7-Day France Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bayonne traveling east to Lourdes, Toulouse, and Bordeaux
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Description
Explore the best of France on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bayonne, Biarritz, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Bordeaux. 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 Bayonne, 2 nights in Lourdes, 1 night in Toulouse, 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 Bayonne, 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. Cité De Carcassonne and Place De La Bourse are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bayonne, Biarritz, Lourdes, Gez, Carcassonne, Toulouse, and Bordeaux, 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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Day 1 – Bayonne - arrival day
- Bayonne - Arrival day
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Welcome to Bayonne, 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 Bayonne's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bayonne is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bayonne. 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 town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bayonne. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at JANINE, a top-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Josie Factory, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Belzunce. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Dame Jeanne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café Des Pyrénées is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Kubata & Kukubat is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in France!
Day 2 – Bayonne, Biarritz, and Lourdes
- Bayonne
- Biarritz
- Lourdes
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Biarritz Lighthouse
- Rocher de la vierge
- Biarritz Aquarium
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Biarritz and Bayonne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lourdes, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Set your GPS to Biarritz and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Biarritz beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Chambre D'amour Playground, an underrated playground that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Biarritz Lighthouse, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings. Next, explore Rocher De La Vierge, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the rock formation, make time to go to Biarritz Aquarium. This picture-perfect aquarium is well worthwhile the visit.
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 Lourdes. Lourdes 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lourdes. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hôtel Roissy, Lourdes, an iconic dining spot in Lourdes. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Grand Hôtel Gallia & Londres Bike & NUXE Spa, a popular restaurant in Lourdes. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hôtel Saint-Sébastien, a hidden gem nestled in Lourdes. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Head back to your accommodation in Lourdes and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in France!
Day 3 – Lourdes and Gez
- Lourdes
- Argelès-Gazost
- Gez
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Drive 104 km, 2 hours 34 min
- Grottes de Bétharram
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- Pont d'Espagne
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lourdes, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Lourdes and Gez. You still have 1 night left in Lourdes.
Start your adventure at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary. This locally appreciated church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gez, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lourdes. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Grottes De Bétharram, a worthwhile cave system known for its majestic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Pont D'espagne, an often recommended waterfall that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lourdes, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gez. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Animal Park Of The Pyrenees, an increasingly popular zoo in Gez. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lourdes.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lourdes's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hôtel Sainte Rose, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hôtel Alba? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hôtel La Source - Lourdes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Lourdes.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 4 – Lourdes, Carcassonne, and Toulouse
- Lourdes
- Carcassonne
- Toulouse
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Drive 357 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Cité de Carcassonne
- Grand Rond
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary
- More
On day 4 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 Carcassonne and Toulouse. In the evening, you’ll end up in Toulouse, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Carcassonne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Toulouse. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Château Comtal. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Cité De Carcassonne. This famous castle is a traveler-favorite in the town.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carcassonne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Toulouse may take around 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Toulouse, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Grand Rond, a worthwhile park that draws attention for its noteworthy features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Toulouse. 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 Toulouse. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Le May, a top-rated dining spot in Toulouse. If you're in the mood for something new, try L*Agence, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Perche Pinte. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Toulouse.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Moloko, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Botanist Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Melting Pot Pub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in France!
Day 5 – Toulouse and Bordeaux
- Toulouse
- Bordeaux
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Drive 252 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Jardin des Plantes
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- Couvent des Jacobins
- Pont-Neuf
- Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in France. Today you will explore Toulouse, 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.
Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, a peaceful, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a profound, and a culturally significant in the charming city of Toulouse. Your adventure starts at Jardin Des Plantes, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Basilica Of St. Sernin. This notable church is known for its majestic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Toulouse's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Couvent Des Jacobins. This symbolic monastery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Pont-neuf is also worth visiting, along with Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 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.
Savor the flavors at Le Cent 33, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, L'Originel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Clemenceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining 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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in France and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6 – Bordeaux and Bayonne
- Bordeaux
- Bayonne
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Drive 195 km, 2 hours 27 min
- jardin public
- Monument aux Girondins
- place de la Bourse
- miroir d'eau
- The big bell of Bordeaux
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in France. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bordeaux. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bayonne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bordeaux is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a picturesque, a stunning, a picture-perfect, a remarkable, a heritage-rich, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated! Start at Jardin Public, a well-known park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Monument Aux Girondins, enchanting visitors with its awe-inspiring appeal. Continue your exploration at Place De La Bourse. This public square is one of the city’s most interesting spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Bordeaux at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Miroir D'eau. After exploring the art installation, head to the often recommended The Big Bell Of Bordeaux. This historical landmark will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 Bayonne. Bayonne 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 Bayonne, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Le Victor Hugo, a top-rated dining destination in Bayonne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Remy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant La Grange. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bayonne this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Karafe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in France!
Day 7 – Bayonne - departure day
- Bayonne - Departure day
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Day 7 of your road trip in France is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bayonne before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in France and go on a shopping spree in Bayonne’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in France.
Immerse yourself in Bayonne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
Before you conclude your road trip in France, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bayonne.
If you're in the mood for something new, try La Verbena Les Halles, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bayonne. 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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