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

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

Basilica Of St. Sernin makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned church is a historic place to see in Toulouse. Continue your discovery at Couvent Des Jacobins, a historic monastery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Toulouse, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pont-neuf. This up-and-coming monument offers a romantic encounter with Toulouse. Next, make your way to Jardin Des Plantes to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Grand Rond, an increasingly popular park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Toulouse.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Pau, 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 Pau. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Pau by booking a table at Jumo & Co. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Garage, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Snug, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Winfield Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Galway provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Lourdes and Gez. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bordeaux, where you'll spend 3 nights.

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

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sanctuary Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, an underrated church that everyone visiting Lourdes should see. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This culturally significant church is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Gez and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gez beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, an often recommended zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Bordeaux is La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Brun stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Mushroom Café offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Whose Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Bordeaux and Lormont.

Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Let Jardin Public set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. Monument Aux Girondins is your next stop. This up-and-coming monument is one of the best-rated sights in Bordeaux.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Place De La Bourse. This history-steeped public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miroir D'eau.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is La Cité Du Vin. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Oiseau Bleu, a highly-rated dining destination in Bordeaux. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Soléna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hôtel De Sèze. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bordeaux this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, known for its lively atmosphere. The Grizzly Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Dog And Duck offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in France. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bordeaux and Arcachon. With 1 night to stay in Bordeaux, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Rue Sainte-Catherine is a fantastic place you can explore today in Bordeaux. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Bordeaux-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

The Big Bell Of Bordeaux brings Bordeaux's character to life. This historic historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée D'aquitaine Tram Stop, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Bordeaux Cathedral, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its inviting features.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Dune Of Pilat and explore the romantic features.

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

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 delicious dinner at Locadillos, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Le Plana offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Blind. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Casey's Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Bar À Vin is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Thecity is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Rochefort, Le Château-d'Oléron, and Le Grand-Village-Plage. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bordeaux and set your GPS to Rochefort. 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 56 min. Upon reaching Rochefort, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Lighthouse Of La Coubre and explore the breathtaking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rochefort and set your GPS to Le Château-d'Oléron. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Le Château-d'Oléron, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Château-d'Oléron is Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron, an increasingly popular castle that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Le Grand-Village-Plage. This drive usually takes around 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Le Port Des Salines and explore the picturesque features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in La Rochelle. 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 La Rochelle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a harmony of flavors at L'Hysope in La Rochelle by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, L'Hysope offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Christopher Coutanceau, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing seafood and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mac Ewan's Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Cadre for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Le Plan B is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Les Sables D'olonne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nantes, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of La Rochelle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Les Sables D'olonne. Your travel time is around 1 hour 36 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc Zoologique Des Sables D'olonnes. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to L'île Penotte. This underrated street art is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Hospital Blockhouse Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum.

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.

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 Nantes, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Nantes by reserving a table at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Les Cadets, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore LuluRouget, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Keep the evening going at Le Chat Noir, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

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

Enjoy all that Île De Versailles (nantes) has to offer. This is a beloved park you should not miss. Another must-see is Botanical Garden, a notable botanical garden in Nantes.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Le Lieu Unique, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

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.

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Les Berthom, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Coffee House is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bateau-lavoir is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!

On day 10 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Tours and Amboise are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Orléans, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day at Jardin Botanique De Tours. This romantic botanical garden is a locally appreciated place to see in Tours. Then, wander over to Château De Villandry. If visually striking sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Amboise, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Loches to Amboise may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amboise, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Château D'amboise, a locally renowned château that draws visitors from near and far.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Orléans by securing a reservation at L'Hibiscus. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try La Table, renowned for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Lièvre Gourmand, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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