13-Day France Road Trip from La Rochelle traveling north to Angouleme, Blois, Paris, Chartres, and Nantes

Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach La Rochelle and pick up your car. You’ll stay in La Rochelle for 1 night 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.

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 Grosse Horloge 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 La Rochelle. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Boussole, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Les Flots, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palem Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - La Rochelle. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Angouleme. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at Saint Saviour Church Of La Rochelle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 575 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, La Grande Roue is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 465 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in La Rochelle is La Rochelle Aquarium. Rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 6,656 travelers, this popular tourist destination in La Rochelle offers an experience you will remember.

Musée Maritime De La Rochelle is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in La Rochelle. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,865 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Angouleme, 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Les Sources de Fontbelle, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Chenonceaux, and Amboise. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Blois, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Chenonceaux and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Chenonceaux beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Chenonceau. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Chenonceaux, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 33,253 visitors.

Amboise’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Chenonceaux behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Amboise welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Château D'amboise, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable château has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,016 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Chapel Of Saint-hubert is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 444 reviews.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire in Blois by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Christophe Hay - Fleur de Loire offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Blois, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Robert-houdin House Of Magic. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,105 reviews.

Château De Blois is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,926 reviews.

Set your GPS to Chambord and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Chambord beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Château De Chambord, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable château has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,219 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Chambord, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cheverny. This drive usually takes around 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Château De Cheverny. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cheverny, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,031 visitors.

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

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.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Orléans, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

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 Orléans. Your travel time is around 52 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Statue De Jeanne D'arc. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,278 reviews.

Continue your journey at Parc Pasteur D'orléans. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,296 travelers from near and far.

Orléans is also the home of Orléans Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,178 visitors.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Kei in Paris by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Kei delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Le Pré Catelan, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and contemporary specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Épicure, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 3-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café De Paris V, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dirty Dick offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Red Door. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make La Villette your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this commune of france an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 56,497 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Sacré-cœur. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 118,527 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church building every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 11,000,000 annual visitors.

Palais Garnier is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This opera house has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,053 visitors.

When you’re finished at Palais Garnier, the perfect next stop is Place De La Concorde. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Arc De Triomphe. This triumphal arch is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 reviews. Arc De Triomphe hosts around 2,743,823 visitors every year.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

Dine in style at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Le Sens Unique boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Caveau de l'isle. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Paris.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Prescription Cocktail Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Boucan, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mamie Paris. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Make Champ De Mars one of your first sightseeing stops in Paris. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Eiffel Tower is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This lattice tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews. Up to 6,207,303 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Paris special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Tuileries Garden. This garden has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 92,172 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Musée D'orsay and find out why 3,651,616 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular art museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 71,115 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Louvre Museum. This art museum enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 local and international travelers. Approximately 2,825,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sherry Butt, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Highlander is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Le Sully also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Paris has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Paris by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This much-appreciated urban park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 94,043 reviews.

Next up is Panthéon. This mausoleum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,649 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Sainte Chapelle. This chapel has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 32,376 reviews.

Notre-dame De Paris is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 reviews. This popular attraction gets 12,000,000 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 40,461 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Paris, 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 Paris below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Guy Savoy, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Saint James Paris, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Klein Holland, known for its lively atmosphere. Tiger is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The 46 Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 9 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 Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, and Versailles. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chartres, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Paris, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt may take around 57 min. Upon your arrival in Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marie-antoinette's Estate, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,865 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Versailles, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Chartres. Your travel time is around 1 hour 7 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Grand Trianon. This maison de plaisance is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,511 reviews.

Continue your journey at Palace Of Versailles. This château is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 119,665 travelers from near and far. Approximately 4,741,758 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Versailles.

Versailles is also the home of Gardens Of Versailles. This french formal garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,133 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Chartres, 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 Chartres. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Georges, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Angers. 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 2 nights.

After soaking in Chartres’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Angers. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 9 min. When you arrive in Angers, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Angers Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,932 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Galerie David D'angers is a recommended place to visit. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 538 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 25,264 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Angers is Château D'angers. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,556 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Angers offers an experience you will remember.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Nantes by securing a reservation at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Les Cadets, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover LuluRouget, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Chat Noir, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across France promises a magnificent time exploring Nantes. You have 1 night left in Nantes. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Île De Versailles (nantes) is a great place to start. This river island is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,112 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Botanical Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,694 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This site gets more than 167,867 visitors annually. The museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,724 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Le Lieu Unique. This point of interest is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,945 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Bistro des Enfants Nantais, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le 1 offer an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, L'instinct gourmand is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Nantes.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Nantes. 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Basilique Saint-nicolas. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 998 visitors.

Natural History Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This library has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,896 visitors.

Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes is also highly recommended by travelers. This art project has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,332 visitors.

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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in La Rochelle by reserving a table at L'Hysope. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative, and modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Christopher Coutanceau, recognized for its delicious seafood, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Mary Lili, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, L'alibi offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Make the most of your final day in France by visiting La Rochelle’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in La Rochelle, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,404 visitors.

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

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

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!