6-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from La Rochelle to Bordeaux, Niort, and Nantes and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, Lormont, Niort, Vouvant, Pouzauges, and Nantes. 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 Bordeaux, 1 night in Niort, and 1 night in Nantes. 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. Puy Du Fou 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 Place De La Bourse.
As you hit the open road and drive through La Rochelle, Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux, Lormont, Niort, Vouvant, Pouzauges, and Nantes, 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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- Grosse Horloge
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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 Grosse Horloge, or just 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 La Rochelle. 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. 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.
Dine in style at La Côte Rôtie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Boussole boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Les hédonistes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in La Rochelle.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mac Ewan's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Cadre offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Plan B is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in France!
Day 2
- La Rochelle
- Bordeaux
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Musée maritime de La Rochelle
- La Rochelle Aquarium
- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
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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 La Rochelle and Saint-Émilion. 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in La Rochelle today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Musée Maritime De La Rochelle. This instagrammable maritime museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to La Rochelle Aquarium and learn what makes this photogenic aquarium unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Monolithic Church Of Saint-emilion.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bordeaux's best restaurants.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bordeaux by reserving a table at Ressources. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bordeaux.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Brun offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Mushroom Café is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Whose Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!
Day 3
- Bordeaux
- Niort
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Drive 189 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Bordeaux Cathedral
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- jardin public
- Cité du Vin
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On day 3 of your road trip in France, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Bordeaux and Lormont. In the evening, you’ll end up in Niort, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bordeaux, including a church, a public square, an art installation, a park, a museum and much more! Start your day at Bordeaux Cathedral. This enchanting church is a popular place to see in Bordeaux. Then, wander over to Place De La Bourse. If UNESCO world heritage-listed sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Miroir D'eau. This romantic art installation is a favorite among visitors.
Bordeaux offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Jardin Public is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the romantic La Cité Du Vin. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known museum.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Niort. Niort offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Niort. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.
Day 4
- Niort
- Nantes
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Drive 177 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Vouvant • Medieval City
- Castle of Pouzauges
- Puy du Fou
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Vouvant, Pouzauges, and La Forge. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nantes, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Niort on today’s itinerary. First up is the frequently visited historical landmark, Vouvant • Medieval City. Afterward, continue to Castle Of Pouzauges, a castle every traveler should visit.
As you explore Niort’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Puy Du Fou. This famous amusement park is an essential stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nantes. 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 Nantes. 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 Nantes by securing a reservation at L’Épicurien - Abbaye de Villeneuve. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Les Cadets, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover LuluRouget, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Continue your lively evening at Le Chat Noir, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Oceania Hôtel De France Nantes is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar Le Cercle Rouge Nantes ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Say good night to Nantes and look forward to another great day of your road trip in France!
Day 5
- Nantes
- La Rochelle
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Drive 143 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Château des ducs de Bretagne
- Le Lieu unique
- Botanical Garden
- Île de Versailles (Nantes)
- Machines of the Isle of Nantes
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Nantes, 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.
Get ready for an exciting day in Nantes. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a cultural center, a botanical garden, a park, an art installation and much more! Begin your adventure at Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This is a notable castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Le Lieu Unique, a frequently visited cultural center in Nantes.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Botanical Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Île De Versailles (nantes), 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.
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 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.
Start 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.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Le Dock Café, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Mary Lili offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out L'alibi. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in France!
Day 6
- La Rochelle - Departure day
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- Charruyer Park of La Rochelle
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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 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 Charruyer Park Of La Rochelle. This frequently visited park is a popular place to see in the city.
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.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider LE JARDIN DU MARCHÉ, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!
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