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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bordeaux, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Bordeaux on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Porte Cailhau brings Bordeaux's character to life. This enchanting monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Place De La Bourse, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Miroir D'eau, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its visually striking features.

Set your GPS to Lormont and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lormont beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Lormont is La Cité Du Vin, a popular museum that draws attention for its enchanting features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Betasom, a historic museum that stands out in the city.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Bordeaux by securing a reservation at Ressources. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Pressoir d'Argent - Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Grand'Vigne - Les Sources de Caudalie, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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!

Greet day 3 of your road trip in France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Bordeaux, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Le Bouscat and Bordeaux.

Rue Sainte-Catherine is a fantastic place you can explore today in Le Bouscat. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Le Bouscat-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Bordeaux Cathedral makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating church is an inviting place to see in Bordeaux. Continue your discovery at The Big Bell Of Bordeaux, a historic historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bordeaux, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Porte De Bourgogne. This increasingly popular monument offers a culturally significant encounter with Bordeaux. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bordeaux.

When you’ve had your share of Bordeaux, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Le Bouscat. Your travel time is around 9 min.

Parc Bordelais is a curiosity-inducing park we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Bordeaux is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bordeaux.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Locadillos, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Le Plana? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Blind as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bordeaux.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Casey's Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Bar À Vin offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bordeaux. Thecity is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in France!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in France includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Rochefort, Le Château-d'Oléron, and Le Grand-Village-Plage. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in La Rochelle, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rochefort, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bordeaux to Rochefort may take around 1 hour 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rochefort, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Lighthouse Of La Coubre is a beloved lighthouse we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Le Château-d'Oléron’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rochefort behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Le Château-d'Oléron welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Le Château-d'Oléron is Citadelle Du Château-d'oléron, a worthwhile castle that draws attention for its standout features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Le Grand-Village-Plage may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Le Grand-Village-Plage, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Le Port Des Salines. Spend some time admiring the picturesque features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in La Rochelle. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in La Rochelle by booking a table at L'Hysope, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and modern menu. For a different culinary experience in La Rochelle, Christopher Coutanceau shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious seafood and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mac Ewan's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Le Cadre is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Plan B offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in France.

On day 5 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 still have 1 night to spend in La Rochelle, there’s no need to rush. Experience Nantes to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

As you explore Nantes’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nantes may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Nantes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Machines Of The Isle Of Nantes. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Château Des Ducs De Bretagne. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Botanical Garden. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the botanical garden.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in La Rochelle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Les Flots, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Palem Café beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Christopher Coutanceau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in La Rochelle tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Dock Café, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Mary Lili, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, L'alibi provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your road trip in France, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Arcachon are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bordeaux, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of La Rochelle, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arcachon. Your travel time is around 2 hours 39 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Arcachon is Parc Mauresque, an underrated park that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Église Notre-dame-des-passes D'arcachon, a culturally significant church that stands out in the town.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Arcachon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from La Rochelle to Arcachon may take around 2 hours 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Arcachon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bordeaux's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Le Confidentiel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Chicoula Bistrot d'art is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Loco By Jem's. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bordeaux tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lord Lion Bar Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Notre Dame is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, L'engrenage provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!