13-Day France Road Trip from La Rochelle to Bordeaux, Nantes, Vannes, Lorient, Rennes, and Tours and surrounding area

Say hello to La Rochelle! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in La Rochelle for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 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 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 Boussole, 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 Restaurant Les Flots, 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 Palem Café, 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Mac Ewan's Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Plan B, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Dock Café provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in France!

On day 2 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 La Rochelle. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bunker La Rochelle (Museum). This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,071 reviews.

Next up, make your way to La Rochelle Aquarium. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 6,656 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Musée maritime de La Rochelle. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,865 visitors.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Brun, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Bar à Vin, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, La Comtesse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bordeaux for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bordeaux and Lormont to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Take the opportunity to see Bordeaux Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,591 visitors.

Place de la Bourse is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,251 travelers.

Bordeaux is also the home of miroir d'eau. Around 14,462 people have rated this reflecting pool an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is jardin public. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,341 reviews, a visit to this urban park is a great idea.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Lormont. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Lormont, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned La Cité du Vin. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 21,487 visitors.

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

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

Dine in style at JAQEN CRAFT BEER, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Comptoir Des Chats (enfants à partir de 10 ans) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Chez Dupont. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Cock And Bull, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Houses Of Parliament is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, VINTAGE BAR - Rhumerie & Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 4 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!

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Anglet. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 14 min. When you arrive in Anglet, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Chambre D'Amour Playground. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,662 visitors.

Set your GPS to Biarritz and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Biarritz beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Rocher de la vierge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable rock has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,700 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Biarritz Aquarium is a recommended place to visit. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,072 reviews.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Sherlock Holmes Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, suzzi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Molly Malone's is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bordeaux.

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.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, La Petite Malbrande and Les Sables D'olonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nantes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: La Petite Malbrande. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 11 min. When you arrive in La Petite Malbrande, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Automobile Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in La Petite Malbrande. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,104 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Take the opportunity to see Museum of Shell. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,127 visitors.

L'île Penotte is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,180 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nantes. Nantes 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.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le 1 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L'instinct gourmand. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Nantes tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Le Chat noir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Oceania Hôtel de France Nantes is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Nantes. You’ll stay in Nantes for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Île de Versailles (Nantes), a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This river island is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Botanical Garden. Botanical Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 reviews.

Château des ducs de Bretagne is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 visitors. In a single year, this museum hosts approximately 167,867 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Machines of the Isle of Nantes. This art project is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 33,332 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on parc de Procé, a famous urban park in Nantes. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,256 travelers.

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 Nantes 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 Nantes. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Les BerThoM, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Coffee House offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Nantes. Bateau-Lavoir is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Batz-sur-Mer, Le Rohello, Guérande, and La Madeleine. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vannes, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Batz-sur-Mer and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Batz-sur-Mer beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Grand blockhaus. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Batz-sur-Mer, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,095 visitors.

After soaking in Batz-sur-Mer’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Le Rohello. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Le Rohello, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Océarium Croisic. This popular aquarium has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,623 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Piano Barge, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Vannes, Suscinio, Bois Charmé, and Le Bono, 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 Lorient. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Remparts de Vannes. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,952 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vannes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Suscinio. This drive usually takes around 30 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Suscinio Castle, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,549 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lorient, 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 Lorient's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Jardin Gourmand, a highly-rated dining destination in Lorient. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant le Taj-Mahal Lorient, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Galway Inn. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lorient this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting India Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

Greet day 9 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Lorient for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kerfezec, Guilvinec, Quimper, and Concarneau.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kerfezec. This car ride takes around 1 hour 17 min.

Take the opportunity to see Penmarc'h Lighthouse. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,247 visitors and gets around 53,351 visits every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Guilvinec. This car ride takes around 16 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Haliotika - City of Fisheries. This interpretation centre is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Guilvinec, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,437 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Guilvinec, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Quimper. Your travel time is around 34 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Saint Corentin Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,909 reviews.

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

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

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 4 vibrant destinations - Lorient, Locmiquélic, Le Ménec, and Sainte-Anne-d'Auray. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rennes. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cité de la voile Éric Tabarly. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,002 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lorient and set your GPS to Locmiquélic. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Locmiquélic, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Keroman Submarine Base. This submarine base is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,812 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Rennes. Rennes 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fuji Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, La Réserve offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bar À Cocktails Le Irish Pub Shamrock is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rennes.

Keep the evening going at La Cité d'Ys, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to L'Annexe, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tiffany's Pub Rennes, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

On day 11 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 Rennes. In the evening, you’ll end up in Tours, where you will stay for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cathedral Saint-Pierre de Rennes. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,087 reviews.

Continue your journey at Museum of Fine Arts of Rennes. This art museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,829 travelers from near and far. Approximately 55,897 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Rennes.

Rennes is also the home of parc du Thabor. This urban park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,132 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Parc des Gayeulles. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,176 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining destination in Tours. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Au Fût et à mesure, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Bistrot Restaurant Le Vieux Mûrier. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tours this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Cave à Vins et à Bières Vins sur 20, Bar et soirées à thème is an excellent place to start. You could also check out PIRAAT CAFE TOURS, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is L'Alexandra. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Tours and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Amboise and Chenonceaux. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tours, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Amboise may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Amboise, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Château d'Amboise. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,016 visitors.

When you’re finished at Château d'Amboise, head to Château du Clos Lucé. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 19,292 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Amboise, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chenonceaux may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Chenonceaux, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Château de Chenonceau your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,253 reviews.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Christopher Coutanceau, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Chat’Ren’Thé - CatCoffee & Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in La Rochelle.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Mary Lili stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, L'Alibi offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Saint-Nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle 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 13 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.

As you approach the end of your journey in France, take a moment for some retail therapy in La Rochelle’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of France, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of France with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Make Grosse Horloge one of your first sightseeing stops in La Rochelle. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 441 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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!