13-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Pau traveling north to Bordeaux, La Rochelle, Nantes, Tours, and Limoges

On day 3 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bordeaux and Lormont are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bordeaux. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Place De La Bourse, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Miroir D'eau, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the art installation, make time to go to Jardin Public. This mesmerizing park is well worth the visit.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit La Cité Du Vin, a locally renowned museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bordeaux tonight.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Saint-Émilion. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Saint-Émilion is Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion, a frequently visited church that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’ve had your share of Saint-Émilion, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Château Mauvinon, an up-and-coming winery known for its enchanting features.

Set your GPS to Gradignan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 40 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gradignan beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Parc Animalier René Canivenc, an underrated zoo that everyone visiting Gradignan should see.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Soléna? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel De Sèze as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Grizzly Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Dog And Duck provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including La Rochelle. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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 La Rochelle. Your travel time is around 1 hour 56 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Musée Maritime De La Rochelle, a beloved maritime museum known for its gorgeous features. Next, continue your sightseeing at La Rochelle Aquarium, an increasingly popular aquarium.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Grosse Horloge and uncover the details of this breathtaking monument. Make sure to also explore Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, an intriguing park.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in La Rochelle, 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 dinner by heading to Mac Ewan's Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Cadre is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Le Plan B is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of La Rochelle, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, and Loix. With 1 night to stay in La Rochelle, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Fort La Prée. This instagrammable castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Abbaye Des Châteliers and learn what makes this history-steeped monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Saint-Martin-de-Ré may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Église Catholique Saint-martin and explore the culturally significant features.

Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Martin-de-Ré behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Beach Gollandières is a curiosity-inducing point of interest we recommend visiting today.

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

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

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Le Dock Café, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Mary Lili offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in La Rochelle. L'alibi 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!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in France includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Nantes. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Nantes, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Nantes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nantes beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Île De Versailles (nantes), an up-and-coming park in Nantes. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Botanical Garden. This locally renowned botanical garden is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Château Des Ducs De Bretagne is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most picture-perfect castle in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the beloved Basilique Saint-nicolas and discover what makes this church unique.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gigg's Irish Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Nantes. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider L'Aménité - Restaurant Nantes, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Parallèle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Nantes this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Le Chat Noir, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes 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!

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Pau. You’ll stay in Nantes for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the frequently visited Natural History Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cours Cambronne, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Le Grand Éléphant.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in France. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at La Cigale, 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 Bistro des Enfants Nantais, 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 L'Abbaye de Villeneuve, a hidden gem nestled in Nantes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Les Berthom, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Coffee House is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bateau-lavoir 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!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Tours. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Tours, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tours. This car ride takes around 1 hour 57 min.

Château De Villandry is a locally renowned castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Jardin Botanique De Tours, a serene botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Château De Tours, an instagrammable castle. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Tours Cathedral, an inviting and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Basilica Of St. Martin, Tours, an often recommended church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Tours is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Tours.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at TIA Gourmet, a top-rated dining spot in Tours. If you're in the mood for something new, try Les Bartavelles, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Restaurant Le Faisan. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Tours.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Cave À Vins Et À Bières Vins Sur 20, Bar Et Soirées À Thème after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Piraat Cafe Tours for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, L'alexandra is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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 1 place, which are Limoges. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limoges, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tours and set your GPS to Limoges. 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 hours 46 min. Upon reaching Limoges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Pont Saint-martial, an often recommended monument that everyone visiting Limoges should see. Next, head to Jardin Botanique De L'evêché. This romantic botanical garden is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Limoges Cathedral, a stunning church popular among locals as well as travelers. Musée National De La Porcelaine Adrien Dubouché is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this intriguing museum before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Parc Victor Thuillat, a romantic park and a top attraction in the city.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Limoges's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Le Paris, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Pont Saint Etienne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Geyracois as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Limoges.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in France.

On day 12 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Brive-la-gaillarde and Turenne are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pau, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Brive-la-gaillarde.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brive-la-gaillarde may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Brive-la-gaillarde, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Labenche Museum Of Art And History, a locally appreciated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Collégiale Saint-martin De Brive-la-gaillarde and admire its culturally significant features.

After soaking in Brive-la-gaillarde’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Turenne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Turenne, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Chateau De Turenne. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Pau. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Dine in style at m Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maynats boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Café du Passage. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Pau.

Head back to your accommodation in Pau and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in France.