5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Bordeaux and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of France on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through La Rochelle, Poitiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, and La Roche Sur Yon. This road trip itinerary in France seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in France takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in La Rochelle and 2 nights in Bordeaux. 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 La Rochelle, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Place De La Bourse, learn more about the unique Miroir D'eau, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jardin Public.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Poitiers, Bordeaux, Lormont, Arcachon, and La Roche Sur Yon, 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
- La Rochelle - Arrival day
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- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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Welcome to La Rochelle, the perfect starting point for your road trip in France! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in La Rochelle's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Find your way to your hotel in La Rochelle. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at La Côte Rôtie, a top-rated dining spot in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood for something new, try La Boussole, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Les hédonistes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in La Rochelle.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mac Ewan's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Cadre, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Le Plan B also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Poitiers
- Bordeaux
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Drive 429 km, 4 hours 51 min
- The machine Traveling in Time
- Dynamic Vienne
- L'Extraordinaire Voyage
- Les Lapidiales
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Poitiers and Les Goumaillauds. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
After soaking in La Rochelle’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Poitiers. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Poitiers, it's time to take a break from the road.
Next, make your way to Dynamic Vienne, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the point of interest, continue to The Extraordinary Voyage, an instagrammable amusement park.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Goumaillauds. This car ride takes around 1 hour 38 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Les Lapidiales, an often recommended sculpture garden that everyone visiting Les Goumaillauds should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
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.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Brun, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Le Mushroom Café is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whose Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 41 min
- jardin public
- miroir d'eau
- place de la Bourse
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bordeaux for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today's adventure in Bordeaux promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Jardin Public. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Miroir D'eau, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Place De La Bourse, one of the town’s most interesting attractions, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. France is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bordeaux. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at L'Oiseau Bleu, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Soléna offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hôtel De Sèze. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lila And The Barber - Café Ludique - Bar À Jeux, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Grizzly Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. The Dog And Duck is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4
- Bordeaux
- La Roche-sur-Yon
- La Rochelle
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Drive 379 km, 4 hours 12 min
- Le Jardin de la Mairie
- The Animal Place - Le Crocodile
- St Louis Church
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore La Roche Sur Yon, 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 La Rochelle. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bordeaux, you’ll hit the road in the direction of La Roche Sur Yon. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 52 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Le Jardin De La Mairie, a frequently visited park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to The Animal Place - Le Crocodile and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to St Louis Church, an up-and-coming church beloved by locals and tourists alike.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in La Rochelle. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Les Flots, a top-rated dining destination in La Rochelle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Palem Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Christopher Coutanceau. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in La Rochelle this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Le Dock Café. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Mary Lili offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook L'alibi, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 5
- La Rochelle - Departure day
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- Grosse Horloge
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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 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 your final day in France unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in La Rochelle's best shopping area, Les Minimes Marina. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to France.
Today's adventure in La Rochelle promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Grosse Horloge. This picture-perfect monument is a highlight of any visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.
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!
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