5-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle traveling south to Perigueux and Bordeaux

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Bags included
Hotel
Select dates to customize hotels
Car rental
Customize
Tours & tickets
Customize
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

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, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Rocamadour, Bordeaux, Lormont, and Arcachon. 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, 1 night in Perigueux, and 1 night 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 Padirac Cave are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable La Cité Du Vin, learn more about the unique Place De La Bourse, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Miroir D'eau.

As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Perigueux, Padirac, Rocamadour, Bordeaux, Lormont, 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
Musée maritime de La RochelleLa Rochelle AquariumMonolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
Railway Tourist Haut QuercyPadirac CaveMonkey Forest
place de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du VinDune of Pilat
Grosse Horloge

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • La Rochelle - Arrival day
  • More
  • Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
  • More

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 Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle, or just 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.

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 Cadre is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Le Plan B ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in France!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • La Rochelle
  • Périgueux
  • More

Drive 308 km, 3 hours 46 min

  • Musée maritime de La Rochelle
  • La Rochelle Aquarium
  • Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in France. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Perigueux, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in La Rochelle, including a maritime museum, an aquarium, and a church. Start your adventure at Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This worthwhile maritime museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to La Rochelle Aquarium located in La Rochelle for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion. Its breathtaking features will captivate you.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Perigueux, 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 Perigueux, 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.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Périgueux
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 399 km, 4 hours 52 min

  • Railway Tourist Haut Quercy
  • Padirac Cave
  • Monkey Forest
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Padirac and Rocamadour. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bordeaux, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Perigueux is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Railway Tourist Haut Quercy, an intriguing heritage railway that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Padirac Cave, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Monkey Forest. This wildlife reserve is one of the village’s most worthwhile spots.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bordeaux. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Cent 33, a popular restaurant in Bordeaux. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bordeaux at L'Originel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Clemenceau. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bordeaux tonight.

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

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Bordeaux
  • La Rochelle
  • More

Drive 338 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux, Lormont, and Arcachon. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the popular Place De La Bourse, an enchanting public square in Bordeaux. Next, go to Miroir D'eau.

After visiting Place De La Bourse and Miroir D'eau, take time to explore Bordeaux's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to La Cité Du Vin. This romantic museum offers a unique experience. Dune Of Pilat is another noteworthy stop.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Les Flots, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Palem Café offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Christopher Coutanceau is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in La Rochelle.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Le Dock Café offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mary Lili is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. L'alibi is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • La Rochelle - Departure day
  • More
  • Grosse Horloge
  • More

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Grosse Horloge. This worthwhile monument is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at La Rochelle’s popular marketplace, Le Marché Central. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Plage, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ is another top choice with a popular 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in France

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.