5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux to La Rochelle and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through France. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bordeaux and 1 night in La Rochelle. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in France. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bordeaux, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover France on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in France. Dune Of Pilat and La Cité Du Vin are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Le Bouscat, Lormont, La Rochelle, La Teste-de-Buch, and Arcachon, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of France. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in France.
Throughout your road trip in France, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in France.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in France fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in France today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Bordeaux - arrival day
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
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- jardin public
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Your road trip adventure in France begins as soon as you reach Bordeaux and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bordeaux for 2 nights 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.
Bordeaux 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 Jardin Public 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 Bordeaux. 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 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Cent 33, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? L'Originel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Clemenceau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Brun, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Mushroom Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whose Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Bordeaux and Le Bouscat
- Bordeaux
- Le Bouscat
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Drive 11 km, 47 min
- parc bordelais
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- The big bell of Bordeaux
- Porte de Bourgogne
- Basilica of St. Michael, Bordeaux
- place de la Bourse
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Wake up to day 2 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!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bordeaux, featuring a charming, an enchanting, a picture-perfect, a standout, a monumental, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. Start at Bordeaux Cathedral, a notable church in the town. Then, head to The Big Bell Of Bordeaux and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant historical landmark.
There are many interesting places to see in Bordeaux and when you are ready for more, go to Porte De Bourgogne. This is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots. After exploring the monument, visit the underrated Basilica Of St. Michael, Bordeaux. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the well-known Place De La Bourse, a well-known public square in the town.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Le Bouscat, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to Le Bouscat may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Le Bouscat, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Parc Bordelais is a frequently visited park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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 an authentic adventure.
Make sure to book a table at L'Oiseau Bleu, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at Restaurant Soléna, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hôtel De Sèze. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bordeaux tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grizzly Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Dog And Duck offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 3 – Bordeaux, Lormont, and La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
- Lormont
- La Rochelle
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Drive 191 km, 2 hours 17 min
- place de la Bourse
- Porte Cailhau
- miroir d'eau
- Cité du Vin
- Base sous-marine
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bordeaux and Lormont. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in La Rochelle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bordeaux allows for both. Start by heading to Porte Cailhau. This worthwhile monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Miroir D'eau, a noteworthy art installation, promising a delightful encounter.
Lormont’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bordeaux behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. Lormont welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to La Cité Du Vin, a captivating museum that everyone visiting Lormont should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Betasom. This eye-catching museum is one of the most beloved attractions in the region.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of La Rochelle's best restaurants.
Make sure to book a table at La Côte Rôtie, a popular restaurant in La Rochelle. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of La Rochelle at La Boussole, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Les hédonistes. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to La Rochelle tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mac Ewan's Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Cadre is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Plan B provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 4 – La Rochelle, La Teste-de-Buch, Arcachon, and Bordeaux
- La Rochelle
- La Teste-de-Buch
- Arcachon
- Bordeaux
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 15 min
- Beach of La Hume
- Parc Mauresque
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Teste-de-Buch and Arcachon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bordeaux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Rochelle, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Teste-de-Buch may take around 2 hours 31 min. Upon your arrival in La Teste-de-Buch, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Beach Of La Hume and explore the romantic features.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Teste-de-Buch, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arcachon may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Arcachon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Parc Mauresque and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Observatoire Sainte-cécile, another highlight in the town.
Arcachon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Teste-de-Buch behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Arcachon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Dune Of Pilat is a popular sand dunes we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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 Bordeaux. Bordeaux 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Locadillos, an iconic dining spot in Bordeaux. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Le Plana, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Blind, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Casey's Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Bar À Vin for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Thecity is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in France!
Day 5 – Bordeaux - departure day
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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- Monument aux Girondins
- place de la Bourse
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Day 5 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bordeaux before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bordeaux's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bordeaux.
Savor the flavors at Le Confidentiel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Bordeaux. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in France!
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