De Talcy, an often recommended castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Blois.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Blois. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Say good night to Blois and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 6 – Blois
- Blois
- More
Drive 38 km, 51 min
- Blois Cathedral
- Château de Blois
- More
Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Blois has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Blois by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.
Discover a day packed with a romantic, a breathtaking, a visually striking, a historic, an inviting, and a majestic in Blois. Begin your sightseeing with Blois Cathedral. This intriguing church is one of the top attractions in the town.
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 you explore more of Blois, 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 7 – Blois and Paris
- Blois
- Paris
- More
Drive 195 km, 2 hours 32 min
- Vincennes Woods
- Jardin des plantes
- Panthéon
- Sainte Chapelle
- Notre-Dame de Paris
- Château de Blois
- More
On day 7 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 Paris. In the evening, you’ll end up in Paris, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Paris, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Blois to Paris may take around 2 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Begin your journey at Bois De Vincennes and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the botanical garden, continue to Panthéon, a picture-perfect monument. Nearby, you will also find Sainte Chapelle. This captivating church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Notre-dame De Paris, a romantic church that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Paris. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Paris, 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.
Dine in style at Mumi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out L'Imprévu Café. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café De Paris V. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dirty Dick, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Red Door provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 8 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 28 km, 1 hour 24 min
- La Villette
- parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Sacré-Cœur
- Palais Garnier
- Louvre Museum
- More
Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Paris for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Set out on a day brimming with an enchanting, an instagrammable, a charming, a serene, a heritage-rich, a monumental, and a symbolic. Start at the astonishing La Villette, an eye-catching park in Paris. Next, go to Parc Des Buttes-chaumont.
After visiting La Villette and Parc Des Buttes-chaumont, take time to explore Paris's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Sacré-cœur. This history-steeped church offers a unique experience. Palais Garnier is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Louvre Museum, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Paris.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Paris. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Boucan offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Paris. Mamie Paris is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in France.
Day 9 – Paris
- Paris
- More
Drive 8 km, 33 min
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Musée d'Orsay
- Pont Alexandre III
- place de la Concorde
- Tuileries Garden
- Louvre Museum
- More
Day 9 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Paris. You have 1 night left in Paris. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with a charming, an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a historic, a noteworthy, and a grand in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Jardin Du Luxembourg, an impressive local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Musée D'orsay. This astonishing museum is known for its respected appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Paris's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Pont Alexandre Iii. This majestic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Place De La Concorde is also worth visiting, along with Tuileries Garden. 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Paris's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at The Harp Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Bistro des Augustins boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Petit Châtelet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, 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.
Day 10 – Paris, Versailles, and Angers
- Paris
- Versailles
- Angers
- More
Drive 323 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palace of Versailles
- Louvre Museum
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Paris and Versailles. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Angers, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park and a monument. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Champ De Mars. Just a short distance away is Eiffel Tower, a majestic monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Arc De Triomphe, one of the city’s most globally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.
After soaking in Paris’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Versailles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Versailles, it's time to take a break from the road.
Palace Of Versailles is an iconic palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its grand features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Angers, 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 Angers. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Wallaby's Australian Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Angers. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Cour - Angers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brasserie de la Gare. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Angers this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Flo Cocktail, Beer, Spirits & Music, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Snooker is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Velenjak provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 11 – Angers, Maulévrier, and La Rochelle
- Angers
- Maulévrier
- La Rochelle
- More
Drive 213 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Angers Cathedral
- Château d'Angers
- Jardin des Plantes d'Angers
- Parc Oriental de Maulévrier
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Angers and Maulévrier. 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Angers. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a castle, a park, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Angers Cathedral. This is a worthwhile church you should not miss. Another must-see is Château D'angers, a popular castle in Angers.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Balzac Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Jardin Des Plantes D'angers, another of the city’s beloved attractions.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Angers, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Maulévrier. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Oriental De Maulévrier. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in La Rochelle. La Rochelle offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in La Rochelle. 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 reserve a table at La Côte Rôtie, an iconic dining spot in La Rochelle. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of La Boussole, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Les hédonistes, a hidden gem nestled in La Rochelle. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mac Ewan's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Plan B is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 12 – La Rochelle, Bordeaux, and Bayonne
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
- Bayonne
- More
Drive 370 km, 4 hours 23 min
- jardin public
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- More
On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bordeaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bayonne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to La Rochelle and set your GPS to Bordeaux. 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 1 hour 55 min. Upon reaching Bordeaux, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Jardin Public, a notable park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Miroir D'eau and admire its romantic features. When you’re ready, continue to Bordeaux Cathedral, a well-known church beloved by locals and tourists alike.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bayonne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bayonne's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Victor Hugo, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Remy is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant La Grange. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bayonne tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Karafe, known for its lively atmosphere.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 13 – Bayonne - departure day
- Bayonne - Departure day
- More
Day 13 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bayonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bayonne's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bayonne.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Kalostrape, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Verbena Les Halles offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bayonne. 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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