6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bordeaux traveling north to La Rochelle

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Explore the best of France on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bordeaux, Lormont, La Rochelle, Rochefort, Le Château-d'Oléron, Nantes, 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 Bordeaux and 3 nights 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 Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes 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 Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chassiron Lighthouse.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bordeaux, Lormont, La Rochelle, Rochefort, Le Château-d'Oléron, Nantes, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Monument aux Girondins
Bordeaux Cathedralplace de la Boursemiroir d'eauCité du Vin
Place ColbertAssociation Hermione La FayetteCitadelle du Château-d'OléronFort Boyard
Machines of the Isle of NantesChâteau des ducs de BretagneBotanical Garden
Parc MauresqueÉglise Notre-Dame-des-Passes d'ArcachonDune of Pilat
jardin public

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bordeaux - Arrival day
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  • Monument aux Girondins
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Say hello to Bordeaux! Your exciting road trip through France is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bordeaux for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Monument Aux Girondins or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bordeaux. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Bordeaux, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Le Cent 33, 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 L'Originel, 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 Le Clemenceau, a hidden gem nestled in Bordeaux. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Brun, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mushroom Café provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whose Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bordeaux
  • Lormont
  • La Rochelle
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Drive 189 km, 2 hours 25 min

  • Bordeaux Cathedral
  • place de la Bourse
  • miroir d'eau
  • Cité du Vin
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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 Bordeaux and Lormont. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bordeaux today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Bordeaux Cathedral. This history-steeped church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Place De La Bourse and learn what makes this majestic public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Miroir D'eau.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lormont, 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 Lormont may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lormont, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

La Cité Du Vin is a popular museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in La Rochelle by securing a reservation at L'Hysope. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Christopher Coutanceau, celebrated for its delectable seafood and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Keep the evening going at Mac Ewan's Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Le Cadre, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Le Plan B, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • La Rochelle
  • Rochefort
  • Le Château-d'Oléron
  • More

Drive 209 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Place Colbert
  • Association Hermione La Fayette
  • Citadelle du Château-d'Oléron
  • Fort Boyard
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in La Rochelle, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

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: Rochefort. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Rochefort, it's time to take a break from the road.

Place Colbert is a frequently visited public square we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Association Hermione La Fayette, an eye-catching historic ship that’s well-regarded in the area.

When you arrive in Le Château-d'Oléron, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Rochefort’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of La Rochelle behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Rochefort welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Fort Boyard and explore the awe-inspiring features.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Les Flots, 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 Palem Café, 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 Christopher Coutanceau, 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Dock Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Le Mary Lili provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, L'alibi offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • La Rochelle
  • Nantes
  • More

Drive 277 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Machines of the Isle of Nantes
  • Château des ducs de Bretagne
  • Botanical Garden
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in La Rochelle, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to La Rochelle for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nantes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nantes, 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 La Rochelle to Nantes may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nantes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes, a captivating art installation known for its instagrammable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne, a well-known castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Botanical Garden and uncover the details of this majestic botanical garden.

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

As you explore more of La Rochelle, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Plage, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Les copains d'abord is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in La Rochelle.

Keep the evening going at Le Saint-nicolas Hôtel La Rochelle, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Académie De La Bière, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Lili La Rochelle, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • La Rochelle
  • Arcachon
  • Bordeaux
  • More

Drive 330 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Parc Mauresque
  • Église Notre-Dame-des-Passes d'Arcachon
  • Dune of Pilat
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Arcachon, 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 Bordeaux. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make your way to Parc Mauresque, a locally appreciated park that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Église Notre-dame-des-passes D'arcachon, a history-steeped church that stands out in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arcachon. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dune Of Pilat. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the sand dunes before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bordeaux by booking a table at Ressources, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Bordeaux. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bordeaux - Departure day
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  • jardin public
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Day 6 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

Start by visiting Jardin Public, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing park is sure to impress.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Le Plana, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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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